Nightime, Churchwood Holiday Hamlets, Wembury, about 30 years ago - I was on holiday with the wife, her mother and her two sisters. I fancied a puff on a Hamlet cigar so I went outside the chalet and sat on a patio chair. After about 5 minutes I heard a snuffling noise and turned to my right to see a badger about 4 feet away eating some bread we had thrown out for the birds. I am convinced he could see me in the dim light of the chalet windows but he didn't seem to care. I sat quietly, he carried on eating and after a couple of minutes he went on his way down the driveway. It was amazing. He was so close I could have stroked him! We have been back many times over the years and I have never seen another one.........the moral of this tale is next time you go outside for a smoke at night take your camera......👍

Hi Matt, I watch because as an amateur wildlife photographer that gets about 7 “good” photos a year I find it very emotionally supportive to see a professional going through the same trials and tribulations. It helps me to keep going and not give up. Your discussion about gear is often far more detailed and practical than other channels I find. This video in particular is helping me to find the courage and motivation to set up trail cameras in the wild. The honesty and patience shine through all your films. Your excitement when you finally land your shots is always heart warming. This is how I would describe/recommend your videos to mates. Looking forward to the next one.

Nice to find a normal human being who has a real passion for wild life and can converse in a way that keeps us interested, well done.

Why do I keep clicking? Partly because I am wildlife photography obsessed. Like many of us, when you have that moment, when something happens and you know you have nailed the shot. There is something just so special when that happens and I often see it in your videos. Next is seeing things through different eyes. I take thousands of shots every year, the 750k clicks on my 7D2 is a testament to that. If I didn’t watch videos like yours and see new things to shoot, new ways to see things, I would get stuck in my ways taking the same shots that I know will work. Nobody can know everything and no matter how experienced one is, learning something new from someone else can never be a bad thing. So keep up the good work. I personally will be spending the next few weeks either face down in the foliage with the macro lens, or looking like a complete tool sat in a busy reservoir in a wetsuit so I can get low to the water while photographing terns diving. Either way I will be getting funny looks from passers by. A few years back I was too self conscious to do that, something I have learnt to not bother about from watching yours and others videos.

I always love to be a part of your ventures. I know first hand the feeling of seeing an animal and photographing it. Sitting in silence and nature embracing you is very therapeutic because it allows you to go within and be one with nature. Awesome adventure!. ❤🇨🇦❤

I love watching your videos Matt because: 1. You have a very engaging and likeable personality 2. You have a lovely speaking voice and speak properly. 3. Your content is about local wildlife in local settings - It makes me believe I could have a go at that. You make it look do-able although I can see how much work you put in. 4. You involve your friends which is brilliant and they are caught up in your enthusiasm. 5. You put lots of effort into making your content and it shows. 6. I want to se you on Springwatch one day, at the very least. I believe you can do it.

As a young naturalist (I'm 16) I love watching your videos because they capture what I love about wildlife and the natural world, the idea of connecting with something which isn't human on a different level

You are unpredictable and I love wildlife and nature!! Perfect combo!!💕😀

I prefer quality more than quantity. Even I lost my passion for the photography within the last 15 month, I'll always watch your videos, because they are so different but amazing

Great video Matt. I think it's great that you don't give in to the pressure of feeling you have to post regular content. The calls in the woods that you say you think is a sparrowhawk, I think is a green woodpecker. Keep up the great work.

Matt, I like watching your videos because I love wildlife photography, and your honest and clear narration throughout helps us feel you are bringing us along with you as you go. I’m older and handicapped now, and I really miss getting out in remote natural areas of the world. You always keep us guessing what will come next in your videos, and I love that! You do amazing work, and thanks for all of the entertainment that you’ve been giving me!

I don't really watch these videos for the amazing wildlife you encounter. I watch these videos for inspiration, seeing you go out there waiting for hours for the perfect shot, that really helps me to continue sitting through the frustration, when I dont capture anything.

