Blog
Dorset Landscape Photography : Sunset over the farmers
30th July 2012 - 0 comments
30th July 2012 - 0 comments
Dorset Landscape Photography
Sunset over the farmers
As the sun set this evening, I as driving up to Eggardon Hill when I passed the row of electricity pylons which run down the hillside, across the valley floor and off across the Marshwood Vale.
The sunlight was catching the wires lighting them up and making these somewhat ugly structures a look a lot more appealing.
As I took a small series of images, the farmers were working the fields below, with tractors running their loads back to the farms and other vehicles running across the landscape, dust rising behind as they went.
Sunset over the farmers
As the sun set this evening, I as driving up to Eggardon Hill when I passed the row of electricity pylons which run down the hillside, across the valley floor and off across the Marshwood Vale.
The sunlight was catching the wires lighting them up and making these somewhat ugly structures a look a lot more appealing.
As I took a small series of images, the farmers were working the fields below, with tractors running their loads back to the farms and other vehicles running across the landscape, dust rising behind as they went.
Dorset Event Photography: Landance at Eggardon Hill
15th July 2012 - 1 comment
15th July 2012 - 1 comment
Dorset Event Photography
Landance at Eggardon Hill
It was a glorious evening last Sunday for the 2nd showing of Landance, a site-specific contemporary dance, which took place across Eggardon Hill, an Iron Age Hill Fort overlooking the Marshwood Vale and Bridport.
The event was organised by Director and Visual Artist Ella Huhne and choreographed by Anna Golding and the dance extended right across Eggardon Hill.
The Dance was accompanied by a group of local singers who performed a core written specifically for the performance by Andrew Dickson.
Dancers 'popped up' from every direction, joining on the ridges and pathways of the fort to convey their dance, whilst at other times solo dancers would take to an outcrop and perform; all with the backdrop of Eggardon Hill itself, the valleys beyond and in the distance, the Jurassic Coastline, Bridport and its quarry hills.
A lot of the dance was into the sun, which I am sure was meant to be good for artistic interpretation, but made the photography quite challenging. The sun being lower in the sky did make for some interesting shadows across the valley though.
I hope you enjoy the images.
Landance at Eggardon Hill
It was a glorious evening last Sunday for the 2nd showing of Landance, a site-specific contemporary dance, which took place across Eggardon Hill, an Iron Age Hill Fort overlooking the Marshwood Vale and Bridport.
The event was organised by Director and Visual Artist Ella Huhne and choreographed by Anna Golding and the dance extended right across Eggardon Hill.
The Dance was accompanied by a group of local singers who performed a core written specifically for the performance by Andrew Dickson.
Dancers 'popped up' from every direction, joining on the ridges and pathways of the fort to convey their dance, whilst at other times solo dancers would take to an outcrop and perform; all with the backdrop of Eggardon Hill itself, the valleys beyond and in the distance, the Jurassic Coastline, Bridport and its quarry hills.
A lot of the dance was into the sun, which I am sure was meant to be good for artistic interpretation, but made the photography quite challenging. The sun being lower in the sky did make for some interesting shadows across the valley though.
I hope you enjoy the images.
Wiltshire Event Photography : Stonehenge Fire Garden
13th July 2012 - 0 comments
13th July 2012 - 0 comments
Wiltshire Event Photography
Stonehenge Fire Garden
As part of the Cultural Olympiad surrounding the 2012 Games and part of the Salisbury International Art Festival, Compagnie Carabosse installed a Fire Garden into and around Stonehenge.
The Director of the Festival, Maria Bota said: “We aim to inspire, entertain and make moments which transform people and spaces."
It certainly did that. It attracted many hundreds if not a couple of thousand people to the historic site, now managed by the National Trust, and access was allowed through the stones and into the circles. For once you could walk where you wanted rather than stand 40ft away admiring the stones. Here, you could touch and feel the years of erosion.
The Fire Garden was spread in and around the stone circle with different installations including the massive fire sphere's, 4 of which were at the compass points of the Henge, with each pot individually lit as the sun set.
Vests were hanging in amongst the stones, each glowing with fire. Small mechanical moving artworks were backlit against the stones creating eery moving shadows. Large vertical fire 'sticks' were roaring with strange writing or markings on them and fire pits were spread around, not only to be part of the Garde, but they provided a good place to stand and chat and to keep warm.
It was a very busy evening and everyone had a camera-phone, or flash or torches, so it made for some challenging photography as all walked constantly through the scenes. I hope you enjoy the images.
Stonehenge Fire Garden
As part of the Cultural Olympiad surrounding the 2012 Games and part of the Salisbury International Art Festival, Compagnie Carabosse installed a Fire Garden into and around Stonehenge.
The Director of the Festival, Maria Bota said: “We aim to inspire, entertain and make moments which transform people and spaces."
It certainly did that. It attracted many hundreds if not a couple of thousand people to the historic site, now managed by the National Trust, and access was allowed through the stones and into the circles. For once you could walk where you wanted rather than stand 40ft away admiring the stones. Here, you could touch and feel the years of erosion.
