With the summer drawing to a close and a feeling of autumn in the air I thought it was a good time to start a new page. The 2021 page has so much on it that it would take an age to scroll through and it was taking an age to load new images so here is a fresh start.
Happy to provide prints for people free or just for cost of paper, ink, postage etc. [email protected]
Images captured with Panasonic micro four thirds cameras.
Happy to provide prints for people free or just for cost of paper, ink, postage etc. [email protected]
Images captured with Panasonic micro four thirds cameras.
Thursday 30th September:
After a ady of rain we had a trip to Sennen in the drizzle. The great thing about Sennen Harbour is that you can take some interesting images from right next to your car and so can keep jumping in to shelter as the latest flurry of mist comes through. We had the jetboil with us for a nice cup of tea but we resisted the fish and chips this time.
Low tide, so no sea coming over the breakwater yet and a bit windy for tripods so it was a case of me wandering around the fishermen's sheds and looking for images amongst the pots, buoys and ropes. A lovely place to sit in the dry and watch the waves hitting the Cowloes (reef 100m off the breakwater).
After a ady of rain we had a trip to Sennen in the drizzle. The great thing about Sennen Harbour is that you can take some interesting images from right next to your car and so can keep jumping in to shelter as the latest flurry of mist comes through. We had the jetboil with us for a nice cup of tea but we resisted the fish and chips this time.
Low tide, so no sea coming over the breakwater yet and a bit windy for tripods so it was a case of me wandering around the fishermen's sheds and looking for images amongst the pots, buoys and ropes. A lovely place to sit in the dry and watch the waves hitting the Cowloes (reef 100m off the breakwater).
Wednesday Afternoon:
A very different day today with clear blue skies and harsh light for much of it. In the afternoon we went up to Kenidjack Valley and because the light was not great I went down to the mouth of the valley and concentrated on sea movement around the rocks but even here the glare on the water was difficult to control.
As the clouds rolled in we moved along the track to Wheal Owles and I went down onto my favourite grassy ledge that few people seem to know about. To start with the light was a bit flat but then I had a brief burst of light on the cliffs towards the engine houses. Loving the autumn tints on the cliffs now.
While I was down on the ledge Alison met a professional photographer up at the top. Sarah runs lots of workshops all over the UK and further afield. Take a look http://www.sarahhowardphotography.com/. and also imageseen.co.uk
A very different day today with clear blue skies and harsh light for much of it. In the afternoon we went up to Kenidjack Valley and because the light was not great I went down to the mouth of the valley and concentrated on sea movement around the rocks but even here the glare on the water was difficult to control.
As the clouds rolled in we moved along the track to Wheal Owles and I went down onto my favourite grassy ledge that few people seem to know about. To start with the light was a bit flat but then I had a brief burst of light on the cliffs towards the engine houses. Loving the autumn tints on the cliffs now.
While I was down on the ledge Alison met a professional photographer up at the top. Sarah runs lots of workshops all over the UK and further afield. Take a look http://www.sarahhowardphotography.com/. and also imageseen.co.uk
Wednesday 29th September:
A dawn walk with camera in hand and a chill in the air.
A dawn walk with camera in hand and a chill in the air.
Tuesday 28th September:
Certainly autumn weather today, everything from bright sunshine to torrential downpours. Rainbows, dramatic clouds, golden sunshine, strong westerly wind, we had it all.
In the late afternoon I wandered around the top of Kenidjack Valley and around to Wheal Owls, with a view down to the Crowns Engine Houses. I then made a detour down to Pendeen Lighthouse as I could see dramatic clouds and sunbeams over the sea. Once the weather has broken it's difficult to make up your mind where to go.
Certainly autumn weather today, everything from bright sunshine to torrential downpours. Rainbows, dramatic clouds, golden sunshine, strong westerly wind, we had it all.
In the late afternoon I wandered around the top of Kenidjack Valley and around to Wheal Owls, with a view down to the Crowns Engine Houses. I then made a detour down to Pendeen Lighthouse as I could see dramatic clouds and sunbeams over the sea. Once the weather has broken it's difficult to make up your mind where to go.
Monday 27th September:
Things are starting to look good. Rougher seas, changing light and autumn hues are all adding to the scene. This afternoon I went up to Levant, where I knew I would be able to shelter from any downpours and at the same time have infinite image possibilities. Although the colours where lovely I still almost prefer the black and whites. Somehow the colours at this time of year look over the top even though that's exactly what they are.
