I’d always wanted to visit and take photographs of the topiary gardens at Levens Hall, but felt it would look particularly good in winter with snow, or ideally a good hoar frost. The project was planned several weeks in advance as I needed to have the right conditions, snow or frost and then just had to wait. I kept a close eye on the weather in the area and kept in regular contact with the Head Gardener Chris Crowder. Whilst the snow was not extensive, it was just about enough and I even managed a mild hoar frost on my third day. This shot was taken on day two and I was finally blessed with some good light. I was perched on the high surrounding wall, which was quite narrow, so no room for a tripod or misplaced footing. A little scary but well worth it.

3rd place - Beautiful Gardens