Bite-Size Blog Post #50 - Vixen Tor - Dartmoor
Despite Vixen Tor being very much out of bounds and on private land, there are still some wonderful viewpoints to photograph.
One is Not Welcome!
If you've watched my free watch video series Discovering Dartmoor, you'll know that in episode five I visited Vixen Tor. Well, I say visited, you can't actually visit Vixen Tor as it is on private land and access is prohibited. It's not even a tor you can go and sneakily access as it's surrounded by a stone wall and barbed wire!
However, that doesn't mean you can't photograph it. It just means you have to be a little further back and capture the tor as part of the wider landscape. That was exactly the approach I took when I filmed there for Discovering Dartmoor and as result of being forced to look beyond the tor, I discovered a wonderful panoramic view. Ever since that afternoon I've been eager to get back.
With me living east of Dartmoor and Vixen Tor being location the Western Edge, getting there always takes a little more effort but given that it's only a short walk from the road, I really should go there more often! However, for whatever reason I only recently returned to Vixen Tor to see if I could improve on the panoramic image that I captured during Discovering Dartmoor.
My hopes were high when I looked over to Vixen Tor one afternoon recently. It was near perfect conditions. The light was warm and soft, the trees were displaying their autumn colours, and the wind was light. Oh, and no sheep to spoil the composition! However, while there were great clouds in the sky, some of them looking very moody, there was an annoying gap between the horizon where the tor sat and dramatic clouds above. It was unfortunately a large gap somewhat making it difficult to create a balanced composition.
Vixen Tor Panorama, Dartmoor National Park - Nikon Z8, Nikkor Z 24-12-mm f/4 S at 54mm, f/8, 1/60 sect at ISO 200, 9 image stitched panoramic.
Not to be put off by a lack of clouds I tried to make the most of the scene by placing the tor and the surrounding landscape much lower in the frame so I could include a little of the moody sky. Has it worked? I'm not 100% convinced, but the more time I spend the more I grow to like the photographs, and they represent the wonderful the view I experienced that afternoon, and it has inspired me to return again very soon!
Vixen Tor, Dartmoor National Park - Nikon Z8, Nikkor Z 24-12-mm f/4 S at 69mm, f/13, 1/13 sect at ISO 64..
Bite-Size Blog Post #49 - Sharpitor - Dartmoor
Despite it's near roadside location, the view from Sharpitor on the western edge of Dartmoor is something I'd not experienced before but when I found myself driving by one day, I just had to pull over and take a look.
Drive By Landscape Photography
Over my 10 plus years of photographing Dartmoor there still remain locations that I haven't photographed. That's hardly a surprise when Dartmoor is over 365 square miles in size! Some of these locations are remote or require additional effort to get to, but there are locations that are close to the road that I just haven’t visited yet.
Nestled on the western edge of Dartmoor, Sharpitor is one such location. It’s on the main road between Yelverton and Princetown, and there is a very convenient car park which only leaves you roughly a 15 minute walk up a gentle slope. So why have I never photographed this easily accessible tor before? Honestly, I don't know. It's not I wasn't aware of it, I guess just never got around to getting there.
That was until a few weeks ago! I was spending the day volunteering with the Dartmoor Preservation Association helping them to clear gorse from an area of land they own called High House Waste. It's not the type of work I'm used but I found it to be highly satisfying!
It was on my way home from my volunteering day that I found myself passing Sharpitor, so I pulled over, grabbed my camera and headed up the hill. Here's what I captured.
Sharpitor #5, Dartmoor National Park - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 14-30mm f4 S at 19mm, f/13, 1/20 sec at ISO 64.
I needed to get back home so I wasn't able to wait for the light to soften at sunset but even so, the light on Dartmoor was lovely. Sharpitor itself isn't that interesting but it does offer some compelling foregrounds that help frame the more distant Leather Tor and surrounding hills. Now that I've been, it's definitely a location I'll be returning to!
Going Greener with Fotospeed's Natural Smooth 310 Paper
In this video, I put Fotospeed’s Natural Smooth 310 to the test. The paper is made from 34% hemp, 33% recycled materials, and is produced with sustainability in mind but how does it actually perform when printing photographs?
Part 2 of Going Greener with my Photography
A few months ago, I published a video in which I used public transport rather than my car to reach one of my landscape photography locations. I wanted to see if using the train was a practical option. It would be a small change, but it might be a more sustainable one. You can see how I got on and what I concluded in the video.
For my next small change I wanted to take a look a new paper from Fotospeed, their Natural Smooth Cotton 310. Not only is this smooth matt paper part of their signature range, it is also Fotospeed’s first sustainably sourced paper.