Things are starting to look good. Rougher seas, changing light and autumn hues are all adding to the scene. This afternoon I went up to Levant, where I knew I would be able to shelter from any downpours and at the same time have infinite image possibilities. Although the colours where lovely I still almost prefer the black and whites. Somehow the colours at this time of year look over the top even though that's exactly what they are.
Early Sunday Morning: The docking of De Gallant
The harbour was a hive of activity before and after sunrise this morning as the Scillonian prepared for sailing, the harbour gate was lowered to let a French Schooner, first launched in 1916, enter the harbour. Much throwing of ropes and churning of the water as she came through the harbour gates and alongside the quay. The schooner is a cargo and sail training vessel trying to transport cargoes in an environmentally friendly way. (think they need an electric back up engine!)
blueschoonercompany.com/en/home/
The harbour was a hive of activity before and after sunrise this morning as the Scillonian prepared for sailing, the harbour gate was lowered to let a French Schooner, first launched in 1916, enter the harbour. Much throwing of ropes and churning of the water as she came through the harbour gates and alongside the quay. The schooner is a cargo and sail training vessel trying to transport cargoes in an environmentally friendly way. (think they need an electric back up engine!)
blueschoonercompany.com/en/home/
Friday evening:
Up on the north coast at Cape Cornwall and Botallack with fish and chips in between. Thick fog and a roughish sea meant concentrating on the chaos caused by the water as it meets the land. At Cape I went out on to the low tide rocks to capture the making tide coming through the gullies. Here the rocks are the more traditional orange granite with barnacles and limpets whereas at Botallack we are in to the very dark smooth rocks that are impossible to stand up on when wet. The mines themselves were lost from view.
Had a chat with one participant of a large photography workshop taking place around the slipway area of Priests Cove, a great place to practice your skills on many different subjects.
Up on the north coast at Cape Cornwall and Botallack with fish and chips in between. Thick fog and a roughish sea meant concentrating on the chaos caused by the water as it meets the land. At Cape I went out on to the low tide rocks to capture the making tide coming through the gullies. Here the rocks are the more traditional orange granite with barnacles and limpets whereas at Botallack we are in to the very dark smooth rocks that are impossible to stand up on when wet. The mines themselves were lost from view.
Had a chat with one participant of a large photography workshop taking place around the slipway area of Priests Cove, a great place to practice your skills on many different subjects.
Friday 24th September:
Up early and over to St Michael's Mount this morning. Very calm, just the slightest movement, with a cloudless sky to begin with. A burst of light at sunrise followed by a fog that suddenly appeared over Penzance and gradually spread across Mounts Bay hiding the Mount from view.
Up early and over to St Michael's Mount this morning. Very calm, just the slightest movement, with a cloudless sky to begin with. A burst of light at sunrise followed by a fog that suddenly appeared over Penzance and gradually spread across Mounts Bay hiding the Mount from view.
Thursday 23rd September:
The weather forecast said that after lunch it would be dry and the sun would come out. On this advice I went up to Kenidjack, I got soaked! A thick Cornish mizzle descended giving visibility of just a few metres. Although not the conditions I expected in actual fact they were better for photography. It started off dry as I headed out on to the low tide rocks but within minutes in was drizzling. I hung around, getting wet, assuming the forecast sun was about to appear. It dried up and started to brighten and I managed to get some good images of the wider view and more intimate landscapes. Then the weather really closed in and it was all I could do to get over the black rocks back up to the path. Walking back up the valley the fog gave a real atmosphere and the orange colours of the turning bracken stood out. As I drove along the track to Botallack I couldn't resist stopping to take an image of Wheal Owls in the mist.
The weather forecast said that after lunch it would be dry and the sun would come out. On this advice I went up to Kenidjack, I got soaked! A thick Cornish mizzle descended giving visibility of just a few metres. Although not the conditions I expected in actual fact they were better for photography. It started off dry as I headed out on to the low tide rocks but within minutes in was drizzling. I hung around, getting wet, assuming the forecast sun was about to appear. It dried up and started to brighten and I managed to get some good images of the wider view and more intimate landscapes. Then the weather really closed in and it was all I could do to get over the black rocks back up to the path. Walking back up the valley the fog gave a real atmosphere and the orange colours of the turning bracken stood out. As I drove along the track to Botallack I couldn't resist stopping to take an image of Wheal Owls in the mist.
Wednesday 22nd September:
With the summer coming to an end and visitor numbers dropping away we felt it was time to go back to some of our favourite locations. This evening we went down to Porthgwarra, which in high summer is a nightmare due to the long narrow road down to it and the inevitable meeting of a camper van part the way down. This evening it was quiet and the light was less harsh now autumn is upon us. A few hikers and kayakers around and up on Gwennap Head a group of very young coastguard trainees practising cliff rescues, hammering in spikes and lowering ropes, great to see youngsters engaged in this kind of thing. A lovely evening all round.
