Lee Cooper
Have you ever felt the calming serenity of a forest at sunrise, or the awe-inspiring presence of an ancient tree? Meet Lee Cooper, who translates these experiences into stunning photographs, and whose New Forest photography guide can help you do the same.
Hi Lee! Lovely to meet you. Can you give us an introduction to you and your business?
My business has quite a few touchpoints. It’s mostly photography with some Videography and Drone work. I love working with local businesses, clients who are after one-off custom prints or online brands that have a proclivity for nature. I have some great stuff coming up with The Woodland Trust soon too!
What drew you to focusing on woodland and forest photography?
Living just on the edge of the New Forest has played a massive role in this one. I love everything outdoors, but the muted chaos of a soft foggy sunrise deep in the forest would be something I urge everyone to experience at least once. It’s life-changing.
Tell us about the workshops and meet-ups you offer – why did you start them? Who can join? When’s the next one?
Once I became familiar with my camera I started to look around for other like-minded people to meet and talk about photography stuff. There didn’t seem to be much around so I thought, “why don’t I just try one and see how it goes?” It sold out in about 3 hours, and I then realised I had clients driving from Milton Keynes to come say hello which blew my mind! I now offer Group workshops and 1-2-1’s which I announce on my website and social channels.
Your New Forest Photography guide is such a cool idea, which spots are your personal favourites?
This came about as a sort of FAQ due to a reel of mine blowing up on Instagram and not being able to keep up with comments and DMs. My favourite spot on the map has got to be Vereley Wood. I’m a sucker for a wise old mossy-covered Beech tree.
Any top tips for those looking to get into nature photography?
Everyone is a nature photographer nowadays, phones have made it so accessible, which is great! Taking photos is fun and rewarding. If you are looking to get into it seriously I’d recommend getting a mid range camera body with a decent zoom lens (24-105) and a tripod and hopping on YouTube, there are some amazing people giving all their knowledge and experience away for free.
Then it’s time to get out and experiment. Get to your chosen spot early – the more time you can give yourself to let things unfold the better. Some of my favourite images were happy accidents.
Website → leecooperphotography.co.uk
Instagram → @leecooperphotography