Using a sustainable paper for printing is hardly going to save the world, but if I make a lot of small changes they can add up. But the question is, will using a paper made of hemp and recycled materials compromise the print quality? To find out I put the paper to test, and you can find out the results in this video!
Use the discount code Julian15 and get 15% off Fotospeed papers at Fotospeed.com
🛒 Purchase Fotospeed Natural Smooth 310
🛒 Fotospeed Spring Back Binders
More of my printing videos worth watching:
🎞️ Showcase Your Photos with Spring Back Binders
🎞️ My Canon Pro-1100 review and setup video
Other Useful Links
🎞️ Fotospeed's Natural Smooth 310 video
Headlands by Norman McCloskey - On My Bookshelf S07E12
In this episode of On My Bookshelf, I’m looking at one of the most highly anticipated books of 2025, Headlands by Norman McCloskey. Will this follow-up to Beara and Kingdom be the crown of the trilogy?
Setting the Standard for a Landscape Photography Book
Over the years I’ve made no secret about how much I like Norman McCloskey’s earlier two books, Beara and Kingdom. They are exceptional not only for the photographs in them, but also the presentation, layout, and sequencing. It’s a tough formula to get right, and I can only think of one other photographer who excels in book production. Can you guess who that is?
So, when Norman teased the release of his fourth book and third in a trilogy along with Beara and Kingdom, I couldn’t wait to see what he would produce. But sometimes when you get so excited about something and your expectations rise, the real-life experience can sometimes leave you disappointed and flat.
When my copy of Headlands dropped through the letter box, I was a little apprehensive. Should I have been? Let’s find out in the latest episode of On My Bookshelf.
Purchase Norman’s Books
✔️ Visit Norman's website and sign up for his newsletter - https://www.normanmccloskey.com/
🛒 Purchase Headlands by Norman McCloskey - https://www.normanmccloskey.com/books/headlands/
🛒 Purchase Kingdom by Norman McCloskey - https://www.normanmccloskey.com/books/kingdom/
🛒 Purchase Beara by Norman McCloskey - https://www.normanmccloskey.com/product/beara/
🛒 Purchase Parklight by Norman McCloskey - https://www.normanmccloskey.com/product/parklight/
🎞️ Watch the episodes of On My Bookshelf for Beara and Kingdom here -
🎞️ Watch Ólafur Arnalds & Talos - We Didn't Know We Were Ready (feat. Niamh Regan & Ye Vagabonds) -
Gemini and Mercury Remastered by Andy Saunders - On My Bookshelf S07E11
In this episode of On My Bookshelf, I look at Gemini and Mercury Remastered by Andy Saunders, the acclaimed follow-up to his bestselling Apollo Remastered.
Remastered Again!
Back in series 6 of On My Bookshelf I looked at a book called Apollo Remastered by Andy Saunders. I loved it so much that it’s now up there with some of my all-time favourite photography books. It’s probably not surprising given I am fascinated about space and space travel!
When I heard that Andy Saunders was creating Gemini and Mercury Remastered, I couldn’t have pre-ordered the book quick enough. I knew very little about those early space flights that were the precursor to the Apollo missions, and I hoped this book would not only fill in a gap in my knowledge but also have stunningly restored photographs.
Now that I have it, has it disappointed? Let’s find out in this episode of On My Bookshelf.
🛒 You can purchase the hardcover, Kindle or audiobook version of Gemini and Mercury Remastered by Andy Saunders - https://amzn.to/3J66M71
🛒 You can also purchase Apollo Remastered by Andy Saunders - https://amzn.to/4nWQcFQ
Bite-Size Blog Post #48 - Chamonix
A little excursion to the French alps provides the chance to capture the Mont Blanc Massif.
A Retrospective Blog Post from France
I know that all blog posts are technically retrospective reviews of my photography adventures but given my adventure to Chamonix in France occurred back in July and it’s now October, I feel the use of the word retrospective is justified.
I wasn’t planning on publishing the pics from this trip because the primary purpose of going to Chamonix wasn’t to take photographs but to spend time wandering in the alps with friends. Nothing involving snow and ice though which way above my skill set but very pleasant walks below the snow line where the land is green and lush.
One of the highlights was the day I spent walking Aiguillette des Houches via Le Brévent. Such a wonderful day walking in the sun and being in awe of the mountains that surrounded me. I also had time to walk up to Lac Blanc, though that was a LOT busier with people. And I even squeezed in a run to Mer de Glace. Aside from a photography-based holiday, it was what I would consider a perfect vacation.
However, even though it wasn’t a photography based holiday, I still took my camera with me. Most of my outdoor time wouldn’t be during the golden hours, but you never know when you’ll be inspired, and you’ll want to capture a photograph.
