IF it hadn't been for the offer of a second-hand camera, Dave Zdanowicz might never have discovered photography.

In the two years since Dave acquired the camera he has taken more than 20,000 photographs and won several prizes. This year he won BBC Countryfile's Winter Landscape photography competition with his sublime image of the sun setting at Harold Park in Low Moor.

"I just think there's nothing better to photograph than a good landscape with a spectacular sunrise or sunset," says Dave. "There are some amazing locations in Yorkshire that I never knew existed until I got interested in photography!

"I mainly focus on Yorkshire but I've also done some landscape and cityscape photography in London and Lancashire. The London photos have been featured by the Visit London social media sites, which was a great honour. I'd love to try other locations further afield."

Dave's interest in photography was sparked when he downloaded Instragram onto his iPhone and discovered the work of other photographers. "Then about two years ago my friend Brahim was selling his DSLR camera and offered me it at a good price," he says. "I'm a sucker for a bargain so I bought it and I've not looked back since. I do landscape photography with my dad and we go travelling most weekends looking for locations."

Winning the Countryfile award has raised Dave's profile.

"I saw the competition advertised on the internet and thought I'd chance my arm," he says. "Over 500 entrants applied and my photograph, of my local park in Low Moor, came first. It was printed in the Countryfile magazine and featured on the website. It has brought a lot of exposure my way and boosted my confidence."

Landscape photography can be reliant on the weather. Although Dave relishes the contrasts in colours and light from the changing seasons, he says working outdoors can be a challenge.

"The weather is always an issue. I think the winter sun is best, but obviously it comes hand in hand with the freeze! The only weather I avoid is rain," he says, adding that he prefers impulse pictures to ones that require setting up.

"I'm too impatient to go to a location and set up for hours waiting for something to happen. I applaud any photographer who does that though, it takes real dedication," says Dave, a performing arts technician in a Bradford secondary school. "I love the variety of Yorkshire landscapes, there are so many to work with. I think my favourite places so far are Fountains Abbey, Bolton Abbey, Staithes and Whitby. I love visiting those places and I discover something new every time I go."

Some of Dave's images of Haworth will appear in a new biography of Anne Bronte by local author Nick Holland, due for release next year through the History Press. Dave is also in talks with a publisher about creating his own photography book, highlighting his Yorkshire scenes.

With nearly 50,000 followers on Twitter and 3,000 on Facebook, his work is highlighted on social media.

Does Dave have any tips for budding photographers?

"I always say try using a tripod," he says. "It's great for slowing things down and giving you more time to frame a shot. You can also try longer exposures and night photography

"Also, remember the rule of thirds and leading lines. These will help improve your shots and improving the framing of your photographs.

"Really look after your equipment; regularly clean your lenses and sensor - and get it all insured! Photographic equipment isn't cheap, so it's best to make sure you're covered.

"Finally, get out and about and take some photos! It’s the only way to learn."

* For more about Dave's work visit facebook.com/davezphoto