Photographing The Lake District 2nd Edition by Stuart Holmes and fotoVUE - On My Bookshelf S05E03
With lakes, mountains, rivers, picturesque villages and Britain's favourite view, the Lake District has it all! In this special episode of On My Bookshelf, I go on location to tell you all about the new and improved 2nd edition of Photographing The Lake District and to try one of the book's new high mountain walks.
Putting a Guidebook to Practical Use
I own more than ten fotoVUE guidebooks. While I’ve read them all, I haven’t yet had the opportunity to put all of them to practical use in the real world. Titles like Photographing Scotland, Photographing Cornwall and Devon and the first fotoVUE book that I purchased, Photographing the Lake District have all had significant use. As with any guidebook, they are a great way to get your photography adventures started in an area when you might not have a lot of time to spend researching location or you simply want a head start.
When the team at fotoVUE asked if they could send me out the new second edition of Photographing The Lake District to feature in an episode of On My Bookshelf, I not only said yes, I said I would film the episode on location in the Lake District. This was a great excuse to visit the Lake District again. Not that I needed a reason to visit the Lake District. It’s a wonderful place to go for any reason.
As well as filming the episode of On My Bookshelf in the Lake District I wanted to take advantage of some of the new and expanded information in this second edition of Photographing The Lake District. The author, Stuart Holmes, has included nine, high mountain walks and being a keen walker myself I was eager to try one of them out.
So, join me in this special episode of On My Bookshelf as I talk all about Photographing The Lake District Second Edition and highlight what’s new and all while I explore and photograph one of the many great locations in this book.
Buy Photographing The Lake District Second Edition
*** Use the discount code JULIAN to get 20% off all books at fotovue.com ***
If you want to add Photographing The Lake District Second Edition to your bookshelf, you can purchase it directly from fotoVUE here - https://www.fotovue.com/shop/books/photographing-the-lake-district-second-edition/
Lake District Photographs from the Walk
Here are the photographs from the video. I hope you enjoy looking at them in higher resolution. (Click on a thumbnail to see the camera settings.)
300th Blog Post - My Landscape Photography Adventure in Iceland
The world is full of amazing places to photograph, but few countries have captured the heart and imagination of photographers like Iceland has. In this blog post and short video, I'll show you some of the locations I visited on my trip to Iceland and the landscape photographs I was lucky enough to capture.
Iceland - Vignettes of Landscape Photography
If you are super keen to see some video and photographs from my photographic adventure to Iceland, then I’ve produced this short video. I decided not to produce and film a full video as I wanted to focus on the experience of being there and capturing landscape photographs. However, as you’ll see, the landscape was just too stunning not to capture any video!
If that has whetted your appetite for Iceland, then read on and I’ll tell you all about my photography adventure to Iceland!
Iceland Wasn’t My First Choice
Saying that Iceland wasn’t my first choice may seem an odd way to start this Icelandic photography blog post. Iceland is well known for being high up on a lot of landscape photographers' bucket lists so why wouldn’t it be on mine? Of course, Iceland is on my bucket list, it just wasn’t as high up as another location.
Every year I like to go on a big photography trip. These trips are an opportunity to completely immerse myself in landscape photography. They aren’t always in far-flung locations. They don’t need to be. For me, it’s about being able to dedicate myself to the art of landscape photography and the experience of spending extended amounts of time outdoors.
While I am more than happy to photograph the many locations across the UK, the Faroe Islands has long been at the top of my list of international locations to photograph. I had decided that 2021 was going to be the year that I was going to make that dream come true. However, the world had different plans and things were turned upside down with the pandemic. The Faroe Islands would have to wait.
As one opportunity passes you by, another one comes along. Without the Faroe Islands, what would I do for my big photo trip in 2021? Iceland of course! An epic country for landscape photography, and number 2 on my international photography bucket list. It might not be my first choice, but I would have nothing to complain about if I spent a week photographing Iceland. If I could get away to Iceland for a week, I could still count myself very, very fortunate.
Workshop or Go Solo?
I’m no stranger to a bit of international travel. I even had a “gap year” back in the early 2000s in which I independently travelled across parts of Asia, New Zealand, and Australia. The point I’m making is that I’m no stranger to arriving in a country and sorting my own travel plans and itinerary out.
So, it may seem surprising that I chose the option of going on a dedicated landscape photography workshop in Iceland. I went down this route for several reasons. This was not only my first international landscape photography trip, but it was also my first time in Iceland. More importantly though, I only had a week. If I’d had several weeks to play with, I would have felt a lot more confident as I would have had the time to get to know the country and how things work there.
I wanted to maximise my limited time there and going on a workshop would remove the pressure of decision making, route planning and scheduling. Yes, you don’t get the freedom that you would do by travelling solo, but for my first visit, going on a workshop would be an excellent introduction to Iceland.
A large part of that decision to go on a workshop was driven by the workshop company I chose. I opted to go on a Dawn to Dusk Photography workshop. I’ve been on several Dawn to Dusk workshops, and I know Ross and Mark would make their Icelandic workshop something special. I don’t think I would have had as much confidence with any other workshop provider. I know the itinerary would maximise our time there, I’d be guided to some of Iceland’s photographic highlights, and the travel, accommodation, and food would be excellent.
So, I booked the workshop, bought a new winter jacket, a new flight friendly camera bag (the Shimoda Designs Explore v2 30) and booked a flight from Bristol to Reykjavík. I just needed to keep my fingers crossed so that I didn’t catch COVID or that the travel rules got tighter!
My Icelandic Photography Adventure
Day 0 and 1 - Arrival and The Big Drive
My Icelandic journey started like any other international trip and that is with a very early morning flight. I was a little nervous as this was the first time travelling with my camera gear and even though I knew my bag was within limits I was worried someone was going to ask me to put it in the hold. I needn’t have worried, and nor should I have worried about all the additional checks and paperwork put in place because of the pandemic. I arrived in Iceland a few hours later and cleared security with no stress.
Starting my adventure in Iceland the right way. Coffee and Bushmills at Reykjavík airport .
Despite having a window seat on the plane, I didn’t see any of the Icelandic landscape because of the very low cloud. This grey and overcast weather continued for the rest of the day so I met up with some of the workshop attendees and we went out for pizza. We went to the most excellent Antons Mamma Mia. This place comes highly recommended.
The next day, the first official day of the workshop, was a day of travel. We were going to drive from Reykjavík to Höfn on the southeast coast of Iceland. It would be from there that we would snake our way back along to coast back to our start point over the next few days.
I’d like to tell you all about the beautiful scenery I saw on this long drive, but the weather had remained grey and overcast and I saw very little. What I did see looked amazing though, so I was still excited about getting started with the photography.
Just before we reached our hotel in Höfn we had time to stop at Jökulsárlón Iceberg Lagoon to capture the first images of the trip.
Jökulsárlón Iceberg Lagoon, Iceland - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 24-70mm f/4 at 28mm, f/11, 4 secs at ISO 64, Kase Filters CPL.
Day 2 - Vestrahorn and Eystrahorn
What can you say about Vestrahorn? It’s one of Iceland's most iconic views. A black sand beach with golden dune grass, the ocean, and an epic mountain range. It’s simply stunning to look at but I have to admit, I did struggle a little with picking out a composition. Perhaps I was overwhelmed by the view. Did I mention how amazing it looked?
Capturing images of Vestrahorn. Simply stunning.