Mont Blanc Massif from Aiguille du Midi, Chamonix, France - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 24-120 f/4 S at 33mm, f/11, 1/100 sec at ISO 64.
Bite-Size Blog Post #47 - The Lakes - Day 3
I had to wait, but my third day photographing the Lake District delivered the views I was hoping for.
Dawn at Hallin Fell
After the slight disappointment of missing an ascent of Blencathra in my previous blog post, I was eager to finish my Lake District weekend on a high. With the worst of Storm Amy having passed through, the weather forecast for Sunday morning was looking positive. Sure, the winds were still strong, but a sky with broken cloud could provide light on the landscape. But where to go?
Hallin Fell Towards Martindale #1, The Lake District - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4 S at 30mm, f/13, 1/50 sec at ISO 800.
Fortunately for me I knew the best person to ask, my good friend and fellow professional photographer, Chris Sale. I’d already met with Chris for a Friday morning shoot on Latrigg Fell and when I suggested he join me for a Sunday morning shoot he knew just the place and jumped at the chance.
Hallin Fell Towards Martindale #2, The Lake District - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4 S at 27mm, f/13, 1/100 sec at ISO 500.
It was a very pleasant walk up to Hallin Fell, until we reached the summit where we hit with the full force of the wind! Getting stable shots was going to be a challenge but the views were amazing and the thought of getting light on the hills kept us positive. I had to wrap up warm to keep my positivity, but the cold didn’t seem to be bothering Chris!
Hallin Fell Towards Martindale #3, The Lake District - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4 S at 20mm, f/13, 1/60 sec at ISO 500.
It was a test of our patience though as it was a good 45 minutes before the sun finally broke through the cloud and bathed the hills in glorious morning light.
Hallin Fell Towards Martindale #4, The Lake District - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 24-120mm f/4 S at 70mm, f/10, 1/320 sec at ISO 500.
It was one of those mornings where you remember why you love landscape photography so much. You battle wild weather, your patience is tested, you question your life choices, and then you get break in the weather and you run around with a smile on your face taking pictures. What a way to finish my weekend in the Lake District.
This is what happy photographers look like!
Bite-Size Blog Post #46 - The Lakes - Day 2
The plans for my 2nd day in the Lake District were impacted by Storm Amy resulting in the planned walk up Blencathra being cancelled. But we weren’t going to let the weather stop us going out with the cameras.
The OWPG and Storm Amy
If you saw my previous bite-size blog post, you’ll have read that I had returned to the Lake District after a three year gap. One of the reasons for this visit was to see my friend Chris Sale, and the other was to attend the Outdoor Writers and Photographers Guild (OWPG) Big Weekend.
I’ve been a proud member of the OWPG for over a year, but this was my first opportunity to attend their annual get together and awards dinner, which this year was being held in the Lake District. The Big Weekend is not only a chance to celebrate the achievements of its members (who range from writers, photographers, filmmakers editors and podcasters), but it was also an opportunity for me to meet my fellow guild members in person.
I already knew Josephine Collingwood (who was kind enough to appear in my video series Discovering Dartmoor) but most of the other members I only knew from our regular group zoom calls. Needless to say, that meeting such a diverse and passionate group of people was a highlight of the weekend.
Another highlight from the OWPG Big Weekend was the planned guided walk up Blencathra, a mountain I have been keen to ascend for a long time. However, Storm Amy had different ideas. With winds in excess of 80mph and very heavy rain, it would have been dangerous to try a walk up Blencathra.
However, OWPG members love the outdoors and while the mountains were out of action, there were plenty of other lowland walks to do. After some last minute planning by Josphine, we went on a lovely walk to Lodore Falls, Surprise View and Ashness Bridge. While the conditions were challenging for photography, I still got the camera out to capture a few photographs.
Ladore Falls, Lake District - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 24-120mm f/4 S at 120mm, f/13, 1/6 sec at ISO 320.
Ashness Bridge, Lake District - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4 S at 23mm, f/22, 1/15 sec at ISO 64.
I spent a great couple of days with my fellow OWPG members and chatted to some really interesting people, but my Lake District adventure didn’t end there. In my next blog post I head back out with Chris for another sunrise shoot. And as you’ll find out, it turns out to be a bit of a special one.
Bite-Size Blog Post #45 - The Lakes - Day 1
After three years I return to the Lake District. Here’s what happened on my first morning out with the camera.
A Weekend in The Lake District
As I start to write this blog post I thought I’d look back to see when I last visited the Lake District to take photographs and I was shocked to see it was way back in April 2022! I can’t believe it’s been over three years, but looking back at the video I made that weekend I was reminded of what a great time I had, not only photographically, but also with my good friend Chris Sale. You can watch that video here.