Matt the reasons I follow you and look forward to seeing your videos are as follows I hope these help. You are a brilliant public speaker, you explain things well simply without any erms or hesitations great to listen to. Excellent image quality & story telling and lastly you inspire me in my attempts at wildlife photography

I moved to UK just before the pandemic started and haven't really met anyone with similar interests.. I am a passionate wildlife photographer/videographer but doing it always alone / not being able to talk about it with anyone is somewhat frustrating. Watching your videos is great, you are visiting similar places as I am and seeing the same species, so it almost feels like having a friend who is ranting about the stuff I am interested in. Good stuff, keep it coming!

I just watch because I enjoy your format and find it relaxing whether you find something or not. I suppose to see new locations as well. But I am more than happy for it not to be regular as you being happy with content is the most important thing. Keep up the great work

The failure. The constant failure. And occasional jackpot. Just came across this video and it so totally represents the reality of the amateur wildlife photographer that I subscribed immediately. Also, trail cameras are a godsend.

I enjoy watching whatever you put up on here because I like your snappy lighthearted presentation - no dragging things out to fill the space, so to speak, and no umming and ah-ing. You know what you want to say, and you speak clearly and articulately so that older ears like mine don't miss what's being said. Also, you inject a bit of wit into it, and all in all, can't think of anything you do wrong really. So keep them coming when you can!! PS I also love the wildlife, of course!

I can watch wildlife videos every moment I'm awake till the day I die and won't manage to see half of them. What there isn't are videos that show us the process and results even if they are scant at times. And that's clearly a more holloistic approach to the whole wildlife issue. We see how scarce wildlife can be and we are included in the struggle to capture images of it Matt. And that has made me more patient and relaxed if I fail. However one thing that we do need to address is the headware. The beany is completely in keeping and yeah ... the camoclaver hides the face. Never seen one before but yup totally ingenious. The Australian bush hat ... ok 👌 yup I have one keeps the sun/rain etc off. Then out of nowhere and with no warning What so ever ..... you don, a snapback. Without even a care in the world. Slippery slope my friend, slippery slope. One day a snapback, then without warning 'innit', 'blood', 'bruv' and god forbid, 'bling'. Great vlog as always Matt 😁😁😁

I am always glad to find an new video from you. I found your channel because of the wildlife content but subscribed for the stories behind and about your passion making them. Thanks for making and sharing and keep up the good work!👍👌🙏

Absence makes the heart grow fonder... I'm always super-stoked when you post something!

Hunting seasons are another reason. For instance, releasing great footage of bears during bear hunting season will likely lead to the animal's demise. Currently, it's elk hunting season and I've been sitting on footage for 3 weeks now to help protect the big trophy bull elk I've captured. To be honest, I'm not sure when I'll release the video. Anyways, keep up the great work!

Hi Matt, I watch each and every video of this channel coz you are a passionate wildlife photographer and I really love the way you describe it to us.....I keep getting inspired from your videos to purse wildlife photography....thanks....and sorry i forgot to mention your smile....it lights up the video...

Excuses, excuses, excuses. (Just kidding, Matt😁). In a nutshell, I love your channel because of the unique “urban nature” content and amiable host. Where else to see gulls chomping rabbits and backyard compost pile visitor 🐭 activity, with terrific story-telling to boot - plus your hat is cool😁. Kidding aside, IMO, your channel is very special. Part of “special” is “sometimes”. Ad hoc posts relect the elusive nature of nature (😀) as you point out. Too many YT channels that post on a regular basis have mediocre content at best (mostly 🚽🧻) - talking heads, recycled material, copy-cat themes and memes, if you know what I mean. Then there are channel hosts that “promise” weekly posts (or other frequency) but quickly fail to deliver - underestimating the effort and dedication it takes. Compared to typical “photo/nature” channels, I appreciate that your material is particularly challenging, but I’m never disappointed in your posts, and the effective yet understated conservation theme. Cheers!

