Photo Diary 2020
Images shot with Panasonic G9 (micro four thirds) unless otherwise stated.
Editing with DXO Photolab 4, Nik Collection & Affinity Photo.
Images shot with Panasonic G9 (micro four thirds) unless otherwise stated.
Editing with DXO Photolab 4, Nik Collection & Affinity Photo.
Christmas Day:
After lunch(curry), all the showers seemed to have passed and so we went off down to Penberth. Which for those of you that like Poldark is where they film a lot of the series.
The cove itself is dark on winter afternoons so we climbed up the coastal footpath to the west for views to the west of Logan Rock and to the east of Tater Dhu Lighthouse and the Lizard in the far distance.
When we first arrived we had a short lived sunray display as the light came through cracks in the cloud layer. The sea was like a millpond-the calm before Storm Bella hits us over the weekend.
Some big wave photography to come.
After lunch(curry), all the showers seemed to have passed and so we went off down to Penberth. Which for those of you that like Poldark is where they film a lot of the series.
The cove itself is dark on winter afternoons so we climbed up the coastal footpath to the west for views to the west of Logan Rock and to the east of Tater Dhu Lighthouse and the Lizard in the far distance.
When we first arrived we had a short lived sunray display as the light came through cracks in the cloud layer. The sea was like a millpond-the calm before Storm Bella hits us over the weekend.
Some big wave photography to come.
Tuesday 22nd December:
My Christmas present arrived today (for both of us really) and so I had to nip out for an hour to try it out. I didn't wait until Christmas Day as I had ordered it and knew what it was! If your getting curious the present was a set of 77mm Kase circular magnetic filters. First impressions are extremely favourable as I used them to take some long exposures down around the harbour in Penzance.
The great thing was that they left no colour cast at all unlike my Lee filters which do leave a blue cast. Also the magnetic system was amazingly easy to use.
Both images below have had a Fuji Nanopan Acros 100 film simulation applied in Silver Effex Pro.
My Christmas present arrived today (for both of us really) and so I had to nip out for an hour to try it out. I didn't wait until Christmas Day as I had ordered it and knew what it was! If your getting curious the present was a set of 77mm Kase circular magnetic filters. First impressions are extremely favourable as I used them to take some long exposures down around the harbour in Penzance.
The great thing was that they left no colour cast at all unlike my Lee filters which do leave a blue cast. Also the magnetic system was amazingly easy to use.
Both images below have had a Fuji Nanopan Acros 100 film simulation applied in Silver Effex Pro.
Sunday 20th December:
The afternoon promised to be dry and sunny but with a strong south westerly blowing we needed to find a bit of shelter. We drove up to Kenidjack Valley which is just down the hill from St Just. We walked out on to Kenidjack Castle and found shelter on the east side facing across to the Crown's Engine Houses. As we arrived it was very grey with none of the promised sun, not cold though. A huge rain squall missed us by a hundred yards or so and then just for a couple of minutes we got a glimpse of light before the grey returned and never left.
Managed to sit at the computer long enough to edit one more photo from Tuesday. This one was turned in to b&w using Silver Effex Pro. As part of that process I added an Ilford film simulation with a little bit of grain.
Tuesday 15th December:
Couldn't face the pain of driving today so walked along to Penzance Harbour in the late afternoon. Grey and breezy but lots going on. It was high tide and the floating dock gates were opened to allow three fishing boats to come in and unload their catches straight in to trucks.
Set the camera to black & white for most of the couple of hours I was there. My neck was not bad until I made the mistake of trying to capture the starling murmeration before they roosted under the Buccaneer Shell Shop. Amazing how many birds can fit in such a small space.
Couldn't face the pain of driving today so walked along to Penzance Harbour in the late afternoon. Grey and breezy but lots going on. It was high tide and the floating dock gates were opened to allow three fishing boats to come in and unload their catches straight in to trucks.
Set the camera to black & white for most of the couple of hours I was there. My neck was not bad until I made the mistake of trying to capture the starling murmeration before they roosted under the Buccaneer Shell Shop. Amazing how many birds can fit in such a small space.
Monday December 14th:
Managed to get out for a couple of hours this morning. Still suffering with neck and shoulder problems but I'm getting a bit bored at home so a couple of paracetamols and off I went down to Porthcurno.
A bit of a grey morning but every now and again there was a burst of light around the bay to Logan Rock. A lot of white water, as it was low tide, but not the enormous swells that are forecast for later in the week. I started on the beach and then moved up on to the path to my right. Bending over the camera and driving was painful but glad I made the effort.
Managed to get out for a couple of hours this morning. Still suffering with neck and shoulder problems but I'm getting a bit bored at home so a couple of paracetamols and off I went down to Porthcurno.
A bit of a grey morning but every now and again there was a burst of light around the bay to Logan Rock. A lot of white water, as it was low tide, but not the enormous swells that are forecast for later in the week. I started on the beach and then moved up on to the path to my right. Bending over the camera and driving was painful but glad I made the effort.
Wednesday 9th December:
Out of action for 10 days or so due to a neck injury. Still not great but had to get out today as rain and gales forecast for later. Down on to the beach at Long Rock as the tide was still part out and a good sunrise was a possibility as the clouds had not completely covered the sky yet.
The predawn colour in the sky was brilliant for half an hour before sunrise although it did disappear as the sun came up and was snuffed out by a cloud layer.
Lots of people on the beach in the half light, walking dogs, swimming and taking mobile phone images as the rippled layers above the Mount took on a fiery look. The images below are natural and hardly edited-there was no need. All images today taken with a 50-200mm lens-that's 100-400mm in full frame terms.
Out of action for 10 days or so due to a neck injury. Still not great but had to get out today as rain and gales forecast for later. Down on to the beach at Long Rock as the tide was still part out and a good sunrise was a possibility as the clouds had not completely covered the sky yet.
The predawn colour in the sky was brilliant for half an hour before sunrise although it did disappear as the sun came up and was snuffed out by a cloud layer.
Lots of people on the beach in the half light, walking dogs, swimming and taking mobile phone images as the rippled layers above the Mount took on a fiery look. The images below are natural and hardly edited-there was no need. All images today taken with a 50-200mm lens-that's 100-400mm in full frame terms.