The Fire Garden was spread in and around the stone circle with different installations including the massive fire sphere's, 4 of which were at the compass points of the Henge, with each pot individually lit as the sun set.
Vests were hanging in amongst the stones, each glowing with fire. Small mechanical moving artworks were backlit against the stones creating eery moving shadows. Large vertical fire 'sticks' were roaring with strange writing or markings on them and fire pits were spread around, not only to be part of the Garde, but they provided a good place to stand and chat and to keep warm.
It was a very busy evening and everyone had a camera-phone, or flash or torches, so it made for some challenging photography as all walked constantly through the scenes. I hope you enjoy the images.
Olympic Torch Relay comes to Dorset
12th July 2012 - 0 comments
12th July 2012 - 0 comments
Dorset Photo Journalism
Olympic Torch Relay comes to Bridport and Burton Bradstock
Despite the continuing rain, the crowds turned out in force in both Bridport and along the Dorset route for the Olympic Torch Relay this week.
It was interesting to watch it all happen, as it was almost 'blink and you miss it' as the Torch Bearers ran/walked/jogged by holding the Torch high with smiles as wide as the Jurassic Coast.
Katie Norman brought the Torch into Bridport, running the first leg of the relay down past Walditch into the town. Just 13 years old, Katies was nominated for looking after her family in hard times.
Before the Torch Bearers arrived you are whipped up into a frenzy, or not, by the sponsors vehicles, including the Coca Cola lorry handing our free drinks, the Samsung truck with its rolling display, the Lloyds TSB van with some young flag wavers on the back and constantly passing Police bikes talking to you as they go, out-runners galore, presumably to set the scene and then finally the runners themselves arrive, followed by even more support vehicles and coaches! Quite a procession, but as I say, blink at the wrong time and you could easily miss the bearers themselves behind a bus or sponsored coach.
In Burton Bradstock, the three legs were run by Sandra Bowers, Betty Port and Rosie Barfoot. Each had a huge smile on their faces as they ran their part of the journey through the village, holding the Torch high in one hand and waving frantically at the crowds with the other. All very proud, as they should be.
The stories behind each of the runners and the reasons for their nomination as all on thier website, which can be found at http://www.london2012.com/torch-relay/. Worth a visit.
It was great to see and a real reminder that the 2012 Games are nearly upon us.
In the first images below Betty Port runs the Torch through the village centre, before handing over to Rosie Barfoot for the final leg.
Olympic Torch Relay comes to Bridport and Burton Bradstock
Despite the continuing rain, the crowds turned out in force in both Bridport and along the Dorset route for the Olympic Torch Relay this week.
It was interesting to watch it all happen, as it was almost 'blink and you miss it' as the Torch Bearers ran/walked/jogged by holding the Torch high with smiles as wide as the Jurassic Coast.
Katie Norman brought the Torch into Bridport, running the first leg of the relay down past Walditch into the town. Just 13 years old, Katies was nominated for looking after her family in hard times.
Before the Torch Bearers arrived you are whipped up into a frenzy, or not, by the sponsors vehicles, including the Coca Cola lorry handing our free drinks, the Samsung truck with its rolling display, the Lloyds TSB van with some young flag wavers on the back and constantly passing Police bikes talking to you as they go, out-runners galore, presumably to set the scene and then finally the runners themselves arrive, followed by even more support vehicles and coaches! Quite a procession, but as I say, blink at the wrong time and you could easily miss the bearers themselves behind a bus or sponsored coach.
In Burton Bradstock, the three legs were run by Sandra Bowers, Betty Port and Rosie Barfoot. Each had a huge smile on their faces as they ran their part of the journey through the village, holding the Torch high in one hand and waving frantically at the crowds with the other. All very proud, as they should be.
The stories behind each of the runners and the reasons for their nomination as all on thier website, which can be found at http://www.london2012.com/torch-relay/. Worth a visit.
It was great to see and a real reminder that the 2012 Games are nearly upon us.
In the first images below Betty Port runs the Torch through the village centre, before handing over to Rosie Barfoot for the final leg.
Rain Stop Play : Burton Bradstock gets Top Spot
07th July 2012 - 0 comments
07th July 2012 - 0 comments
Dorset Photo Journalism
Burton Bradstock reached Top Spot on the Environmental Agencies 'Lives In Danger' list
It was due to be a busy weekend, as I was due to be part of the Dorset Seafood Festival which was taking place around Weymouth Harbour. After setting up on Friday, a group of us ventured through the rain and localised puddles and broken down cars to get down to the area on Saturday morning.
The journey to Weymouth and what we saw on arrival quickly told us that the weather was going to be bad. Stands had been blown into the harbour; Radipole Lake was flooding and the rain and wind were increasing. After an hour of deliberation, the first day of the show was cancelled.
The return journey was a little easier, if longer, due to the number of accidents and road closures now in place. Our small team finally got back to Burton only to be greeted by a flooded village centre, the local garage forecourt under water, cars abandoned in amongst the flood waters and people being air lifted by helicopter.