Looking at the images below, I'm not sure I like the garish sunset photos anymore. When it's happening in front of you it is very difficult not to point your camera at it. The one taken well before sunset with the sun rays is much more natural looking although in all the photos the colours are true to what was there. One thing that I did find interesting was the shadow of the little island, it looks like a castle in the sea but is not there at all at normal shutter speeds, only appearing when I slowed it down to around a minute.
With the summer coming to an end and visitor numbers dropping away we felt it was time to go back to some of our favourite locations. This evening we went down to Porthgwarra, which in high summer is a nightmare due to the long narrow road down to it and the inevitable meeting of a camper van part the way down. This evening it was quiet and the light was less harsh now autumn is upon us. A few hikers and kayakers around and up on Gwennap Head a group of very young coastguard trainees practising cliff rescues, hammering in spikes and lowering ropes, great to see youngsters engaged in this kind of thing. A lovely evening all round.
Looking at the images below, I'm not sure I like the garish sunset photos anymore. When it's happening in front of you it is very difficult not to point your camera at it. The one taken well before sunset with the sun rays is much more natural looking although in all the photos the colours are true to what was there. One thing that I did find interesting was the shadow of the little island, it looks like a castle in the sea but is not there at all at normal shutter speeds, only appearing when I slowed it down to around a minute.
Tuesday Sunset:
Up at Pendeen lighthouse an hour before sunset. Started off on the rocks to the left of the lighthouse hoping to get some golden light on the cliffs towards Levant. The best conditions I've had so far on the three recent visits to this location. The sun was partly obscured by light cloud and haze but enough came through at one point to give a red glow to the rocks. A good sea running although a lower tide would have been better. As sunset approached and I made my way (very slowly!) back up to the top of the cliffs the sun began to be covered but after sunset the sky did take on some lovely colours.
Up at Pendeen lighthouse an hour before sunset. Started off on the rocks to the left of the lighthouse hoping to get some golden light on the cliffs towards Levant. The best conditions I've had so far on the three recent visits to this location. The sun was partly obscured by light cloud and haze but enough came through at one point to give a red glow to the rocks. A good sea running although a lower tide would have been better. As sunset approached and I made my way (very slowly!) back up to the top of the cliffs the sun began to be covered but after sunset the sky did take on some lovely colours.
Tuesday 21st September:
Feeling a bit better so went out for an early walk, making sure I stayed well away from people just in case.The sun was about to rise and lots of people out watching the event. There seem to be more and more cold water swimmers everyday with many of them venturing hundreds of metres from the shore.
Feeling a bit better so went out for an early walk, making sure I stayed well away from people just in case.The sun was about to rise and lots of people out watching the event. There seem to be more and more cold water swimmers everyday with many of them venturing hundreds of metres from the shore.
No fresh photos for a few days as I've either got covid or a cold. Have done a lateral flow test which was negative so hopefully it's just a cold but I feel a bit rotten either way.
Thursday Afternoon:
Sunshine with low level clouds saw me up at Levant with the infrared camera. I love the drama the infrared gives you when the conditions are like this. Where sunshine hits the grassy areas it looks like a heavy snowfall.
Sunshine with low level clouds saw me up at Levant with the infrared camera. I love the drama the infrared gives you when the conditions are like this. Where sunshine hits the grassy areas it looks like a heavy snowfall.
Thursday 16th September:
An early morning journey through time.
An early morning journey through time.
Wednesday 15th September:
A very enjoyable couple of hours at Pendeen lighthouse this evening. As I neared the car park I spotted a group of choughs in a field next to the road and stopped to take a couple of images. As I was standing there, a car pulled up next to me and a lady told me the wryneck was down the track. I'd actually seen him a couple of days ago and Alison had taken pictures of him this morning but I had to make a quick search and managed to get some good photos. I also made a short video of the bird feeding on the ants-just click on the black link below.
After that distraction I made my way down to the rocks I'd visited on Monday as now there were dramatic clouds and a bigger swell. The one disappointment was that there was a solid layer of cloud near the horizon and the sun was quickly snuffed out.
A very enjoyable couple of hours at Pendeen lighthouse this evening. As I neared the car park I spotted a group of choughs in a field next to the road and stopped to take a couple of images. As I was standing there, a car pulled up next to me and a lady told me the wryneck was down the track. I'd actually seen him a couple of days ago and Alison had taken pictures of him this morning but I had to make a quick search and managed to get some good photos. I also made a short video of the bird feeding on the ants-just click on the black link below.