Saturday 28th November:
We went off down to Sennen again this afternoon to catch golden hour and sunset. This time we went up to the old coastguard lookout and then a couple of hundred metres towards Lands End but instead of shooting towards it we turned and took images facing east with the lookout in the frame. The golden light was amazing on the granite cliffs and there were a lot of people dotted around waiting for the sun to set.
Although I didn't take any images down by the harbour there were several other photographers down there as the sea was breaking well over the breakwater.
A lovely evening all round.
We went off down to Sennen again this afternoon to catch golden hour and sunset. This time we went up to the old coastguard lookout and then a couple of hundred metres towards Lands End but instead of shooting towards it we turned and took images facing east with the lookout in the frame. The golden light was amazing on the granite cliffs and there were a lot of people dotted around waiting for the sun to set.
Although I didn't take any images down by the harbour there were several other photographers down there as the sea was breaking well over the breakwater.
A lovely evening all round.
Thursday November 26th:
A quick trip down to Long Rock Beach this morning resulted in a brief but lovely sunrise with great colours around the Mount. There was only a thin band of cloud above the Mount with the rest of the sky being very uninteresting. It was a cold but still Autumn morning and well worth getting up for. I made my way towards Marazion and waited by a small stream that comes down the beach and gives some lovely sand patterns. Then as the sun rose moved back towards Long Rock to keep the sun behind the Mount and use some small waves as foreground.
A quick trip down to Long Rock Beach this morning resulted in a brief but lovely sunrise with great colours around the Mount. There was only a thin band of cloud above the Mount with the rest of the sky being very uninteresting. It was a cold but still Autumn morning and well worth getting up for. I made my way towards Marazion and waited by a small stream that comes down the beach and gives some lovely sand patterns. Then as the sun rose moved back towards Long Rock to keep the sun behind the Mount and use some small waves as foreground.
Wednesday November 25th:
Sticking to the theory of revisiting locations to take images in different conditions, we revisited Sennen today but after taking another few images around the breakwater we went up the path to the old coastguard lookout (now a National Trust Information Centre) to wait for sunset, while looking along the cliffs over the Irish Lady and along the cliffs to Lands End. The sun was setting behind the Longships Lighthouse and gave us some excellent colour in the sky as it disappeared behind the Isles of Scilly.
From National Trust Site:
Sennen coastguard station was established in 1812, and the granite lookout was built in 1891. It was manned by coastguards living in the row of cottages at the foot of the hill. During the First World War, when German U-boats plagued this stretch of coast, local men were recruited as additional watchers. During the Second World War, the cliffs here were used for training by the Marines, and they are still scaled by soldiers and rock climbers today.
Sticking to the theory of revisiting locations to take images in different conditions, we revisited Sennen today but after taking another few images around the breakwater we went up the path to the old coastguard lookout (now a National Trust Information Centre) to wait for sunset, while looking along the cliffs over the Irish Lady and along the cliffs to Lands End. The sun was setting behind the Longships Lighthouse and gave us some excellent colour in the sky as it disappeared behind the Isles of Scilly.
From National Trust Site:
Sennen coastguard station was established in 1812, and the granite lookout was built in 1891. It was manned by coastguards living in the row of cottages at the foot of the hill. During the First World War, when German U-boats plagued this stretch of coast, local men were recruited as additional watchers. During the Second World War, the cliffs here were used for training by the Marines, and they are still scaled by soldiers and rock climbers today.
Tuesday November 24th:
A strong southerly wind was blowing so we set off to find some shelter.We made a flask and stopped at St Buryan Farm Shop to pick up pasties. Next stop Sennen Harbour where you can park the car and watch the waves going over the breakwater in relative safety.
When we arrived it was dark grey and moody as forecast and so I started shooting black and white but suddenly, quite unexpectedly the sun came out and for an hour or so we were treated to some lovely light moving around the scene. Very few people around just a few surfers on the beach and some wild swimmers inside the shelter of the breakwater.
The pasties were excellent as well!
A strong southerly wind was blowing so we set off to find some shelter.We made a flask and stopped at St Buryan Farm Shop to pick up pasties. Next stop Sennen Harbour where you can park the car and watch the waves going over the breakwater in relative safety.
When we arrived it was dark grey and moody as forecast and so I started shooting black and white but suddenly, quite unexpectedly the sun came out and for an hour or so we were treated to some lovely light moving around the scene. Very few people around just a few surfers on the beach and some wild swimmers inside the shelter of the breakwater.
The pasties were excellent as well!
Monday November 23rd:
After a miserable, grey and drizzly weekend it was good to get out first thing today. I had no great expectations as it was still very grey. I got to Marazion 40 minutes before official dawn and set the camera to black and white. Dawn came and went but thick cloud on the horizon blocked any light so I continued moving along the beach using the waves, pebbles, weed and Red River as foreground. The school boat/bus came over from the Mount at 8 o'clock and just as it had left for it's return journey the sun burst through a gap in the clouds and just for a few minutes the light was lovely. A thick black/purple cloud hung over the Mount itself and appeared to press down on the castle.
No sooner had it appeared and the golden light was gone again.
After a miserable, grey and drizzly weekend it was good to get out first thing today. I had no great expectations as it was still very grey. I got to Marazion 40 minutes before official dawn and set the camera to black and white. Dawn came and went but thick cloud on the horizon blocked any light so I continued moving along the beach using the waves, pebbles, weed and Red River as foreground. The school boat/bus came over from the Mount at 8 o'clock and just as it had left for it's return journey the sun burst through a gap in the clouds and just for a few minutes the light was lovely. A thick black/purple cloud hung over the Mount itself and appeared to press down on the castle.
No sooner had it appeared and the golden light was gone again.
Thursday November 19th:
Set off after lunch for another trip to Porthchapel. I was own my own today so went down on to the beach itself. Quite a few surfers and bodyboarders around and completely different light. The sky was made up of a cracked cloud layer, that for the first hour I was there, allowed sunbeams to come and go and light up the sea.