I just needed to take my time. Fortunately for me, I was on holiday and had lots of time to just stand there and soak up the view. And sometimes that’s just what you need to do. Take it all in and wander about. Don’t bother with the camera straight away. Keep it in your bag for a bit. Sure enough, after a short while, I started seeing compositions and then, only when I was sure I had something to photograph, did I get my camera out. After the first shot was taken the creative floodgates opened and I was in my happy place.
After a couple of hours of happy photography, it was off to the cafe at the entrance to Vestrahorn for a hot chocolate and rum! What a morning.
Vestrahorn #2, Iceland - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 15mm, f/11, 0.6 sec at ISO 64.
Vestrahorn #5, Iceland - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 30mm, f/8, 1/20th sec at ISO 400, 7 image panoramic, 6:17 crop.
Vestrahorn #9, Iceland - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 14mm, f/11, 1/4 sec at ISO 64, 6:17 crop.
Vestrahorn #10, Iceland - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 16mm, f/11, 1/4 sec at ISO 64.
After some refreshments, we drove onto Eystrahorn. The weather had taken a turn for the worse and the interesting dawn skies had been replaced with a grey overcast sky. While the mountain range was impressive, the flat conditions meant I wasn’t connecting with the view like I had been at Vestrahorn.
It’s times like this that it’s good to think a little differently, so I took a walk over to the beach. The beach was made up of millions of jet-black pebbles which moved under the impressive white-water waves that were crashing along the beach. I wondered what this all looked like from above, so I got the drone out of my bag and sent it up. What I saw just blew me away.
The Black Sands of Eystrahorn #2, Iceland - DJI Mavic Pro, 1/100th sec.
The Black Sands of Eystrahorn #5, Iceland - DJI Mavic Pro, 1/100th sec.
From just a relatively low height the whole scene was transformed. I could see all these wonderful patterns being created by the waves and the contrast between the black beach and the white water was striking. Not only did it look great on video, but the still images I was capturing looked even better. I had let go of my preconceived idea of what I was going to photograph at Eystrahorn and found something much more rewarding!
The Black Sands of Eystrahorn #4, Iceland - DJI Mavic Pro, 1/100th sec.
The Black Sands of Eystrahorn #1, Iceland - DJI Mavic Pro, 1/100th sec.
After returning to the hotel for dinner we headed back out to Vestrahorn to see if we could capture the Northern Lights but unfortunately for us the northern lights activity level was low that evening. It wasn’t a wasted trip though as we were able to get some practice in and get some nighttime shots of Vestrahorn.
Vestrahorn at Night, Iceland - Nikon Z7, Laowa 15mm f/2, 15 secs at ISO 800.
Day 3 - A Little More Vestrahorn and The Diamond Ice Beach
That’s me photographing Vestrahorn. Photograph courtesy of Ross Hoddinott.
The following day the weather forecast for dawn was looking like it might favour another trip to Vestrahorn. One of the wonderful things about visiting Iceland in November is how late sunrise is, and how long it lasts. Sunrise is about 10 am and because the sun's ascent from the horizon is relatively slow, you get more time to make the most of the morning light compared to how it is in the UK.
We returned to Vestrahorn on what was mostly a cloudless morning but the warm glow from the rising sun illuminated the mountain range beautifully. What you can’t tell from the photographs is the strength of the wind. You had to be very careful with your camera and tripod. Not holding onto your gear was a sure-fire way to ruin your holiday. It was the gusts that could really catch you. You could see them travelling across the water. All you could do is hold your tripod and take a wide stance. It was incredibly good fun though!
Vestrahorn #14, Iceland - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 14mm, f/11, 1/8 sec at ISO 64, 6:17 crop.
Vestrahorn #13, Iceland - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 16mm, f/11, 1/8 sec at ISO 64, 16:9 crop.
After stopping at the Viking Cafe at the entrance of Vestrahorn for another hot chocolate and rum (another advantage of being driven around Iceland), we drove westward to the Diamond Ice Beach at Breiðamerkursandur. This beach is famous for the icebergs that float down from the Jökulsárlón Iceberg Lagoon and then break up into chunks of ice that then get washed up onto the beach.
It was late in the day by the time we got there but I still managed to get a few shots to whet my appetite for the following day.
Diamond Ice Beach #1, Iceland - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 20mm, f/13, 1.3 sec at ISO 64, Kase Filters ND Grad and CPL.
Diamond Ice Beach #3, Iceland - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 15mm, f/13, 2 sec at ISO 64, Kase Filters ND Grad and CPL.
Our hotel for the night was the Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon which was very wonderufl. I admit a campervan gives you more flexibility, but a bar and restaurant after a hard day of photography are very welcome!
Day 4 - The Diamond Ice Beach and Svínafellsjökull Glacier
Dancing with waves and ice! Photograph courtesy of Ross Hoddinott.
After a great night's sleep, lots of breakfast and even more coffee I was excited about returning to the Diamond Ice Beach. There was still a limited amount of ice on the beach but sometimes you can have too much choice, so it didn’t take long to identify some of the more interesting mini-icebergs.
The principal difficulty with shooting the ice is timing. To get the composition I wanted I needed to be close to the ice, but this approach also meant dealing with the incoming waves. It was a matter of waiting for a wave to recede, running out and sticking the tripod in the sand, firing off a couple of shots, and then running back before your feet got wet (or worse). An advantage of being in a group was that we could act as spotters for each other. You don’t always see the waves coming if you are focusing on your camera and so it was good to have someone shout “WAVE”! It was an exciting experience for sure.
Diamond Ice Beach #8, Iceland - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 16mm, f/11, 1.6 sec at ISO 100, Kase Filters CPL.
Diamond Ice Beach #5, Iceland - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 16mm, f/11, 2.0 sec at ISO 100, Kase Filters CPL.
Diamond Ice Beach #4, Iceland - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 16mm, f/11, 2.0 sec at ISO 100, Kase Filters CPL.
You often see photographs from this location coupled with glorious light, but for me, the dark moody skies work just as well. My main problem when I got home was editing. I captured a lot of frames from this location. Each one had a slightly different water pattern but trying to select just a few for final processing was a challenge.
Diamond Ice Beach #13, Iceland - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 20mm, f/11, 1.0 sec at ISO 64, Kase Filters CPL.
Diamond Ice Beach #14, Iceland - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 21mm, f/11, 1.0 sec at ISO 64, Kase Filters CPL.
Diamond Ice Beach #11, Iceland - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 18mm, f/13, 1.0 sec at ISO 64, Kase Filters CPL.
Doughnut, hot chocolate with rum and a view of some icebergs. Happy days.
After a hot chocolate and rum at the cafe, we drove on to Svínafellsjökull Glacier. It was another location with awe-inspiring views. As with Vestrahorn, I struggled initially with finding a composition. Another benefit of being on a workshop is that you can not only get inspiration from your fellow workshop attendees, but you can also lean on the expertise of your instructors. Sometimes you can’t see the compositions because the views are so big, so a little direction can be very welcome.
My favourite photographs from Svínafellsjökull Glacier, as with Eystrahorn, came from the drone. The ability to place the camera wherever I wanted provided me with compositions that simply wouldn’t have been impossible with a camera on a tripod. It's not just the ability to photograph a wider view of the glacier, but for me, it was about photographing the surface of the glacier. The drone gives you a unique viewpoint of the glacier face, and what the surface looks like. Despite these photographs being abstract, they are some of my favourites from Iceland.
Svínafellsjökull Glacier Surface #2, Iceland - DJI Mavic Pro, 1/200 sec.
Svínafellsjökull Glacier Surface #3, Iceland - DJI Mavic Pro, 1/190 sec.
The Face of Svínafellsjökull Glacier #1, Iceland - DJI Mavic Pro, 1/105 sec.
