Welcome to the Stu Brown Photography Blog, sharing stories and photography from Saltburn-by-the-Sea, the North Yorkshire coast, and the Cleveland Way.
Here you’ll find field notes from landscape and wildlife shoots, updates from my photography workshops, and insights into working along one of the most dramatic stretches of coastline in the North East of England.
I spend most of my time outdoors — watching the tides, the weather, and the changing light across the moors and cliffs. This blog is a place to share those moments: coastal landscapes at sunrise, wildlife encounters around Saltburn and the North Yorkshire Moors, and the quiet details that make this coastline so special.
Whether you’re here to discover new locations, improve your photography, join a workshop, or simply enjoy the view — I hope these stories bring you a little closer to the landscape.
Why Most Beginners Struggle With Their Cameras — And How a Workshop Fixes It in One Day
If you’ve ever bought a “proper” camera and thought I have no idea what any of these buttons do…, you’re not alone.
In fact, almost every beginner or amateur photographer I meet on my workshops arrives feeling exactly the same:
Photos turning out too dark
Everything blurry
Confusing buttons everywhere
Videos and tutorials making it feel even more complicated
That constant feeling of “I must be doing something wrong”
📸 Announcing Brand-New 2026 Beginners Photography Workshops
There are places that make you stop, breathe in, and feel something — Bempton Cliffs is one of those places. Standing at the edge of the coast with endless sky and sea stretching out ahead, you can’t help but feel inspired to create. That’s exactly why I’ve chosen it as the home for my brand-new 2026 Beginners Photography Workshops.
These sessions are designed for anyone who wants to build confidence with their camera, understand the basics properly, and start taking images they’re truly proud of — in a setting that naturally encourages creativity.
Grass Roots Photography Workshop at RSPB Saltholme — A Morning of Learning, Light and Confidence
On Saturday, I had the privilege of leading a Grass Roots Photography Workshop at RSPB Saltholme — and what an inspiring day it was.
This workshop wasn’t about wildlife, high-end gear or chasing portfolio shots.
It was about something much more valuable:
Teaching at RSPB OLD Moor | Stu Brown Photography
I’m absolutely thrilled to be teaching at yet another fantastic RSPB reserve — RSPB Old Moor. It’s a real privilege to work in such a beautiful and ecologically significant location, especially one that draws in a wide variety of wildlife throughout the year. For anyone passionate about nature photography, Old Moor offers an incredible backdrop: from majestic marshland landscapes to close encounters with rare bird species.
Teaching Photography to Beginners at RSPB Bempton Cliffs
Standing on the edge of RSPB Bempton Cliffs, it’s impossible not to feel inspired. The dramatic chalk cliffs, the roar of the sea, and the sheer spectacle of thousands of seabirds make it one of the UK’s most breathtaking places for wildlife photography. Recently, I had the joy of leading a beginners’ photography group here — guiding people to not only capture images, but also to connect with the landscape and its incredible wildlife.
Redcar Beach: Capturing the Wild Beauty of the North East Coast
As a landscape photographer in the North East, few places stir my soul like Redcar Beach. There’s something raw and alive about this stretch of coastline — the endless sands, the ever-changing skies, and the sound of waves crashing against the shore. Every time I set foot here, I feel that familiar surge of excitement, knowing the landscape will offer something entirely new to capture.
RSPB Saltholme | Beginners Photography Workshop
I’m thrilled to announce that I will be teaching a photography workshop at RSPB Saltholme on the 1st of November this year. It’s an incredible opportunity to share my passion for nature and photography in such a spectacular setting.
Sewerby Hall | Beginners Photography Workshop
I can hardly contain my excitement for the upcoming beginners photography workshop at Sewerby Hall and Gardens in Bridlington on the 17th of September. This stunning location offers a perfect blend of historic architecture and beautiful natural surroundings, making it an ideal spot for aspiring photographers to hone their skills.
Sewerby Hall provides a rich backdrop with its grand Georgian architecture, while the gardens burst with vibrant colours and interesting textures that are perfect for practising composition, lighting, and focus. It’s a fantastic opportunity for beginners to explore different styles of photography, from detailed close-ups to sweeping landscape shots.