Hi Matt. I couldn't possibly make the videos you do, I wouldn't know where to start, but I'm keen wildlife stills photographer. The reason I enjoy your vlogs so much. Is because i go through the same adventure. It's not just footage, it's like what your friend says. About being in the moment . The experience of being surrounded by nature. Keep up the great work. I'm sure one day we could be seeing you on springwatch. Best regards Mick👍

I really look forward to each of your posts and as a wildlife photographer get that things take time, a lot of time! Why do I watch, well firstly it's your passion for the craft its infectious and as a result I get real encouragement from this at times I feel a bit flat especially when I either can't get out with my camera or my projects fail to deliver the results I have visualised. Secondly, I get encouragement from seeing you never give up if things aren't working out you either langh it off or adapt your approach. Finally, you are really good at presenting this can't be taught its a natural gift which means your posts are informative (tips etc) and fun to watch keeping my attention. Promise last thing. I feel like I'm on a photography journey with you learning as I go.

Ahh those trail camera clips are amazing. Why do I watch? I love your attitude, determination and honesty. Your footage and photos are so inspiring and make me want to film and get out there. Can’t wait to see what else you come up with. And hopefully I’ll get something sorted soon!

I became a subscriber for a few reasons: your love of nature really comes through in the videos, your subject matter is varied and often unexpected, and as others have pointed out your work shows real life in the world of nature photography! It won’t matter how frequently you produce videos..they are always worth the wait. Curious to know how your friend enjoyed being surrounded by nature?

I always look forward for your videos! The quality of your videos is consistent and I know there is a great story with wildlife every time. I don’t mind the wait for your videos, because the content is great. When that is said, you could easily post some talking videos in between also. A completely different thing - I’m not sure but the bird that’s almost laughing isn’t it a green woodpecker? 💪 Great work and always a joy to watch

I do like your videos Matt, I know i'm delayed in watching this but i took a big break from watching and posting on youtube as i just felt i couldn't keep up with expectations! You are always welcome to come up to Scotland and we can go shoot / film! I watch the videos because even in your "failed" video, you have the skills to see the paths for animals and set up the trail cam in the perfect location! Your chilled attitude helps inspire!

I enjoy watching u fail sometimes or get dissapointed, so that it doesnt feel like im the only one. So many times i come home empty handed or with faults in the images, and seeing so many utubers do it so well can be depressing. Thats why u resonate with me so well, u dont only show the good side of things. Greetings from a starting wildlife photographer in the Netherlands!

I can fully relate to this video Matt. I have managed to put out videos every week for the last year but I know that it can have a negative effect on my content. However on the other side of the coin I get great feedback that people look forward to seeing my videos every Saturday morning. Difficult to know what to do really... 😂 Great video cheers Keith

Hi Matt. I love your videos, the content is so real, adventurous, funny and inspiring. Look forward to seeing the next ones - no pressure - just you enjoy what you do so well. Take Care

Have been at this wildlife photography for a good number of years through film and digital still struggling to get a decent portfolio know how much prep. and planning goes into these projects Matt so keep striving for the quality . 👍

Absolutely no worries Matt!! You’re always so genuine and transparent with your progress. Wildlife photography is soooooo unpredictable! You always come up with such original and fantastic content!! That keeps me watching after years of subscribing to your channel. Keep up the great work!! Cheers

I love watching ‘cause I learn from watching you. Granted you won’t find me photographing rats 😬 but i just got a shot of a young muskrat last week! Keep keeping on!🙏🏼🤗👍🏼👊🏼

What drives me to keep clicking on the videos? ...well I guess it’s you. Your approach, your honesty, your commitment. You’re out there doing something that is difficult and requires effort and dedication in order to succeed. So if that takes a little longer, so be it!

I think this video perfectly sums up why I love watching your content! Your channel is the most honest representation of being a wildlife photographer I’ve seen on KZfaq! I relate to a lot of your videos, especially the difficulties you face photographing wildlife. Not to mention your storytelling and cinematography is always top notch 👌🏻 and you always have a laugh so they’re just great comforting videos to watch!

We all spent hours of waiting without getting anything, seeing others experiencing the same sort of make me feels better by not being the only unlucky one haha, totally understand you're struggle with posting video as I'm experiencing the same with my own documentary project!