Svínafellsjökull Glacier #1, Iceland - DJI Mavic Pro, 1/560 sec.
The Mountains of Svínafellsjökull Glacier, Iceland - Nikon Z fc, Nikkor 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR at 54mm, f/8.0, 1/60 sec at ISO 100.
Day 5 - Fjallsárlón Glacier and Reynisdrangar Beach
Taking photographs of Fjallsárlón Glacier with noctilucent clouds in the sky. Photograph courtesy of Ross Hoddinott.
Before coming to Iceland, I hadn’t considered how windy it might be. I knew it would be cold, snowy, icy, and rainy, but I didn’t realise how windy it could get there until I arrived. That first experience of the fierce winds at Vestrahorn had certainly opened my eyes as to how strong the wind could be, but the morning we went to Fjallsárlón Glacier was something else!
It was a bitterly cold morning, and I was glad to have my new down jacket on and my gloves with hand warmers inside, but nothing could protect you from the wind. It was going to make photography extremely challenging. Unlike the previous days when it had been windy, the challenge of battling with the wind had been exciting. Here it was just plain hard work.
Fjallsárlón Glacier #1, Iceland - Nikon Z fc, Nikkor Z DX 16-50 f/3.5-6.3 VR at 39mm, f/9, 1/125 sec at ISO 320, 7 image panoramic, 6:17 crop, handheld.
Fjallsárlón Glacier #1, Iceland - Nikon Z fc, Nikkor 24-70mm f/4 at 39mm, f/11, 1/60 sec at ISO 250, Kase Filters CPL.
It was almost a relief to be back on the bus to start our journey towards Vik. Though the photography was incredibly challenging, it’s always important to remember the experience of being at these locations. Places like Fjallsárlón Glacier are amazing, and I felt extremely fortunate to have seen it.
On the way to Vik, we stopped off at Fossalar Waterfalls. The conditions weren’t ideal for photography but it’s hard to drive by this roadside location and not take some photographs.
Fjallsárlón Glacier #1, Iceland - Nikon Z fc, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 30mm, f/11, 0.6 sec at ISO 250, Kase Filters CPL.
Photographing Reynisdrangar Beach.
We arrived in Vik and headed down to Reynisdrangar Beach for sunset. The Reynisdrangar rock stacks are iconic in Iceland but as I found with some of the other famous locations in Iceland, I initially struggled to find a balanced composition. Fortunately, time was on my side so I had the opportunity to figure out where I might place the beach, waves, rock stacks and headland before the sun went down.
Reynisdrangar Beach #1, Iceland - Nikon Z fc, Nikkor Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR at 18mm, f/7.1, 1/160 sec at ISO 100.
Reynisdrangar Beach #3, Iceland - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 24-70mm f/4 at 61mm, f/11, 30 sec at ISO 64.
After dinner, we headed out to see if we could capture images of the Northern Lights. It was forecast to be a clear night but with limited aurora activity. Sure enough, we didn’t see any aurora, but I did manage to capture this image of the milky way. Time was running out to capture photographs of the Northern Lights
Night Sky, Iceland - Nikon Z7, Laowa 15mm f/2, 20 sec at ISO 3200.
Day 6 - Reynisfjara Beach and Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
The next day was grey and overcast, and the sky was almost devoid of colour. Our first location of the day was Reynisfjara Beach where we could photograph the Reynisdrangar stacks from the west. With low light, an overcast sky and a black sandy beach, the only colour to be seen was on my fellow photographer's jackets.
Reynisfjara Beach #5, Iceland - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 24-70mm f/4 at 42mm, f/11, 25 secs at ISO 64, Kase Filters CPL.
Reynisfjara Beach #4, Iceland - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 24-70mm f/4 at 42mm, f/11, 25 secs at ISO 64, Kase Filters CPL.
There is something about the contrast of the white water against the black beaches of Iceland that really inspires my photography. Despite the flat sky conditions, I had immense fun capturing images of the beach in both an easterly and westerly direction. The simplicity of the scene captured my imagination in a way that a morning with a glorious sky can’t.
Reynisfjara Beach #8, Iceland - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 24-70mm f/4 at 39mm, f/11, 30 secs at ISO 64, Kase Filters CPL and ND.
Reynisfjara Beach #6, Iceland - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 24-70mm f/4 at 39mm, f/13, 2.5 secs at ISO 64, Kase Filters CPL.
After a rewarding morning at the beach, we moved onto another iconic Iceland location, Seljalandsfoss Waterfall. Photographing this mighty waterfall was challenging in a way that I had not yet experienced in Iceland. The conditions underfoot were extremely icy. Just as well I had purchased the recommended ice spikes for my boots as some of the viewpoints were thick with ice. Watching the other visitors dance about on the ice while wearing trainers was almost entertainment in its own right.
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall #1, Iceland - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 16mm, f/11, 1/6 sec at ISO 64, Kase Filters CPL.
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall #4, Iceland - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 24mm, f/13, 0.5 sec at ISO 64, Kase Filters CPL.
At Seljalandsfoss Waterfall with Ross Hoddinott and Mark Bauer of Dawn 2 Dusk Photography. Their Icelandic workshop did not disappoint.
One visitor did catch my attention. He was trying to balance his camera on a fence post so that he could take a long exposure of the waterfall. It was difficult to watch as I was sure his attempts at using the post as a tripod were going to end in tears. I couldn’t watch anymore, and I asked if he’d like to borrow my Gorillapod. I’m glad he did, both for the benefit of his photography and the lifespan of his camera.
Returning to our hotel in Vik, we had dinner and prepared to head out with the cameras again for the last chance to capture photographs of the Northern Lights. Did we succeed….
Night Sky, Iceland - Nikon Z7, Laowa 15mm f/2, 20 secs at ISO 3200.
As you can see, it was another evening of very low aurora activity. You can see a little in the photograph, but it was barely visible. So, after a week in Iceland, I didn’t see the aurora borealis. I can’t say I wasn’t disappointed but not seeing the Northern Lights was not going to define my Icelandic trip. Seeing the aurora borealis was only one part of a much bigger Icelandic experience. Besides, not seeing them has given me a great excuse to come back.
Day 7 - Home and a Memory Card Full of Icelandic Memories
Our vehicle for the week. I saw many amazing sights through those windows.
We all had flights to catch the following morning, so it was an early departure from Vik. Much of the journey was in the dark so there wasn’t an opportunity to see much more of Iceland. Unlike the first days journey where I saw nothing, the remaining time spent on the bus had been wonderful. I spent most of my time with my face planted to the window, looking at the landscape and saying things like “that’s bonkers”. Because that is what the Icelandic landscape is like. It’s bonkers! I’d never seen anything like it.
As we drove back to the airport I reflected on my week in Iceland. There was no doubt that the photography had been challenging, but I consider that a good thing. Sometimes you need to pull yourself away from what you know and photograph something completely different. And there aren’t many places more different than Iceland!
More than that though, Iceland was a holiday. A chance to get away from it all. Meet new people, try different foods, visit unique locations. Iceland will be a trip that I will never forget. And thanks to a memory card full of photographs, I’ll have some amazing images to treasure.
I’d like to say this was a once in a lifetime trip, but I barely scratched the surface of Iceland. The itch that I had to go to Iceland hasn’t gone away, it just got worse. I can’t wait to go back.
It’s been great for me to write down my experience. Along with the photos, this text will help me remember what an amazing time I had in Iceland. I hope you enjoyed reading about it and seeing my photographs.
