The winter sun has always been a subject I keep returning to. Often I have used it in my pictures when the skies are overcast and I can look at it comfortably with the naked eye. For if I can stare at it without causing damage to my eye, then it can be recorded without blowing out the exposure.

If one is seeking to have a recognisable style in their work, then recognising when you are drawn to certain subjects can reveal where your aesthetics and visual sensibilities lie.

I do not go seeking themes in my work consciously, but rather tend to discover them as they surface slowly and gradually as a repeating feature in my imagery. Zooming out, whilst reviewing one’s work is always beneficial in noticing patterns and repeating themes in one’s work. Often I can only notice them when I look at my work from a span of many years.

The winter sun is always a symbol of hope. It is a reminder that summer is never that far away, and even when the winter is at its shortest day, and darkness seems to prevail, the light will soon be coming back.

Since the 21st of December we have been on a trajectory towards longer and warmer days. I often take stock on this day. Consider that the solstice has always been an important part of man’s life-cycle and that of the Earth’s. I do love all the seasons and perhaps for me winter is the most atmospheric and photogenic. But I know that for all of us, we all seek the light and warmth of a coming summer.