I enjoy your videos because they are so relatable! I don’t think many people appreciate just how much work goes into one image, or one video; hours of research, location scouting, editing etc and many MANY failed attempts. I love the structure of your videos and I find them so interesting to watch :) It’s exciting to see the progress in your video series and to see you achieve what you set out to! Can’t wait for the camera trap series too 🦡 Great stuff!

I watch you videos to inspire my own wildlife filmmaking endeavors. I love seeing the perspective someone else takes while filming

Really great video and your points are spot on. I really enjoy watching your channel because you show both sides of the story and have a great presentation style. You engage with your followers and are just a likeable chap that also helps educate. You're passionate about what you do and it shines through in your personality. Keep up the great work 🙂

I watch for inspiration. And I enjoy your story telling. Glad to know why uploads are not at a consistent pace. Keep going.

Love the honesty in this video mate and I can appreciate these points a whole lot more now I'm creating content too! Look forward to seeing what's next.

You can only do your best You are doing a great job I like watching and finding wildlife full of secrets and surprises I love it sometimes I get it right sometimes not keep up the good work matt

Hey Matt, I totally understand this video. I haven’t given vlogging a try... but I do short videos of wildlife that I see while out and hopefully people find them and enjoy them as well. It’s about time, being at the right place and patience. Seems you have it. It way I watch. As for your trail camera, have you ever go back and it’s gone? I just picked one up. Sayin ‘ hey... Greg

That was interesting - I think I definitely watch for the wildlife. But also because your videos feel like going on an adventure without me having to leave the house! :)

Hey Matt! Always exciting to see the notification about your new videos. As an amateur myself, your videos feel really genuine, and the exciting experiences that you have while out in the field are the same stuff that I'm striving to have. Besides, you give me new ideas 😉

I've enjoyed watching your videos just to see the journey that you undertake on each project, and any results that you get from it whether positive or negative. I have just started vlogging alongside my photography (I uploaded my first video this week!) and right now, I think I will most likely stick to recording and uploading as and when I get the chance, rather than forcing to find decent content and end up feeling defeated for not returning with anything worth while. Wildlife is, as you put it, rarely consistent anyway!

I admire your honesty Matt, With a camera trap video I have been working on myself that has just stalled because the foxes are just not playing ball, I understand the frustrations that come from dealing with wildlife. Keep up the good work however intermittent it may be.

I enjoy different people's take on KZfaq production based on wildlife, You don't make the error to copy others something I certainly can't say! Im terrible for imitation even if I didn't mean too. Keep doing what your doing it will strike Gold I reckon.

Hi Matt I had the privilege to have Badger inspect my trail camera close up, must be the infrared lights that attracts them but unfortunately when I was on the way to set it up again via crossing the bridge over the A14 a dead Badger was lying on on the carriageway and after 10 days no repeat of a Badger visiting the site. Keep your video's coming when available I always enjoy them when the sub bell lets me know you latest is available Cheers

Matt First reason I subscribed to you Your work outstanding and wanted to learn how are you did it and inspire me to get out with my camera My style is walk about with my two dogs I know how much you love dog walkers specially on the beach Do I mind you not uploading infrequently with the quality of your work NO way it's worth waiting for and like us all we have projects that take time I'm working on a floating hide second year Certain KZfaq channels i.e. yours inspire me to get out with the camera than sitting at home working on it So Matt keep up great work

Hi Matt.. I watch your content as I'm a fellow youtuber and also learning photography. I appreciate the hard work you go thru to create content. Keep doing what you're doing 👍🙌

As always Matt, I love your honesty, and I've always been a quality over quantity kinda person. That's why I like your videos, they're a treat when they come on my feed. I love how each video has a different topic, your knowledge, even if you have discovered something new, you adapt and the story shows the exploration of 'the shot' or 'didnt expect to see that' etc. I wouldn't blame you for chilling a bit, I have 🤣, we all need down time, I've found restrictions have screwed around with my motivations, but working on a new Woodland project has given me bit more drive and focus, but maybe not as much as last year. I'll be off to Falmouth soon to study MNHP so very excited for that. Keep up great work mate, never now might see you in Bristol in a few years time if I move there!