On My Bookshelf - Photographing Iceland
If you’d like to learn more about Iceland and the locations to photograph, then check out this video review, I did of Photographing Iceland by James Rushforth. It’s an essential purchase for anyone going to Iceland and also for anyone who just enjoys a good photography book!
Photographing Dartmoor - Hound Tor - A 5 Minute Photo Adventure
Is it worth going out with your camera even when the conditions are grey and flat? I think so! In this video, I share the reasons why I went out to Dartmoor on an overcast morning to capture some landscape photographs. Grab yourself a cup of coffee because it's time for another 5 Minute Photo Adventure!
Oh No, the Weather Is Improving!
Last year I wrote about my personal challenges with photographing Hound Tor. That previous visit had inspired me to make more of an effort to get to know this grand Dartmoor location. I knew deep down I was missing out on capturing great images from this location. I just needed to put in the time.
However, as with any Dartmoor location, the weather directly impacts your ability and passion to photograph that location. Though I did check the weather forecast for Hound Tor, and there was a slim chance that it would be good, when I got there, it was grey and overcast. It was also cold, but at least it wasn’t windy.
Lacking inspiration, I wasn’t sure what I was going to do. Then I remember that anytime out with the camera can be time well spent. Why not use this time to practice my landscape photography skills and take the time to have a proper look around Hound Tor. Without the slim window of good light at sunrise, I could take my time a little more.
This is a good attitude to have because the conditions and light aren’t always good. In fact, they rarely are. So why not use what time you do have to get yourself ready for those days when the conditions are good. Photography is a skill, so why not practice it.
I thought this would be a good message to communicate. I had overcast conditions, time to make a video, and a location to explore. However, midway through making the video the weather started improving and rather than grey flat light, I started to get morning light reflecting off the tor!
I was worried that my message of what to do in flat light might be lost, but it was only a minor improvement. It did make me smile though. There I was trying to make the most of the poor weather conditions and in a rare moment on Dartmoor, the conditions improve! Dartmoor certainly keeps you on your toes!
So, grab yourself a cup of coffee, and enjoy this 5 Minute Photo Adventure for Hound Tor on Dartmoor.
Landscape Photography from Dartmoor - Hound Tor
Hound Tor #1, Dartmoor, Devon - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 17mm, f/13, 1/15 sec at ISO 64.
Hound Tor #2, Dartmoor, Devon - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 19mm, f/13, 1/20 sec at ISO 64.
Hound Tor #3, Dartmoor, Devon - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 14mm, f/13, 1/20 sec at ISO 64.
Hound Tor #4, Dartmoor, Devon - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 20mm, f/13, 1/20 sec at ISO 64.
I captured this panoramic image while making the video, but it didn’t make the cut so here it is a bonus.
Hound Tor #5, Dartmoor, Devon - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 68mm, f/8, 1/125 sec at ISO 64, 5 image panoramic.
Photographing Dartmoor - Rippon Tor - A 5 Minute Photo Adventure
Chasing the light is a phrase often used by landscape photographers but in this 5 Minute Photo Adventure from Dartmoor, I literally find myself running around Rippon Tor chasing the light!
Chasing the Light
When photographing sunrise I always like to have a plan. For Dartmoor though, a plan is a necessity. Just rocking up to a random location on Dartmoor an hour before sunrise is not likely to give you the best chance of capturing an image. However, experience has taught me that I also need to be flexible and have a plan B and possibly a plan C!
My original plan was to photograph either Honeybag Tor or Hound Tor, but when I got to the car park at Haytor (which is near to both those locations), I could see that both locations had significant cloud cover. The car park at Haytor is a great spot for surveying not only the nearby locations but also for looking towards the coast where the sun will rise from.
Looking out to the coast I could see a small gap in the cloud from which I was confident the sun would break through and give me a little light on the landscape. The key to making the most of this light would be to select the right location. In this instance, there was only one option and that was to ascend to Rippon Tor. From there I would have expansive views of the surrounding area so no matter where the light landed, I would be in a good position to make the most of it.
Well, that was the plan anyway. As it turned out, I had a little more chasing of the light to do.
I do hope you enjoyed this 5 Minute Photo Adventure and the others that I have been publishing recently. Let me know your thoughts in the comments.
Dartmoor Landscape Photographs - Rippon Tor
Sunrise from Rippon Tor #1, Dartmoor, Devon - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 18mm, f/10, 1.6 sec at ISO 64.
Sunrise from Rippon Tor #2, Dartmoor, Devon - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 24-120mm f/4 at 105mm, f/8, 1/40 sec at ISO 64.
Photographing Dartmoor - Honeybag Tor - A 5 Minute Photo Adventure
Grab yourself a cup of coffee because it's time for another 5 Minute Photo Adventure. In this episode I'm photographing Honeybag Tor (nr Haytor) on Dartmoor. Can I capture some landscape photographs to help inspire you to get out with your camera?
Honey, Honey!
The area around Haytor is the closet area of Dartmoor to my home. It’s an area that I will often visit if I’m short of time or I don’t want to travel too far on a dubious forecast. On this visit, I was both short of time and there was a dubious forecast!
Having shot Rippon Tor and Emsworthy Tor extensively, and it is the wrong time of year to shoot Bowerman’s Nose at dawn, I decided that I needed a different location to photograph in the Haytor area. My first thought was to photograph Honeybag Tor, but despite a couple of previous visits, I’ve never felt I was able to make the most of it.
For this most recent visit though, I decided on a change of tack. Perhaps if I shot Honeybag Tor from Chinkwell Tor it might yield better results. The wide wide-open view would suit my style of photography and given that a cloudless sky at dawn that was forecast, the light from the rising sun could illuminate the wide expanse of Honeybag Tor, and even the surrounding landscape.
Did I manage to capture the images for which I was hoping? Or did the forecasted cloud roll in and block the sun? Let us find out in my latest 5 Minute Photo Adventure.
Dartmoor Landscape Photographs
Honeybag Tor from Chinkwell Tor at Sunrise #2, Dartmoor - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 30mm, f/11, 2 sec at ISO 64.
Honeybag Tor from Chinkwell Tor at Sunrise #3, Dartmoor - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 17mm, f/11, 0.6 sec at ISO 64, crop 4:5.
Honeybag Tor from Chinkwell Tor at Sunrise #5, Dartmoor - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 21mm, f/11, 1/5 sec at ISO 64.
One Man and His Dog Plus Camera on Dartmoor
My plan was just to head out for a nice walk on Dartmoor with Monty. I didn't plan to make a 5 Minute Photo Adventure video, but sometimes the conditions are too good to ignore. Join me and Monty as we photograph East Mill Tor and explore what is beyond.
An Unexpected 5 Minute Photo Adventure
I spend a lot of time planning my trips out with the camera. It’s not so much about looking for epic conditions and locations, but more to do with matching the conditions to the right location. A grey overcast day can work just as well as a great sunrise if you are photographing the right subject.
Then there are the times that I don’t care much about what the weather forecast is. Sometimes I just want to head out for a walk with my dog Monty. I'll always take a camera with me, but not for the purpose of creating “serious” landscape photographs. To be honest, Monty is an active dog, and he doesn’t have the patience to hang about as I faff about with filters and tripods!
Now and again though, the conditions can surprise you and it doesn’t matter that you have an impatient dog with you. You are just glad you brought your camera with you. A recent walk that took me past East Mill Tor on Dartmoor at sunrise was one such time. As soon as I got out of my car and started walking, I knew I was going to be taking photos. As I had the Nikon Z fc with me, and I had the foresight to bring a tripod, I had all the gear I needed to capture stills and video.
