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Snowdrops at Anglesey Abbey: Early Blooms Worth Visiting
Enjoy a quick read about my visit and check out the link for the photos.
On Sunday I visited Anglesey Abbey to photograph the snowdrops. The light was so flat, but it created a calm, even atmosphere that actually worked well for close‑ups. I managed to capture a few snowdrops and some hellebores tucked between them, along with a couple of interesting fungi hiding in the shadier corners of the woodland paths. With the Snowdrop Festival running until the end of the month, I’m tempted to return for another round — hopefully with a touch more light.
Here is also link to my previous visit (you can also scroll down this page to read the blog). Click Here
All images and written content in this blog are protected by copyright © Monika Bajor Photography. Downloading, saving, screenshots, or reproducing any part of this content is not permitted. If you’d like to share it, you’re very welcome to do so with a link back to my blog and full author credit. For digital or printed image purchases, please feel free to contact me directly.
Sunday at Horsey Gap, Norfolk
Respecting the Seals and Their Shoreline while admiring nature.
Last Sunday (18.01.2026) I headed to Horsey Gap in Norfolk — home to one of the UK’s largest grey seal colonies, where more than 3,000 pups were born in the 2024/2025 season along the stretch between Waxham and Winterton. I last photographed the area in November 2024, but this time I was hoping to experience the pupping season in full swing. [horseygap.co.uk]
Before I even reached the beach, the day started with a little bit of magic: a family of cranes — two adults and their youngster — wandering through a field. Completely unexpected, beautifully calm, and a very promising start to the morning. I managed a few photos (all taken from a safe distance, of course), and that little encounter set the tone for the whole trip.
When I arrived at Horsey Gap, I was immediately impressed by how well organised everything was. Volunteers were dotted all along the dunes, guiding visitors, answering questions and expertly repositioning red flags the moment a pup decided to wiggle somewhere new. Their presence isn’t just helpful — it’s essential. Horsey is an incredibly important site for grey seals: around 40% of the entire world’s grey seal population lives around UK shores, and the Norfolk colony is a huge part of that. Considering the colony here began relatively recently — in 2002 it saw only about 50 pups born — its growth into one of Britain’s greatest wildlife success stories is remarkable.
A quick note if you’re expecting tiny white fluff‑ball pups: that phase is over by mid‑January. The pups are now in their moulting stage — shedding their soft white coats in favour of sleeker juvenile ones. They’re bigger, noisier, more energetic and slightly scruffy… but in a way that makes them even more endearing.
All the seal photos I’m sharing were taken with a 500mm lens and a 1.4 extender, from a very long distance. The close‑up feel comes entirely from the equipment. I never approach or disturb wildlife — no photo is worth stressing an animal, especially during pupping season.
As the day went on, the crowds grew, and it became really clear how vital the volunteers are. Most visitors genuinely want to do the right thing, but without someone reminding people where to stand — and more importantly, where not to stand — things could quickly go wrong. I’ve seen far too many Instagram posts of people posing dangerously close to seals, which is not only irresponsible but genuinely harmful. So if my photos or this blog inspire you to visit, please take a moment to read up on the rules. Respect the wildlife. Give them space. We’re the visitors — this is their home.
I finished the day with a slow wander along the beach, taking in the late‑afternoon light and the peaceful sound of the waves — a quiet contrast to the busy dunes and a perfect end to a beautiful winter outing.
If you’re planning a visit or want to learn more, these are the best places to start:
🔗 https://www.friendsofhorseyseals.co.uk/
🔗 https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583251874357
A beautiful place, incredible wildlife, and a reminder that the gentlest photos often come from keeping the greatest distance.
Here is also link to my previous visit (you can also scroll down this page to read the blog). Click Here
All images and written content in this blog are protected by copyright © Monika Bajor Photography. Downloading, saving, screenshots, or reproducing any part of this content is not permitted. If you’d like to share it, you’re very welcome to do so with a link back to my blog and full author credit. For digital or printed image purchases, please feel free to contact me directly.
My Not‑Quite‑Puffin Adventure at Bempton Cliffs
Featuring dramatic cliffs, uncooperative puffins, and one surprise Christmas cameo.
Make sure you follow the link and see all photos — plus a little video bonus! The clips were taken handheld with a long lens in strong winds, so they’re not the smoothest, but they capture the moment perfectly.
Back in May, I set off to RSPB Bempton Cliffs with a very clear vision: me, sitting happily on the grass, puffins toddling around me like tiny feathered comedians, maybe even posing for a few casual photos. You know — the dream.
Well… the puffins had other dreams.
They were there, but only in the “blink and you miss the tiny speck on the cliff” sort of way. Even with strong binoculars, my 500mm lens and a 1.4 extender, they were more like colourful dots rather than actual puffins. My grand plan of a close encounter melted away pretty quickly.
But the trip was still brilliant. The razorbills, gannets and guillemots absolutely delivered — swooping, gliding, posing as if they’d booked a slot in my photo session. I saw species I’d never seen before, captured some lovely moody shots of the cliffs, and soaked up the Yorkshire coastline. A perfect weekend escape, even if the puffins weren’t exactly co‑operating.