As the afternoon moved, the tide came in and the sky got darker and went a purple colour. Some lovely waves rushing up and retreating on the beach to play with. By sunset the sky had completely closed in. It just shows it's worth going back regularly to favourite places as conditions are never the same two days running.
Set off after lunch for another trip to Porthchapel. I was own my own today so went down on to the beach itself. Quite a few surfers and bodyboarders around and completely different light. The sky was made up of a cracked cloud layer, that for the first hour I was there, allowed sunbeams to come and go and light up the sea.
As the afternoon moved, the tide came in and the sky got darker and went a purple colour. Some lovely waves rushing up and retreating on the beach to play with. By sunset the sky had completely closed in. It just shows it's worth going back regularly to favourite places as conditions are never the same two days running.
Wednesday November 18th:
It rained until after lunch and then the sun came out at last. Alison and I set off for Porthchapel, a beautiful little cove just west of Porthcurno. Drive down to Porthcurno and then up the hill past the Minack Theatre. In the winter you can park on the road and in summer make your way to the field car park a few hundred yards past the Minack entrance.
Some lovely cliff top walks in this area and a lovely little beach in Porthchapel itself, although it does get covered on bigger tides or in rough weather. Today it was out of the cold wind and the rocks were golden in the sunshine.
It rained until after lunch and then the sun came out at last. Alison and I set off for Porthchapel, a beautiful little cove just west of Porthcurno. Drive down to Porthcurno and then up the hill past the Minack Theatre. In the winter you can park on the road and in summer make your way to the field car park a few hundred yards past the Minack entrance.
Some lovely cliff top walks in this area and a lovely little beach in Porthchapel itself, although it does get covered on bigger tides or in rough weather. Today it was out of the cold wind and the rocks were golden in the sunshine.
Tuesday November 17th:
Got up for first light but ended up sitting in the car as the drizzle came across the sea so I abandoned that and went home for coffee. By 10 o'clock a little drier spell encouraged me to nip down to the beach behind the Albert Pier in Penzance. Very grey and misty so definitely a black and white session.
What I am learning is that it's worth going out as much as you can just to see what can be achieved. Not somewhere I would have thought of going and certainly not in these conditions.
Got up for first light but ended up sitting in the car as the drizzle came across the sea so I abandoned that and went home for coffee. By 10 o'clock a little drier spell encouraged me to nip down to the beach behind the Albert Pier in Penzance. Very grey and misty so definitely a black and white session.
What I am learning is that it's worth going out as much as you can just to see what can be achieved. Not somewhere I would have thought of going and certainly not in these conditions.
Monday November 16th:
An awful weekend with rain and gales so with a slightly better forecast for this morning I decided to make another quick trip to the Mount.The tide was just past high so I went over to Marazion and wandered around the beach in front of the town for an hour.
Too much cloud for any sunrise light but lots of birds around and a little bit of structure in the sky.
The causeway was just starting to show next to Chapel Rock and at 8 o'clock the landing craft came over from the Mount to drop off the schoolchildren and pick up those people that work on the Mount.
An awful weekend with rain and gales so with a slightly better forecast for this morning I decided to make another quick trip to the Mount.The tide was just past high so I went over to Marazion and wandered around the beach in front of the town for an hour.
Too much cloud for any sunrise light but lots of birds around and a little bit of structure in the sky.
The causeway was just starting to show next to Chapel Rock and at 8 o'clock the landing craft came over from the Mount to drop off the schoolchildren and pick up those people that work on the Mount.
Friday November 13th:
Partly clear skies forecast from sunrise onwards so I made the effort to get up early again and this time go further along the beach. I parked up at long Rock Beach car park, waited for a passing shower, then went down on to the wet sand.
As the light went from blue to gold a band of cloud moved in but twenty minutes after official sunrise a crack in the clouds allowed a few minutes of golden light to backlight the mount and it's trees. These warm winter mornings are lovely as you don't have to get up too early and are then home for breakfast.
One other local professional photographer on the beach who produces some superb images-take a look. lucieaverillphotography.co.uk
Partly clear skies forecast from sunrise onwards so I made the effort to get up early again and this time go further along the beach. I parked up at long Rock Beach car park, waited for a passing shower, then went down on to the wet sand.
As the light went from blue to gold a band of cloud moved in but twenty minutes after official sunrise a crack in the clouds allowed a few minutes of golden light to backlight the mount and it's trees. These warm winter mornings are lovely as you don't have to get up too early and are then home for breakfast.
One other local professional photographer on the beach who produces some superb images-take a look. lucieaverillphotography.co.uk
Thursday November 12th:
Lying in bed this morning I had a sudden urge to go out and catch the sunrise. I left home heading towards Marazion but as I drove along the seafront I had an idea that the sun might rise in line with the harbour mouth and over the top of the Mount but having parked the car and walked around to The Ross Bridge the sun was way too far to the south. Back in the car I headed out of town and looking at the scene over the railway decided to stop at Chyandour and go on to the beach through the three tunnels.
With 20 minutes to sunrise there was a band of cloud on the horizon but there was some lovely orange light in the sky being reflected on to the wet sand. One man surfing and a few dog walkers around, the bonus was that the dogs disturbed all the seagulls and provided some extra interest in the sky.
Will have to return here when low tide coincides with dawn as the reflections could be superb given the right conditions.
Lying in bed this morning I had a sudden urge to go out and catch the sunrise. I left home heading towards Marazion but as I drove along the seafront I had an idea that the sun might rise in line with the harbour mouth and over the top of the Mount but having parked the car and walked around to The Ross Bridge the sun was way too far to the south. Back in the car I headed out of town and looking at the scene over the railway decided to stop at Chyandour and go on to the beach through the three tunnels.
With 20 minutes to sunrise there was a band of cloud on the horizon but there was some lovely orange light in the sky being reflected on to the wet sand. One man surfing and a few dog walkers around, the bonus was that the dogs disturbed all the seagulls and provided some extra interest in the sky.
Will have to return here when low tide coincides with dawn as the reflections could be superb given the right conditions.
Click an image to enlarge
Tuesday November 10th:
A miserable old day and by late afternoon I was getting really depressed. I can only spend so long on the computer these days so we shot off for a flying visit to Lands End. The carpark was empty as we quickly made our way down to the Armed Knight and there was a little bit of colour in the sky behind it.
