As ever, the penguins completely stole the show and most of my shots. They always do. There’s something endlessly photogenic about their expressions and interactions, especially when the light is crisp and low like this.
It was also a great chance to put my new lightweight setup through its paces. I took the Oppo 9 Pro with the camera extension lens, and it proved ideal for this kind of wandering photography. Light, unobtrusive, and more than capable of capturing detail and character without feeling like I was carrying a full kit bag.
The aviary was a burst of colour against the winter light. Brightly feathered birds flitted and paused just long enough to catch the eye, their reds, blues and yellows glowing against muted greens and soft shadows. In the quieter space, with fewer people moving through, it was easier to watch their behaviour and wait for those brief moments of stillness. The contrast between the vivid plumage and the subdued winter backdrop made the whole enclosure feel alive and quietly electric.
A simple, unhurried visit. Winter sun, good light, fewer people, and animals doing what they do best. Sometimes that’s all you need.
