I Was Shortlisted!

Lakes Deer Fest 2026: Celebrating Deer, Photography and the Great Outdoors

As a Cumbrian photographer with a passion for nature, wildlife and our beautiful landscapes, I was delighted to have two of my images shortlisted for the photography showcase at Lakes Deer Fest 2026, held at Rheged. Alongside ten other shortlisted images capturing deer in their natural habitat, my work was exhibited as part of a wonderful celebration of our countryside and the wildlife that makes it so special.

First to Blink…

This image was taken on 22nd June 2026 shortly after 8 p.m at Walkmill Community Woodland. I have visited this reimagined former coal mine a handful of times and have been lucky enough to spot deer on each occasion. I was alone when this chap stepped out onto the path along which I was walking. Was it seeking permission to continue? Was it sussing me out? This was the story of a momentary encounter between human and animal going about our business in a shared space.

The festival offered something for everyone, with freshly prepared venison burgers, a meat auction, live music and recitals, and a variety of crafting competitions helping to create a lively atmosphere. It was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the traditions, skills and produce of the local countryside.

Photography was also very much in the spotlight. A fascinating talk by photographic ambassador Deb Heath explored the realities of wildlife photography, from fieldcraft, equipment and clothing to composition and lighting. Her stories of triumphs and tribulations offered an insight into the patience, perseverance and occasional frustrations involved in capturing those special moments in the natural world.

The Smiling Deer

A favourite dwelling of mine is Dubwath Silver Meadows Nature Reserve where I took this photograph on 19th June 2025. Having parked my car along the roadside close to Bassenthwaite Lake Station, it was shortly before 9 a.m. on this bright and sunny morning that I strolled through the main gate with not a care in world - I was totally unprepared for what I was about to see.

I was immediately greeted by this fellow who appeared to be smiling at me. Click, click, click! The deer stayed a while before retreating into the greenery behind and vanishing from sight.

Other photographers had been waiting it out for quite some time to bag this same shot. It just goes to show that timing is everything. Your next rare sighting will always take you by surprise.

The day culminated in the announcement of the judges' winner of the photography showcase. Although my images weren't selected as the overall winner, I felt genuinely honoured to have been shortlisted and to see my work exhibited alongside other talented photographers. It takes courage to put yourself out there. Don’t hesitate!

One of the most interesting aspects of a photography competition is the difference between what a photographer values in an image and what captures the public's imagination. Photographers might appreciate the light, composition, technical challenges or the time and fieldcraft behind a particular shot. The public, meanwhile, may be drawn to an image because of its emotional impact, its beauty or the story it tells. Neither perspective is right or wrong; both celebrate the ability of a photograph to connect us with the natural world.

Cast a Light Photography was shortlisted for the Lakes Deer Fest Photo Showcase at Lakes Deer Fest 2026 at Rheged Centre.

The judges' winning entry earned its photographer a wonderful wildlife photography hide experience at Wild Haweswater. Meanwhile, the public vote is still to be announced, with the winner receiving a copy of Forty Fells. It will be fascinating to see which image resonates most strongly with visitors.

All in all, Lakes Deer Fest was a memorable day celebrating wildlife, photography and Cumbrian rural life. I'm grateful to have been part of it and proud to have had my work included. Being shortlisted is an achievement in itself, and it's always inspiring to share a passion for the outdoors with others who appreciate the beauty of our landscapes and the wildlife that inhabits them.