Not Stock (Ok, Just One)

This week has been a mix of weathers but mostly dry or drizzle. This has been good in a way as I've been participating in my new hobby of local photography.

I'm far from expert but I am amazed by how well the average little camera on a mobile phone can work these days. There is not so much need for the expensive camera and photo programs for the PC when you can get results from the touch of a finger so to speak.

Here I will talk you through a little of my locality as I know those on the other side of the Atlantic love a bit of British History.

Kentwell Hall.

 Situated at the top end of my village is the stately home of Kentwell Hall. The current builiding dates back to the 16th Century whilst there has been a stately home on these grounds for much much longer with Kentwell Hall being referenced in the Domesday Book - The charter of residence that was ordered for all of England by William the Conquerer. The records were completed in 1086 and there was proof of residency at this address back then.

 Like many a stately home, the grandeur begins with the  4m tall iron gates.

 Through the main gates, the house remains impressive, the front gardens kept to perfection even when the house is closed to the public.

This photo was taken from the local footpath that runs through the fields surrounding the house. My personal style of photography on such landmarks is the "off the beaton track" look. My "style" is not your typical "Sight seeing" views, it's the reality of the perfect with the non perfect. This is why I chose to get these photo's on a less than perfect sunny day, with drizzle and wind. I want to photograph the real, not a prospectus for a holiday destination this is why I included the nettles in the foreground and call it "The Ramblers View".

From a slightly different angle with the surrounding fences and the boundary wall just in view on the left, the house oozes history. In summer months, the house and gardens are open for school trips and to the public.

They do Tudor re-enactments throughout the year, the summer being the most popular. School children visit wearing suitable costumes for the era and staff re-create the life of the house's past (Not my photo as the left hand corner proves).The Dickensian Christmas theme is also a big hit.

My final photo, and my personal favourite of the house is with a few tweaks but once again, suggest the enormity of the house, this is just the left hand side quarters, With 3 double chimneys and alcoves visible, one of the turrets visible,  the house looks as though it would have done 400 years ago before the age of digital cameras.

Also, the little things in life we overlook but can be bought to life with photography. I found a chilli in my fridge that was rather special looking, so with a bolder colour scheme and a frame, I came up with this:

And just to finish, I am always on the lookout for beautiful wildlife and wild flowers. In the week that saw the 70th anniversary of D-Day marking the end of World War II, I cannot think of a more fitting photo to end and thank all those servicemen worldwide, whether they be "on our side" or not, but those who fought for their countries and families in hope of a better life. There are no winners in war, so let's remember all those who tried to protect those they loved: