Whilst technically this was really a short holiday and not a location photo shoot, I did get the chance to snag a few interesting shots during this trip to Cornwall, that I thought I would share with you all.

The opening image shown above was a long exposure minimalist shot that I took on a particularly windy day at Chapel Porth Beach, that I felt really encapsulated the beautiful story of the Cornish sea. The shot was 8.0 seconds taken at F11 with a 10 stop ND filter and does show a little of the buffeting that the tripod was getting from the wind off of the sea, to give it a slightly ICM and painterly feel and I just really loved the soft palette of colours in the image.

The photo shown here highlights a little more of the power of the sea and some of the conditions that I was experiencing in the Capel Porth beach inlet that felt like a tunnel of wind, but I think it just goes to show the beauty and power of the awe inspiring waters of the Cornish coastline. You can certainly see that the sea was quite choppy during our visit and the actual beach was under red flag conditions, with the Cornish lifeguards ensuring that nobody was allowed to enter the sea on this particular day as the tide was on its way in and only about 60 minutes from its high tide.

Whilst the Cornish coastline and the sea are quite spectacular, we wanted to see a little more of Cornwall and made out first visit to the Roseland Peninsula on the eastern side of Cornwall. This short trip required us to make use of the King Harry ferry, which crosses the River Fal between Trelissick and Philleigh. The crossing is only about 200 metres and the ferry actually runs along 2 chains that stretch across the river bed. Check out the short video, you can hear the ferry travelling along the chain.

Despite the rather changeable weather and the onset of some rain, we travelled down the Roseland Peninsula towards St Mawes and proceeded through the harbour towards St Mawes Castle which sit ons the headland looking across the estuary towards Falmouth. We were able to walk down beside the Castle to get to the small beach area at Castle Cove

From the beach we caught sight of the wide variety of water traffic that criss crosses the various waterways in the area, including Yachts heading out to see and small ferries carrying passengers between the Roseland Peninsula and Falmouth.

From Castle Cove we were also presented with a great view of the Lighthouse sitting on the end of St Anthony’s Head

As well as the lighthouse we we found out that St Anthonys’s Head is also the location of the historical military fortifications, including a gun battery, ammunitions stores and gunners lookout, so we decide that this would also be worth a visit, so we decided to drive around the Percuil River estuary and take a look around.

After travelling around to St Anthony’s Head we were able to park in the National Trust car park (free for National Trust members) and walk to the St Anthony’s Lighthouse, where I managed to get a shot back across the estuary of St Mawes Castle and the Castle Cove Beach. Sadly the weather was a little gloomy and dull resulting in a rather flat looking image.

Whilst the weather was against us for most of our trip to Cornwall, we didn’t let it get us down and we did manage a very interesting outing to Kenall Vale, which is a picturesque woodland that was the site of a substantial Gunpowder factory in the late 19th century. The area is now a part of the Cornwall Wildlife Trust and is located close to Ponsanooth, between Truro and Falmouth. The site is now a nature reserve and in our opinion was well worth the visit.

The site is somewhere between a natural attraction and an industrial heritage site. Sitting in a densely wooded valley it is as peaceful a place as you could imagine, with the only sounds that you hear being the natural rush of the water and the wildlife.

It might seem like a strange place to locate a Gunpowder factory, but the site was chosen specifically and carefully for that very reason, with the main source of its power being the cascading water which was used to turn large powered waterwheels. Steam power was not an option because of its need to burn coal, which would not have been conducive for the production of gunpowder.

The company also planted many of the trees that still exist today and their positioning was quite strategic to help absorb the force of any potential explosions.

Further safety features of the buildings were extremely thick walls and very light roofs, the idea being that any explosions would be forced upwards and not outwards. Machinery was made from copper rather than steel to reduce the amount of heat produced. Workers even wore woollen suits. Despite all the precautions though, accidents did happen and in one case the roof of a mill house was reportedly found over 1 mile away. I another explosion a worked named John Martin was literally blown apart with his head being found over a quarter of a mile away and his remaining body parts being strewn across the site. Amazingly he was the only worked killed although he left behind a wife and ten children.

Eventually, gunpowder was replaced with newer and more powerful explosives, such as dynamite and gelignite and the mill houses fell dormant.

Now those explosive times are behind us and everything in the area is carpeted by a layer of green moss with ferns and trees taking firm hold of many of the mill buildings.

The River Kennall still flows through the vale and is home to a variety of wildlife including the Horseshoe Bat and the area is reportedly one of the best places in Cornwall to spot dippers.

