Each week we focus on a different member of the Oxford Mail Camera Club. This week, it is the turn of IAN JONES.

Q: How did you get into photography?

A: I have always had an interest in the outdoors either through walking our dog around the local area or trips to the lake district or Scotland and found photography of the wildlife we encounter on our trips and the spectacular scenery captures the moment and helps preserve the memory of such trips .

I have been lucky enough to have two pics make the front page ( both of my dog ) and he now is better known than me! Along with a couple of pics of the week the last one at the start of February with a squirrel running at the camera.

Q: Who or what inspires you the most?

A: I’m often inspired by nature and when reviewing photos back on my computer the subtle details often missed by the eye jump out or the expression on my dogs face when captured at speed or catching a snowball in the photo here amaze me ( and amuse me ).

Q: What is your favourite kit at the moment?

A: My favourite kit is my Canon 1d mk1v camera along with a telephoto lens 500mm F/4 or 300 F/2.8 ( all bought secondhand ) used with teleconverters to gain a bit extra reach .

Q: What would your advice be for any new photographer?

A: My advice to any new photographer would be to get out and take photos and enjoy themselves...it’s not a competition, its a hobby and don’t be afraid to ask for help ( the Camera club members are a friendly, helpful bunch ).

Q: Explain a bit more about your four favourite photos...

A: The kingfisher pic was the first i ever submitted back in November 17 ( not themed related at the time as I wasn’t aware of it ) and to my surprise it was published along with a nice write up , It was taken in Bicester at a pond on Langford village ,

The Bittern was a photo of the week winner in Feb 18 taken at a local lake.

My Dog catching Snowballs made the front cover last march during the snow fall and lastly the red kite was photographed this year again with snow on the ground and this helps light the underside of the bird like a giant reflector! My photos are sometimes cropped to size with minimal editing and I’m very pleased with the results and also the times my pics make the papers I’m well chuffed.