Favourite photographers: Heni Cartier-Bresson

Another of the photographers I admire most is Henri Cartier-Bresson. What appeals to me isn't just the beauty of his photographs, but the way he observed the world. He had an extraordinary ability to recognise the significance of an ordinary moment and capture it at exactly the right instant. His idea of the "decisive moment" reminds me that the difference between an ordinary photograph and a remarkable one often comes down to patience, awareness and timing.

I also appreciate that Cartier-Bresson didn't try to control or stage his subjects. He trusted life to provide the moment rather than trying to create it himself. His photographs have a naturalness and authenticity that still feels fresh today. Looking at his work encourages me to slow down, pay closer attention, and remember that some of the most compelling images come from simply being present and noticing what others might miss.

Favourite photographers: Amsel Adams

One of the photographers I admire most is Ansel Adams. His landscapes have an extraordinary sense of clarity, scale and stillness. He had a remarkable ability to reveal the beauty of the natural world, not by exaggerating it, but by helping us see what was already there. His photographs remind me that nature is full of grandeur, subtlety and order if we take the time to look carefully.

What I appreciate most about Adams is the combination of artistry and craftsmanship. He was a master of light, composition and tonal range, creating images that feel both technically perfect and deeply emotional. His work inspires me not only to become a better photographer, but also to spend more time in wild places, slowing down and paying closer attention. His photographs are a reminder that some of life's greatest experiences come simply from being present in nature.

"Anything Goes" at The Opera House

Beautiful birthday presents from Sue: a book and a show.

I met Sue at her house where she gave me an unexpected birthday present.  It was a a copy of Wild Life by Brad Wilson, a book of animal portraits that I was so entranced with at the bookstore that I was in tears. Sue was with me at the time.  Being the amazing friend she is, she went back and got it for me.  I was touched beyond words by her gift.  It's now my most prized book.

We then went together to Circular Quay on the ferry and had a nice meal overlooking The Harbour Bridge.

Then to The Show which was great fun with lots of fantastic songs.  We had great seats, overlooking The Stage.  Cole Porter sure was a musical genius.

Such  great evening I will always remember, a big thanks to Sue.

Wild Life by Brad Wlison

Just some of the wonderful photos.  Eyes are the windows to the soul.  Animals have souls just as rich and important as our own.  If there is a spiritual reason why we exist, then it encompasses animals just as much as us.

David Doubilet at The Opera House

I went to a presentation at The Opera House by National Geographic photographer, David Doubilet.  He's one of the world's greatest underwater photographers and his work is absolutely sublime.  I particularly loved his photos taken half under the water and half above the water.

With me at the presentation were Brendan, Eva, Ella, Chris, Chrisèl, Lauren and Sue.  A wonderful afternoon.  Photos here.

Here are some of my favourite photos that David and his wife (also a photographer) have taken.