Unusually not another photographer to be seen, the result of the second lockdown I assume.
Some lovely curving whips clouds made an appearance just before a final glimpse of the sun from behind the clouds as it set.
A miserable old day and by late afternoon I was getting really depressed. I can only spend so long on the computer these days so we shot off for a flying visit to Lands End. The carpark was empty as we quickly made our way down to the Armed Knight and there was a little bit of colour in the sky behind it.
Unusually not another photographer to be seen, the result of the second lockdown I assume.
Some lovely curving whips clouds made an appearance just before a final glimpse of the sun from behind the clouds as it set.
Sunday November 8th:
Grey and drizzly all day today but we still went out late afternoon. The wind was in the south coast so we made the quick trip over to Cape Cornwall again. The local fishermen's boats are all gathered at the top of the slipway and although a bit chaotic can give you some good foreground interest if you pick and chose.
A chap I know fishes from a kayak from here and when we arrived his van was parked up and I could see him out by the Brisons.
I set up a composition using the slipway in the foreground and, seeing him on his way in, waited so that he would add interest to the images. Little did I know that he would add excitement as well as interest. Approaching the slipway a larger wave broke behind him stood his kayak vertical and then capsized him.
For a moment I thought I might need to phone the coastguard but I know this isn't the first time this has happened to him and he managed to get back on the kayak and make it ashore. He then stripped off and swam back out and diving down, recovered as much lost gear as he could. I've promised him a print or two as a record of his exploits.
Some local swimmers arrived and as sunset approached it looked just for a moment as if it might be good but then thicker clouds moved across and snuffed out the light.
Grey and drizzly all day today but we still went out late afternoon. The wind was in the south coast so we made the quick trip over to Cape Cornwall again. The local fishermen's boats are all gathered at the top of the slipway and although a bit chaotic can give you some good foreground interest if you pick and chose.
A chap I know fishes from a kayak from here and when we arrived his van was parked up and I could see him out by the Brisons.
I set up a composition using the slipway in the foreground and, seeing him on his way in, waited so that he would add interest to the images. Little did I know that he would add excitement as well as interest. Approaching the slipway a larger wave broke behind him stood his kayak vertical and then capsized him.
For a moment I thought I might need to phone the coastguard but I know this isn't the first time this has happened to him and he managed to get back on the kayak and make it ashore. He then stripped off and swam back out and diving down, recovered as much lost gear as he could. I've promised him a print or two as a record of his exploits.
Some local swimmers arrived and as sunset approached it looked just for a moment as if it might be good but then thicker clouds moved across and snuffed out the light.
Thursday November 5th-Evening:
Clear blue skies all day so too nice to stay in although not actually the best conditions for landscape photography. Left home not knowing where I was going but by making a choice every time I came to a junction I ended up down at Cape Cornwall itself.
Two hours to sunset and with very bright light I went down the slipway and onto the rocks to my left to use some of the rounded boulders as foreground. As the sunset approached I went back up the slipway to where the boats are pulled up. No clouds apart from a thin strip on the horizon but the light was a lovely golden/orange.
Clear blue skies all day so too nice to stay in although not actually the best conditions for landscape photography. Left home not knowing where I was going but by making a choice every time I came to a junction I ended up down at Cape Cornwall itself.
Two hours to sunset and with very bright light I went down the slipway and onto the rocks to my left to use some of the rounded boulders as foreground. As the sunset approached I went back up the slipway to where the boats are pulled up. No clouds apart from a thin strip on the horizon but the light was a lovely golden/orange.
(Click any image to enlarge)
Thursday November 5th-Morning:
Now that I no longer have a dog to take out in the morning it's possible for me to start getting out for sunrise. I was awake early and so decided to pop over to St Michaels Mount for a quick trip.The sun is rising a little bit too far east to be ideal at the moment but at least the sky was clear, in fact a bit too clear.
It was absolutely freezing as I set up on the beach and it wasn't long before I had real problems feeling any of the buttons on the camera. Before sunrise the light was purple and a thin band of cloud meant the sun was hidden for 20 minutes after official sunrise. I was freezing but behind me a couple came down for a swim. In the car after, the pain in my right hand as it thawed was excruciating.
Now that I no longer have a dog to take out in the morning it's possible for me to start getting out for sunrise. I was awake early and so decided to pop over to St Michaels Mount for a quick trip.The sun is rising a little bit too far east to be ideal at the moment but at least the sky was clear, in fact a bit too clear.
It was absolutely freezing as I set up on the beach and it wasn't long before I had real problems feeling any of the buttons on the camera. Before sunrise the light was purple and a thin band of cloud meant the sun was hidden for 20 minutes after official sunrise. I was freezing but behind me a couple came down for a swim. In the car after, the pain in my right hand as it thawed was excruciating.
All the images were shot using a 6 stop filter and ND graduated filter at speeds of half to 1 sec
Wednesday November 4th:
A lovely sunny day with the wind swinging to the north east and dropping for the first time in a week.
After lunch I went up towards St Just and parked on the road that goes down to Kenidjack valley. The valley was completely out of the wind and very warm. I followed the stream down past all the mine workings to the sea. The swell was looking superb, the sun catching the waves as they arched and broke.
I sat for an hour with the 50-200mm lens on picking out arching waves and trying to get birds in the image as well.
Less than an hour before sunset and I moved to get a composition as the sun disappeared behind Cape Cornwall. Handheld with the aperture at f/22 I managed to get some good sunbursts before a bank of cloud spoilt the fun.
A lovely sunny day with the wind swinging to the north east and dropping for the first time in a week.
After lunch I went up towards St Just and parked on the road that goes down to Kenidjack valley. The valley was completely out of the wind and very warm. I followed the stream down past all the mine workings to the sea. The swell was looking superb, the sun catching the waves as they arched and broke.
I sat for an hour with the 50-200mm lens on picking out arching waves and trying to get birds in the image as well.
Less than an hour before sunset and I moved to get a composition as the sun disappeared behind Cape Cornwall. Handheld with the aperture at f/22 I managed to get some good sunbursts before a bank of cloud spoilt the fun.