And then came the plot twist.
When I got home, I went through all my photos twice… nothing.
No puffin.
Just cliffs, clouds, other birds, and my own puffin‑shaped disappointment.
But then — months later at Christmas — I was going through the photos again (as you do), zoomed in just a little more than usual, and there it was.
A puffin.
In the very first cliff photo I took when I arrived.
Just peeking out, half hidden, acting like it had sworn an oath of secrecy.
Sneaky little puffin. Almost got away with it.
Despite their shy behaviour, the whole trip left me inspired — and already planning my next spring visit, armed with some new tips from seasoned bird photographers. Because surely, eventually, one of them will decide to wander close enough for that dream photo.
Roll on spring. I’m ready for round two.
All images and written content in this blog are protected by copyright © Monika Bajor Photography. Downloading, saving, screenshots, or reproducing any part of this content is not permitted. If you’d like to share it, you’re very welcome to do so with a link back to my blog and full author credit. For digital or printed image purchases, please feel free to contact me directly.
St Ives at War
600 Years Since the Bridge Fell
Last Saturday, 26th July 2025, my hometown of St Ives, Cambridgeshire, was transported back in time as it became the dramatic backdrop for an unforgettable historical re-enactment. To mark the 600th anniversary of a pivotal moment in the town’s history—when Oliver Cromwell reportedly ordered the partial destruction of the St Ives bridge during the English Civil War—the town centre and Hill Rise Park were transformed into a full-blown battlefield.
More than 400 passionate re-enactors brought the 17th-century conflict to life, with astonishing attention to detail, despite the relentless downpour. I spent the entire day out in the rain, soaked through but completely captivated, camera in hand. It was a challenge shooting in such wet conditions, so I opted for my weather-sealed 24-105mm lens to protect my gear. While I’d have loved to use a longer lens to capture more close-up action, I wasn’t willing to risk water damage—though trust me, the moments I did capture were absolutely worth it.
I only attended Saturday’s event, but a second battle took place on Sunday as well—what an amazing weekend for the local community!
I’ve now sorted through over 800 images and selected the best to share with you. My St Ives Battle Re-enactment Gallery is now live! You can like, share, or purchase digital downloads for personal use for a small fee.
Many thanks to the organisers, re-enactors, and volunteers who made this memorable weekend possible for the people of St Ives—despite the weather, it was a fantastic celebration of local history.
All images and written content in this blog are protected by copyright © Monika Bajor Photography. Downloading, saving, screenshots, or reproducing any part of this content is not permitted. If you’d like to share it, you’re very welcome to do so with a link back to my blog and full author credit. For digital or printed image purchases, please feel free to contact me directly.
Casablanca – Part Two
As promised, here’s another little glimpse into my time in Casablanca.
Looking back through my photos, I realised how much I focused on the details during this trip—especially at the Hassan II Mosque. It’s easy to be overwhelmed by the size of the place (it really is huge!), but I found myself drawn to the smaller elements: the carved doors, tiled floors, and quiet corners where light and shadow play beautifully. There’s something calming about noticing those bits that most people rush past.
In contrast, the local food market was a full-on sensory experience. Busy, noisy, full of colour and smells—from fresh mint and spices to seafood laid out on ice. It felt wonderfully real. Locals chatting, buying ingredients for dinner, and probably wondering why I was photographing a pile of lemons like it was art. But I loved it.
Casablanca has this mix of elegance and energy—peaceful one moment, chaotic the next—and I think these new photos show that contrast pretty well.
Hope you enjoy this next little batch from my Moroccan wanderings.
There might be still some photos left for later :)
#Casablanca #HassanIIMosque #AfricaTravel #CruiseBlog #FirstTimeInAfrica #Morocco #VirginVoyages #TravelPhotography #Wanderlust
All images and written content in this blog are protected by copyright © Monika Bajor Photography. Downloading, saving, screenshots, or reproducing any part of this content is not permitted. If you’d like to share it, you’re very welcome to do so with a link back to my blog and full author credit. For digital or printed image purchases, please feel free to contact me directly.
Casablanca, Morocco
Part 1 - Hassan II Mosque
Cruise Photo Blog – Part One: Casablanca, Morocco 🇲🇦
I’ve just returned from an unforgettable cruise adventure, and I’ll be sharing a series of photoblogs capturing some of the highlights along the way. From vibrant cities to breathtaking seascapes, I took a lot of photos—so this is just the beginning.
Our first stop on the cruise—and my very first visit to Africa—was the vibrant and unforgettable city of Casablanca. I didn’t expect to be so moved, but the mix of emotions hit me the moment we docked. The energy, colours, and modern-meets-historic atmosphere took me by surprise.
We had a full-day stop and started exploring right from the port area, where I snapped a few shots of the fishing boats and surroundings. But the real highlight of the day was our first destination: the breathtaking Hassan II Mosque.
🌟 Some amazing facts about the Hassan II Mosque:
It took just seven years to build and was completed in 1993.
It can hold 20,000 worshippers inside, with room for an additional 80,000 in the courtyard!