So, why don’t you join me and Monty on a classic 5 Minute Photo Adventure from the wilds of Dartmoor? Sometimes the best times out with your camera and the most unexpected.
East Mill Tor - Dartmoor Landscape Photography
East Mill Tor Sunrise #1, Dartmoor, Devon - Nikon Z fc, Nikkor 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 at 19mm, f/8, 1/5 sec at ISO 100. No filters.
East Mill Tor Sunrise #2, Dartmoor, Devon - Nikon Z fc, Nikkor 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 at 28mm, f/9, 1/5 sec at ISO 100. No filters.
East Mill Tor Sunrise #3, Dartmoor, Devon - Nikon Z fc, Nikkor 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 at 16mm, f/9, 1/5 sec at ISO 100. No filters, 4:5 crop.
East Mill Tor Sunrise #4, Dartmoor, Devon - Nikon Z fc, Nikkor 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 at 16mm, f/9, 1/5 sec at ISO 100. No filters.
Near East Mill Tor, Dartmoor, Devon - Nikon Z fc, Nikkor 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 at 28mm, f/8, 1/160 sec at ISO 100. No filters.
The Long Winding Road, Dartmoor, Devon - Nikon Z fc, Nikkor 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 at 23mm, f/6.3, 1/125 sec at ISO 100. No filters.
Landscape Photography with the Nikon Z 24-120 f/4 S on Dartmoor
Is the Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S Nikon's most versatile lens for landscape photography? In this video, I head out into the real world with my Nikon Z7 to put this lens to test to see how it performs when capturing landscape photographs of Dartmoor.
Nikon’s Most Versatile Landscape Photography Lens?
When I purchased the Nikon Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 in 2020 it gave me the extra reach I wanted that the Nikon Z 24-70mm f/4 S couldn’t. You can watch my review of the 24-200mm lens here.
Over the time that I owned the 24-200mm, it helped me capture many great landscape photographs. It complimented my 24-70mm f/4 well, but I did find myself taking out both lenses, despite the obvious focal length overlap.
The Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S had been on the Z lens roadmap at the time that I purchased the 24-200mm, so for me, the consolidation of the 24-200mm and the 24-70mm was always going to be a possibility. Here we are now in 2022 and I have purchased the 24-120mm f/4 S and sold the other two lenses.
Has that been a good decision for me? I’ve lost a little focal length coverage, gained an S Line lens, and reduced my kit bag by one lens. In the video below, I’ll tell you more about the new Nikon 24-120mm f/4 S, its specifications, why I bought it, what it’s like to use, and of course, share some of the landscape photographs I’ve been capturing with it. Could this be Nikon’s Z mount “goldilocks” lens for landscape photographers?
Wild Dartmoor Landscape Photographs
Also Captured with the Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S
The Art of Landscape Photography by Ross Hoddinott & Mark Bauer - On My Bookshelf S05E02
In this episode of On My Bookshelf, I look at The Art of Landscape Photography by Ross Hoddinott and Mark Bauer. Will this book take your landscape photography skills from zero to hero?
Learning Landscape Photography from a Book
YouTube has a rich variety of educational content to suit anything you might want to do with your camera. It is a wonderful place to learn photography. I use YouTube myself to improve my photography skills, and though my channel isn’t focused on photography education, I do still hope that people can still learn something from my videos.
That all said, sometimes the best way to learn something is by using a good old-fashioned book. Getting your education from a book can prove to be a more effective medium than YouTube. If you take the topic of landscape photography composition, which is a broad topic, it can be difficult to find a video, or collection of videos that provide sufficiently broad cover of the subject. Typically, you will only get information on one small topic in each video and unless you know what you don’t know, it can be hard to know what topic to cover next.
A book such as The Art of Landscape Photography will often provide broader coverage of the subject, allowing the reader to consume the information they were looking for, but also highlight areas that they might not have had previously thought about.
I’m not saying that the humble book is the best way to learn photography, but it should feature in the formats of educational content that you do consume.
Now that we have positioned the importance of educational photography books, let’s look at The Art of Landscape Photography to see if it should have a place on your bookshelf.
Book and Author Links
You can purchase your copy of The Art of Landscape Photography here.
You can also get:
From Dawn to Dusk: Mastering the Light in Landscape Photography - https://amzn.to/3GA3jGv
The Landscape Photography Workshop - https://amzn.to/3gu7Gs0
Digital Macro & Close-up Photography: New Edition - https://amzn.to/3rzIeI1
Mark's excellent fotoVUE on Photographing Dorset. *** Use the discount code JULIAN to get 20% off all books if you buy at fotovue.com ***
You can see Ross and Mark's photography on their websites - https://www.rosshoddinott.co.uk/ and https://markbauerphotography.com/
You can also check out their workshops at - https://www.dawn2duskphotography.co.uk/
Viltrox 85mm f/1.8 AF for Nikon Z Mount - Review with Real World Concert/Gig Photographs
In this video, I look at the Viltrox 85mm f/1.8 autofocus lens for Nikon Z mount. Over the last few weeks, I've had this lens attached to my Nikon Z7 and I've been using it to capture images of the concerts/gigs I've been photographing. I'm missing a fast prime from my gig photography kit bag so will this fill the gap?
And Now for Something Completely Different
Last year I picked up two Viltrox lenses, a 23mm f/1.4 and a 24mm f/1.8. As you can see from my review of those lenses I was rather impressed by the quality and features given their relatively low price point.
So, when Viltrox reached out to me and asked if I wanted to try their Viltrox 85mm f/1.8 for Nikon Z mount I said no. Well, initially anyway. After all, 85mm isn’t exactly the go to focal length for landscape photography. Then I had a rethink.
Perhaps this lens would be a good option for me for when I’m shooting live music and gigs. I’ve been shooting concerts and gigs for many years now, but I don’t often talk about it here or on my YouTube channel. You can, however, see my work in this area of photography here.
The global pandemic had prevented me from capturing images of live music and gigs for the last year or two, but with the restrictions on concerts gradually lifting, I was starting to get back into this dynamic area of photography.
My kit bag for this type of photography is dominated by fixed aperture zoom lenses, but I’ve been missing a fast prime since I moved to the Nikon Z system. The opportunity to Viltrox’s fast 85mm prime came just at the right time.
In the video below I’ll share with you my thoughts on this lens, how it’s performed while photographing concerts and of course, I will share some of the photographs I’ve been capturing with this lens.
Live Music Photographs Shot with the Viltrox 85mm
Other Photographs Shot with the Viltrox 85mm
Photographing Dartmoor - West Mill Tor
In this 5 Minute Photo Adventure I head out to photograph West Mill Tor on Dartmoor. Not even the forecast of a clear blue sky was enough to stop me grabbing my Nikon Z7 and going on a mini landscape photography adventure.
Back to West Mill Tor
It was back in January of 2020 that I first photographed West Mill Tor on Dartmoor. That adventure was all about going somewhere new and you can watch the video I made right here. The photographs I captured that morning were inspirational enough for me to want to go back. For reasons that escape me, it’s taken 2 years to make a return visit!
The weather over the festive period and January had not been what you might call inspirational, so by the time the end of January came around, I was so desperate to get out with the camera I might have gone anywhere in any weather conditions. Fortunately for me, I remembered that I was overdue for a visit to West Mill Tor, and with the smallest chance that there were going to be suitable weather conditions, I packed my bag and set off to see what I could photograph.
So, join me on a 5 Minute Photo Adventure as I photograph Dartmoor and West Mill Tor!
