I like to think I’m a reasonable observant person, so how I missed the fact that there’s a great spot for photographing birds literally across the road from my flat is troubling. I’d been there a few times to feed Pigeons and Sparrows, but the opportunities for photography seemed quite limited. Now, with spring in full bloom, a bright pink tree caught my eye as I was walking past the other day, and a handful of Silvereyes that were feeding on the flowers. I decided to give it another go, and I’ve been pleasantly surprised. Although I’m a bit late to take photos of birds surrounded by lush spring blooms (the weather has hit us a bit rough), I’ve been enjoying spending an hour or so there in the afternoons.The bridge on the road is a lot higher than the park (which is in a valley), so it puts you on eye level with the birds in this tree. The lush grass and trees behind it give a lovely soft background dotted with out of focus blooms. I haven’t managed to see the Silvereyes again, but there’s been no shortage of other birds!Being in a gully, the light vanishes early, so heading over after my last lecture at around four gives me a little time before it gets too dark for fast enough shutter speeds. It’s been a great way of relaxing though, with the past and next weeks being full of exams, assignments and laboratories. There’s nothing like a bit of bird photography to lift the spirits.

The pickings are usually Pigeons, Sparrows and gulls, with elusive Blackbirds and Songthrushes. I’ve yet to get a photo of a Blackbird or a Songthrush that I’m entirely happy with! They’re not exciting birds by any means, but I don’t mind that – it’s all practice.

My advice for today is to get on the same level as your subjects. Whether it means standing on a bridge or lying flat on the ground, making an effort to be at the same height as your subjects can make all the difference. Eye-contact adds intimacy to the photograph, and creates a connection with the viewer.

There’s a noisy but shy Kingfisher that lives in the park, as well as Tui and Eastern Rosellas that I have yet to get images of. I’ve often complained about feeling disconnected from nature in the city, but I’ve realised I don’t have to be, especially with this little island of green just across the road.