I'm so new to photography that when I saw the words "Macro" on the side of my new camera lens, I thought it was just a brand name.

In the UK we have a phrase for people like me, it's "All the gear but no idea". And how very true that was, and probably still is, considering all the other buttons and dials I only have half an idea about. Nevertheless, I'm enjoying the steep curve of learning and the endless YouTube photography tutorials. To cut a long story even longer, I'll get there in the end.

So, I was reading one of @beautifulbullies blogs on photography and she happened to mention the words "Macro photography", followed by some awesome close-up pictures. It was at this moment when the penny dropped and I raced off to fetch my Pentax P30 SLR camera with its MACRO lens. After taking a couple of test shots of various items from around the house I decided it was time to get out of the house and into the sunshine. After a short bus ride I found myself at Wollaton Park once more and armed with my newfound tool I quickly got to work. Being that I am using a 35mm camera, the wait in between taking these photos and seeing the developed produce was akin to a child waiting for Christmas day to arrive(Those of you who still partake in film-photography will understand that the anticipation is something you come to love).

It was a day or two later, after, knowingly, taking my first Macro shots, that I received my presents.

Getting a ladybird to pose is something I found to be quite tricky and they didn't seem to understand that they must wait for the timer before climbing to the top of the branch...Better luck next time maybe.

Swans seem to be much better at posing for a close-up

After all the fun I then went back to some traditional photography, as Wollaton Hall is just a pleasure to behold. Here are some of my favourites from the day.

If only I would have shut the door at the end of the corridor...

And I'll leave you with my favourite picture of all ;)