Dartmoor Photographs - West Mill Tor
Vallerret Milford Photography Gloves - A Landscape Photographers Review
Landscape photography can be a miserable activity if your hands are wet and cold. In this video, I head out to the wilds of Dartmoor to capture some landscape photographs and to share with you my thoughts on the new Milford gloves from Vallerret. Are these photography gloves the perfect balance between warmth and waterproofing?
The Importance of Photography Gloves
I’ve learnt the hard way that having appropriate clothing for landscape photography is as important as the camera gear that I use. Everything from socks, boots, trousers, base layers, jackets, hats and gloves are as important as which camera and lens I take with me. Nothing crushes your creativity like being cold or wet. I recently purchased an expensive down jacket for a photography trip to Iceland. It seemed a lot of money to spend at the time, but never once did I regret my purchase standing on a beach taking photographs of icebergs in a howling wind!
As there is no such thing as one combination of camera and lens to suit all landscape photography scenarios, nor is there such thing as one pair of gloves that fits all weather conditions. Last year I told you about the Vallerret Skadi Mitts I use for winter photography. These are perfect gloves for deep winter photography, and they were another item I did not regret taking to Iceland.
I’ve mentioned Iceland a couple of times, but most of my photography is from Dartmoor. The weather up there can be varied, to say the least. That is why I need different clothing to suit the weather, and the right glove is no different.
In the video below I look at a new pair of gloves from Vallerret (which they kindly sent to me) called Milford. These gloves are designed for mild winter conditions, but they also come with a waterproof shell. This should make them ideal for when the conditions are a bit wetter up on Dartmoor (a regular occurrence). So, join me up on Dartmoor for some landscape photography and I’ll tell you what I think about these new gloves.
If you'd like to purchase a pair of these gloves, or any from the Vallerret range you can do so here - https://photographygloves.com/products/milford-photography-glove?rfsn=5248745.df014f
Photographing Dartmoor - Rippon Tor
PHOTOGRAPHING ICELAND Vol 1 & 2 - A fotoVUE Guidebook by James Rushforth - On My Bookshelf S05E01
Are you planning a photography trip to Iceland? Have you photographed Iceland? Or are you simply interested in learning more about the landscape and locations of Iceland? In this episode of On My Bookshelf, I look at Photographing Iceland Volume 1 and 2 by James Rushforth and published by fotoVUE. It claims to be the most comprehensive and detailed guidebook of Iceland ever published. But as you'll find out in this video, this title is so much more than a guidebook.
So Much More Than a Guidebook
fotoVUE has a solid reputation for producing detailed photography location guidebooks. I know they are detailed because I own many of their guidebooks. The guidebooks for Scotland, The Lake District and Devon & Cornwall have received the most use!
You may remember a few years ago that I filmed a special episode of On My Bookshelf where I joined Nick Livesey on location in Wales to talk about his fotoVUE book, Photographing the Snowdonia Mountains. You can watch that episode here.
The fotoVUE series of guidebooks consumes at least one shelf on my bookshelf and I often find myself reaching for one of the titles to get some inspiration. So, when fotoVUE reached out to me and asked if I’d like to look at their latest title, Photographing Iceland by James Rushforth, I jumped at the chance. I had just returned from my own photographic adventure to Iceland, and I knew that I had barely scratched the surface with my short exploration. I was keen to see what else Iceland had to offer, and possibly where I’d like to go should I return.
Looking through both volumes of Photographing Iceland one thing became apparent. These books are more than just photography location guidebooks. See what I’m talking about in this episode of On My Bookshelf.
Buy Photographing Iceland
*** Use the discount code JULIAN to get 20% off all books at fotovue.com ***
If you want to add Photographing Iceland to your bookshelf, you can purchase the fotoVUE Iceland Collection Bundle, which includes Volume 1 & 2 and the Iceland Adventure & Travel Map, here - https://www.fotovue.com/shop/books/photographing-iceland-volume-1-2-plus-map/
And you can get the limited edition hardcover bundle here - https://www.fotovue.com/shop/uncategorized/limited-edition-of-100-hard-backs-signed-photographing-iceland-volume-1-2-plus-two-maps-and-signed-james-rushforth-iceberg-arch-greenland-print/
Or you can purchase the individual titles here:
Photographing Iceland Volume 1 plus Map - https://www.fotovue.com/shop/books/photographing-iceland-volume-1-map/
Photographing Iceland Volume 2 plus Map - https://www.fotovue.com/shop/books/photographing-iceland-volume-2-map/
Iceland Adventure & Travel Map - Iceland Adventure & Travel Map - https://www.fotovue.com/shop/books/iceland-adventure-and-travel-map/
There are lots of other great guidebooks published by fotoVUE. See their other titles here - fotovue.com
Photographing Dartmoor - Beyond Belstone
Sometimes the best landscape photography adventures are unplanned. In the blog this week, I unexpectedly venture further into Dartmoor than I’ve ever been before.
Not What I Had Planned
As I write this blog post, I look back on my day out on Dartmoor with a smile on my face. The happy memories of my time on Dartmoor were not the result of careful planning though.
My original plan was to head up to Belstone Tor to film the first part of a video about printing your photographs. I chose Belstone due to my familiarity with the location, but also because it was the only place on Dartmoor not to have 100% cloud coverage!
As spectacular as Belstone can be at dawn, it can also be wild and unforgiving. As I approached the summit the wind had picked to such an extent that it was going to take a lot of effort just to compose a landscape photo and keep the camera still. The thought of managing a second camera for video and audio just didn’t seem like a clever idea. A previous trip to Belstone to make a video on a windy day had resulted in an expensive repair bill!
With the idea of creating a video gone with the wind (excuse the pun), I was half tempted to head home (via Belstone Services for coffee and breakfast). That temptation soon passed though. I wasn’t going to waste an opportunity to explore a bit more of Dartmoor. I looked into the distance and thought of a new plan.
Belstone Tor
I’ve been to Belstone Tor countless times. I’ve even ventured a little further and made it to Oke Tor, but I’ve never been further than that. This was the perfect chance for me to push on and see what is beyond Belstone!
The weather, despite being very windy, was holding. Broken cloud, no rain, and patches of sunshine. It all looked good for a big walk.
I’ve got lots of landscape photographs of Belstone Tor but that didn’t mean I wasn’t going to capture another. There’s always room in my Lightroom catalogue for another image of Belstone Tor.
Belstone Tor, Dartmoor, Devon - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 16mm, f/8, 1 sec at ISO 64.
Oke Tor
My first and last visit to Oke Tor had been a positive one but I’d never managed to make it back there. It’s about a 45 to 60 minute walk to Oke Tor from Belstone, and it’s rare that I have that much time to spend walking to a location. But today I had lots of time for a walk.
The weather had indeed held and the light on the landscape was better than the golden hour that morning. There was still a big bank of clouds to the south, but the area where I stood was covered in scattered light from the low winter sun. Parts of the landscape were in shade, and others were illuminated. It’s the way I love to see Dartmoor.
It was still a challenge to hold onto the camera in the wind, but I was feeling inspired and most importantly I was enjoying myself.
Oke Tor, Dartmoor, Devon - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 18mm, f/13, 0.4 sec at ISO 64.
Steeperton Tor
As I left Oke Tor and headed south I realised this was the furthest I had ever ventured into Dartmoor and away from civilization. In all my years exploring Dartmoor, this was the first time I felt like I was going somewhere remote. I was out here on my own.