Many of the local residents were told they were possibly to be evacuated and specialists were brought in to check the small road bridge, which was being put under enormous pressures by the weight of water running up against it, under it, and sometimes over it.
I took a quick run round the area to take some images of the local area, which was mostly under water. In Bridport many of the field around the rivers Asker and Brite were badly flooded and under water and in West Bay, the sluice gates were open and the river behind was so flooded and high, the the flow was a full torrent streaming from the river behind, causing damage to a few of the boats in the harbour.
Despite the horrors and damage caused, most of the flood water disappeared within 24 hours, leaving us all wondering if it had been a bad dream.
Burton Bradstock reached Top Spot on the Environmental Agencies 'Lives In Danger' list
It was due to be a busy weekend, as I was due to be part of the Dorset Seafood Festival which was taking place around Weymouth Harbour. After setting up on Friday, a group of us ventured through the rain and localised puddles and broken down cars to get down to the area on Saturday morning.
The journey to Weymouth and what we saw on arrival quickly told us that the weather was going to be bad. Stands had been blown into the harbour; Radipole Lake was flooding and the rain and wind were increasing. After an hour of deliberation, the first day of the show was cancelled.
The return journey was a little easier, if longer, due to the number of accidents and road closures now in place. Our small team finally got back to Burton only to be greeted by a flooded village centre, the local garage forecourt under water, cars abandoned in amongst the flood waters and people being air lifted by helicopter.
Many of the local residents were told they were possibly to be evacuated and specialists were brought in to check the small road bridge, which was being put under enormous pressures by the weight of water running up against it, under it, and sometimes over it.
I took a quick run round the area to take some images of the local area, which was mostly under water. In Bridport many of the field around the rivers Asker and Brite were badly flooded and under water and in West Bay, the sluice gates were open and the river behind was so flooded and high, the the flow was a full torrent streaming from the river behind, causing damage to a few of the boats in the harbour.
Despite the horrors and damage caused, most of the flood water disappeared within 24 hours, leaving us all wondering if it had been a bad dream.
Dorset Landscape Photography : Mists blow across the Marshwood Vale
03rd July 2012 - 0 comments
03rd July 2012 - 0 comments
Dorset Landscape Photography
Mists blow across the Marshwood Vale
I got fed up last week with the never ending West Dorset mists and fog. It was so bad I couldn't see out of my window to the hillside at the end of the road, but I thought 'what the hell'.
I headed up to Eggardon Hill in the hope that I might get above it all, but alas, I could see it blowing in from the coast, across the valleys.
However, as I sat and watched from the warmth of the car, I begun to see shafts of light dropping down through the mists, forming sunbeams and before the mists and fog could disappear, which they did a few moments later, I managed to capture a few shots.
Quite a difficult one to capture as I was shooting into the sun, so a 3 stop filter was used to reduce the glare from the sun, taking a couple of shots at a further -1 & -2 stops for later blending. Using the 'expose to the right' technique which is great when shooting in RAW, I knew I could bring detail from the shadows later on.
Mists blow across the Marshwood Vale
I got fed up last week with the never ending West Dorset mists and fog. It was so bad I couldn't see out of my window to the hillside at the end of the road, but I thought 'what the hell'.
I headed up to Eggardon Hill in the hope that I might get above it all, but alas, I could see it blowing in from the coast, across the valleys.
However, as I sat and watched from the warmth of the car, I begun to see shafts of light dropping down through the mists, forming sunbeams and before the mists and fog could disappear, which they did a few moments later, I managed to capture a few shots.
Quite a difficult one to capture as I was shooting into the sun, so a 3 stop filter was used to reduce the glare from the sun, taking a couple of shots at a further -1 & -2 stops for later blending. Using the 'expose to the right' technique which is great when shooting in RAW, I knew I could bring detail from the shadows later on.
Sailing Photography : Round the Island Race 2012 : Eleonora
03rd July 2012 - 1 comment
03rd July 2012 - 1 comment
Sailing Photography
Round the Island Race 2012 : Eleonora
One of the great classic sailing schooners, Eleonora, beating upwind towards Hurst Castle in almost full sail.
They had lost one of their top sails and if you look closely there is a crew member up the fore-mast gathering in the damaged sail.
A beautiful yacht but stunning in full sail like this, with the light above and behind her, reflecting off the sails. I always feel that these classic yachts look so much better portrayed in the sepia print style of old.
Round the Island Race 2012 : Eleonora
One of the great classic sailing schooners, Eleonora, beating upwind towards Hurst Castle in almost full sail.
They had lost one of their top sails and if you look closely there is a crew member up the fore-mast gathering in the damaged sail.
A beautiful yacht but stunning in full sail like this, with the light above and behind her, reflecting off the sails. I always feel that these classic yachts look so much better portrayed in the sepia print style of old.
Sailing Photography : Round the Island Race 2012
30th June 2012 - 0 comments
30th June 2012 - 0 comments
Sailing Photography
J.P. Morgan Asset Management, Round the Island Race 2012
A breezy day last Saturday as the 1600 or boats started off from Cowes, ran down to the Needles and headed off East on their round then island journey. The SW winds making the first leg a beat down towards Hurst Castle, with the sun, when it was out, behind the yachts back-lighting the sails.