Its minaret is the tallest in the world, standing at 210 metres (689 ft).
The mosque is built partly over the Atlantic Ocean, symbolising God's throne over the water.
The interior is adorned with Moroccan craftsmanship—cedar wood, marble, mosaics, and zellige tiles—and its decorations subtly reference Islamic, Jewish, and Christian motifs.
It’s one of the few mosques in Morocco that non-Muslims can visit, and I highly recommend doing so.
Casablanca was a real eye-opener for me—a mix of modern architecture, rich culture, and surprising contrasts. I loved our guided tour and took so many photos, so I’ll be posting more in Part Two soon.
Feel free to ask me anything about the trip, the mosque, or the cruise—I’m happy to share!
#Casablanca #HassanIIMosque #AfricaTravel #CruiseBlog #FirstTimeInAfrica #Morocco #VirginVoyages #TravelPhotography #Wanderlust
All images and written content in this blog are protected by copyright © Monika Bajor Photography. Downloading, saving, screenshots, or reproducing any part of this content is not permitted. If you’d like to share it, you’re very welcome to do so with a link back to my blog and full author credit. For digital or printed image purchases, please feel free to contact me directly.
A Sunny Sunday Stroll in Cambridge
30.03.25
Yesterday, Cambridge was bathed in glorious spring sunshine—a perfect day for an impromptu photography walk. The warmth of the sun made it feel like the city had truly awakened, with people enjoying the outdoors, punters gliding along the river, and vibrant flowers beginning to bloom.
Despite the inviting floral displays, the strong winds made macro photography a challenge. Instead, I shifted my focus to the beautiful architecture that gives Cambridge its timeless charm. From intricate historic facades to quiet hidden corners, I captured the city's elegance in a different light. The wind may have dictated my approach, but it also led me to see familiar sights from a fresh perspective.
Sometimes, the best photos come from embracing the unexpected.
All images and written content in this blog are protected by copyright © Monika Bajor Photography. Downloading, saving, screenshots, or reproducing any part of this content is not permitted. If you’d like to share it, you’re very welcome to do so with a link back to my blog and full author credit. For digital or printed image purchases, please feel free to contact me directly.
Frosted Garden
Winter garden in Poland on Boxing Day 2024
This morning, I enjoyed a peaceful walk around my mum’s garden in Poland, camera in hand. A fresh frost had covered everything, creating a stunning winter wonderland. It was a perfect moment to capture the beauty of plants transformed by the cold.
I love photographing frosty details like leaves coated in ice crystals, evergreen needles shimmering in the morning light, and tiny frozen buds. These small, natural details are what make winter gardens so special. My focus is on soft, close-up shots that highlight textures and subtle colors, creating calming and natural images.
Spending time in the garden this morning reminded me how much I enjoy finding these hidden treasures. Frosty mornings have a quiet magic, and discovering these little moments feels like uncovering nature’s secrets. Each photo is a chance to share that beauty with others.
If you love plants, winter gardens, or serene nature photography, these frosted images might inspire you to take a closer look at the small details around you. Winter may seem quiet, but it’s full of beauty when you take the time to look.
All images and written content in this blog are protected by copyright © Monika Bajor Photography. Downloading, saving, screenshots, or reproducing any part of this content is not permitted. If you’d like to share it, you’re very welcome to do so with a link back to my blog and full author credit. For digital or printed image purchases, please feel free to contact me directly.
Grey Seals
Horsey Gap, Norfolk
Today, I visited Horsey Gap in Norfolk to witness the majestic Grey Seals. It was an incredible experience, made even more special by spotting the very first pup of the season, born just last Thursday! Although the newborn was far away—too distant even for my 70-200mm lens with an extender—the sight of that fluffy white pup was truly heartwarming. Watching the seals in their natural habitat was peaceful and joyful, filling me with so much happiness. I’m already looking forward to returning soon, hoping to capture even more of this magical scene. Nature's wonders never cease to amaze!
All images and written content in this blog are protected by copyright © Monika Bajor Photography. Downloading, saving, screenshots, or reproducing any part of this content is not permitted. If you’d like to share it, you’re very welcome to do so with a link back to my blog and full author credit. For digital or printed image purchases, please feel free to contact me directly.
I had a wonderful day at the Audley End BBC Gardeners' World Autumn Fair, a perfect event for a botanical enthusiast and photographer like me. The presentation gardens were stunning, each showcasing beautiful design and creativity. There were plenty of vibrant flowers, creating a colorful tapestry that was a joy to photograph. I captured numerous shots of rare blooms and unique plant arrangements. The atmosphere was lively, filled with fellow garden lovers and experts sharing their knowledge. Overall, it was an inspiring experience that reignited my passion for gardening and photography, leaving me with lasting memories and a camera full of beautiful photos.
All images and written content in this blog are protected by copyright © Monika Bajor Photography. Downloading, saving, screenshots, or reproducing any part of this content is not permitted. If you’d like to share it, you’re very welcome to do so with a link back to my blog and full author credit. For digital or printed image purchases, please feel free to contact me directly.