After that distraction I made my way down to the rocks I'd visited on Monday as now there were dramatic clouds and a bigger swell. The one disappointment was that there was a solid layer of cloud near the horizon and the sun was quickly snuffed out.
Tuesday Afternoon:
Another trip to Botallack on the difficult search for something different and I seem to have ended up with a real mixture. I found a new vantage point on a rock high above the path that goes down to the engine houses. After an hour here I went for a little wander in the sunshine along the cliffs and found some varied subjects to point my camera at.
Another trip to Botallack on the difficult search for something different and I seem to have ended up with a real mixture. I found a new vantage point on a rock high above the path that goes down to the engine houses. After an hour here I went for a little wander in the sunshine along the cliffs and found some varied subjects to point my camera at.
Tuesday 14th September:
A blue hour walk around the harbour on a grey early autumn morning, with a wander along some back streets on the way home.
A blue hour walk around the harbour on a grey early autumn morning, with a wander along some back streets on the way home.
Monday 13th September:
A grey day with rain on its way and due to get heavier as the afternoon wore on. Straight after lunch I made my way up to Pendeen Lighthouse and clambered down the rocks on the left hand side until I was as close to sea level as was safe. A gentle swell just starting to build but the sea itself still calm. From my position I was looking west along the black cliffs towards the Levant Mine workings. No colour to speak of so mostly black and white today-just one in colour to show you the conditions. I had to beat a hasty retreat as the rain steadily got heavier and made the rocks slippery. With some good light and drama in the sky this is a place worth a revisit.
A grey day with rain on its way and due to get heavier as the afternoon wore on. Straight after lunch I made my way up to Pendeen Lighthouse and clambered down the rocks on the left hand side until I was as close to sea level as was safe. A gentle swell just starting to build but the sea itself still calm. From my position I was looking west along the black cliffs towards the Levant Mine workings. No colour to speak of so mostly black and white today-just one in colour to show you the conditions. I had to beat a hasty retreat as the rain steadily got heavier and made the rocks slippery. With some good light and drama in the sky this is a place worth a revisit.
Sunday 12th September:
Something a bit different this evening with a trip up to Boat Cove which is down the track from Pendeen Lighthouse. Because the conditions are a bit flat and grey at the moment I spent an hour looking for rock patterns which, with a little imagination, can be seen as faces and mythical creatures.
Something a bit different this evening with a trip up to Boat Cove which is down the track from Pendeen Lighthouse. Because the conditions are a bit flat and grey at the moment I spent an hour looking for rock patterns which, with a little imagination, can be seen as faces and mythical creatures.
Saturday Evening:
We went up to Botallack this evening and my intention was to find very different compositions featuring the Crowns Engine Houses and the surrounding area. Not easy as they are so well photographed. I went right down to the mines and then made my way carefully behind them and then up the cliff until I was above the ruins. Certainly ended up with perspectives I haven't seen published before.
We went up to Botallack this evening and my intention was to find very different compositions featuring the Crowns Engine Houses and the surrounding area. Not easy as they are so well photographed. I went right down to the mines and then made my way carefully behind them and then up the cliff until I was above the ruins. Certainly ended up with perspectives I haven't seen published before.
Saturday 11th September:
Up and out an hour before dawn today and what a superb morning. The air was still and the sky showing red and orange all along the eastern horizon. The sky was full of aeroplane trails that were picking up the sunrise light from below the horizon.
Although I didn't know at the time, this pre dawn light was the best as once the sun rose it got very harsh very quickly with little in the way of clouds to diffuse the sunlight. Even in the dark this morning there were plenty of people out walking or going for an early swim, best time of the day really.
Up and out an hour before dawn today and what a superb morning. The air was still and the sky showing red and orange all along the eastern horizon. The sky was full of aeroplane trails that were picking up the sunrise light from below the horizon.
Although I didn't know at the time, this pre dawn light was the best as once the sun rose it got very harsh very quickly with little in the way of clouds to diffuse the sunlight. Even in the dark this morning there were plenty of people out walking or going for an early swim, best time of the day really.
Friday 10th September:
A breezy evening walk around the meadows at Bosigran where the wild pony herd were enjoying the autumn hay. A bit of a sunset capped the evening but better to come I think as we get later in the year.
A breezy evening walk around the meadows at Bosigran where the wild pony herd were enjoying the autumn hay. A bit of a sunset capped the evening but better to come I think as we get later in the year.