If you believe the rumours the site is also reported to be one of the most haunted sites in Cornwall and was even featured on a Paranormal TV programme,

A small granite quarry was operated on the site in the early 20th century with the demand for the fine grained granite being in demand from as far afield as the Embankment in London, but the quarry is now long gone and filled with water offering a tranquil and peaceful location for an abundance of wildlife.

Entry to the woodlands is free and the area has become popular with dog walkers, but by all accounts the are is still quite tranquil and does not suffer from a huge amount of tourist traffic, although weekends can certainly be busier than weekdays.

The Ogwen Valley in Snowdonia is a place where even the dullest, cloudiest days can reveal a unique kind of beauty. On my recent photographic workshop there, led by the renowned photographers Ian Worth and Henry Turner, the sky was a blanket of thick, grey clouds, casting a muted light over the landscape. As we arrived, the air was crisp and cool, with a gentle breeze rustling through the autumn leaves. The mountains, usually vibrant with color, were shrouded in mist, giving them an ethereal, almost mystical appearance. I arrived to meet Ian and Henry, alongside five other enthusiastic photographers, and we embarked on our creative journey.

Despite the lack of sunlight, the subdued lighting brought out the subtle details and tones in the scenery. The muted greens of the grass, the deep oranges and browns of the bracken, and the soft greys of the rocks all blended together harmoniously.

We visited the Ogwen Falls, a series of cascading waterfalls that added a dynamic element to the otherwise tranquil valley. The falls were particularly striking against the grey backdrop, their white waters tumbling energetically over the dark, moss-covered rocks. The sound of the rushing water was a soothing contrast to the otherwise silent valley, creating a symphony of nature that was both calming and invigorating.

We spent a considerable amount of time photographing the falls from various angles, trying to capture the movement and power of the water, creating a dreamy, almost surreal atmosphere. The dampness in the air added a sheen to the rocks and foliage, enhancing the textures and colors in our shots. Ian and Henry’s guidance on capturing the essence of the falls was invaluable, and we all learned new techniques to improve our photography.

After spending ample time capturing the dynamic beauty of Ogwen Falls, our group, led by Ian Worth and Henry Turner, decided to continue our photographic journey towards Llyn Idwal. The path to the lake was a well-trodden trail, winding through the rugged landscape of Snowdonia.

As we left the falls behind, the sound of rushing water gradually faded, replaced by the soft crunch of gravel underfoot and the occasional call of a distant bird. The overcast sky cast a gentle, diffused light over the valley, perfect for capturing the subtle details of the landscape. The grey clouds hung low, creating a moody and atmospheric backdrop for our walk.

The gradual uphill path opened up to reveal sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. The peaks of Y Garn and Pen yr Ole Wen loomed in the distance, their tops obscured by mist. The landscape was dotted with boulders and rocky outcrops, remnants of ancient glacial activity that shaped this dramatic terrain.

Upon reaching Llyn Idwal, we were greeted by a scene of serene beauty. The lake lay still and quiet, its surface a perfect mirror reflecting the overcast sky and the surrounding hills. The water was a deep, rusty brown, contrasting beautifully with the grey tones of the sky and the earthy hues of the landscape.

We set up our cameras along the shore, each of us finding our own unique perspective to capture the lake’s tranquility. The lack of direct sunlight allowed us to focus on the textures and patterns in the scene—the ripples on the water, the rugged rocks along the shore, and the delicate grasses swaying in the breeze.

Ian and Henry provided guidance on how to make the most of the diffused light, encouraging us to experiment with long exposures to capture the stillness of the lake and the movement of the clouds. The overcast conditions created a soft, even light that brought out the subtle details in our compositions.

We were treated to a delightful surprise—a gull perched on a rock near the shore, as if posing just for us. Its white feathers stood out against the grey backdrop, and it remained perfectly still, allowing us to capture its image from various angles. This unexpected visitor added a charming touch to our photographs, embodying the serene and tranquil spirit of Llyn Idwal.

By the end of our session at Llyn Idwal, we had captured a series of images that showcased the serene beauty of the lake under grey skies. The experience was a reminder that even on the dullest days, nature has a way of revealing its quiet, understated charm. The walk from Ogwen Falls to Llyn Idwal had been a journey through a landscape rich with texture and mood, perfect for our photographic exploration.

After our serene and productive session at Llyn Idwal, we decided to head back to Ogwen Cafe for some well-deserved light refreshments. The walk back was filled with discussions about the day’s experiences.

The cafe, offered an  inviting aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods to greet us. We found a comfortable spot outside on a couple of benches, to enjoy our break.

After Ogwen Cafe, we were ready for the next leg of our photographic adventure. We drove to the other side of Llyn Ogwen, heading towards Afon Lloer.