Click on a wave image to enlarge
All at 200mm. f/5. 1/3200sec
All at 200mm. f/5. 1/3200sec
Monday November 2nd:
After a really wet weekend it was good to get out today even if it was blowing a westerly gale. After lunch and watching the news about the latest lockdown it was off down to Porthcurno where I would be out of the wind. From the car park (now free for the winter) I walked down towards the beach but just before the beach took the path on the left up to the old wartime pill box. From there I climbed down into Green Bay where I was completely out of the wind on a little grassy platform just above the sea.
The sea was a lovely cyan and green with a good swell and golden light hitting the cliffs. About an hour before sunset the coastguard helicopter arrived in the bay and made its way past the Minack Theatre and around the headland to Porthchapel Beach. An hour later you could still hear it so unfortunately it looks like a search was taking place for somebody.
After a really wet weekend it was good to get out today even if it was blowing a westerly gale. After lunch and watching the news about the latest lockdown it was off down to Porthcurno where I would be out of the wind. From the car park (now free for the winter) I walked down towards the beach but just before the beach took the path on the left up to the old wartime pill box. From there I climbed down into Green Bay where I was completely out of the wind on a little grassy platform just above the sea.
The sea was a lovely cyan and green with a good swell and golden light hitting the cliffs. About an hour before sunset the coastguard helicopter arrived in the bay and made its way past the Minack Theatre and around the headland to Porthchapel Beach. An hour later you could still hear it so unfortunately it looks like a search was taking place for somebody.
Wednesday October 27th: Wave Chasing at Porthgwarra
Alison and I spent the whole day today down at Porthgwarra where conditions were wild on the open cliffs but sheltered in the valley. Lots of birdwatchers and half term visitors about but most stayed away from the open cliffs.
The cove beach itself was out of the wind but definitely not a day for a swim. The waves out to sea were massive and as they hit the cliffs the spray was like white rain.
Lots of choughs around today but most of the smaller birds were staying deep in the trees, heather and scrub.
There is a small but very good cafe and toilets. From the car park you have 3 choices.
Turn right and go up the lane, through the gate and out on to the moorland and cliffs.
Turn left and immediately on your right the coast path goes up and around Gwennap Head.
Turn left, go past the cafe and then take the coastal footpath that goes east towards Porthcurno.
Today I tried all three!
Monday October 26th: (back with Panasonic Lumix G9)
Much windier today and I probably should have had a day off but in the end couldn't resist a trip out. Went down to the cliffs between Nanjizal and Porthgwarra starting from the opposite end to yesterday. The walk down the lane to Nanjizal is getting very muddy and to be honest you could hardly stand up in places. The light was much harsher than yesterday and the clouds much less interesting but you've got to give it a go.
Wednesday seems to be the day to try to get out this week with waves forecast six to seven metres.
Much windier today and I probably should have had a day off but in the end couldn't resist a trip out. Went down to the cliffs between Nanjizal and Porthgwarra starting from the opposite end to yesterday. The walk down the lane to Nanjizal is getting very muddy and to be honest you could hardly stand up in places. The light was much harsher than yesterday and the clouds much less interesting but you've got to give it a go.
Wednesday seems to be the day to try to get out this week with waves forecast six to seven metres.
Sunday October 25th:
First of the Autumn stormy weather arrived today-remnants of a Caribbean hurricane apparently.
After lunch we headed down to Porthgwarra to try and get some wave images as a 4 metre swell was predicted by MSW (Magic Sea Weed)
Porthgwarra is a lovely little cove, a location used a lot in Poldark, with fantastic walks towards Nanjizal and Lands End to the west and Porthcurno to the east. This area is also a birdwatcher's paradise in autumn and spring.
Today we walked up the road from the car park behind through the gate at the top and straight on past the track up to Gwennap Head to the cliffs beyond. Here you can set up facing Lands End one way or back to Gwennap Head and the Coastwatch Station. The walk from here to Nanjizal is wonderful and quite flat.
Passing squalls meant the light kept coming and going with areas of cliff in shadow and other parts in bright sunshine. As sunset approached the clouds rolled in but on the way back to the car we were treated with just a couple of minutes of amazing red light as the sun found a small gap to light us up and cast our shadows on the moorland heather. I quickly got the camera out and managed a quick handheld starburst image.
First of the Autumn stormy weather arrived today-remnants of a Caribbean hurricane apparently.
After lunch we headed down to Porthgwarra to try and get some wave images as a 4 metre swell was predicted by MSW (Magic Sea Weed)
Porthgwarra is a lovely little cove, a location used a lot in Poldark, with fantastic walks towards Nanjizal and Lands End to the west and Porthcurno to the east. This area is also a birdwatcher's paradise in autumn and spring.
Today we walked up the road from the car park behind through the gate at the top and straight on past the track up to Gwennap Head to the cliffs beyond. Here you can set up facing Lands End one way or back to Gwennap Head and the Coastwatch Station. The walk from here to Nanjizal is wonderful and quite flat.
Passing squalls meant the light kept coming and going with areas of cliff in shadow and other parts in bright sunshine. As sunset approached the clouds rolled in but on the way back to the car we were treated with just a couple of minutes of amazing red light as the sun found a small gap to light us up and cast our shadows on the moorland heather. I quickly got the camera out and managed a quick handheld starburst image.
Friday October 23rd:
Alison and I went for a walk around Godrevy today. Most people just stay on the west side of the lighthouse but if you walk around the back of the headland and along the cliffs to the east you have some different views back to the lighthouse. Today we also got to see 50+ seals all about to give birth in the cove below.
Another bonus today were the wild ponies on the cliff that added some interest to the images and as Alison's photo shows they were very curious to know what we were doing.
On the way back I went down on to the rocks as the sun set to take the more traditional photo of the lighthouse from the west side.
Alison and I went for a walk around Godrevy today. Most people just stay on the west side of the lighthouse but if you walk around the back of the headland and along the cliffs to the east you have some different views back to the lighthouse. Today we also got to see 50+ seals all about to give birth in the cove below.