This most recent trip was to serve two purposes, catch up with Chris and to attend the Outdoor Writers and Photographers Guild (OWPG) Big Weekend. I’ll talk more about my time with the OWPG in the next blog post. This bite-size blog post is all about the shoot Chris and I went on for my first morning in the Lake District.
Latrigg Fell
As it had been over three years since I had last photographed the Lake District, I was keen to photograph a classic Lake Districte view. Ideally somewhere that if the predicated cloud cover were to break, we’d get light on the surrounding hills. While Latrigg Fell near Keswick fits the bill, it’s unlikely to yield the most original compositions. But you never know. You have to take a chance and hope you’ll get some special conditions.
Keswick and Cat Bells from Latrigg Fell #1, The Lake District - Nikon Z8, Nikkor Z 24-120mm f/4 S at 27mm, f/11, 2 seconds at ISO 64.
Keswick and Cat Bells from Latrigg Fell #2, The Lake District - Nikon Z8, Nikkor Z 24-120mm f/4 S at 34mm, f/11, 0.8 seconds at ISO 64, 6 image panoramic stitch.
Unfortunately for us it was a case of unbroken cloud and flat light. This did not dampen our enthusiasm and joy of being out with our cameras. I spend a lot of time by myself when I’m out with the camera, but spending the morning with Chris reminded me that while the photography doesn’t always work out the way you want, spending time with a mate is never a waste of time.
In the next bit-size blog post I’ll talk about my 2nd day in the Lake District.
Lowepro ProTactic BP 350 AW III Review
Looking for the best camera backpack for outdoor and event photography? In this video, I review the Lowepro ProTactic BP 350 AW III, one of Lowepro’s most popular modular camera bags designed for professional photographers and content creators. But is it the best option?
I’m struggling with this one…
Bags, bags, bags. I have a lot of camera bags. I almost have one for every situation now. But I also recognise that because I have a photography-based YouTube channel with a reasonable reach, brands will ask me to review their products. I don’t say yes to everything. In fact, I more often than not say no. Either the product isn’t related to photography, or I have no use for it.
There is something about camera bags though. Someone how I can find a reason to test another because there is a “gap” in my bag line up. So, when Lowepro asked to try out their Lowepro ProTactic BP 350 AW III I said yes. I’m not sure what gap I was trying to fill but I’m glad I decided to look at this one because it’s very good. However, I found myself struggling with one particular part of this video review. What? You’ll just have to watch to find out.
✔️ Learn more about the Lowepro ProTactic BP 350 AW III - https://www.lowepro.com/uk-en/protactic-bp-350-aw-iii-lp37505-pww/ or the 450 version - https://www.lowepro.com/uk-en/protactic-bp-450-aw-iii-lp37483-pww/?___store=lowepro_uk_en
🛒 Purchase the Lowepro ProTactic BP 350 AW III from Amazon - https://amzn.to/46r36Ew or WEX - https://wex.pxf.io/JK666E
🛒 Purchase the Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW III from Amazon - https://amzn.to/3Wa1xG4 or WEX - https://wex.pxf.io/WyeWm3
Please note that these are affiliate links (but not paid links or ads). By buying through these links I may receive a commission for the sale. This has no effect on the price for you.
✔️ Check out my review of the Manfrotto Befree GT PRO Carbon Tripod - https://julianbaird.com/blog/2024/10/22/manfrotto-befree-gt-pro-carbon-tripod-review
🎞️ Check out my review of the Lowepro PhotoSport Backpack PRO AW III
Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 Review and Setup Guide
Are you thinking about purchasing the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100? Or have you just purchased it and want to know how to set it up? In this video I’ll show you how to set it up, make your first print, use ICC profiles, talk about ink costs and give you some ideas for displaying your prints.
Going Bigger and Being More Cost Effective with the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100
If you’ve been reading this blog or watching my YouTube channel over the years you’ll know what a passion I have for printing. My love for printing was further fuelled at the weekend when I attended and hosted Fotofest in Bristol. It was a fantastic event and being in a community of like-minded photographers reminded me of how important printing is to so many people.
A few months ago I changed from a Canon imagePRO-GRAF PRO-300 to the new Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100. There was nothing wrong with the print quality of the Pro-300 but I wanted to have the capability to print A2 and to make my ink consumption more cost effective.
Over those last few months, I’ve been putting the printer through it’s paces and I’m now ready to share my PRO-1100 video. So no matter if you are thinking about purchasing a Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100, or have you just purchased one and want to know how to set it up, my video should have you covered. In my video -
I'll share the key details on the Pro-1100.
Tell you why I bought it and where from
Show you how to set both the hardware and software
Talk you through how to make your first print
How to manage paper types and ICC profiles using Canon’s Media Configuration Utility
Show you how to find out how much your prints cost using Canon’s Accounting Manager software
I’ll Print some glorious A2 images
Show you some options for displaying your prints.