Many stories to share form the day, like getting smacked by a wave as I snuck round the back of the castle, only to be followed by a close friend who was basically under the wave as it crashed over her head. Not good timing on either of our parts, but made for an exciting start to the day. All cameras were well protected and didn't get wet thankfully.
We dried off in the sun and wind as the crowds gathered to watch the spectacle from the castle grounds.
1600 yachts passing by in full sail, or almost, was a truly awe inspiring sight. As a Yacht Skipper I was green with envy watching the boats pass by, wishing I was out on the water taking part. It was a lively day, with F5-6 winds and there were a few knocks and close encounters, but mostly a great days sailing.
I took many images during the 2-3 hours, many with a 2X converter on the Nikon 70-200 F2.8. Speed was essential to try and get crisp, sharp images, so F5.6 and ISO400 were the usual settings.
ICAP Leopard was the first to arrive down at Hurst Castle with quite a lead at this stage, although she finally finished 7th.
The two Multi 50 trimarans of Actual and Prince de Bretagne were racing side by side as they passed us at Hurst. Prince de Bretagne went on to cross the finishing line first, with a time of 3:09:57 which after correct gave her 1st place honours. Actual finished in 3:17:35 and finished in 2nd place overall.
One of the group of classic sailing yachts, Coral, came past us with her sail back light looking amazing under full sail and she gracefully sailed by.
Another of the great classics, Eleonora, sailing in all her splendour down towards the Needles.
The last starts were at 8.40am so after an hour or two the masses were working their way down to the Castle and round the Needles Lighthouse, which led to the amazing sight of nothing but sails down towards the Needles.
J.P. Morgan Asset Management, Round the Island Race 2012
A breezy day last Saturday as the 1600 or boats started off from Cowes, ran down to the Needles and headed off East on their round then island journey. The SW winds making the first leg a beat down towards Hurst Castle, with the sun, when it was out, behind the yachts back-lighting the sails.
Many stories to share form the day, like getting smacked by a wave as I snuck round the back of the castle, only to be followed by a close friend who was basically under the wave as it crashed over her head. Not good timing on either of our parts, but made for an exciting start to the day. All cameras were well protected and didn't get wet thankfully.
We dried off in the sun and wind as the crowds gathered to watch the spectacle from the castle grounds.
1600 yachts passing by in full sail, or almost, was a truly awe inspiring sight. As a Yacht Skipper I was green with envy watching the boats pass by, wishing I was out on the water taking part. It was a lively day, with F5-6 winds and there were a few knocks and close encounters, but mostly a great days sailing.
I took many images during the 2-3 hours, many with a 2X converter on the Nikon 70-200 F2.8. Speed was essential to try and get crisp, sharp images, so F5.6 and ISO400 were the usual settings.
ICAP Leopard was the first to arrive down at Hurst Castle with quite a lead at this stage, although she finally finished 7th.
The two Multi 50 trimarans of Actual and Prince de Bretagne were racing side by side as they passed us at Hurst. Prince de Bretagne went on to cross the finishing line first, with a time of 3:09:57 which after correct gave her 1st place honours. Actual finished in 3:17:35 and finished in 2nd place overall.
One of the group of classic sailing yachts, Coral, came past us with her sail back light looking amazing under full sail and she gracefully sailed by.
Another of the great classics, Eleonora, sailing in all her splendour down towards the Needles.
The last starts were at 8.40am so after an hour or two the masses were working their way down to the Castle and round the Needles Lighthouse, which led to the amazing sight of nothing but sails down towards the Needles.
Weymouth & Portland Coastguard Helicopter Rescue
23rd June 2012 - 0 comments
23rd June 2012 - 0 comments
Weymouth & Portland Coastguard Helicopter Rescue
It was one of those times today when I was in the right place at the right time. I was out driving the area looking for poppies/flowers to photograph when I noticed the Coastguard helicopter hovering over Cerne Abbas. I presumed there must be a village fete on, with them doing a demonstration of rescue techniques, so I headed down to the viewing area to see what was happening.
As I arrived, it was obvious they were conducting a rescue so I stopped and watched as they lifted an elderly woman from the base of the Giants footpath.
The Weymouth & Portland Helicopter Rescue do a fantastic job and I have always felt they sometimes don''t get the PR they deserve. They are a fabulous group who always seem to be short of funding and their service under threat. Its times likes these when we realise just how amazing they are, how much their service is needed and how we would all miss them if they weren''t available.
After lifting the injured lady, who had been on a 3 hour walk and was 5 minutes from finishing the trip around the valley when she fell and broke her ankle, they landed nearby to transfer her to a waiting ambulance who whisked her off to the local hospital.
Hats off to the Coastguard. Well done guys. It may business as usual to them, but for one, I''m glad we have them to call on.
It was one of those times today when I was in the right place at the right time. I was out driving the area looking for poppies/flowers to photograph when I noticed the Coastguard helicopter hovering over Cerne Abbas. I presumed there must be a village fete on, with them doing a demonstration of rescue techniques, so I headed down to the viewing area to see what was happening.
