A Birds eye view, Nov 2023
Stepping out into the bright autumnal morning on a Scottish estate near Forgendenny. I knew my first opportunity to film a field sport activity would be something to remember. It didn’t disappoint.
My group arrived in all terrain vehicles, suitably attired in Scottish shoot gear, complete with traditional tweeds designed for the cold and accompanied by an array of beautiful working dogs and keen beaters.
There was a sense of anticipation in the air. The forecast was good and although it was cold visibility was excellent and rural Perthshire put on her best show. I did a mental check of my camera gear using:
decided to go wide 16-35mm and telephoto 70-200mm to make sure i have every "angle" covered for close up and wide landscape shots
I made sure my pack was secure and off we traveled mostly by 4x4.
We could see the beaters in the distance with their dogs ready and heard the whistle, guns cocked and we waited. Seconds later we spotted several birds (Ring-necked Pheasant & Red-legged Partridge and Ducks) flying up from the ground.
With eyes on the birds so began the shoot . I heard the crack of the gun shot, watched smoke released from the barrels and could smell the ammunition. Birds fell and group members congratulated each other or expressed mild disappointment. The dogs dashed with laser focus to retrieve the birds.
And so continued our day. Travelling over hills and moors appreciating the rural countryside, stopping for refreshments and enjoying the challenge of hitting the target while being with friends and making memories. My job was to enhance those memories by providing a photo log for the day capturing moments of the shoot, the hillside, the action, the birds and the dogs and importantly the camaraderie of this unique field sport.
The whistle signalled the end of shooting.
It was indeed a privilege to film people and wildlife as they collided on the hillside making memories and honouring age old Scottish estate traditions..
It won’t me my last time I hope.