Take a look at these 12 stunning pictures of the red jewels currently in bloom across Ripon and Nidderdale as the power of the poppy grows deeper still.
Mike, 64, of Ripon, has retired and found new life as a photographer shooting wild flowers and landscapes while donating profits to local charities.
He has sold around £100,000 worth of images but now sells his work “reactively rather than pro-actively”.
He said: “I’ve had an interest in photography for around 15 years.
"My speciality is two-fold; landscapes and abstract flowers.
"I marketed my work as ‘photographic art for the home’ and produce canvas, conventional prints and gallery quality acrylic glass in sizes up to 36"x24".
“Since moving to Ripon from West Yorkshire five years ago I have produced a calendar of scenes in Ripon, with over a thousand sold to date, and 2024 is currently in production.
"Funds from the proceeds have been paid to local charities and this year I am supporting Ripon Community Link at Ripon Walled Garden where I volunteer regularly.”
To view and purchase Mike’s work, visit: https://www.facebook.com/Colouredimages
9. The season of the poppy
Thanks to the campaign wild flowers like the poppy are on the increase in a bid to reap back the benefits that biodiversity brings to the environment. Photo: Mike Smith Photography
10. The season of the poppy
Plantlife's recent campaign 'No Mow May' has taken North Yorkshire by storm which has allowed wild flowers like the poppy to get a head start this summer. Photo: Mike Smith Photography
11. The season of the poppy
The poppy is one of more than 500 wild flowers which were considered threatened or rare to England's landscape and became one of the fastest in decline. Photo: Mike Smith Photography
12. The season of the poppy
Although the poppy has faced it very own battleground, 'No Mow May' has been so well received people are now allowing their gardens to grow wild throughout the summer months. Photo: Mike Smith Photography