EACH week we profile a member of The Northern Echo Camera Club. This week Neil Rutherford, of Blackhall Rocks, near Hartlepool

Who or what inspired you to take up photography?

MY inspiration comes from observing nature, especially birds, which fascinate me, and seeing fellow photographers' amazing work and wanting to emulate their photography skills.

What do you most enjoy photographing and why?

BIRDS, nature, landscapes, seascapes and anything else with takes my eye as it makes me want to get out of bed and enjoy living.

Your first camera?

A ZENIT-E.

Your favourite picture?

THE one I took of an inquisitive squirrel behind the camera it never fails to make me smile.

Your go-to kit at the moment?

A CANON 7d mk ii with a EF 100-400l. I use this for birds and wildlife. Also a Canon 5d mk iv with a Canon EF 16-35l for landscapes.

Do you spend much time in post-production?

FOR editing I mainly use Lightroom as I find it easer than Photoshop. I tend not to over edit as you lose the natural look.

Any advice for budding photographers?

GET to know your camera by going out and using it as much as you can, join your local photography club and remember Youtube is your best friend.