Making A Day Of It

A Day in the Life of My Photography Walks
By Paul Duncan

My photography days actually begin the night before—charging my camera, laptop, and headphones, prepping a few outfit options (thanks to unpredictable English weather), packing lunch, and setting my 4:45 AM alarm. Most importantly, the coffee flask waits by the kettle.

There’s something magical about early mornings. As I step outside into the calm stillness, headphones on and Hans Zimmer in my ears, that creative buzz kicks in. No phone, no distractions—just nature and me.

I may be limited to Richmond and Twickenham (for now—I don’t drive yet), but these areas are rich in beauty. From the sweeping landscapes of Richmond Park to quiet river paths and urban corners bathed in morning light, inspiration is everywhere.

My favorite spot? Richmond Hill. Watching the first light creep over rooftops and foliage shifting from green to golden reds—it’s an artist’s dream. I capture hundreds of photos throughout the day, from wide landscapes to close-ups of leaves, shadows, and textures most would overlook. These details build a reference library I use in my studio work.

After hours on foot and a well-earned coffee break, I head to a local café in Teddington—my editing space. Over (yet another) cappuccino, I sift through images, organize them, and make light edits in Photoshop. This quiet time helps me reflect on what I’ve captured before I head home to prepare for the next stage: painting.

Back at the studio, I print out my chosen images and start planning the piece—colour references, proportions, layout. I don’t jump straight in with the brush. Instead, I sit with the scene, visualise it, and get everything just right.

Though I’m currently grounded locally, I’ll soon be driving and exploring places like the Lake District and Cornwall—weekend trips instead of day walks. I can’t wait to share those journeys too.

If you’ve captured a photo you’d love to see turned into a painting, feel free to get in touch—I’d love to see what inspires you.

Thanks for walking with me.
– Paul Duncan

P.S. Yes, time for another coffee.