South Gare, Redcar: Capturing the Edge of Land and Sea
There’s a unique charm in photographing landscapes under a dreary, overcast sky. South Gare, Redcar, with its rugged coastline and industrial heritage, takes on a moody and atmospheric quality when the evening clouds roll in. Such conditions can often be overlooked by photographers chasing golden hour light, but a dreary evening offers a different kind of beauty that’s just as compelling.
The Beauty of Black-Tailed Godwits at RSPB Saltholme
RSPB Saltholme, located within the Tees Valley wetlands, is a haven for birdwatchers and photographers alike, especially during the migratory seasons. Among the many avian treasures that grace this nature reserve, the Black-tailed Godwit stands out for both its striking appearance and its captivating behaviour.
Through the Lens: The Heron’s Elegance at WWT Washington
WWT Washington Wetland Centre is a true gem for wildlife photographers, especially those keen to capture the elegant herons that grace its waters. Nestled in the North East, this reserve offers a perfect blend of accessible hides and stunning natural habitats, making it an ideal spot for both amateurs and seasoned photographers.
Back to the Cliffs and Camera Tricks| RSPB Bempton
I’m absolutely thrilled to announce that I’ll be back at RSPB Bempton on the 27th of September, leading another photography workshop! There’s something truly special about this location – the dramatic cliffs, the bustling seabird colonies, and the ever-changing light make it an incredible place to capture stunning images.
Thornwick Bay
Thornwick Bay, nestled on the rugged Yorkshire coast, offers a spectacular playground for landscape photographers seeking dramatic seascapes and natural beauty. Known for its chalk cliffs and sweeping beach, the location provides a variety of compelling compositions that change with the tide, weather, and light.
Where the Gannets Fly: A Photographer’s Unexpected Love Story
This blog is what it looks like when someone’s drowning in their own emotional shit!
I struggle writing an emotional blogs, this year so far I’ve been through so much emotion it hard to contain it some times. Times like this always end up with my camera in my hand.
RSPB Bempton Cliffs | Photography Workshop
Teaching photography at RSPB Bempton Cliffs was an absolutely unforgettable and deeply rewarding experience. The sheer beauty and raw drama of the towering cliffs, combined with the incredible variety of wildlife, created the perfect and inspiring backdrop for photography enthusiasts at every skill level. From the graceful soaring gannets high above to the charming nesting puffins tucked safely in their crevices, every moment presented an amazing opportunity to capture stunning images that truly captivate and tell a story.
Beginner's Photography Workshop with Stu Brown at RSPB Bempton Cliffs
I’m thrilled to announce that I will be running my very first Photography Workshop for beginners at RSPB Bempton Cliffs! This special location offers an incredible backdrop for anyone looking to dip their toes into nature photography, with its stunning sea cliffs and diverse birdlife providing perfect subjects.
Marsden Rock | Landscape Photographer
The afternoon light bathed Marsden Rock in a golden hue, casting long shadows across the rugged coastline. With my camera in hand, I set out to capture its grandeur, feeling the gentle breeze carry the salty scent of the sea.
Windlebridge Garden Nursery | Commercial Photography
Nestled in the picturesque town of Guisborough, Windlebridge Garden Nursery is a hidden gem for garden enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Recently, I had the pleasure of capturing professional images that truly showcase the beauty and diversity of this enchanting nursery.
New Photography Basics Workshop | RSPB Bempton Cliffs
I'm thrilled to announce that on 2nd July, we'll be hosting a Photography Basics Workshop at the stunning RSPB Bempton Cliffs. This location, renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and vibrant wildlife, provides the perfect backdrop for budding photographers to learn and grow their skills.
Working alongside the RSPB is a proud moment for me. Their dedication to wildlife conservation and environmental education aligns perfectly with my passion for sharing the joy of photography. The cliffs are a sanctuary for several seabird species, and capturing their magnificence in images not only brings the beauty of nature to life but also raises awareness about the importance of protecting our natural habitats.
Luna Blu | Stu Brown Photography
Recently, I had the delightful opportunity to photograph Luna Blu's new food menu, an experience that proved to be as visually stunning as it was flavour-packed. Nestled in the heart of North Yorkshire, Luna Blu has long been celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere and exceptional culinary offerings. This new menu, bursting with creativity, promised a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