As I arrived, it was obvious they were conducting a rescue so I stopped and watched as they lifted an elderly woman from the base of the Giants footpath.
The Weymouth & Portland Helicopter Rescue do a fantastic job and I have always felt they sometimes don''t get the PR they deserve. They are a fabulous group who always seem to be short of funding and their service under threat. Its times likes these when we realise just how amazing they are, how much their service is needed and how we would all miss them if they weren''t available.
After lifting the injured lady, who had been on a 3 hour walk and was 5 minutes from finishing the trip around the valley when she fell and broke her ankle, they landed nearby to transfer her to a waiting ambulance who whisked her off to the local hospital.
Hats off to the Coastguard. Well done guys. It may business as usual to them, but for one, I''m glad we have them to call on.
Dorset Landscape Photography: Dorset Opium Poppies
22nd June 2012 - 3 comments
22nd June 2012 - 3 comments
Dorset Landscape Photography
Dorset Opium Poppies
I decided it was time to find some poppies. I had seen a few out and about on the roadsides or the edges of fields, but bot a proper filed of them. I knew my usual field had not grown this year, so I was out hunting.
Last year the Government handed out subsidies to encourage farmers to grow Opium poppies which were used for medicines here in the UK. A number of farms across Dorset & Hampshire grew them which also turned out to be a real plus for us Togs.
On my way over to East Dorset/Wiltshire borders I passed another of these Opium fields, in full bloom, and as they only have 3 days or so in flower, I had to stop and investigate. It was only a single field, on a private estate, but easily shot form the roadside and despite politely asking for access, it was denied.
After a hunt round Wiltshire and Salisbury Plain, where I did find a few fields, though nothing to compare with the Opium field, I headed back there for the last ''''Golden Hour'''' of warming light. During my trips down various off road tracks I managed to get the car stick in the mud, which Im sure will be the subject to another post later this week.
The Dorset Opiums are a large, pink flower, with a darker purple centre to the flower and make for a stunning field of blooms. I hope you enjoy the pictures.
Dorset Opium Poppies
I decided it was time to find some poppies. I had seen a few out and about on the roadsides or the edges of fields, but bot a proper filed of them. I knew my usual field had not grown this year, so I was out hunting.
Last year the Government handed out subsidies to encourage farmers to grow Opium poppies which were used for medicines here in the UK. A number of farms across Dorset & Hampshire grew them which also turned out to be a real plus for us Togs.
On my way over to East Dorset/Wiltshire borders I passed another of these Opium fields, in full bloom, and as they only have 3 days or so in flower, I had to stop and investigate. It was only a single field, on a private estate, but easily shot form the roadside and despite politely asking for access, it was denied.
After a hunt round Wiltshire and Salisbury Plain, where I did find a few fields, though nothing to compare with the Opium field, I headed back there for the last ''''Golden Hour'''' of warming light. During my trips down various off road tracks I managed to get the car stick in the mud, which Im sure will be the subject to another post later this week.
The Dorset Opiums are a large, pink flower, with a darker purple centre to the flower and make for a stunning field of blooms. I hope you enjoy the pictures.
Somerset Landscape Photography : Summer Solstice
20th June 2012 - 0 comments
20th June 2012 - 0 comments
Somerset Landscape Photography
Summer Solstice
It was the Summer Solstice today, arriving a day earlier than usual, due to the Leap Year. Mist was forecast over the Somerset levels so I headed out to Glastonbury Tor.
There was a large group gathered on top of the Tor, to welcome in the longest day, with drumming, chanting & dancing. A spirited bunch. They threatened to throw me off the Tor as I arrived late (4.30am) and didn't camp out overnight like the rest of the group.
The mist was thin on the ground this morning but all were focused on the sunrise which was both colourful and spread across the sky thanks to some broken cloud cover.
A fun morning and thanks to everyone up there this morning for making it a memorable one.
Summer Solstice
It was the Summer Solstice today, arriving a day earlier than usual, due to the Leap Year. Mist was forecast over the Somerset levels so I headed out to Glastonbury Tor.
There was a large group gathered on top of the Tor, to welcome in the longest day, with drumming, chanting & dancing. A spirited bunch. They threatened to throw me off the Tor as I arrived late (4.30am) and didn't camp out overnight like the rest of the group.
The mist was thin on the ground this morning but all were focused on the sunrise which was both colourful and spread across the sky thanks to some broken cloud cover.
A fun morning and thanks to everyone up there this morning for making it a memorable one.
Sailing Photography : Classic Yacht Racing, Westward Cup 2012
12th June 2012 - 0 comments
12th June 2012 - 0 comments
Sailing Photography
Classic Yacht Racing, Westward Cup 2012
I spent a day earlier this week out on the water watching some of the great classic yachts racing on the Solent in the Westward Cup 2012.
Three of the greats were taking part : Eleonora, Mariquita and Mariette. The largest of these, Eleonora is 49.5M in length and was launched in 2000 as a exact replica of the schooner Westward which launched in 1910 and dominated the racing scene for many years.
