Name: Mairi Clare Dunlin
Current camera: Nikon D90
Favourite type of photography: Macro and nature
Instagram: stillawaystogoyet
Location: Faringdon, Oxfordshire, UK
How did you get into photography?
I have had a lifelong interest, which became a serious hobby around six years ago when I started using a DSLR.
Do you have any photographic qualifications or accolades?
No, I don’t have any formal qualifications or accolades.
What’s the first photograph you remember seeing or shooting?
The first photographs I remember seeing are the square Kodak family photos from the 1970s. The first ones I remember taking with my DSLR were at the World Scout Jamboree in 2019 while I was an Assistant Unit Leader on my first trip to the US.
What do you love about photography?
I love the details. I did not realise I was such a detail-focused person until I took photography seriously. I especially loved exploring the jungle in Malaysia, finding insects, spiders, and small flora and fauna.
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What do you wish you’d learned about photography earlier?
That you learn by doing. I used to feel overwhelmed by settings like shutter speed, ISO, and white balance, but I have learned so much simply by taking photos and sharing them for feedback.
Where is your favourite place for photography?
The jungle, without a doubt.
Do you have a favourite photographic technique?
I enjoy slow shutter speed techniques, including abstract nature using intentional camera movement, panning, and refining lighting and focus on still subjects.
Can you briefly outline your approach to image processing?
I edit using sliders in Lightroom, then move into Photoshop for final adjustments using layers.
What’s your favourite lens?
My Nikon 40mm lens.
Do you have a favourite accessory?
My tripod, especially for macro work and focus stacking.
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Have you found the perfect camera bag yet?
No, I’m still looking.
Which photographers have influenced or inspired you, and how or why?
Kirsty Larmour has been a big inspiration. Although her style differs from mine, I admire how she captures light and have enjoyed seeing her journey to becoming a Nikon Ambassador.
Please recommend 2 or 3 female photographers to follow on Instagram
Kirsty Larmour: @kirstylarmour, Dina Belenko: @dinabelenko and Chris Armstrong: @chris.armstrong.photography
Is there a camera, lens or accessory that you don’t have yet but you’d like to buy at some point?
I would like a 200mm to 500mm zoom lens.
Is there a genre of photography that you love but that you haven’t tried yet?
I love astrophotography, especially images of the Milky Way, and would love to try it.
What’s your proudest photographic moment?
Having one of my images selected for 52 Picks in 52 Frames during my first year in 2020.
If you could have one superpower that could help you with photography, what would it be?
Being able to nail focus every time.
Your favourite baked goods are?
Sourdough bread, German gingerbread, and Scottish gingerbread.
Please tell us a little about yourself.
I am a mum of three young adults, balancing their needs alongside my hobbies, which include sourdough bread-making, photography and volunteering as a leader with British Scouting Overseas. I recently returned to the UK after 16 years abroad, having lived in Abu Dhabi and Malaysia.
I have joined a U3A photography group, which offers a wonderful mix of learning, outings and social connection. I have been part of 52 Frames since January 2020 and have submitted over 300 images. I am also part of SheClicks and The Click Community, both of which have helped me grow and connect with others.
I was born in Germany and moved frequently as a child, which sparked a love of travel. I particularly enjoyed Vietnam during my time in Southeast Asia, along with trips to Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand.
Returning to the UK has been a culture shift, but I am gradually discovering new opportunities for macro and nature photography, even though I miss the richness of the jungle and the sense of renewal it brought.