Another bonus today were the wild ponies on the cliff that added some interest to the images and as Alison's photo shows they were very curious to know what we were doing.
On the way back I went down on to the rocks as the sun set to take the more traditional photo of the lighthouse from the west side.
Thursday October 22nd:
A very grey day with early heavy rain and then damp and drizzly. As it dried up late in the afternoon we took a walk down the fascinating Kenidjack Valley, near St Just.
Tin was streamed and mined here long before the Romans came to Britain and carried on until the 1870's when cheaper tin arrived from abroad and the Cornish Miners emigrated to help mine it. This is why you can buy pasties to this day in Australia, Mexico, USA and many other countries!
Information plaques give you all the details and for photographers and bird watchers there are a wealth of opportunities.
A stream runs all the way down the valley and was used to turn waterwheels and from the bottom of the valley you get lovely views to Cape Cornwall. At low tide there are rock pools and boulders to provide interest but be careful the black rocks can be slippery if at all damp.
If you are lucky you will be treated to a lovely sunset right in front of you.
Still using Olympus but Panasonic Lumix G9 back tomorrow.
A very grey day with early heavy rain and then damp and drizzly. As it dried up late in the afternoon we took a walk down the fascinating Kenidjack Valley, near St Just.
Tin was streamed and mined here long before the Romans came to Britain and carried on until the 1870's when cheaper tin arrived from abroad and the Cornish Miners emigrated to help mine it. This is why you can buy pasties to this day in Australia, Mexico, USA and many other countries!
Information plaques give you all the details and for photographers and bird watchers there are a wealth of opportunities.
A stream runs all the way down the valley and was used to turn waterwheels and from the bottom of the valley you get lovely views to Cape Cornwall. At low tide there are rock pools and boulders to provide interest but be careful the black rocks can be slippery if at all damp.
If you are lucky you will be treated to a lovely sunset right in front of you.
Still using Olympus but Panasonic Lumix G9 back tomorrow.
Tuesday October 20th:
Yet another trip up to Bosigran for the sunset golden hour. Every time it's different. This time we did not go out on to the headland but went west for half a mile from where there are superb views back to the shear cliffs.
This side would also be sheltered from a strong wind that had moved to the south west.
A couple of brave souls were climbing Commando Ridge when we arrived.
Rain was forecast but only arrived as we walked back to the car in the twilight.
No real sunset but a final streak in the sky over Pendeen Lighthouse. (omd em10 mark3 used tonight)
Yet another trip up to Bosigran for the sunset golden hour. Every time it's different. This time we did not go out on to the headland but went west for half a mile from where there are superb views back to the shear cliffs.
This side would also be sheltered from a strong wind that had moved to the south west.
A couple of brave souls were climbing Commando Ridge when we arrived.
Rain was forecast but only arrived as we walked back to the car in the twilight.
No real sunset but a final streak in the sky over Pendeen Lighthouse. (omd em10 mark3 used tonight)
Monday October 19th:
Alison and I went up to the high cliffs on top of Bosigran this evening. The wind was very strong but going out on to the headland and then down the the front takes you to a sheltered hollow surrounded by rocks. Alison was taking images of birds (I had seen a ring ouzel here yesterday) and I was leaning over the cliffs to capture the stunning views. The light was not brilliant but not bad for a while until the forecast rain started to come in so it was back to the car with a quick stop en-route to take a couple of fungi images. Didn't have macro lens with me so used Leica 50-200mm from about a metre away.
Alison and I went up to the high cliffs on top of Bosigran this evening. The wind was very strong but going out on to the headland and then down the the front takes you to a sheltered hollow surrounded by rocks. Alison was taking images of birds (I had seen a ring ouzel here yesterday) and I was leaning over the cliffs to capture the stunning views. The light was not brilliant but not bad for a while until the forecast rain started to come in so it was back to the car with a quick stop en-route to take a couple of fungi images. Didn't have macro lens with me so used Leica 50-200mm from about a metre away.
Sunday October 18th:
A combined fishing and photography trip to Bosigran today. Climbing down to the foot of the cliffs gives me a chance to take some rather different images. The way down I took today is not for the fainthearted and a spot that will be beyond me soon but I couldn't resist the challenge.
Lots of climbers and walkers around at this spectacular bit of coastline and a place I love to go back and back to. A lot more about the area on the separate Bosigran page.
A combined fishing and photography trip to Bosigran today. Climbing down to the foot of the cliffs gives me a chance to take some rather different images. The way down I took today is not for the fainthearted and a spot that will be beyond me soon but I couldn't resist the challenge.
Lots of climbers and walkers around at this spectacular bit of coastline and a place I love to go back and back to. A lot more about the area on the separate Bosigran page.
Saturday October 17th:
Light rain for most of the day but the sun appeared around teatime so it was a quick dash up to Nanjulian, below Lands End Airfield.Quite a few birdwatchers around as this is peak time for all the migrating birds, all sorts about.
The sun was lighting up the cliffs towards Cape Cornwall with the nearest headland being made up of very red rocks anyway. For an hour the golden light was lovely until the usual bank of cloud on the horizon spoilt the actual sunset.
Light rain for most of the day but the sun appeared around teatime so it was a quick dash up to Nanjulian, below Lands End Airfield.Quite a few birdwatchers around as this is peak time for all the migrating birds, all sorts about.
The sun was lighting up the cliffs towards Cape Cornwall with the nearest headland being made up of very red rocks anyway. For an hour the golden light was lovely until the usual bank of cloud on the horizon spoilt the actual sunset.
Friday October 16th:
A trip out this evening doing a bit of one to one teaching but no money changed hands as the pupil was my wife!
We went up to Kenidjack Castle just east of Cape Cornwall (see Botallack page).Lovely, quiet and
peaceful evening with some good skies until a bank of cloud spoiled the actual sunset. In golden hour we had some lovely light on Cape Cornwall one way and the Crowns Engine Houses the other.
I just used the 50-200mm (this is 100-400mm in full frame terms) lens tonight, handheld to pick out something a bit different.
Still using little Olympus.
A trip out this evening doing a bit of one to one teaching but no money changed hands as the pupil was my wife!