Run in association with the New York Yacht Club (NYYC) and the Yacht Club de Monaco (YCM) with the RYS as the Organising Authority, the Westward Cup was first held in July 2010 and was a tremendous success for everyone taking part. It marked the revival of and interest in Big Class yacht racing in the Solent and around the world. A spectacle rarely seen on the Solent.
It was a grey overcast day with rain showers blowing through, which suited the monochrome of black/white or sepia conversions.. I managed to take a LOT of shots on this trip so it will take a while to pick out the best, but here are a few to get you going.
Classic Yacht Racing, Westward Cup 2012
I spent a day earlier this week out on the water watching some of the great classic yachts racing on the Solent in the Westward Cup 2012.
Three of the greats were taking part : Eleonora, Mariquita and Mariette. The largest of these, Eleonora is 49.5M in length and was launched in 2000 as a exact replica of the schooner Westward which launched in 1910 and dominated the racing scene for many years.
Run in association with the New York Yacht Club (NYYC) and the Yacht Club de Monaco (YCM) with the RYS as the Organising Authority, the Westward Cup was first held in July 2010 and was a tremendous success for everyone taking part. It marked the revival of and interest in Big Class yacht racing in the Solent and around the world. A spectacle rarely seen on the Solent.
It was a grey overcast day with rain showers blowing through, which suited the monochrome of black/white or sepia conversions.. I managed to take a LOT of shots on this trip so it will take a while to pick out the best, but here are a few to get you going.
Dorset Landscape Photography: Storms over the Cobb
08th June 2012 - 0 comments
08th June 2012 - 0 comments
Dorset Landscape Photography
Storms over the Cobb
Some more images from last weeks storms down at Lyme Regis. I have processed all of these in Black and White as I feel it conveys much better the feel of the wet, windy & very wild evening.
One of the issues that night was keeping dry, both myself but more importantly the camera equipment. The winds were very strong and often I was being blown sideways or backwards as I walked around trying to get a good vantage point.
There were a few boats up on the harbour side and a few strategically placed brick walls, all of which I could shelter behind for a few moments while I captured the shot I was after, but the spray was everywhere. I came home caked in salt and the camera needed a good clean too.
There are many 'waterproof' systems for DSLR's on the market with a wide range of price tags, but when its raining or the spray is excessive like it was this night, I find a plastic bag with a hole in the bottom works owners. Make a small cut-out in the bottom of the bag and slip it over the lens, using an elastic band to hold it onto the lens. The bag is then folded back over the lens and camera body, with the bag opening free for you to access the controls.
A second piece of kit is a small hand towel which can be used to cover the camera/lens if its on a tripod, or can be used to wipe down the spray and keep it relatively dry during a shoot.
The other piece of kit you must always carry are clean lens cleaning cloths, along with a damp cloth when its salty. Wile the salt off first, then clean and dry the lens. You may have to return to the car or hide under a brolly to do this bit, but its worthwhile.
Storms over the Cobb
Some more images from last weeks storms down at Lyme Regis. I have processed all of these in Black and White as I feel it conveys much better the feel of the wet, windy & very wild evening.
One of the issues that night was keeping dry, both myself but more importantly the camera equipment. The winds were very strong and often I was being blown sideways or backwards as I walked around trying to get a good vantage point.
There were a few boats up on the harbour side and a few strategically placed brick walls, all of which I could shelter behind for a few moments while I captured the shot I was after, but the spray was everywhere. I came home caked in salt and the camera needed a good clean too.
There are many 'waterproof' systems for DSLR's on the market with a wide range of price tags, but when its raining or the spray is excessive like it was this night, I find a plastic bag with a hole in the bottom works owners. Make a small cut-out in the bottom of the bag and slip it over the lens, using an elastic band to hold it onto the lens. The bag is then folded back over the lens and camera body, with the bag opening free for you to access the controls.
A second piece of kit is a small hand towel which can be used to cover the camera/lens if its on a tripod, or can be used to wipe down the spray and keep it relatively dry during a shoot.
The other piece of kit you must always carry are clean lens cleaning cloths, along with a damp cloth when its salty. Wile the salt off first, then clean and dry the lens. You may have to return to the car or hide under a brolly to do this bit, but its worthwhile.
Dorset Landscape Photography: Storms over the Cobb
07th June 2012 - 0 comments
07th June 2012 - 0 comments
Dorset Landscape Photography
Storms over the Cobb
A windy evening down at Lyme as the winds hit 60-70mph coinciding with high tide. It seemed at times as if the Cobb was under water as the waves rolled up the side of the Cobb, up onto the beach, round the end of the wall and down into the harbour.
The harbour was at it highest I have seen, overflowing on the car park and pathway. The mix of rubble being washed onto the Cobb's lower walkway along with the harbour overflowing caused the Coastguard to close off the path ... much to a number children's disappointment.
Many folks were out this evening to watch the storms including a few other Tog's trying to keep their equipment dry from all of the spray. An amazing evening, despite the gloomy and dull lighting, it was great to watch the spectacle.