Thursday Afternoon:
I made a late afternoon visit to Levant as there were some dramatic clouds around after the morning rain stopped. However today, for a change, the north coast was brighter than the south and after a dull start I was treated to a period of good light. Again the swell was just enough to give some movement. I clambered down the cliffs onto the orange lichen covered rocks. Very different views on either side of me and mine stacks above me.
The morning fog was returning as it moved into evening but on the way home I glanced over a hedge above Penzance and St Michaels Mount was illuminated by one final burst of sunlight. A quick stop for an image and a handheld panorama just as the fog was rolling in behind the Mount.
I made a late afternoon visit to Levant as there were some dramatic clouds around after the morning rain stopped. However today, for a change, the north coast was brighter than the south and after a dull start I was treated to a period of good light. Again the swell was just enough to give some movement. I clambered down the cliffs onto the orange lichen covered rocks. Very different views on either side of me and mine stacks above me.
The morning fog was returning as it moved into evening but on the way home I glanced over a hedge above Penzance and St Michaels Mount was illuminated by one final burst of sunlight. A quick stop for an image and a handheld panorama just as the fog was rolling in behind the Mount.
Thursday 9th September:
A very early morning walk along Penzance seafront and around the harbour. It was so still and quiet in the fog but unfortunately it then started to pour with rain so my session was cut short. Fog can be brilliant for atmospheric images, I sheltered for a while but with no sign of it stopping I headed for home.
A very early morning walk along Penzance seafront and around the harbour. It was so still and quiet in the fog but unfortunately it then started to pour with rain so my session was cut short. Fog can be brilliant for atmospheric images, I sheltered for a while but with no sign of it stopping I headed for home.
Wednesday 8th September:
With the holiday crowds gradually thinning out we ventured down to Sennen Cove this evening, at least here there was no hiking needed carrying camera gear, as my back is playing up again. A largely grey sky but plenty of people fishing, quay jumping and generally enjoying the warm weather. A bit of a swell gave the opportunity for some foreground wave action and there are always plenty of boats, pots and ropes hanging on the railings. Tea and sandwiches overlooking the sea with a lovely view across the bay to Cape Cornwall, what could be better.
With the holiday crowds gradually thinning out we ventured down to Sennen Cove this evening, at least here there was no hiking needed carrying camera gear, as my back is playing up again. A largely grey sky but plenty of people fishing, quay jumping and generally enjoying the warm weather. A bit of a swell gave the opportunity for some foreground wave action and there are always plenty of boats, pots and ropes hanging on the railings. Tea and sandwiches overlooking the sea with a lovely view across the bay to Cape Cornwall, what could be better.
Tuesday 7th September:
A brief afternoon walk around Castle Kenidjack overlooking Cape Cornwall. A very interesting sky with seemingly every cloud type somewhere to be seen and sun rays appearing through the cracks. The wind was very strong but offshore and once under the lee of the cliffs it was really warm. The sea was flat calm with just some wind ripples on the surface.
A brief afternoon walk around Castle Kenidjack overlooking Cape Cornwall. A very interesting sky with seemingly every cloud type somewhere to be seen and sun rays appearing through the cracks. The wind was very strong but offshore and once under the lee of the cliffs it was really warm. The sea was flat calm with just some wind ripples on the surface.
Monday 6th September:
Well, what an interesting evening, climbers, horses and sunset images. I drove up to Bosigran to take some sunset photos but as I was walking down to the cliffs I could see four climbers on Commando Ridge and so couldn't resist making silhouette images as I had done earlier in the year. I had a chat later and gave them my website address and so I hope they will see the images below. They were a bit disappointed as by the time they reached the top it was too late for fish and chips in Newlyn where they were staying-perhaps it will be a Chinese takeaway!
(Look at 24th & 27th July for other silhouettes I made and more horse photos)
I've also taken a lovely video of the horses playing which you can watch by clicking the link below.
Well, what an interesting evening, climbers, horses and sunset images. I drove up to Bosigran to take some sunset photos but as I was walking down to the cliffs I could see four climbers on Commando Ridge and so couldn't resist making silhouette images as I had done earlier in the year. I had a chat later and gave them my website address and so I hope they will see the images below. They were a bit disappointed as by the time they reached the top it was too late for fish and chips in Newlyn where they were staying-perhaps it will be a Chinese takeaway!
(Look at 24th & 27th July for other silhouettes I made and more horse photos)
I've also taken a lovely video of the horses playing which you can watch by clicking the link below.
