Captured Magic: West Midlands Photographers Share Their Most Memorable Moments of 2024

As we near the conclusion of 2024, it is an occasion to reflect both backwards and onwards – and nothing encapsulates the year we’ve experienced more vividly than your photographs.

Once again, BBC News has invited a collective of photographers from the West Midlands to present their favorite image of the area from the past year.

These photographers frequently share their work on Instagram, where BBC West Midlands accounts also feature photos along with videos and updates.

Sixty-seven thousand individuals now follow the BBC Birmingham Instagram profile, and there are also accounts for BBC Black Country, BBC Coventry & Warwickshire, BBC Hereford & Worcester, BBC Shropshire and BBC Stoke & Staffordshire.

Prepared to reflect, then? Let us commence…

“My picture of the year could resemble many people’s favorite photo – one showcasing the Aurora Borealis,” stated photographer from Bearwood Simon Lea.

“Who would anticipate witnessing the Northern Lights delivering such a display over the West Midlands?

“For years, I was aware that they could reach farther south than here, but the infrequency of such occurrences – along with light pollution from residing so near the city center – meant I never anticipated seeing or capturing them over Warley Woods.

“And then it occurred twice within a single year.

“This shot was from the second occurrence – when the display was more intense and the colors more vivid.

“The image includes the oak trees positioned in the Warley Woods meadow valley beneath the stars, accompanied by the Aurora Borealis.

“After years of yearning for such a chance – this was precisely what I always dreamed of.

“It felt like a dream to be beneath those dancing lights in the heart of Warley Woods.”

“At the beginning of 2024, I committed to engaging more in wildlife photography,” mentioned Balsall Common-based photographer Luke Bennett.

“This image was captured during the summer. I had set out to locate deer on a familiar walk, and at the pinnacle of a woodland area, I unexpectedly encountered this wild hare.

“I quickly crouched and attempted to conceal myself in the underbrush, seizing my camera to snap photos. It soon became clear the hare hadn’t spotted me, as it bounded directly towards me, until it was merely about 12 feet away.

“This shot was captured likely three seconds before I was detected, and the hare abruptly leapt to its right, exiting the woodland.

“It felt like a genuine honor to be that near to something you typically aren’t, which is why this remains one of my favorite images of the year.”

“The image I selected portrays a blend of beauty and melancholy. This particular swan had been a longtime resident of Powell’s Pool in Sutton Park,” stated Sutton Coldfield-based photographer Alison Matthews.

“She was my companion at sunset and my inspiration. I possess literally hundreds of photographs of her.

“Regrettably, she had to be euthanized a few months ago after suffering intentional harm from a pellet gun.

“I was deeply heartbroken by her passing and I remain hopeful that another pair of swans will eventually inhabit the pool.

“This photograph encapsulates our last evening together. The atmosphere was ideal – peaceful and clear.

“She relished some of her preferred snacks, and we watched the sun set side by side. I cherish this image as a keepsake of a wonderful moment in time, but it also serves as a reminder of how precious and delicate life can be.”

“This was taken at the intersection where the Pershore Road crosses the Worcester and Birmingham canal,” stated the Knowle-based photographer Damien Walmsley.

“I frequently notice the scenery while driving into Stirchley along Pershore Road.

“Standing across from Lifford Lane, you enjoy an elevated perspective from the canal bridge over the older homes of Stirchley, and in the distance, the sunlight reflects off the sleek new structures in the city center.

“Just as I was snapping the picture, the number 11 bus slipped into the frame.

“The juxtaposition of old and new Birmingham is emphasized, and the bus contributes to the image with the red colors of National Express West Midland buses.”

“This photograph exemplifies the stunning autumn colors we’ve encountered this year, and it was captured at the War Memorial Park,” remarked Coventry-based photographer Mark Pemberton.

“On that specific day, the sun shone brightly, revealing those beautiful autumnal tones. It truly was an ideal day for photography.”

He added: “I prefer to include subjects in my images to often convey a story or offer a sense of scale, and this particular shot quickly became one of my favorites.”

“This picture was captured at my local nature reserve, Bumble Hole in Netherton,” explained the Black Country-based photographer Lisa Reynolds.

“I have named it ‘a mother’s love,’ and the reason it ranks among my favorites is partly because of my fondness for the spring season and all it represents, but also due to the look of pride on the mother as she showcases her new brood.

“My appreciation for nature and walking, regardless of the weather, brings me solace during challenging times and a feeling of accomplishment when I return home to review the memories I’ve captured.”

“My perfect moment this year occurred in October during the incredible aurora displays,” stated photographer based in Shropshire Nick Spence.

“It was a view I had never experienced before and may or may not have the fortune to witness again in this region.

“The hues and the manner in which they illuminated the sky were truly breathtaking, leaving me in awe of the splendor of nature.

“This specific image attracted me because of the vivid colours. Alongside the deep reds, the vibrant greens and blues along with pinks were remarkable.”

‘Amidst a period of wet, dreary weather, an exceptional frosty and foggy morning provided me the chance to take a photo and walk my dog around Kinver Edge,” mentioned photographer from Wordsley Steve Spencer.

“This view towards Clee Hill is always a cherished sight, and appears even more splendid with layers of mist.”

“Over the past year, I’ve traversed various locations across the West Midlands and beyond, yet I continually return to my cherished Sheepwalks in Enville,” expressed photographer from Worcestershire Simon Beckett.

“There is something undeniably enchanting about standing on those hills, where you can witness a 360-degree panorama of all that the West Midlands has in store.

“Look one way, and the Malverns grace your sight. Turn the other, and you’ll see Clee Hill and the Wrekin on the horizon, with Kinver Edge and Clent just behind you.

“It must be the most tranquil spot to simply exist with nature.”