The lighting led me to process this one in black and white to bring out the dark, gloomy nature of the event. This panorama is a stitched image of 8 different shots, blended together.
Storms over the Cobb
A windy evening down at Lyme as the winds hit 60-70mph coinciding with high tide. It seemed at times as if the Cobb was under water as the waves rolled up the side of the Cobb, up onto the beach, round the end of the wall and down into the harbour.
The harbour was at it highest I have seen, overflowing on the car park and pathway. The mix of rubble being washed onto the Cobb's lower walkway along with the harbour overflowing caused the Coastguard to close off the path ... much to a number children's disappointment.
Many folks were out this evening to watch the storms including a few other Tog's trying to keep their equipment dry from all of the spray. An amazing evening, despite the gloomy and dull lighting, it was great to watch the spectacle.
The lighting led me to process this one in black and white to bring out the dark, gloomy nature of the event. This panorama is a stitched image of 8 different shots, blended together.
Queens Diamond Jubilee : Lighting the Beacons
05th June 2012 - 0 comments
05th June 2012 - 0 comments
Queens Diamond Jubilee
Lighting the Beacons
A quick trip along to Lyme Regis last night to watch the lighting of the Queens Diamond Jubilee Beacons along the Jurassic Coastline. From the harbour side in Lyme a beacon was lit on the North wall of the Cobb, watched by the gathered crowds, as the full moon rose behind the isle of Portland.
As the beacons got going there was others down the coastline, at Thornecombe Beacon, Bridport, Abbotsbury Hill and down to Weymouth. A great sight down the coast.
Many of the beacons we accompanied by fireworks lighting up the skies too, which made the evening a bit special. Its not often we see the beacons along our coast lit any more, so to see them lining the coast was tremendous.
In the harbour the beacon was lit by the Mayor of Lyme Regis was soon raging, sending sparks across the walls, which looked amazing with the full moon rising behind it. Its been a great weekend of celebrations and it was fun to do something local and share it and be part of it.
Lighting the Beacons
A quick trip along to Lyme Regis last night to watch the lighting of the Queens Diamond Jubilee Beacons along the Jurassic Coastline. From the harbour side in Lyme a beacon was lit on the North wall of the Cobb, watched by the gathered crowds, as the full moon rose behind the isle of Portland.
As the beacons got going there was others down the coastline, at Thornecombe Beacon, Bridport, Abbotsbury Hill and down to Weymouth. A great sight down the coast.
Many of the beacons we accompanied by fireworks lighting up the skies too, which made the evening a bit special. Its not often we see the beacons along our coast lit any more, so to see them lining the coast was tremendous.
In the harbour the beacon was lit by the Mayor of Lyme Regis was soon raging, sending sparks across the walls, which looked amazing with the full moon rising behind it. Its been a great weekend of celebrations and it was fun to do something local and share it and be part of it.
Dorset Landscape Photography : Early morning mists
29th May 2012 - 0 comments
29th May 2012 - 0 comments
Dorset Landscape Photography
Early morning mists
Or, to be more precise, the lack of them! They were promised this morning, and with a cold, still night following a lovely warm day, it was looking good. I set the alarm early (again!) and even had a peak out of the window around 2am, to see a great waft of mists outside my window, so I was very hopeful.
A couple of hours later though it had mostly dissipated. As I climbed up the local hills overlooking West Dorset, there were a few light mists lying the in the valleys but nothing like what I was hoping for.
As I waited to see if it would improve, the sun became to give its wonderful pre-dawn glow which was great to see as it warmed the landscape and skies above, but at the same time, a huge bank of low lying cloud was being blown in from the North, which eventually obscured all the scene, before it was burnt off by the suns warmth over the next couple of hours.
It been a few early starts recently, with limited opportunities, but its always wonderful to be up at sunrise, to see the change in lighting and the mists lying across the valleys. Whether I get a great image or not, its a sight you can never tire of.
Early morning mists
Or, to be more precise, the lack of them! They were promised this morning, and with a cold, still night following a lovely warm day, it was looking good. I set the alarm early (again!) and even had a peak out of the window around 2am, to see a great waft of mists outside my window, so I was very hopeful.
A couple of hours later though it had mostly dissipated. As I climbed up the local hills overlooking West Dorset, there were a few light mists lying the in the valleys but nothing like what I was hoping for.
As I waited to see if it would improve, the sun became to give its wonderful pre-dawn glow which was great to see as it warmed the landscape and skies above, but at the same time, a huge bank of low lying cloud was being blown in from the North, which eventually obscured all the scene, before it was burnt off by the suns warmth over the next couple of hours.
It been a few early starts recently, with limited opportunities, but its always wonderful to be up at sunrise, to see the change in lighting and the mists lying across the valleys. Whether I get a great image or not, its a sight you can never tire of.
Wiltshire Landscape Photography: West Woods
17th May 2012 - 1 comment
17th May 2012 - 1 comment
Wiltshire Landscape Photographer
Bluebells at West Woods
A few more shots from last weekends trip up to West Woods near Marlborough.
