Photographers on their perfect moments of the year

As we count down to 2024, BBC News asked a group of West Midlands photographers to reflect on the year that's coming to an end by choosing their favourite image of 2023.

The photographers who were approached regularly post their photos on Instagram, where more than 51,000 people follow the BBC Midlands Instagram account.

"Capturing a sunrise over the bluebells at Clent Hills requires a lot of work. It's an early morning start that begins way before sunrise to give you the time to get to the location, walk up the hill and be in position to take the photo." said Bearwood-based photographer Simon Lea.

"When all the conditions come together perfectly - the early morning scent of the flowers, the peace and calmness of being alone on Clent Hills as the sky then lights up - is one of the most exhilarating feelings there is."

"This is a classic picture of early morning on Floodgate Street in Digbeth," explained Knowle-based photographer Damien Walmsley.

"Not many people are stirring this early in the day and the overhead lights turn off around 15 minutes before sunrise.

"I took advantage of the rain-swept streets which provided reflections of the old industrial buildings and street art. I love the warm streetlights contrasting against the blue hour sky."

"I started to go walking because I was widowed at the age of 46 and that in turn led into the photography," said Netherton photographer Lisa Reynolds.

"Just three years ago I got my first camera and soon started to enjoy recording my walks through the lens. Sharing my photos online, I'm told, brings a smile to people that struggle to get out and enjoy the outdoors and that in turn gives me great pleasure too.

"Every day is different, sometimes you see a lot and sometimes it can be quiet but just being out and about in any weather puts a smile on my face.

"My photo was taken at Forge Mill Lake in Sandwell Valley and is my favourite from 2023 as it wraps everything up into one, I absolutely love sunrises and all wildlife too.

"I'm lucky enough to live extremely close to Enville and the Sheepwalks, better known by myself and fellow photographers as The Sheepies," said Worcestershire-based photographer Simon Beckett.

"It is a calm, tranquil and beautiful place to sit and ponder. Watch the world go by sat on the Hickman bench at the top of the hills. You have views over the Malverns, Clee Hill, Clent, Kinver Edge and the Wrekin.

"I've spent the last 20 years exploring, documenting and walking the area. It is my go-to, happy place to be. You're guaranteed to see something different every day whether that be a cloud inversion, fog, mist, a spectacular sunrise or sunset."

"This image 'Xmas through a child's eyes' has become a favourite of mine," said Coventry-based Mark Pemberton.

"It was taken on the first weekend of the Christmas festivities in Coventry, the fountains were still on at this point and I wanted to capture the sheer magical feeling in Coventry this Christmas.

"The child in the centre of the picture was just taking it all in and that's the best way to see Christmas…through a child's eyes."

/KN/