Click to enlarge
Click the box below for video
Sunday Evening:
After the excitement of the race start we went home and watched the rest on television-shame about the length of advert breaks-they missed St Ives completely! Once the race finished we drove up to Levant for a walk and a drink. I hadn't planned to take any photos but put the camera in the car just in case. On the drive up the fog got thicker and thicker but down at Levant there was some very interesting light as the sun, just for a short time. appeared through the fog. Looking towards Land's End it was black, with fascinating light on the sea. Looking towards Pendeen Lighthouse the sun lit up the orange cliffs but beyond the lighthouse there was thick fog. To add to the interest groups of swallows were seemingly catching insects off the bricks of the mine stacks. Below are three very different images reflecting the conditions.
After the excitement of the race start we went home and watched the rest on television-shame about the length of advert breaks-they missed St Ives completely! Once the race finished we drove up to Levant for a walk and a drink. I hadn't planned to take any photos but put the camera in the car just in case. On the drive up the fog got thicker and thicker but down at Levant there was some very interesting light as the sun, just for a short time. appeared through the fog. Looking towards Land's End it was black, with fascinating light on the sea. Looking towards Pendeen Lighthouse the sun lit up the orange cliffs but beyond the lighthouse there was thick fog. To add to the interest groups of swallows were seemingly catching insects off the bricks of the mine stacks. Below are three very different images reflecting the conditions.
Tour of Britain Start -Sunday 5th September
Great day, shame about the mist and fog.
Great day, shame about the mist and fog.
Tour of Britain- Saturday Races on the Promenade
Click to enlarge small images
Saturday 4th September:
Well, what a hive of activity Penzance is this weekend. The Tour of Britain starting on the seafront tomorrow, the Scillonian sailing early today with half a load going out but a full load coming back as the mad summer season comes to an end.
Well before dawn the seafront in Penzance was busy as preparations for tomorrows race were in full swing. All roads closed as miles of railings were set out, stalls erected and ice cream vans already getting in to position. All this was greeted by one of those hazy orange dawns that only lasted for half an hour before all was covered in a layer of cloud.
Well, what a hive of activity Penzance is this weekend. The Tour of Britain starting on the seafront tomorrow, the Scillonian sailing early today with half a load going out but a full load coming back as the mad summer season comes to an end.
Well before dawn the seafront in Penzance was busy as preparations for tomorrows race were in full swing. All roads closed as miles of railings were set out, stalls erected and ice cream vans already getting in to position. All this was greeted by one of those hazy orange dawns that only lasted for half an hour before all was covered in a layer of cloud.
click to enlarge
Friday 3rd September:
A grey and breezy day right up until early evening when the sun made a hazy appearance. The wind did stir the sea a little down near Lands End where I took a few handheld images while on a walk along the coastal footpath.
Edited as black and white as there was no colour at all. Some swell predicted for next week so perhaps some better images to come.
A grey and breezy day right up until early evening when the sun made a hazy appearance. The wind did stir the sea a little down near Lands End where I took a few handheld images while on a walk along the coastal footpath.
Edited as black and white as there was no colour at all. Some swell predicted for next week so perhaps some better images to come.
Thursday 2nd September:
Still not a lot happening with the light and weather but there was a bit of definition in the clouds and enough gaps to form some sunbeams-called Godrays by others! Back up to Cape Cornwall again and played about with black and white and different shutter speeds with slight variations of the same composition. There was just the slightest movement in the sea but nothing to excite and plenty of swimmers about today enjoying the last of their holidays.
Still not a lot happening with the light and weather but there was a bit of definition in the clouds and enough gaps to form some sunbeams-called Godrays by others! Back up to Cape Cornwall again and played about with black and white and different shutter speeds with slight variations of the same composition. There was just the slightest movement in the sea but nothing to excite and plenty of swimmers about today enjoying the last of their holidays.
Tuesday Early Evening:
The light has been flat all day today but we still went out for a while to get some fresh air. We drove up to Cape Cornwall and I wandered around the rocks to the west of the slipway while Alison did a bit of birdwatching. One thing that stuck out to me today were the patterns and shapes made by some kind of black lichen on a lot of the smooth rock and boulders. Must do a bit of research and find out more. A bit chilly so no one in the water which is unusual for this time of year. Don't think I've ever seen the sea so calm up at Cape.
The light has been flat all day today but we still went out for a while to get some fresh air. We drove up to Cape Cornwall and I wandered around the rocks to the west of the slipway while Alison did a bit of birdwatching. One thing that stuck out to me today were the patterns and shapes made by some kind of black lichen on a lot of the smooth rock and boulders. Must do a bit of research and find out more. A bit chilly so no one in the water which is unusual for this time of year. Don't think I've ever seen the sea so calm up at Cape.