And finally share my thoughts and comments on this printer
I hope you found this video useful. If you did or just have a question or comment, do let me know below in the comments section.
You can of course expect lots more printing content from me, so please make sure you stay tuned to my YouTube channel and the blog. Thanks for watching and all just below you’ll find links to everything I mentioned in the video,
Useful Links from the Video
Purchase the Pro-1100, Inks and Tech Specs
🛒 If you are considering a purchase of the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 you can do so from Fotospeed - https://fotospeed.com/canon-pro-1100-a2-printer-12-inks.html
🛒 Canon Pro-1100 inks - https://fotospeed.com/printers-inks/desktop-printer-inks.html?default_brand=Canon&dit_printer=Canon%20Pro%201100
🔗 Check out the full specifications of the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 - https://www.canon.co.uk/printers/imageprograf-pro-1100/
More of my printing videos worth watching
🎞️ Fotospeed Spring Back Binders - https://youtu.be/IRXr6VuRYwE
🎞️ Designing a Custom Frame from Picture Frames Express - https://youtu.be/FJYOckTLbyA?si=RSoVSVb7z6Ii91gu&t=443
🎞️ How to Become a Fearless Printer - https://youtu.be/mbB1WdLFF_s?si=pI620VKr0qnXEXix
🎞️ Using a Nikon D80 to Create an A3+ Print - https://youtu.be/6X_vK5lts5c
🎞️ Why and How I Calibrate My Monitor - https://youtu.be/ozPuGrXQfeU
Other Useful Links
🔗 Fotospeed Generic Profiles for the Canon Pro-1100 - https://fotospeed.com/profiles/printer/ink/ink/62/
🔗 Fotospeed Custom Profiling Service - https://fotospeed.com/support/
🔗 Fotospeed Art of Printing eBook - https://fotospeed.com/ebook/artofprinting
🔗 ICC Profile Toolkit - https://icc-profile-toolkit.software.informer.com/
🔗 Canon PRO-1100 sotware including Professional Print & Layout, Media Configuration Utility, and Accounting Manager - https://www.canon.co.uk/support/business/products/wide-format-printers/imageprograf/pro-series/imageprograf-pro-1100.html
Papers Used in this Video
Use the discount code Julian15 and get 15% off Fotospeed papers at Fotospeed.com
🛒 Fotospeed Test Packs - https://fotospeed.com/paper/test-packs.html
🛒 Fotospeed PF Lustre 190 - https://fotospeed.com/lustre-190.html
🛒 Fotospeed NST BW 315 - https://fotospeed.com/nst-bright-white-315.html
🛒 Fotospeed Smooth Cotton 300 - https://fotospeed.com/smooth-cotton-300.html
🛒 Fotospeed Platinum Cotton 305 - https://fotospeed.com/platinum-cotton-305.html
🛒 Fotospeed Natural Smooth 310 - https://fotospeed.com/fotospeed-natural-smooth-310.html
🛒 Fotospeed Legacy Gloss 325 - https://fotospeed.com/legacy-gloss-325.html
🛒 Fotospeed Matt Baryta 310 - https://fotospeed.com/fotospeed-matt-baryta-310.html
🛒 Fotospeed Platinum Baryta 300 - https://fotospeed.com/platinum-baryta-300.html
🛒 Fotospeed Panoramic Paper - https://fotospeed.com/papers/panoramic-papers.html
🛒 Canon A3 Pro Luster Photo Paper - https://amzn.to/4g6dINz
🛒 Canon GP-501 Glossy Photo Paper 4x6"/10x15cm (100 Sheets) - https://amzn.to/3I3i1fW
Print Display Options
🛒 Fotospeed Spring Back Binder - https://fotospeed.com/presentation/springback-binders.html
🛒 A2 White Self-Adhesive Foamboard - https://amzn.to/4oVsqLc
🛒 A3 Self-Adhesive White Foamboard - https://amzn.to/4m0EWGP
🛒 A4 White Self-Adhesive Foamboard - https://amzn.to/4lSwLvX
🛒 3M Command Picture Hanging Strips - https://amzn.to/4p3SYtT
🛒 Picture Frames Express - https://www.pictureframesexpress.co.uk/
🛒 Ikea MOSSLANDA Picture ledge - https://www.ikea.com/gb/en/p/mosslanda-picture-ledge-white-90292103/
🛒 Ikea Drawer unit on castors, white, 67x66 cm - https://www.ikea.com/gb/en/p/alex-drawer-unit-on-castors-white-80485423/
Please note that some of these links are affiliate links (but not paid links or ads). By buying through these links I may receive a commission for the sale. This has no effect on the price for you.