Upon arriving at Afon Lloer, we began our ascent up the hill. The path was steeper and more rugged than our earlier walk, but the promise of more waterfalls kept our spirits high. The landscape was wilder, with rocky outcrops and patches of heather adding to the dramatic scenery.

As we climbed, the sound of rushing water grew louder, guiding us towards the waterfalls. The falls at Afon Lloer were smaller but no less captivating than Ogwen Falls. They cascaded down the hillside in a series of steps, each one offering a unique photographic opportunity. The water tumbled over the rocks with a lively energy, creating a beautiful contrast against the muted tones of the surrounding landscape.

We spread out along the hillside, each finding our own vantage point to capture the falls. Ian and Henry continued to provide expert advice, helping us experiment with different shutter speeds to capture the movement of the water. As we worked, the cloud cover lowered and became more dense, enveloping the hillside in thick grey cloud. This added an eerie, almost otherworldly quality to our photographs, with the waterfalls emerging from the hillside like hidden gems.

The climb was invigorating, and the effort was well worth it. The waterfalls at Afon Lloer, with their lively cascades and the rugged beauty of the surrounding hills, provided a stunning subject for our photographs. The dense cloud cover created a soft, diffused light that highlighted the textures and details of the scene in a unique way.

As the dense clouds settled over the hillside and our cameras were packed away, it was clear that our photographic adventure had come to an end. We made our way back to the parking area, the misty landscape of the Ogwen Valley providing a fitting backdrop for our final moments together.

By the time we made our way back down the hill, we were all satisfied with the day’s work. The combination of serene lakes, dynamic waterfalls, and the ever-changing light had made for a truly memorable photographic workshop. The Ogwen Valley, with its timeless charm and diverse landscapes, had once again proven to be an inspiring destination for our creative pursuits.

As we parted ways, there was a shared understanding that this workshop had been more than just a learning experience—it had been a journey through the heart of Snowdonia, capturing its timeless beauty and forging new friendships.

Nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, the Three Sisters of Glencoe stand as a testament to the raw and rugged beauty that Scotland is renowned for. These towering ridges, part of the Bidean Nam Bian mountain range, are more than just a scenic backdrop; they are steeped in history, legend, and the spirit of adventure.

Aonach Dubh, Beinn Fhada, and Gearr Aonach—the Three Sisters—rise majestically from the verdant valleys of Glencoe, each with its own story to tell.

The Three Sisters are best experienced on foot, where one can fully appreciate their grandeur. The peaks are road-facing, offering traveler’s on the A82 a glimpse into the wild heart of Glencoe. The area offers a range of walks, from leisurely strolls to challenging climbs. For a less demanding but equally rewarding experience, the route through Coire Gabhail—known as the Lost or Hidden Valley—is a popular choice. This rocky hanging valley, nestled between two of the sisters, is rich with history. it was once used by the Clan Macdonald to hide their livestock from invaders and rival clans.

In the vast and wild landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, there stands a solitary figure that has captured the hearts and lenses of travelers worldwide—the Wee White House, known locally as the Lagangarbh Hut. This iconic cottage, with its stark white walls contrasted against the rugged backdrop of Buachaille Etive Mòr, is a symbol of solitude and adventure in the heart of Glencoe.

The story of the Wee White House begins as a humble crofter’s home, where a small agricultural community once lived off the land, sharing crops and profits. Today, the National Trust for Scotland owns this piece of history, and the Scottish Mountaineering Club maintains it. Since 1946, the hut has been transformed from a simple croft lodging into a bunkhouse, serving as a base for hikers and climbers drawn to the challenges of the surrounding peaks.

The Most Photographed House in Scotland

Its picturesque setting makes the Wee White House one of the most photographed houses in Scotland. It’s a popular photography location, where thousands of photographers and tourists descend each year to capture its unique charm. The house’s isolation emphasizes the vast scale of the landscape, a reminder of the untamed wilderness that defines the Highlands.

Reaching the Wee White House is a journey through some of Scotland’s most breathtaking scenery. Located near Ballachulish in Glencoe, it’s easily accessible from the main road (A82) that snakes through the valley. However, visitors should be mindful of the limited parking available, especially during peak season.

The Lagangarbh Hut is more than just a building; it’s a testament to the Scottish way of life that has endured for centuries. It represents the spirit of community in crofting and the passion for exploration in mountaineering. For those who visit, it offers a moment of reflection on the resilience of those who once called these mountains home.

The Wee White House stands as a beacon in the Highlands, inviting all who pass by to delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Glencoe’s natural and cultural heritage. Whether you’re a photographer seeking the perfect shot, a hiker looking for a night’s refuge, or a traveler in awe of Scotland’s beauty, the Wee White House is a destination that resonates with the soul of the Highlands.

