Sunbathing – Limited Edition Fine Art Print, edition of 25

Captured beside the River Tern in May 2025, Sunbathing preserves one of those wonderfully unexpected moments that remind us nature always works to its own rhythm. After spending much of the afternoon waiting along the riverbank, I had begun to believe the opportunity had passed. The day had remained cool, and the kingfishers had been nowhere to be seen. Then, breaking the silence, came the unmistakable, piercing call that could belong to no other bird.

A moment later, this beautiful female swept effortlessly into a secluded woodland glade, choosing a moss-covered perch where the late afternoon sun filtered through the canopy. At around four o’clock, the warm spring light had finally reached this sheltered corner of the river, bathing the branch in a soft golden glow. Rather than hunting or darting downstream, she simply settled into the warmth, her posture relaxed, her feathers gently fluffed as though soaking in the welcome heat after a cool day.

Her rich russet breast glowed against the muted woodland backdrop, while her iridescent teal crown caught flashes of light with every slight movement. There was an overwhelming sense of contentment about the scene, as if she were quietly appreciating the warmth of the afternoon before returning to the demands of the river.

Sunbathing celebrates one of the rarest gifts wildlife can offer, not dramatic action, but peaceful stillness. It is a portrait of quiet contentment, revealing a softer, more intimate side of one of Britain’s most enigmatic  birds, and a reminder that some of nature’s greatest moments are found simply by waiting long enough for them to unfold.

Printed on professional Hahnemühle William Turner 310 gsm fine art cotton textured paper.

Mounted using Larson-Juhl 1400 micron picture mounts in Minuet. Ready to frame.

Mount dimensions 20″ x 16″  (external size 508mm x 406mm). Supplied mounted with additional under-mount, and posted protectively wrapped in flat packaging.