Trevose Head - An Iconic South West Coast Path Location on the North Cornwall Coast
If there's one place to get light from the setting sun, it's the coast. With such a small gap between the clouds and the horizon, will my trusty friend Trevose Head give me the light I'm looking for?
Trevose Head - I Just Keep Going Back
In my last blog post I talked about how I was going to spend a bit less time on Dartmoor and start reconnecting with the South West Coast Path. Just after writing that though I started a new mini project on Dartmoor! What can I say. When you are inspired, you’re inspired!
The start of a new Dartmoor project however does not mean I’ve decided not to spend more time photographing the coast. Far from it. I’ve just decided to give up on a little sleep!
When I was considering which coastal locations to photograph while I reconnect with the South West Coast Path, one location stood out as one that I must revisit. Trevose Head is probably one of my favourite locations on the South West Coast Path. It’s a dramatic bit of coastline with crashing waves, sharp rocks, cliffs, and a lighthouse. It also shoots well at sunset just about all year round!
With that all said, it wasn’t my original plan to go there, but the weather conditions weren’t favouring my original choice of The Rumps. While I was eating my fish and chips (a mandatory treat when visiting Cornwall), I was trying to think of a location that might work even when the sky was heavy with cloud. It didn’t take long. There was only one choice and that was Trevose Head.
Photographs on Trevose Head on the South West Coast Path
Trevose Head #1, South West Coast Path, North Cornwall - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4 S at 24mm, f/13, 0.4 sec at ISO 64, Kase Filters CPL.
Trevose Head #2, South West Coast Path, North Cornwall - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4 S at 19mm, f/11, 5 sec at ISO 64, Kase Filters CPL and ND.
Trevose Head #3, South West Coast Path, North Cornwall - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4 S at 21mm, f/11, 6 sec at ISO 64, Kase Filters CPL and ND.
Photographing The Daymark - Devon's Coastal Beacon, Landmark and Icon
In this video I head to the south Devon coast on a beautiful summers evening to photograph one of the South West Coast Path's best known landmarks, The Daymark.
Back to the Coast (Nearly)
I’ve been exploring and photographing Dartmoor extensively over the last few years and I loved every minute of it. Well, nearly every minute of it! However, there is so much more to discover in the south west of the UK. The South West Coast Path is perhaps the most obvious choice, and with over 630 miles of coastline to explore, I’d have no shortage of places to go.
So, it’s time for me to branch out and learn more about the South West Coast Path. I have of course photographed some of paths great locations like Trevose Head in Cornwall, but I’ve never spent a significant amount of time exploring what I expect to be a treasure trove of photography locations.
I’m not giving up on Dartmoor, far from it, but I do want to expand my horizons.
To start my South West Coast Path journey, I’m going to revisit a few of the locations I already know, starting with The Daymark, a location I haven’t photographed for some time. So why not join me in my latest video as I explore and photograph The Daymark. And yes, I know it’s not directly on the coast path, but it’s close enough!
Landscape Photographs of The Daymark - South West Coast Path
Daymark Tower #1, Devon, South West Coast Path - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4 S at 23mm, f/13, 1/10 sec at ISO 64.
Daymark Tower #2, Devon, South West Coast Path - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 24-120mm f/4 S at 54mm, f/13, 1/60 sec at ISO 400.
Daymark Tower #3, Devon, South West Coast Path - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 24-120mm f/4 S at 24mm, f/13, 1/5 sec at ISO 400, single image crop at 6:17.
Visually Speaking, Mastering the Art of Photography by Ted Forbes - On My Bookshelf S07E10
In this episode I look at 'Visually Speaking: Mastering the Art of Photography' by Ted Forbes. Is this guide to mastering photography as a visual communication a book for your bookshelf?
A Photography Book for Everyone
There are books on just about every aspect of photography except photography itself. Or so the author of Visually Speaking, Ted Forbes says. And do you know what, I think he may be right. If I look on my bookshelf, I can see a broad range of photography books that do indeed cover a wide range of photography genres and techniques. But there isn't single book on the art of photography.
I don't have a background in art, and I sometimes lack the deeper understanding and language of my favourite art form, photography. It's one the reasons why I love Ted's YouTube channel, The Art of Photography so much. I find Ted's approach and style of photography communication engaging and easy to understand. So, when he announced he was releasing a book on the art of photography I knew I had to get it.
So why has it taken me over 6 months to produce an episode of On My Bookshelf for it? The main reason is that I wanted to read every word, cover to cover. The fact that it took six months is more a reflection on my busy schedule rather than the content of the book.
But the episode is here at last and I'm very excited to share it with you. I think this is a photography book for everyone. Find out why by watching the video below.