As you stand before the Wee White House, with the winds of Glencoe whispering through the valley, you can’t help but feel connected to the land and the stories it holds. It’s a place where the past and present converge, where every stone and blade of grass has a tale to tell. The Wee White House is not just a structure; it’s a legacy of the Scottish Highlands.

In the shadow of the formidable Three Sisters of Glencoe lies a natural spectacle that captures the essence of the Scottish Highlands—the Meeting of Three Waters. This enchanting spot, where three mountain streams converge, is a place of beauty, tranquility, and legend.

The Meeting of Three Waters is a location where water collects from three different sources, creating a harmonious union that is both visually and audibly mesmerizing. The waterfalls sit at the base of the Three Sisters, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers alike.

After a heavy rainfall, the waters thunder and tumble down the hills, forming the River Coe, which then joins Loch Achtriochtan. The sight of the water in full flow is a powerful display of nature’s force and beauty. The pools below the waterfall, with their turquoise-brown hue, are reminiscent of the famed Plitvice Lakes in Croatia, albeit on a much smaller scale.

The Meeting of Three Waters is not only known for its natural wonders but also for its brush with cinematic history. It served as the location for the Bridge of Death and the Gorge of Eternal Peril in the classic film “Monty Python and the Holy Grail”. This adds a layer of cultural significance to the site, making it a must-visit for film enthusiasts and history buffs.

Located along the A82 between Glencoe and Kingshouse Hotel, the falls are easily accessible to visitors. There is parking available on either side of the road, but caution is advised when crossing to the vantage point. The best views are often after rainfall, so planning a visit around the weather can enhance the experience.

For those seeking a gentle hike, the Five Mile Walk near the Meeting of Three Waters is an excellent choice. Despite its name, the walk is relatively short and leads to the River Coe, offering a refreshing and scenic route for walkers of all levels.

The Meeting of Three Waters is more than just a picturesque location; it’s a sensory experience that embodies the spirit of the Highlands. The sound of the cascading waters, the sight of the misty peaks, and the touch of the cool breeze combine to create a moment of pure Highland magic.

Glen Etive, a name that resonates with the tranquility and untouched beauty of the Scottish Highlands, is a destination that calls to those who seek solace in nature’s embrace. This serene glen, stretching 12 miles through the heart of the Highlands, is a tapestry of lochs, moors, mountains, and skies—a landscape that has played muse to poets and backdrop to films.

The journey into Glen Etive is a descent into a world where time seems to stand still. The single-track road meanders alongside the River Etive, a companion to travelers as it winds its way through the valley. The river, born from the peaks surrounding Rannoch Moor, is a favorite among whitewater kayakers, offering a thrilling dance with the rapids.

As one ventures deeper into Glen Etive, the road becomes a silent witness to the grandeur of the Highlands. Flanked by the iconic Buachaille Etive Mòr and Buachaille Etive Beag, known as the ‘Herdsmen of Etive,’ the glen unfolds its rugged beauty, revealing sights that have lured adventurers and filmmakers alike.

Glen Etive’s claim to cinematic fame is undeniable. Its dramatic scenery has graced the silver screen in films such as “Skyfall,” where it stood in for the hauntingly beautiful backdrop to James Bond’s ancestral home. The glen’s connection to the Bond legacy runs deeper, with Ian Fleming’s family once owning a lodge here—a nod to the writer’s own Scottish roots.

For the nature enthusiast, Glen Etive is a haven of biodiversity. The glen is home to a herd of Scottish red deer, a majestic sight against the backdrop of heather-covered hills. Birdwatchers can delight in the variety of avian life, while botanists can explore the rich flora that carpets the valley floor.

As with any natural treasure, Glen Etive faces the challenges of conservation. The influx of visitors, while a testament to the glen’s allure, brings with it the responsibility to protect and preserve. Visitors are encouraged to tread lightly, leaving no trace behind, ensuring that Glen Etive remains a pristine sanctuary for generations to come.

Glen Etive is more than just a location; it is an experience. It is a place where the silence speaks volumes, where the waters tell tales, and where the mountains stand guard over a landscape that is as timeless as it is beautiful. For those who make the journey, Glen Etive offers a chance to reconnect with the wild, to find peace in the stillness, and to be awed by the enduring beauty of the Scottish Highlands.

In Glen Etive, every turn in the road, every ripple in the river, and every whisper of the wind is a verse in the poem of the Highlands. It is a place where the soul can roam free, and the heart can find its home in the wild. Glen Etive is not just a destination; it is a journey into the heart of Scotland’s natural wonder.