Red Stag in Richmond Park

Richmond Park, London



SONY A7III / SIGMA 150-600 @300MM

F/5.6

1/1000 SEC

ISO 1200

This is probably one of my favourite photos I’ve taken this year. I captured it early one morning while wandering through Richmond Park in London, one of the capital’s eight Royal Parks. Covering 2,500 acres, it’s a vast, serene space that feels like a world away from the busy city, and it’s home to a wide range of wildlife, including herds of Red and Fallow deer that roam freely. As I explored the park in the soft morning light, I came across this red stag grazing peacefully in the distance. I slowly and carefully approached, when suddenly he became aware of my presence. Instead of bolting, he paused, lifted his head, and struck this regal pose, almost as if he was allowing me to take his portrait. The timing was perfect - I quickly raised my camera and captured the shot before the moment passed. The warm glow of the sunrise and the soft mist in the background made the entire scene feel almost magical. It’s moments like these, where nature and timing align, that remind me why I love photography, and this image will always stand out to me as one of those special encounters.