Tuesday 31st August:
The weather has gone from cloudless sun to solid grey dullness and is forecast to stay that way for a day or two. Just a quick walk around the harbour area early today, as much for exercise as anything else. Camera set to monochrome to suit the conditions.
The weather has gone from cloudless sun to solid grey dullness and is forecast to stay that way for a day or two. Just a quick walk around the harbour area early today, as much for exercise as anything else. Camera set to monochrome to suit the conditions.
Sunday Evening:
With still not a cloud in the sky and a flat calm sea photography conditions are far from ideal at the moment. All we did this evening was have a quick walk along the coast path west of Levant Mine before a relaxing evening pint in Trewellard. The heather is just about coming to an end and wheatears, linnets and other species of birds are appearing on the cliffs as meteorological Autumn is upon us. There was a group of ten choughs swooping around and a flock of swallows feeding up before before heading out over the sea to Africa.
With still not a cloud in the sky and a flat calm sea photography conditions are far from ideal at the moment. All we did this evening was have a quick walk along the coast path west of Levant Mine before a relaxing evening pint in Trewellard. The heather is just about coming to an end and wheatears, linnets and other species of birds are appearing on the cliffs as meteorological Autumn is upon us. There was a group of ten choughs swooping around and a flock of swallows feeding up before before heading out over the sea to Africa.
Sunday 29th August;
Another day, another dawn at the harbour. Hardly a cloud in the sky with just a gentle north easterly wind. Plenty of people up and about even before sunrise to enjoy the peace and quiet before another busy day of holiday activity and discarded Fraser's chip boxes along the promenade. I think we are up to half a forest a day of dumped cardboard this month.
Another day, another dawn at the harbour. Hardly a cloud in the sky with just a gentle north easterly wind. Plenty of people up and about even before sunrise to enjoy the peace and quiet before another busy day of holiday activity and discarded Fraser's chip boxes along the promenade. I think we are up to half a forest a day of dumped cardboard this month.
Friday 27th August:
An early walk in light that turned orange as a layer of low cloud cloaked the rising sun. Strangely though its light was still reaching the water across the bay almost as if it was coming up from underwater.
The seafront was a hive of activity as the sun rose with swimmers, joggers, dog walkers and Isles of Scilly trippers all out and about enjoying the early morning stillness.
An early walk in light that turned orange as a layer of low cloud cloaked the rising sun. Strangely though its light was still reaching the water across the bay almost as if it was coming up from underwater.
The seafront was a hive of activity as the sun rose with swimmers, joggers, dog walkers and Isles of Scilly trippers all out and about enjoying the early morning stillness.
Thursday 26th August:
A bright, warm day with just a little haze in the air. Today was a fishing afternoon but with my camera in my bag as well. Far too nice for any dramatic images but below are two handheld panoramas showing the cliffs I had climbed down to get to my chosen spot.A few mackerel and pollack around but still quite quiet really but at least I worked up a thirst climbing back up the cliff to the car and my favourite pub is five minutes drive away, a perfect afternoon for a simple soul like me.
A bright, warm day with just a little haze in the air. Today was a fishing afternoon but with my camera in my bag as well. Far too nice for any dramatic images but below are two handheld panoramas showing the cliffs I had climbed down to get to my chosen spot.A few mackerel and pollack around but still quite quiet really but at least I worked up a thirst climbing back up the cliff to the car and my favourite pub is five minutes drive away, a perfect afternoon for a simple soul like me.
Wednesday 25th August:
Another day taking part in a fish survey on the Helford River. Four of us set off in a boat from near Port Navas and made our way against the dropping tide up past Frenchman's Creek to the upper reaches of the river. Here we unloaded onto the mud bank and set about netting the channel as the water level fell. The boat was anchored in the centre of the river as we were now stuck here for several hours until the tide made in the afternoon. We stretched the net across the channel and held it there for 10 minutes, not an easy task with the current and weed coming down, this was repeated 3 times. About 20 bass were measured and released, nearly all small year 0 fish (born this year) and in amongst them a lot of mullet, smelt, several pipe fish, young pilchards, gobies and even a tiny gurnard. This, along with 2 other netting sessions I've been part of this year, seems to confirm that it has not been a great breeding season.