Quality over quantity plus you don't want to burn yourself out doing something you love and making it into a chore

When you shown those badgers, my first thought was "he was so happy to spot one in the past, now it is so common view he is not even excited" :D Why do I watch? Awesome storytelling, great perspective, a bit of motivation for me, unusual ideas for local areas (like rat hunt). Some education for sure as well. And a lot of possitive energy and happiness when all works well. What could be better? Are you planning a trip to Poland maybe? :D I am totally ok with no consistency, as I guess this is not your job, it is just a passion :)

Nice video, Like 110 and Good Weekend from Italy :)

Quality over quantity

The bird calling was a Green woodpecker

Quality over quantity Matt! What set up do you have? We all love talking gear! Keep up the good work

Just watching this now Matt - what's the trail camera (make and model) ...and that noise sounds like a Green Woodpecker to me...

Five, five actual projects underway - three of them commissions, with another three definite 'planned' projects and a single definite future commission. This coupled with trying to capture EVERYTHING at the moment for good stock/library footage. Can make me feel a bit queazy. I've been living in the 'better than the last' hamster wheel also - that I sometimes believe I can overcome (the betterment intention still being sincere and the drive still with real integrity!) by changing formats a little. Thus creating new/different benchmarks. Is that a cheat? Is that somehow laziness? I believe switching a bit sideways (occassionaly) is sometimes as good, if not better mentally, as switching it up. But overall it's running on the 'better than the last' wheel where you'll generally find me. I'm way over a month from a last 'personal' upload - getting subs from historic content fuels my procrastination, this I know has a time limit. The incredibly, crazily, hectic (vibrant!) time of the year right now is also aiding me in believing I have higher priorities because when it's gone (the moment in nature) it's generally gone - well for 12 months. But commissions of course have deadlines, and nature as you've so eloquently put Matt doesn't work to deadlines or generally any kind of specific. That's why when it comes off - you show this often in your uploads, there is a burst of adrenaline and emotions quite unchallenged I believe by even the purest class A drugs, I'm guessing. Which segways neatly into why I enjoy your content as much as I do. First and foremost - honesty. You're a very affable chap Matt and one I believe I could trust, be friends with and easily devote the length of an upload to - if not relish the moments they 'appear'. Secondly quality, maybe these two are on a par but then I know I watch and am loyal to some creators because of them than maybe neccessarily the quality of their output.Thirdly, inspiration! And by god reading all thats gone before and listening to this upload - we need it! This hobby, business - whatever, is a hive of procrastination or the potential for it. Highs and lows abound at such a pace it really can be a mental rollercoaster. You Matt will have me excited about getting up the next day, early probably, and aiming high. To keep realising new potential heights. Loved this vid, good for the grey matter. Cheers, Si.

Was just checking yesterday whether I had missed any of your videos..😅

A wise investor always goes for the long term investment ....... you just carry on...😘🌈📸

Good Question why do I watch? I had to actually think about it a bit, why do I watch what I watch? I have been following you for about 3 years +. I suspect that your channel popped up when I was searching for a particular subject, what I do not remember. Since I live on the west coast of Canada it is not like I am knowledgeable about your local wildlife, so for me while it might seem quite mundane to you to me it is somewhat exotic. Your approach to your narration is appealing as you do not seem to take yourself too seriously and I feel like I am being shown something by a friend. The other photographers I follow on Utube tend to be a little too polished and slick at times. They get wrapped up in being "professional" and some of the joy and magic disappears, not always but often enough that I do not watch their videos all the way through and if it happens often enough I unsubscribe. I did wonder at times if you had packed it in but your explanation for the erratic delivery makes sense and I respect that. I have followed some Utubers who crank out content on a schedule which can be very hit and miss. I do not shoot video, I am strictly a DSLR shooter of birds and occasional wildlife. But I am a big believer in learning about new things, your videos exposes me to new things. To clarify that I mean new to me they might be as familiar as dirt to you. I do appreciate your content, if did not I would unsubscribe. I wish you well, and good shooting! Nick

People don't steal your stuff?

Hi 👋