We went up to Kenidjack Castle just east of Cape Cornwall (see Botallack page).Lovely, quiet and
peaceful evening with some good skies until a bank of cloud spoiled the actual sunset. In golden hour we had some lovely light on Cape Cornwall one way and the Crowns Engine Houses the other.
I just used the 50-200mm (this is 100-400mm in full frame terms) lens tonight, handheld to pick out something a bit different.
Still using little Olympus.
Thursday October 15th:
Went fishing today but took my Olympus camera with me. Witnessed one of those strange static clouds that I have seen before. Black underneath with the sun lighting the top. Did not seem to move for over an hour. There must be a meteorology explanation. Almost looks like some alien spacecraft disguised as a cloud.
Also had my usual seal friend with me most of the day.
Popped down to Lands End to witness a superb sunset on my way home.
Went fishing today but took my Olympus camera with me. Witnessed one of those strange static clouds that I have seen before. Black underneath with the sun lighting the top. Did not seem to move for over an hour. There must be a meteorology explanation. Almost looks like some alien spacecraft disguised as a cloud.
Also had my usual seal friend with me most of the day.
Popped down to Lands End to witness a superb sunset on my way home.
Wednesday October 14th:
Sad day today as we lost our rescue collie Clyde. He was rescued in Ireland about 8 years ago. A very worried boy in a bit of a physical state who settled down in to a lovely and beautiful companion.
We went for a walk this evening down to Logan Rock and sat on the cliffs with a flask and sandwiches. Lovely warm autumn evening once you were out of the wind.
Sad day today as we lost our rescue collie Clyde. He was rescued in Ireland about 8 years ago. A very worried boy in a bit of a physical state who settled down in to a lovely and beautiful companion.
We went for a walk this evening down to Logan Rock and sat on the cliffs with a flask and sandwiches. Lovely warm autumn evening once you were out of the wind.
Monday October 12th:
It was raining all day today-that heavy Cornish drizzle. Late afternoon it gradually cleared and I needed to get out for a while before dark so following advice I stuck to the same location and went back to Marazion. Some lovely dramatic clouds in the sky and a strong wind made the conditions different from the day before.
I went over the seaweed covered rocks as far as I could to the east to try to get the mount and sunset in the same wide angle image and you can see the results below.
It was raining all day today-that heavy Cornish drizzle. Late afternoon it gradually cleared and I needed to get out for a while before dark so following advice I stuck to the same location and went back to Marazion. Some lovely dramatic clouds in the sky and a strong wind made the conditions different from the day before.
I went over the seaweed covered rocks as far as I could to the east to try to get the mount and sunset in the same wide angle image and you can see the results below.
Sunday 11th October:
Short trip out this evening wandering along the beach between Long Rock and Marazion. The tide was on it's way out revealing rocks, sand and the causeway to St Michaels Mount. Plenty of clouds in the sky but no direct light on the mount, as dusk came the clouds vanished.
The sunset at this time of year is too far towards the west to easily get it behind the Mount from the beach or causeway, later in the year will be better. Living just a few minutes away from the Mount I seem to have neglected it and have been there more in the last two weeks than in the last two years. Must spend more time here when conditions are right.
I am still using the little Olympus camera and have mastered the "live time" feature where you can watch long exposures develop on the back of the camera while also watching the histogram move to the right.
Just stop the shot when you want, brilliant!
Short trip out this evening wandering along the beach between Long Rock and Marazion. The tide was on it's way out revealing rocks, sand and the causeway to St Michaels Mount. Plenty of clouds in the sky but no direct light on the mount, as dusk came the clouds vanished.
The sunset at this time of year is too far towards the west to easily get it behind the Mount from the beach or causeway, later in the year will be better. Living just a few minutes away from the Mount I seem to have neglected it and have been there more in the last two weeks than in the last two years. Must spend more time here when conditions are right.
I am still using the little Olympus camera and have mastered the "live time" feature where you can watch long exposures develop on the back of the camera while also watching the histogram move to the right.
Just stop the shot when you want, brilliant!
Friday 9th October:
Back to Pedn Vounder today but using the Leica 50-200mm for some more close up intimate seascapes. Very overcast for most of the afternoon and then an hour of rain meant sheltering under the cliff for a while. My Panasonic G9 is away being repaired so the little Olympus omd m10 was with me again.
As sunset approached there were a few glimpses of light. The passing Isles of Scilly ferry and a fishing boat added interest.
Back to Pedn Vounder today but using the Leica 50-200mm for some more close up intimate seascapes. Very overcast for most of the afternoon and then an hour of rain meant sheltering under the cliff for a while. My Panasonic G9 is away being repaired so the little Olympus omd m10 was with me again.
As sunset approached there were a few glimpses of light. The passing Isles of Scilly ferry and a fishing boat added interest.
Thursday 8th October:
A strong north west wind dictated a trip to Pedn Vounder Beach on the south coast today. Pedn in the summer is a nudist beach but at this time of year the few people there had their clothes on. Park at Treen for Pedn and walk down the lane past the excellent campsite. If you are unable to manage the tricky path down to the beach there are superb compositions from the top path.
Today the sun kept popping out from behind the clouds and lighting up the beach and cliffs-it was really warm in the sheltered bay. Some good waves meant plenty of swirling white water to play with as foreground interest.
A strong north west wind dictated a trip to Pedn Vounder Beach on the south coast today. Pedn in the summer is a nudist beach but at this time of year the few people there had their clothes on. Park at Treen for Pedn and walk down the lane past the excellent campsite. If you are unable to manage the tricky path down to the beach there are superb compositions from the top path.
Today the sun kept popping out from behind the clouds and lighting up the beach and cliffs-it was really warm in the sheltered bay. Some good waves meant plenty of swirling white water to play with as foreground interest.
Monday October 5th:
Rain was due before dark so late afternoon made a quick trip to Botallack. Rather than shoot the engine houses from below the car park I made my way east for half a mile to Wheal Owles. Below the two engine house a sloping path leaves the coastal footpath on the right takes you down to a lovely flat vantage point that looks along the cliffs to to the Crowns.