A few of these shots were stitched together, to add more detail and to allow them to be blown up to large sizes on canvases. The images were all taken with a 50mm prime lens to ensure less distortion and provide high quality images.
The light was streaming through the beech trees by this time of day, catching and highlighting the new growth both in the trees and the ferns growing amongst the bluebells.
A great wood and if you're up that way, the best I have found in the UK for the bluebells this year.
Bluebells at West Woods
A few more shots from last weekends trip up to West Woods near Marlborough.
A few of these shots were stitched together, to add more detail and to allow them to be blown up to large sizes on canvases. The images were all taken with a 50mm prime lens to ensure less distortion and provide high quality images.
The light was streaming through the beech trees by this time of day, catching and highlighting the new growth both in the trees and the ferns growing amongst the bluebells.
A great wood and if you're up that way, the best I have found in the UK for the bluebells this year.
Hampshire Landscape Photography : Micheldever Bells
09th May 2012 - 0 comments
09th May 2012 - 0 comments
Hampshire Landscape Photography
Micheldever Bells
A couple more images from the weekends trip up to Micheldever. I must try and get up there again if the light changes .... the brief glimpse of light makes all the difference to the woods.
The pathway seemed to be leading off to ..... where? It seemed to have no end point which made it more interesting.
The second image was a stitch of 4 images, each taken at 110mm in portrait mode. By using a longer focal length you can eliminate and distortion effects with the vertical trunks of the trees. By using this method you have to move quickly making sure the lighting doesn't change between the 4 shots, which in this case was a challenge.
Micheldever Bells
A couple more images from the weekends trip up to Micheldever. I must try and get up there again if the light changes .... the brief glimpse of light makes all the difference to the woods.
The pathway seemed to be leading off to ..... where? It seemed to have no end point which made it more interesting.
The second image was a stitch of 4 images, each taken at 110mm in portrait mode. By using a longer focal length you can eliminate and distortion effects with the vertical trunks of the trees. By using this method you have to move quickly making sure the lighting doesn't change between the 4 shots, which in this case was a challenge.
Hampshire Landscape Photography : Micheldever Bells
07th May 2012 - 0 comments
07th May 2012 - 0 comments
Hampshire Landscape Photography
Micheldever Woods Bluebells
A second trip up to the woods at Micheldever over this weekend to see how the bluebells were coming on. The woods are large and there are many areas known to photographers for a good, extensive carpet of bells. In some places the bells go off into the distance for almost a mile.
On arrival the weather was cloudy with little chance of great light for highlighting the bells or the blossoming beech trees and their lime-green foliage.
I visited a number of areas and had to go to the far areas to get any good coverage. The bells this year seem very patchy and 2 or 3 of the main areas have been ruined by forest clearance work or the early frosts, or just too many folks walking over the flowers
This one was from the far side of the woodland, hidden away in an area not normally visited. The bells were not too bad and the thinning clouds from time to time, allowed a brighter light to pass over the trees and flowers.
Its worth another visit if I can get there again.
Micheldever Woods Bluebells
A second trip up to the woods at Micheldever over this weekend to see how the bluebells were coming on. The woods are large and there are many areas known to photographers for a good, extensive carpet of bells. In some places the bells go off into the distance for almost a mile.
On arrival the weather was cloudy with little chance of great light for highlighting the bells or the blossoming beech trees and their lime-green foliage.
I visited a number of areas and had to go to the far areas to get any good coverage. The bells this year seem very patchy and 2 or 3 of the main areas have been ruined by forest clearance work or the early frosts, or just too many folks walking over the flowers
This one was from the far side of the woodland, hidden away in an area not normally visited. The bells were not too bad and the thinning clouds from time to time, allowed a brighter light to pass over the trees and flowers.
Its worth another visit if I can get there again.
Infrared Photography : Churches
06th May 2012 - 0 comments
06th May 2012 - 0 comments
Infrared Photography
Churches : in the Landscape
This is a project Ive been working on for the last few weeks and months and although the project itself has now finished, I think I may well continue with it.
Its not that I'm a great lover of churches, but the monochrome look of infrared seems to suit them and I've enjoyed the change of photographic style.
The project covered both monochrome or infrared and was focused on churches in the landscape, thus excluding urban landscapes... some of which will be added soon too.
The style of infrared turns green foliage white, blue skies a very dark blue and limits the colour spectrum to almost monochromatic. The church images shown in the gallery were initially processed reversing the colour channels and adjusting the levels. After this I used Silver EfexPro to convert the image to black and white.
Churches : in the Landscape
This is a project Ive been working on for the last few weeks and months and although the project itself has now finished, I think I may well continue with it.
Its not that I'm a great lover of churches, but the monochrome look of infrared seems to suit them and I've enjoyed the change of photographic style.
The project covered both monochrome or infrared and was focused on churches in the landscape, thus excluding urban landscapes... some of which will be added soon too.
The style of infrared turns green foliage white, blue skies a very dark blue and limits the colour spectrum to almost monochromatic. The church images shown in the gallery were initially processed reversing the colour channels and adjusting the levels. After this I used Silver EfexPro to convert the image to black and white.