Discover our Area Through The Local Lens: Richard Giles

Through the Local Lens' is a series celebrating the stunning Forest of Dean and Wye Valley through the eyes of passionate photographers who know this landscape intimately.

Each feature reveals what captures their imagination and draws them back time and again to this remarkable corner of Britain. From hidden gems that locals treasure to the seasonal transformations that make every visit unique, we explore how these artists see and experience the region's beauty.

Through their lenses and stories, discover what makes the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley so special, and perhaps find inspiration for your own photographic journey.

This one focuses on the talented Richard Giles and his experience of the area.

What draws you to photography in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley?

I have lived in the Forest of Dean all my life so being in nature is always something I have enjoyed. I am drawn by the calmness and the mysteries that the Forest beholds, whether that be the wildlife or the history and folklore that a location holds.

Can you share a location that locals might overlook but visitors would love to discover?

It's hard to say as there are many different locations that are worth going to but the one place that i'm always drawn to is St Anthonys Well between Cinderford and Littledean. The wells location and folklore adds an element of mystery to the Forest.

What's your favourite season or time of day to capture this region, and why?

I would say either Autumn or early Spring, in the autumn time when the leaves start to change into yellow and orange colours and with a bit of mist through the Forest is when the forest creates a cooler ambiance.

The early spring is when you see the flowers bloom and the green leaves grow back on the trees mixed with some sun rays makes for a pleasant experience.

Tell us about one of your photos from this collection - what's the story behind it?

'Autumn Falling' this shot is one of my favourites as It came out of no where, when walking through the forest around my local area I happened to notice this leaf dangling from a spiders web something that caught me by surprise and i thought is was to good of a shot to pass up.

What would you want visitors to feel when they see our area through your lens?

I would like visitors to feel a sense of calmness and intrigue as the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley have many different locations that can be of interest and can also help to relax and clear the mind.

What's changed in the region since you started photographing here?

Some things have changed in the area but its hard to pinpoint one thing, I would say that overtime the forest has revealed new areas to explore as well as the history of our Industrial past.

Any photography tips for visitors wanting to capture their own memories here?

Slow down and take your time to look at your surroundings, using a different range of compositions can make a difference to your image and take advantage of the weather conditions like mist or softer light can make your shots more atmospheric.

What local business, attraction, or community spot deserves more attention?

The Sculpture Trail at Beechenhurst is a place worth going for it unique artwork and woodland walks.

About Richard Giles

I have lived in the Forest of Dean all my life, my photography journey started in 2019 as a hobby mainly taking pictures of landscapes and nature. I was looking to learn more about photography and I decided to take a course in Cardiff which lasted two years, I learned a lot from this and look to incorporate what I have learned into my work. Taking more photos around the forest has led to me being more interested in the history and folklore of this unique area we live in.

When Im not working you will always find me somewhere around the Forest with my camera.

Follow me on social media:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rlg.photography_