Meet wildlife photographer: David Rowlands

Laura Ross

Communications Officer, Rye Harbour Nature Reserve

When did you first discover your passion for birding?

I began birding on Merseyside at the age of eight, after I discovered a Redshank’s nest. As a teenager I became involved in bird ringing, and I have remained a keen birder ever since, retiring to Sussex around 15 years ago.

How has this developed over the years?

During the Covid-19 lockdown, I developed a new dimension to my birding by launching a photoblog under the name RXcoastalbirder - the RX designation being that of Rye fishing boats. My aim was to create a visual record of my birding walks, combining photographs with a narrative style rather than simple lists, which I had always found somewhat limiting. I published my first post in October 2020 and have continued ever since, attracting a loyal readership both locally and internationally, including followers in North America and Europe.

Can you spill the beans on the photographic kit you use?

My camera equipment has evolved over time: initially an adequate Sony RX10 IV, later replaced in January 2023 by a Canon R7 with an RF100–500mm lens and 1.4 extender for reach, supported by DxO PureRAW4 for denoising. This setup produces significantly sharper images and, with an effective reach of 1120mm, has removed the need for a telescope.

Which are your favourite spots to visit in the RX area?

Most of my work is based within a 20-mile radius from Rye, covering Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, Pett Level, and extending into Dungeness across the Kent border. While I rarely travel for rarities, the diversity of local habitats offers constant interest and variety. Each blog post typically features 20–25 images alongside descriptive notes, aiming to capture the atmosphere of the walk and the changing character of the birding landscape.

Have you got a highlight among your photographic collection?

A photograph of a juvenile Sandwich Tern in flight at Rye Harbour was selected as one of BirdGuides’ 'Top 10 Photos of the Month'. For me, birding and blogging remain about sharing moments, recording the seasons, and bringing the richness of local birdlife to a wider audience.