My oak woods are getting ever darker and colder. The colour palette is becoming more subtle, more sombre, earth browns with flashes of vivid green where the moss has soaked up the rain. It was long overdue, but now, well, maybe enough is enough. At least for long enough for me to get out there and take a few shots. Yes, of course, my OM System kit is weather-sealed, but I sadly am not and, although I hate to admit it, I’m something of a fair weather photographer. Don’t get me wrong, most of the time, I adore the images I get taking photographs in so-called “bad” weather, they’re some of my favourites. But I just don’t, can’t, really feel comfortable battling with layers of clothing. I miss not being able to roll happily around on the forest floor or just sit there and lose myself watching my mini-world flow past without always being pulled back to the here-and-now by cold hands and feet, or the chilly dampness seeping up through my eternally inadequate winter wear. But it is what it is and this winter I have taken a vow to myself to go out with my camera, whatever the weather, however strong my yearning for hibernation. And then, when back home in the comparative warmth of my home, looking at my images, I’m so pleased I did. So roll on winter, do your worst! But make it quick… please.