Once the recording was complete we had a couple of hours to spare and Robin had bought salt with him so we could do a bit of razorfish collecting. Robin and Frank got off to a slow start but they were soon in their stride as some really big razors soon started to fill the bucket. You locate a razor fish hole and dribble some ordinary table salt down it, a spurt of water shows you may be in luck and a few moments later a razor fish makes its appearance. At this point you grab it gently but firmly and gradually apply pressure until it pops out. Razor fish, also known as razor clams are a bit of a food delicacy but not something any of us have tried, these were for bass fishing bait. Alison managed her first ever successful razorfish grab but didn't look too pleased when it moved and squirted in her hand.
(See 9th August for more on the netting surveys)
Another day taking part in a fish survey on the Helford River. Four of us set off in a boat from near Port Navas and made our way against the dropping tide up past Frenchman's Creek to the upper reaches of the river. Here we unloaded onto the mud bank and set about netting the channel as the water level fell. The boat was anchored in the centre of the river as we were now stuck here for several hours until the tide made in the afternoon. We stretched the net across the channel and held it there for 10 minutes, not an easy task with the current and weed coming down, this was repeated 3 times. About 20 bass were measured and released, nearly all small year 0 fish (born this year) and in amongst them a lot of mullet, smelt, several pipe fish, young pilchards, gobies and even a tiny gurnard. This, along with 2 other netting sessions I've been part of this year, seems to confirm that it has not been a great breeding season.
Once the recording was complete we had a couple of hours to spare and Robin had bought salt with him so we could do a bit of razorfish collecting. Robin and Frank got off to a slow start but they were soon in their stride as some really big razors soon started to fill the bucket. You locate a razor fish hole and dribble some ordinary table salt down it, a spurt of water shows you may be in luck and a few moments later a razor fish makes its appearance. At this point you grab it gently but firmly and gradually apply pressure until it pops out. Razor fish, also known as razor clams are a bit of a food delicacy but not something any of us have tried, these were for bass fishing bait. Alison managed her first ever successful razorfish grab but didn't look too pleased when it moved and squirted in her hand.
(See 9th August for more on the netting surveys)
Monday 23rd August:
A very early walk along the seafront with the setting moon and the rising sun.
A very early walk along the seafront with the setting moon and the rising sun.
Sunday 22nd August:
What an exciting morning!
Set off well before dawn for just another stroll along to the harbour where I was hoping the passing rain clouds might make for a colourful dawn. The dawn never really happened but instead my attention was grabbed by the activity around the dry dock. Lyonesse Lady the Isles of Scilly inter island cargo boat had been in the dock for work and was coming out to make a Sunday voyage back to the Islands. Getting out of the dry dock went smoothly but then a slight hitch occurred. The Lady was in the inner harbour, the dry dock had been closed, all was ready, off we go.
Oh dear Ross Bridge is jammed shut yet again. Electric motors whirring, men and women in high-vis gathered around but the bridge wouldn't budge. On the boat the skipper radioed the Islands to say he wouldn't be back today after all.
Apart from me with my camera the scene was also being captured by Sue Lewington and her sketchbook. Sue is a superb local artist with many published books to her name. Just type Sue Lewington into your search bar and have a look at her work from Cornwall and much further afield.
After chatting with Sue and admiring her pen and ink sketch I went around to the other side of the inner harbour and climbed the strangely located steel spiral staircase to get a different view of the activity. Suddenly a cheer went up as the bridge decided to move and the Lyonesse Lady was free. Full steam ahead to try and make it in time for Sunday Dinner back home.
What an exciting morning!
Set off well before dawn for just another stroll along to the harbour where I was hoping the passing rain clouds might make for a colourful dawn. The dawn never really happened but instead my attention was grabbed by the activity around the dry dock. Lyonesse Lady the Isles of Scilly inter island cargo boat had been in the dock for work and was coming out to make a Sunday voyage back to the Islands. Getting out of the dry dock went smoothly but then a slight hitch occurred. The Lady was in the inner harbour, the dry dock had been closed, all was ready, off we go.
Oh dear Ross Bridge is jammed shut yet again. Electric motors whirring, men and women in high-vis gathered around but the bridge wouldn't budge. On the boat the skipper radioed the Islands to say he wouldn't be back today after all.
Apart from me with my camera the scene was also being captured by Sue Lewington and her sketchbook. Sue is a superb local artist with many published books to her name. Just type Sue Lewington into your search bar and have a look at her work from Cornwall and much further afield.
After chatting with Sue and admiring her pen and ink sketch I went around to the other side of the inner harbour and climbed the strangely located steel spiral staircase to get a different view of the activity. Suddenly a cheer went up as the bridge decided to move and the Lyonesse Lady was free. Full steam ahead to try and make it in time for Sunday Dinner back home.