I am a member of a camera club and often get involved in discussion about photography. Amongst the great photographers and enthusiasts I occasional hear muted cries from fellow members bemoaning these lack of photo-taking opportunities.

The comments are usually in response to seeing some great pictures taken by a fellow member.

"If only I lived in a place like yours" is the regular cry. Or perhaps "I wish I lived near to some beautiful countryside like you". There are alternatives centring on not having willing models, lack of good weather or perhaps inspirational difficulties.

The truth is far simpler. Great images are rarely born from a lucky break, although they can be. Living near to a good photo opportunity helps but doesn't guarantee success

Inspiration is the key.

Nobody said that people have to take photographs of things close to them. There are ways and means of travelling further afield. But for those that wish to say at, or near to, home, follow some simple advice:

- open your eyes and look around: don