Next to the platform is a plaque telling the story of yet another mining tragedy. January 1893 nineteen men and a boy were trapped when the mine flooded. Their bodies were never recovered so they are still there beneath you as you shoot.
It was quite rough today- the effect of Storm Alex-that had caused severe flooding in France. No chance of a sunset as the mist and drizzle arrived.
Images today shot with a little Olympus omd em10-lovely little 16mp camera.
Rain was due before dark so late afternoon made a quick trip to Botallack. Rather than shoot the engine houses from below the car park I made my way east for half a mile to Wheal Owles. Below the two engine house a sloping path leaves the coastal footpath on the right takes you down to a lovely flat vantage point that looks along the cliffs to to the Crowns.
Next to the platform is a plaque telling the story of yet another mining tragedy. January 1893 nineteen men and a boy were trapped when the mine flooded. Their bodies were never recovered so they are still there beneath you as you shoot.
It was quite rough today- the effect of Storm Alex-that had caused severe flooding in France. No chance of a sunset as the mist and drizzle arrived.
Images today shot with a little Olympus omd em10-lovely little 16mp camera.
Saturday October 3rd:
With gale force freezing northerly wind blowing, the open coast and cliff climbing were out of the question so another trip to Marazion was on the cards. This time seeking some shelter and a different composition I headed to Top Tieb, the landing jetty used at high tide by the St Michael's Mount ferries.
It was quite calm here with a little bit of sunset light in the west and interesting clouds moving quickly out to sea.
Went to the rocks a few yards east of the jetty for a while and onto the jetty itself and luckily a ferry arrived to pick up a St Michael's Mount resident and her dog. This added a little bit of extra interest the composition.
With gale force freezing northerly wind blowing, the open coast and cliff climbing were out of the question so another trip to Marazion was on the cards. This time seeking some shelter and a different composition I headed to Top Tieb, the landing jetty used at high tide by the St Michael's Mount ferries.
It was quite calm here with a little bit of sunset light in the west and interesting clouds moving quickly out to sea.
Went to the rocks a few yards east of the jetty for a while and onto the jetty itself and luckily a ferry arrived to pick up a St Michael's Mount resident and her dog. This added a little bit of extra interest the composition.
Thursday October 1st:
Rained all afternoon and by early evening I had been on the computer too long, too wet to go far, so I jumped in the car and drove over to the carpark between Long Rock and Marazion. It was still raining so I put the hatchback up, as an umbrella, and started taking photos from the car park.
As sunset approached the rain stopped and we even had a little glimpse of evening light in the sky over Penzance.
At this point I moved a few yards down onto the beach and experimented with different shutter speeds as much for my own learning as anything else. Tried everything from half a second to three and half minutes!
An enjoyable and fruitful couple of hours.
Rained all afternoon and by early evening I had been on the computer too long, too wet to go far, so I jumped in the car and drove over to the carpark between Long Rock and Marazion. It was still raining so I put the hatchback up, as an umbrella, and started taking photos from the car park.
As sunset approached the rain stopped and we even had a little glimpse of evening light in the sky over Penzance.
At this point I moved a few yards down onto the beach and experimented with different shutter speeds as much for my own learning as anything else. Tried everything from half a second to three and half minutes!
An enjoyable and fruitful couple of hours.
Wednesday September 30th:
With the promise of good sunset light I set off north for the St Just area and at the last minute decided on the Nanquidno Valley-below Lands End Airfield- this takes you down to Nanjulian, a lovely rocky cove.
From Nanjulian you have views west to Sennen and Lands End and to the east is Cape Cornwall.
As you near the sea on the path there is a rocky mound to your left and I had long planned to climb up to the top and see what compositions were to be found.
My wife and I often see kestrels and peregrines perched up there.
The climb was worth it as you can see below.
From the mound I made my way west through gorse and rough fields to a favourite gate that provides a good foreground for the views to Cape Cornwall.
With the promise of good sunset light I set off north for the St Just area and at the last minute decided on the Nanquidno Valley-below Lands End Airfield- this takes you down to Nanjulian, a lovely rocky cove.
From Nanjulian you have views west to Sennen and Lands End and to the east is Cape Cornwall.
As you near the sea on the path there is a rocky mound to your left and I had long planned to climb up to the top and see what compositions were to be found.
My wife and I often see kestrels and peregrines perched up there.
The climb was worth it as you can see below.
From the mound I made my way west through gorse and rough fields to a favourite gate that provides a good foreground for the views to Cape Cornwall.
Monday & Tuesday September 28th/29th:
Two evenings exploring the Kenidjack Castle area-park in the National Trust car park at Botallack and walk west to the next headland.
Most photographers use this vantage point to take images of Cape Cornwall but if you look east you also have good views across the bay to the Crowns Mines on the cliff. Scrambling down the grass bank to the rocks gives you a different perspective.
Two evenings exploring the Kenidjack Castle area-park in the National Trust car park at Botallack and walk west to the next headland.
Most photographers use this vantage point to take images of Cape Cornwall but if you look east you also have good views across the bay to the Crowns Mines on the cliff. Scrambling down the grass bank to the rocks gives you a different perspective.
Sunday September 27th:
Parked this afternoon on the Porthgwarra road opposite the entrance to Raftra Farm. From here a lane takes you to Bosistow and then turn left and right through the gate to Nanjizal Cove or you can go straight on past the gate &Faraway Cottage (a lovely holiday let) to the clifftops of Mill Bay (see pano at top of page).
On this day I went down to the small beach. The tide was dropping and it was fun capturing the retreating waves using 1/2 & 1second exposures. Despite the lack of many clouds a golden/red sunset lit up the wet rocks as the evening ended.
Parked this afternoon on the Porthgwarra road opposite the entrance to Raftra Farm. From here a lane takes you to Bosistow and then turn left and right through the gate to Nanjizal Cove or you can go straight on past the gate &Faraway Cottage (a lovely holiday let) to the clifftops of Mill Bay (see pano at top of page).
On this day I went down to the small beach. The tide was dropping and it was fun capturing the retreating waves using 1/2 & 1second exposures. Despite the lack of many clouds a golden/red sunset lit up the wet rocks as the evening ended.