Light, Light, Light!

Having just spent a refreshing and busy 10 days in Cyprus visiting family, clambering over rocks and 6000 year old tombs, stone stepping through a gorge trying to keep my feet dry and taking in mountain air and sea views, I've still managed to come home with pieces that I made while away. Admittedly a couple need finishing as I didn't take 'everything' I needed, but I made a couple of discoveries.

• Airlines won't let you take pliers in cabin baggage

• I'm unfit

• If you have to spend the night at Gatwick, the South Terminal is warmer

• Being closer to the equator is your friend - light quality makes a HUGE difference in photography

• I can't switch off and can weave anywhere.

When photographing (and selling) crystal jewellery, it's important to ensure that the image you take is true. That's something I've struggled with over winter in the UK, and have decided to affordably upgrade my phone to see if it makes a difference, as a decent camera is off the cards at the moment. I have a lightbox and have been testing it out with different light filters but like to use natural light where possible.

I am hoping my new Google Pixel 7 Pro will do its thing, but in the meantime, here are some bits I made while away. All photographed in bright, brilliant and unadulterated natural light which makes any little phone camera look like you know your onions.