I wanted this walk to be a circular walk and as I checked my OS map, I could see that I could walk parallel to Steeperton Tor and then loop clockwise and follow the military road via East Mill Tor and back to Belstone. However, Steeperton Tor was calling me! I had often seen this tor from Belstone and wondered what it would like to be standing on top of this 532m high hill. I decided to make a diversion by jumping across the River Taw at Steeperton Gorge. Not as grand as it sounds given the low water level.
It was a steep ascent up to Steeperton Tor, but the views were outstanding!
Steeperton Tor, Dartmoor, Devon - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 20mm, f/11, 1/5th sec at ISO 64.
Steeperton Tor is deep within the Okehampton Firing Range and all around the area, you’ll find military buildings dotted about. While not particularly photogenic, they are part of the landscape, so I thought it was worth capturing an image of these remote buildings.
Steeperton Tor, Dartmoor, Devon - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 21mm, f/11, 1/200th sec at ISO 800.
Steeperton Tor, Dartmoor, Devon - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 21mm, f/11, 1/200th sec at ISO 800.
East Mill Tor
After enjoying the views from Steeperton Tor and trying to have a conversation in the howling wind with a wild camper, I headed west, then south to start my loop back to Belstone. The walking was a lot easier in this direction as I could benefit from the military roads. As the road ran close by the foot of East Mill Tor it seemed rude to not make a quick ascent.
At first, I wasn’t that inspired. I’d been walking most of the morning so perhaps I was feeling tired. It wasn’t as if the composition I had picked out was a poor one, it was just that the light was flat. However, experience has taught me that on days like this the light can change for the better very quickly for the better, and for worse.
Rather than wait for the light I decided to get my camera and tripod setup, so I’d be ready to shoot. Just as I was extending the legs of my tripod the sun broke through the clouds and I captured the last image of my walk.
East Mill Tor, Dartmoor, Devon - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 21mm, f/11, 1/200th sec at ISO 800.
A Glorious Morning
Leaving East Mill Tor, I soon joined back up with the parts of Belstone Common I was more familiar with. I started seeing more people, animals, and cars. It was nice to be back somewhere familiar but my long walk into a more remote part of Dartmoor had inspired me. Not only did I want to walk this route again, but I also wanted to explore more of these remote Dartmoor locations. I enjoyed that sense of remoteness. The sense of wilderness. Even if I hadn’t taken my camera with me, that was a walk to remember.
I hope you enjoyed reading about my unexpected adventure and seeing the photographs I captured. Next time, time and weather permitting, I’ll be sure the video it so you can see more of how wonderful Dartmoor can be when you venture just a little bit further.
Landscape Photography with the Google Pixel 6 Pro
Just a quick footnote to this blog post. I recently purchased a Google Pixel 6 Pro phone and I decided to take it with me on my adventure. I took it because it’s a phone and a GPS device, but it’s hard to ignore the camera specs on this device. This adventure seemed the perfect chance to put the camera to use so here are a few of the processed raw files from the Pixel 6 Pro. If you want to see more images from this camera or for me to make a video on it and how it handles as a landscape camera, let me know in the comments below.
Photographing Dartmoor - Hound Tor
I’ve always found landscape photography at Hound Tor on Dartmoor challenging but will my latest visit yield photographs I’m happy with?
What’s Up with the Hound?
If you’ve spent any time looking at my free landscape photography locations map and you know the western edge of Dartmoor, you may be wondering why there are no pins on Haytor and Hound Tor. Both these locations are some of the most famous tors in western Dartmoor if not all of Dartmoor!
It’s not that I haven’t tried to photograph these locations before, it’s just that I’ve not had much success photographing them. As I wrote previously on my blog, a honeypot location does not guarantee success. It would also seem that this applies to Hound Tor and Haytor. There are plenty of inspiring photographs of these locations on the internet so is the fault with me?
Let’s Give It Another Shot
With so many great locations to photograph on Dartmoor, it doesn’t take too many unsuccessful visits for a location to be relegated to “maybe I’ll go back one-day” status and to move on to the next. To think that any landscape photography location, particularly those found on Dartmoor, can be somehow mastered in a couple of visits says more about the photographer than the location.
While I previously haven’t managed to get a satisfactory shot from Hound Tor, that doesn’t mean I’d given up trying. Far from it. Having photographed the surrounding tors multiple times, it felt like it was time to give Hound Tor another go. Besides, I needed a fresh adventure!
No Place Does Weather Like Dartmoor
Unsettled weather and Dartmoor go hand in hand, and the morning I returned to Hound Tor was no different. Fierce winds, low temperatures and rain showers were just a few of the weather conditions I had the deal with. These are also the types of weather conditions that yield the most dramatic results, so I do find myself heading out in the weather like that.
Once I’d dealt with the problem of cold hands, I just had to battle the rain and wind. The wind was about manageable, but the rain on the front element of the lens can be a bit trickier. The rain showers bring the big clouds and even the odd rainbow, but keeping that front element clear of water can require constant action. This can suck the fun out of photography, but it’s also something I’ve got used to over the years. You can never carry to many lens cloths.
Sunrise at Hound Tor #1, Dartmoor, Devon - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 15mm, f/11, 1/4 sec at ISO 64, Kase Filters K9 CPL.
Discovering Compositions
I had arrived at Hound Tor with plenty of time to explore but I decided to make things a little easier for myself and to just explore the southern side of this extensive tor. I’m not sure why, but I was inspired from the start! I could see potential compositions all over. Why this morning had been different from my previous visits I don’t know. Some of the compositions I thought would work well that morning, and others I’d would need to wait until a different time of year or different conditions.
I’m happy with the images I did capture. I won’t go as far as to say that I’ve suddenly mastered Hound Tor. Far from it. But what the visit did do was inspire me to go back and keep trying. It’s a location with plenty of potential and it’s now on the “must visit again soon” list. So don’t be surprised if you see me back there again soon.
Sunrise at Hound Tor #2, Dartmoor, Devon - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 19mm, f/11, 1/4 sec at ISO 64, Kase Filters K9 CPL.
Do you have a location with a similar tale? Something you previously thought wasn’t worth shooting but now love. Let me know in the comments below.
A Honeypot Location Does Not Guarantee Success
In my bog this week I share with you some of the photographs I took on a recent visit to Kilchurn Castle in Scotland. On paper, I had all the right conditions, but that doesn't necessarily mean the photography is easy.
Photographing Kilchurn Castle
Kilchurn Castle on the banks of Loch Awe is a well-photographed location. With a ruined castle, a Scottish loch, and mountains in the background, it’s no wonder why it’s so popular with tourists and photographers alike.
When a location becomes extremely popular with photographers it is often labelled as a honeypot location. Photographers have varying views on if you should shoot a honeypot location or not. I have shared my views on this topic in a previous video. Check it out to see if you agree.
While Kilchurn Castle could be considered a honeypot location, that is not the only reason I chose to photograph it. I have a personal connection with this location. I grew up just a few miles away from the castle, under the shadow of the very same mountain that dominates the background to the castle. As a child, I will have visited the castle, see it from the road, and passed by it on the train. The view of this quintessential Scottish castle has been engrained onto my brain.
Unfortunately, I became a photographer long after leaving the area, so I’ve only been able to photograph it a few times. I’ve had varying degrees of success and you can watch a video I made there below.
Returning to Scotland
After a break of over 2 years (thanks to things like COVID), I finally made a return trip in October. The purpose of the trip was to see family but as a photographer, there was no way I was going to leave my camera at home!
Given that Kilchurn Castle was so close to where I was going to be staying, I kept an eye on the forecast in the hope that an opportunity would present itself. Sure enough, one of the morning forecasts predicted mist and calm winds. While there are many shots of the castle in mist being reflected in the water, it’s a photograph that I hadn’t taken so I made my plans for a dawn shoot to see if I could put my own stamp on this classic viewpoint.
