Recently, I was selected to participate in SCAD’s latest photo alumni creative challenge inspired by the launch of SCAD FASH’s exhibition, Robert Fairer Backstage Pass: Dior, Galliano, Jacobs, and McQueen. The theme of this challenge was to create work that highlights a behind-the-scenes moment. For the challenge, I chose to create an image documenting my daughter getting ready before we go out to shoot scenes in the English Countryside.

Our family has been retreating to the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina for many years now. When I reflect on what I miss about living stateside, it is this special place, a cabin in the mountains tucked in with my kids by the fire that I ache for. Inspired by my recent return to our favorite cabin retreat, I’ve curated a list of rental properties in the area.

I’ve curated a list of some of my favorite products, some have been with me for years while others are recent discoveries. Several items on the list come from all over the globe. Many support local businesses here in the UK. Finally, as a response to being asking if I had ideas for men, I created a list for the man in your life as well as teenage kids.

North Wales is a rugged and gorgeous region of the UK. Only now are more people discovering for themselves what a truly stunning area this is. Castles and ruins dotted along the towns and inlets are a reminder of its historic past and how the English struggled to subdue the fiercely patriotic Welsh people. Inland, you’ll discover dense forests and gorgeous waterfalls. Snowdonia will leave you speechless. The coastline will woo you to return over and over again.

At the edge of the Cotswolds sits the newly refurbished Double Red Duke. The soul of this 16th-century coaching inn is the gathering spaces. Cozy sitting rooms invite you to linger with friends or a lover. In the colder months, I imagine lounging in the worn leather chairs by the open fire. Outside, their red-striped umbrellas reveal a flirty side, setting this establishment apart from the otherwise plethora of charming English architecture. I share about my first stay at this wonderful inn and why I plan to return.

The end of summer found us exploring the enchanting parkland of Stowe National Trust on the edge of Northamptonshire in the heart of England. I captured a few images of my daughter as we wander the grounds of this Georgian garden and parkland dotted with Gothic temples.

Wild ponies can be seen roaming freely on the moors across Dartmoor National Park. One of the oldest breeds of ponies in the world, they are considered the closest breed to wild horses remaining in Europe. To experience this in person is overworldy.

The atmospheric 17th-century Elizabethan country house, Kirby Hall, is tucked away on the border of Northamptonshire and Rutland. Thankful to have this hauntingly beautiful place nearby to us. The English Heritage property has been lovingly cared for and offers an experience that will linger with you long after you leave.

David Austin Roses emodies the English Rose. Anyone who has a love for roses is familiar with these romantic fragrant roses. This June, when the roses were at their best, I spent a moody morning wandering this stunning garden tucked away in the West Midlands of England. The experience is nothing short of heaven on earth.

Once the UK was finally free from the stay-at-home mandate, I set out the first day of freedom for a solo adventure to explore Cornwall and Devon. I’d yet to explore this corner of England. The turquoise water, craggy cliffs with seaside villages, exotic gardens and wild moorlands utterly captivated me. In this post, I share a detailed guide to my tour including a downloadable PDF itinerary.

Thiry years as a photographer, I’ve not only seen but have documented everything along the way. I share my journey, experiences, and how my work has evolved over the decades.

Here I share four photographers, their work, and the influence they had on my early work as an evolving photographer.

Castle Ashby Gardens is located in the countryside of Northamptonshire. The Italian garden includes a 19th-century Orangery, a butterfly house, nature walks, a tea room and a menagerie. This is a true gem of the county and one of my favorite places to visit. I also share several images taken of my daughter each year when the camellias are in bloom.

The magnolia flower attached to many symbols and is representative of the beauty encompassing femininity and gentleness. When I look at the images of my daughter from this spring afternoon, I see a young woman who embodies feminity, joy, gentlesness and youthful beauty. I also share various ways that you can cook with magnolia blossoms.

Southwick Hall, an Elizabethan house, is nestled part of the ancient hunting grounds of the Rockingham Forest. Every March, the parkland surrounding the house is transformed into a carpet of daffodils. These images are a small attempt to capture the dazzling display. I share the best places to see daffodils and daffodil walks throughout the English Countryside.

I created this portrait of my daughter to capture her budding as a young writer. Her confidence has unlocked a window into which she envisions her future. I also share my list of older children book recommendations.

January brings a different landscape to the English countryside. The fog and frost on these days are evocative and haunting. Exploring the frozen world offers a new perspective on these winter mornings.

The first snow day is always magical. But in England, it is otherworldly. One feels like they’re walking through a fairy tale or Narnia. The month of January brought us 3 different snow days. Here I share images from on of my favorite villages Oakham in Rutland, The Burghley House in Lincolnshire along with snowy scenes from around our little hamlet in East Northants.

Recently I made several of Mimi Thorisson’s recipes from her latest cookbook Old World Italian. I’ve shared the menu I put together for the evening along with a recipe from the book for Risotto Milanese.