Yesterday I was back at RSPB Saltholme teaching another of my Photography Basics: The Complete Beginners Workshops, and it turned into exactly the kind of day I enjoy most.

Everyone arrived with different cameras, different levels of experience and, as is often the case, a few questions about buttons and settings that had never quite made sense before. Some had been relying heavily on Auto mode, while others understood bits and pieces but wanted everything brought together in a way that felt clear and manageable.

That is really what these beginner photography workshops are all about.

Some days, wildlife photography teaches you that the conditions you think are working against you can actually become your greatest advantage.

That was certainly the case during my latest visit to RSPB Bempton Cliffs.

Standing on top of those magnificent chalk cliffs overlooking the North Sea, I was greeted by one of the strongest winds I've experienced there. It wasn't just breezy; it was relentless. The wind was being forced up the face of the cliffs with such power that every now and then I had to take a few steps backwards just to catch my breath. It felt like the air was being pushed straight through me.

A few days ago I found myself lying flat on the beach at South Gare.

To anyone walking past, I probably looked completely mad. Camera balanced just above the shingle, elbows digging into the stones, waiting for a tiny little Sanderling to wander back into the frame.

The funny thing is, I didn't care.

If you'd asked me a few years ago why I spent so much time photographing wildlife, I'd probably have talked about cameras, lenses and getting sharp photographs. I'd have told you about the challenge of capturing a bird that never seems to stop moving or the excitement of finally getting the shot you'd imagined.

When people are looking for somewhere to stay, the first thing they notice isn't the description or the list of facilities. It's the photographs.

Before they've read about the log burner, the hot tub or the beautiful countryside views, they've already made a decision about whether they want to know more. That's why I believe professional holiday let photography is one of the best investments any holiday cottage owner can make.

There are some days that remind me exactly why I've spent the last 14 years teaching photography, and my latest Photography Workshop at RSPB Bempton Cliffs was definitely one of them.

As everyone arrived first thing in the morning, there was a real buzz in the room. Some had only recently bought their cameras, others had been photographing for years but wanted to understand them a little better. That's one of the things I love most about my workshops – it doesn't matter where you're starting from, everyone is there for the same reason... to enjoy photography.

One of the things I’ve really enjoyed over the last year is teaching photography at RSPB Saltholme. It’s one of those places that just works perfectly for beginner photographers. You’ve got wildlife all around you, peaceful surroundings, great walking routes and plenty of opportunities to stop, slow down and really enjoy photography properly.

Every time I run a workshop there, I’m reminded that photography isn’t just about the pictures — it’s about the experience of being outdoors, learning something new and noticing moments you’d normally walk straight past.

That’s exactly why I love teaching at Saltholme.