🛒 Pick up a copy of Ted's book from Amazon https://amzn.to/3GfNtqo or find other retailers here - https://www.tedforbes.com/book
🎞️ Check out Ted's YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/theartofphotography
Please note that the Amazon link is an affiliate links (but not a paid link or ads). By buying through these links I may receive a commission for the sale. This has no effect on the price for you.
Wild by Jo Stephen and Published by Kozu Books - On My Bookshelf S07E09
In this episode of On My Bookshelf I look at Wild by Jo Stephen and published by Kozu Books. Is this collection of intimate landscapes and portraits of nature a book for your bookshelf?
Intimate Landscapes and Portraits of Nature
Some photography books are big and heavy, and they dominate a section of my bookshelf. Other photography books are smaller and seem to blend in with the other titles on that shelf. But it's these less obvious books that often have the best surprises in them. One such book is Wild by Jo Stephen. A relatively small book but one that has the power to transport you to a world of nature.
The photographs don't shout and scream at you, but they are powerful. Some photographs are clear and focused, where others use soft focus or multiple exposures. But they all create a sense of nature, connection and calm.
In a world of big vista landscapes vying for your attention on social media, it's a relaxing and yet highly engaging experience reading Wild. You can see why in this episode of On My Bookshelf.
🛒 See Wild by Jo Stephen on the Kozu Books website - https://www.kozubooks.com/out-of-print/wild-by-jo-stephen
🎞️ See the other Kozu Books titles that have featured on an episode of On My Bookshelf in this playlist.
Can You Go Green and Still Get the Shot? Part 1 - Photographing Dartmoor by Train - Ditching the Car
Most of use a car to get to the locations that we want to photograph, but is it possible to go greener and use public transport? In this video I ditch the car and take the train to #Dartmoor. Will this save the planet or is it just too impractical?
Can I Make my Landscape Photography Greener?
Being outdoors with your camera seems to be an eco-friendly activity, doesn't it? But if you scratch under the surface, you'll find that the environmental impact of landscape photograph is a complex issue. To understand that impact you need to look at various factors including travel, camera gear, power & charging, and environmental footprint.
What I'm not going to do in this video and blog post is address these issues in full and provide solutions. And I'm certainly in no position to lecture anyone on the environmental impact that their photography may have.
But what I would like to do is to see if there are some small changes I can make that might reduce the overall environmental impact of my landscape photography. One of the most obvious factors that I can look to change is how I travel. Virtually all my landscape photography involves travelling by car. Even a trip to Dartmoor can involve a 50-mile round trip.
But what if there was an option for me to get public transport to Dartmoor. Well, back in 2021 the Dartmoor Line which runs between Exeter and Okehampton reopened, and ever since trains started running again, I've been itching to give it a try.
Could this train service become a regular form of transport for me and my landscape photograph? Let's find out in the video below.
Belstone Tor Landscape Photographs
Here are the photographs you saw me capture in the video.
Belstone Tor #1, Dartmoor National Park - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4 S at 18mm, f/11, 1/25 sec at ISO 64.
Belstone Tor #3, Dartmoor National Park - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4 S at 18mm, f/13, 1/20 sec at ISO 64.
Belstone Tor #4, Dartmoor National Park - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4 S at 20mm, f/13, 1/20 sec at ISO 64.
Forgotten Souls by Matt Oliver and Published by Kozu Books - On My Bookshelf S07E08
In this episode of On My Bookshelf I look at Forgotten Souls by Matt Oliver and published by Kozu books. Is this collection of silver birch photographs a book for your bookshelf?
Souls and Memories
Do trees have characters and souls? In the eyes of Matt Oliver, they do and in his new book Forgotten Souls he takes on a journey around a land that was once a hub of industry but has now been reclaimed and revitalised by silver birch trees. On paper, this sounds like a narrow scope for a photography book, but as you'll see in this episode of On My bookshelf, a single subject can produce a huge variety of photographs.
I'm not going to say too much more as I cover it all in the video, but regardless of if you are a lover of woodland photography or not, this book is well worth a closer look. Enjoy!
If you'd like to learn more about Matt Oliver you can read his interview in Outdoor Photography magazine (issue 319)
🛒 You can purchase a copy of Forgotten Souls directly by Matt Oliver directly from Kozu Books - https://www.kozubooks.com/books-new/forgotten-souls-by-matt-oliver
🎞️ See the other Kozu Books titles that have featured on and episode of On My Bookshelf in this handy playlist.
The Dance of Light and Shadow - How Black and White is Changing My Landscape Photography - Part 1
What’s the point in creating black and white landscape photographs? Is it just a last-ditch attempt to rescue a poor photograph? In this video I tell you why I’m now using black and white and with intent. Join me on #Dartmoor to find out more.