It was mid-week morning in October so at most I expected to see one or two other photographers there. To my surprise I got the last parking space when I arrived! As I walked down to the water's edge, I could see lots of photographers. There were probably at least two workshop groups there.
This didn’t spoil things for me. Far from it. I was still able to find a spot I was happy with, so I got my camera out and got shooting.
A Misty Morning at Kilchurn Castle #1, Loch Awe, Scotland - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 14mm, f/8, 1 second at ISO 64.
Nice Conditions But…
The conditions were just as predicted. There was mist floating about and the waters were mostly calm. You would of course think that this would make the photography easy, but that’s not the case. It’s always a combination of factors that make for the most interesting photographs. Mist, yes, but is it the right place to add atmosphere to the image? Calm winds, yes, but not everywhere so getting perfect reflections is challenging. Clouds in the sky? What clouds! And when I finally got light on the castle, it was harsh and most of the mist had cleared, and the wind had picked up.
A Misty Morning at Kilchurn Castle #2, Loch Awe, Scotland - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 30mm, f/8, 3 seconds at ISO 64, 16:9 crop.
It’s not to say that I’m unhappy with my images. Far from it. Each photograph has its own merits and I tried to make the most of the conditions at the time of capture. However, none of the images are successful in their own right. There is some sort of compromise in each one.
A Misty Morning at Kilchurn Castle #3, Loch Awe, Scotland - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 24-200mm f/4-6.3 at 48mm, f/11, 1/25th second at ISO 64, stitched panorama.
This is not to take away from the enjoyment of being there that morning. I loved it. Watching the reflections come and go, and to see the mist dance and snake over the landscape was a joy. But just because you are at a honeypot location with visually great conditions does not mean you can always make for a stunning image.
My advice is to always enjoy a location for what it is and make the best photograph you can. If you come away with an amazing image, it’s a bonus, but if not, don’t sweat it.
It might be a while before I get back to Kilchurn Castle, but no matter the conditions when I do, it’s a view that I will cherish.
Seascapes by Neil Burnell - On My Bookshelf S04E05
In this episode of On My Bookshelf, I look at Seascapes by Neil Burnell, a collection of long exposure and fine art coastal photographs.
From Woodlands to Coastlines
Last year I published an episode of On My Bookshelf in which I talked about Neil Burnell’s previous book, Mystical. I thought it was a stunning collection of woodland photographs. So, when Neil announced that he was producing a book focusing on his coastal photography, I jumped straight in and pre-ordered a copy.
That was a little while ago now, but this has allowed me to spend some quality time looking through Seascapes before bringing you this latest episode of On My Bookshelf.
If you’d like to pick up a copy of Seascapes, you can do so directly from Neil’s website here.
Beyond Landscape by Hans Strand - Published by Kozu Books - On My Bookshelf S04E04
In this episode of On My Bookshelf, I look at Beyond Landscape by Hans Strand and published by Kozu Books. Is this retrospective collection of Hans Strand photographs a book for your bookshelf?
I feel like I need to take up carpentry Why? Because I’m going to need a bigger bookshelf! Despite my desire to acquire fewer photography books this year, the last couple of months have seen an influx of new titles. To be fair, they’ve all been titles worth getting. They have all in some way, added something or influenced my photography. Plus, I’ve enjoyed a few lazy Sunday mornings with coffee just enjoying the printed photography of others. One of life's simple pleasures.
When Beyond Landscape arrived in the post, I had high hopes for this retrospective collection of photographs by Hans Strand. In this episode of On My Bookshelf, I look at Beyond Landscape to see if it is indeed a masterclass in composition.
Sand by Anthony Lamb and Published by Kozu Books - On My Bookshelf S04E03
In this episode of On My Bookshelf, I look at Sand by Anthony Lamb and published by Kozu Books. Is this photographic depiction of the Arabian desert a book for your bookshelf?
Finding Room for Another Book
I love photography books. Aside from going out and taking photographs, reading a good photography book is one of the most enjoyable things I do in my photography life. However, books take up valuable space and they cost money, so I’ve been trying to cut back on how many I acquire each year.
Now and again though, a book gets published that I can’t ignore, and Sand by Anthony Lamb is one of them His distinctive style and subject choice mean his photography stands out in a busy social feed. His photographs deserve close inspection. Viewing photographs on a social feed is one thing, so when I heard that Kozu Books were publishing a book of his photographs, I knew I wanted it.
But now that I have it, what is it like? Let’s find out in this episode of On My Bookshelf!
The Simple Pleasure of Landscape Photography - Great Staple Tor - Dartmoor
In this 5 minute photo adventure I promise not to talk about photography gear! This video is all about the simple pleasure of heading out with your camera on a Saturday morning to practice the art of landscape photography.
No Chat About Photography Gear
Over the last year, I’ve added, replaced, and evaluated a lot of new landscape photography gear. There’s no real reason for this other than most of this gear change has happened in a shorter than normal period. As people often ask me about what gear I’m using and what I think about it, I will try and make a video about that item or gear, or at least feature that item in a video about landscape photography.
It isn’t my intention to turn my YouTube channel into a channel that focuses on photography gear. Far from it. However, I am aware that my channel has featured a lot of gear this year, so I decided to produce a short video that has no mention of gear in it at all. It’s all about the simple pleasure of being out with your camera. So please enjoy this 5 minute photo adventure from Great Staple Tor.
Great Staple Tor - Dartmoor - Landscape Photographs
Misty Great Staple Tor #1, Dartmoor, Devon - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 21mm, f/11, 5 secs at ISO 64.
Misty Great Staple Tor #2, Dartmoor, Devon - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 21mm, f/11, 0.5 secs at ISO 64, Kase Filters Double Graduated Filter (3 stop soft edge).
Misty Great Staple Tor #3, Dartmoor, Devon - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 22mm, f/11, 0.8 secs at ISO 64, Kase Filters Double Graduated Filter (3 stop soft edge).
Misty Great Staple Tor #4, Dartmoor, Devon - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 14-30mm f/4 at 14mm, f/11, 1/8 secs at ISO 64, Kase Filters Double Graduated Filter (3 stop soft edge).
Lightweight Landscape Photography
In this video, I decided to trim a little weight from my landscape photography kit bag. On a recent trip to the Scottish Highlands, I decided to put my kit bag on a diet so that I can make a faster, easier ascent of Beinn Dubh. Watch to discover what I've changed and to see the landscape photographs I captured.
Back to the Homeland
After a two year absence, I’ve finally made it back to my homeland. Back to Scotland! It’s been one thing not to do any international travel because of COVID, but another entirely for it not be safe to travel to Scotland. Though I live in the south-west of England, my heart is still Scottish, and I still have family who lives up there. It’s been hard not being able to visit.
So, I was over the moon when I was able to make plans to return to Scotland. The primary purpose of my trip was to visit family but there was no way I wasn’t going to make an ascent of a hill or mountain when I was there. A quick review of OS maps revealed Beinn Dubh on the shoreline of Loch Lomond. It’s a hill I’ve driven by many times but never walked up. As it was enroute it was the ideal candidate for a quick walk.
To make a quick ascent it was necessary to cut down on some of the weight of my normal photography gear. I needed a lightweight setup. In this video, I not only share with you the photographs from my ascent of Beinn Dubh, but I also share with you my lightweight kit bag. Let me know in the comments below what your lightweight kit bag is.
Landscape Photography of Loch Lomond and Beinn Dubh