Dartmoor - A Land of Light and Shadow
It's funny, but probably not wholly unexpected, that the more experience you gain with landscape photography the more likely it is that your photography tastes will change over time. And this is what has happened to me. Kind of.
I say kind of because the style of landscape photographs that I like to capture hasn't changed. I still take natural looking photographs with minimal editing, using a wide-angle lens, and with lots of contrast and colour. It's just that now I'm happy to occasionally drop the colour element and work in black and white.
Capturing black and white landscape photographs is nothing new, and there are plenty of great photographers capturing black and white images of Dartmoor, but for me it's a style of landscape photography I'm getting increasingly comfortable with.
In the video below I talk more about my adoption of black and white landscape photography, how the Nikon Z8 is helping me, and I do it all from the land of light and shadow, Dartmoor.
Enjoy and let me know in the comments below your experience of black and white landscape photography.
Yes Tor Photography Gallery
Here are the photographs you saw me capture in the video.
Yes Tor #1, Dartmoor National Park - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4 S at 17mm, f/13, 1/13 sec at ISO 64.
Yes Tor #2, Dartmoor National Park - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4 S at 14mm, f/13, 1/13 sec at ISO 64.
Yes Tor #3, Dartmoor National Park - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4 S at 18mm, f/13, 1/13 sec at ISO 64.
Yes Tor #4, Dartmoor National Park - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4 S at 23mm, f/13, 1/13 sec at ISO 64.
Yes Tor #5, Dartmoor National Park - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4 S at 30mm, f/13, 1/6 sec at ISO 64.
Stillness in Motion by Sally Mason and Published by Kozu Books - On My Bookshelf S07E07
In this episode of On My Bookshelf I look at 'Stillness. In Motion' by Sally Mason and published by Kozu Books. Is this 'collection of images exploring motion in nature and the beauty of the ephemeral' a book for your bookshelf?
Stillness. In Motion
There is something powerful about the printed photograph. I am as guilty as the next person by not spending sufficient time to look at a photograph when I view it on social media. It's all too easy just to scroll and scroll and scroll until something catches your eye. And even when something catches your eye, I don't spend enough time to properly absorb the photograph.
This is why I love photography books. Looking at a photography book is a purposeful act and one I dedicate time to, as opposed to scrolling when bored. Giving myself permission to spend time looking at a photography book has allowed me to appreciate photographs that I might not have given much of a look if it had appeared on social media.
Sally's 'Stillness. In Motion' is an excellent example of where I might not have instantly connected with the photographs, but when I took the time to immerse myself in them, I found them to be works of art. The title 'Stillness. In Motion' couldn't be more apt.
Find out more about this wonderful book in this episode of On My Bookshelf.
Purchase 'Stillness. In Motion' by Sally Mason
ou can purchase 'Stillness. In Motion' by Sally Mason directly from Kozu Books at https://www.kozubooks.com/books-new/stillness-in-motion-by-sally-mason
Summit Creative Metropolis Backpack Review
In this video I look at the Summit Creative Metropolis 16L Backpack. Learn more about this bag, how I’ve been using it, what I like, and what I disliked to see if this is a camera bag you should consider.
Small but Perfectly Formed
Camera bags come in many different shapes, sizes and price brackets! It’s also hard, if not impossible to find one camera bag to suit all your needs or one that you might consider perfect. There is always compromise to be had somewhere. So always be weary of a review that says a camera bag is perfect or it’s the “most amazing camera bag ever”.
I’ve recently identified the need to have a small camera backpack in my gear cupboard. Something that is lightweight, carries a decent amount of gear, is comfortable and can be used for more than just carrying camera gear about.
While I was at the Photography Show in London in March, I spotted a new brand of camera bag, Summit Creative. I’d never heard of them, but by being able to pick it up in person and have a proper look at it, it did at least on paper seem to fit my needs.
Fortunately for me the distributor for Summit Creative bags in the UK is Photo Specialist UK, the company behind Kase Filters UK. I am a Kase Filters partner, so I already have a working relationship with Photo Specialist UK. The team there very kindly gave me a Metropolis 16L so I could put it to good use.
Over the last 8 weeks I’ve been using the bag for all sorts of photography and non-photography related activities and I’m now ready to share my thoughts with you in this review video. I create these videos not to try and convince you to buy this bag, but because many of you ask questions about the gear I use so it helps to have a video. Enjoy!
🛒 You purchase the Summit Creative Metropolis 16L Backpack here - https://summitcreativebags.com/product/metropolis-16l-backpack/?ref=jbairdexp
🔗 Check out my review of the tripod you saw in this video - https://julianbaird.com/blog/2024/10/22/manfrotto-befree-gt-pro-carbon-tripod-review