December 2015
December 1st
Last month of another year of this blog in which I have basically concentrated on my development as a photographer. I am sure that I will continue into next year too, however I don't really know just what form it will take. I know I want to continue to expand and develop my skills; I'm still exploring just how at the moment though.
Yesterday was spent on the beach with a photographer friend. The light was superb and cast a beautiful hue on the sea and waves. There was an unexpected swell which caused spray when waves crashed against the rocks. It also seemed to have encouraged some large fish to either come, or be forced closer inshore. A fisherman showed off his catch and although he said he had to cast out his line some 100m, I was still surprised at the haul and size of the fish he had caught. His face was a picture of contentment as he played the line waiting for a catch.
This first day of the month saw a continuation of the beautiful sunrises we're experiencing. Although I love sunsets too, there's something extra special for me, when I can start the day off in such a fashion. I usually choose to walk towards it as well so I am able to watch the colours and forms developing and changing.
Last month of another year of this blog in which I have basically concentrated on my development as a photographer. I am sure that I will continue into next year too, however I don't really know just what form it will take. I know I want to continue to expand and develop my skills; I'm still exploring just how at the moment though.
Yesterday was spent on the beach with a photographer friend. The light was superb and cast a beautiful hue on the sea and waves. There was an unexpected swell which caused spray when waves crashed against the rocks. It also seemed to have encouraged some large fish to either come, or be forced closer inshore. A fisherman showed off his catch and although he said he had to cast out his line some 100m, I was still surprised at the haul and size of the fish he had caught. His face was a picture of contentment as he played the line waiting for a catch.
This first day of the month saw a continuation of the beautiful sunrises we're experiencing. Although I love sunsets too, there's something extra special for me, when I can start the day off in such a fashion. I usually choose to walk towards it as well so I am able to watch the colours and forms developing and changing.
December 2nd
Leaving home before sunrise I was treated to another spectacular. I didn't think I'd bother photographing it however, I just tried to look for maybe a different angle. Then I noticed cloud out to sea and heading inland. It came in quickly and I managed to capture a couple of images which almost had mystical qualities. It was the sheer volume of cloud covering the coast though which was the most spectacular, covering these areas with what looked like from above, a thick wooly blanket.
As I wandered so I thought of one of the challenges I was going to set for my photography group. I want them to identify two elements which they consider to be problems in their area and incorporate them into one image. I caught sight of the stump of an olive tree and on top of it had been placed a worn and torn hat. I thought the two could represent the economic situation both for crops as well as workers. However, I have another idea I'd like to follow up; at least I have a reserve!
Leaving home before sunrise I was treated to another spectacular. I didn't think I'd bother photographing it however, I just tried to look for maybe a different angle. Then I noticed cloud out to sea and heading inland. It came in quickly and I managed to capture a couple of images which almost had mystical qualities. It was the sheer volume of cloud covering the coast though which was the most spectacular, covering these areas with what looked like from above, a thick wooly blanket.
As I wandered so I thought of one of the challenges I was going to set for my photography group. I want them to identify two elements which they consider to be problems in their area and incorporate them into one image. I caught sight of the stump of an olive tree and on top of it had been placed a worn and torn hat. I thought the two could represent the economic situation both for crops as well as workers. However, I have another idea I'd like to follow up; at least I have a reserve!
December 3rd
The original intention today was to walk in the mountains with friends. However, with the quickly developing processional caterpillar nests, it was decided to keep well away from pine trees and so the coast it was. We weren't the only ones with a similar idea. I met up with one of the people from the walking club also walking her dogs (two Border Collies) on the beach. We'll all be meeting up again in a few weeks time as club members head towards the village.
It was a lovely day for walking wherever we'd gone. I'd gone early because I wanted to see if I could find some fishermen to photograph hands at work. There wasn't even one of them about; it didn't really matter as I managed to persuade my friends to indulge me. I captured an acceptable image, however I would still like to hang on to it for the moment and visit the port where I may have more luck.
The sunset yesterday was really spectacular. The weather is set to continue in a similar vein yet I'm not sure that they can get much better.
The original intention today was to walk in the mountains with friends. However, with the quickly developing processional caterpillar nests, it was decided to keep well away from pine trees and so the coast it was. We weren't the only ones with a similar idea. I met up with one of the people from the walking club also walking her dogs (two Border Collies) on the beach. We'll all be meeting up again in a few weeks time as club members head towards the village.
It was a lovely day for walking wherever we'd gone. I'd gone early because I wanted to see if I could find some fishermen to photograph hands at work. There wasn't even one of them about; it didn't really matter as I managed to persuade my friends to indulge me. I captured an acceptable image, however I would still like to hang on to it for the moment and visit the port where I may have more luck.
The sunset yesterday was really spectacular. The weather is set to continue in a similar vein yet I'm not sure that they can get much better.
December 4th
Leaving myself enough time this morning to have a wander around the port, I was able to really look for possibilities for capturing images of hands for my photo challenge this week.
I thought I was going to be thwarted again as I didn't see anyone sitting in the usual places mending nets. Following some voices however, I came upon a group of three men, two of whom were mending nets. I made my way over heaps of nets towards them and wasn't really expecting much of a welcome. However, when I told them I was looking for photos of hands for a project I was undertaking, I was quickly beckoned over. I was able to have a chat and laugh with them and then carried on wandering where the boats were tied up. There were a couple of blokes in one of the small boats mending nets so I stopped and asked again to photograph them. One of the images from these two was what I chose to submit for my challenge; I really liked the extra hand in helping.
Whilst my car was being checked over, I took a walk with Nell around a local town. I decided to wander away from the main areas and was rewarded with the find of a couple of old boys making baskets. There aren't too many of these characters left and it was great being able to chat with them about their work. As I left, so a discussion was taking place as to the names of different grasses and where they could be found. I left with a big grin on my face!
Leaving myself enough time this morning to have a wander around the port, I was able to really look for possibilities for capturing images of hands for my photo challenge this week.
I thought I was going to be thwarted again as I didn't see anyone sitting in the usual places mending nets. Following some voices however, I came upon a group of three men, two of whom were mending nets. I made my way over heaps of nets towards them and wasn't really expecting much of a welcome. However, when I told them I was looking for photos of hands for a project I was undertaking, I was quickly beckoned over. I was able to have a chat and laugh with them and then carried on wandering where the boats were tied up. There were a couple of blokes in one of the small boats mending nets so I stopped and asked again to photograph them. One of the images from these two was what I chose to submit for my challenge; I really liked the extra hand in helping.
Whilst my car was being checked over, I took a walk with Nell around a local town. I decided to wander away from the main areas and was rewarded with the find of a couple of old boys making baskets. There aren't too many of these characters left and it was great being able to chat with them about their work. As I left, so a discussion was taking place as to the names of different grasses and where they could be found. I left with a big grin on my face!
December 5th & 6th
A varied and interesting weekend both in terms of the weather and activities. I went for a walk around the mountain early on Saturday and it was really overcast. I was interested to see if I could expose an image sufficiently clearly to show the furthest mountains almost disappeared in the clouds.
Sunday saw me off early to the furthest part of the local reservoir. I had an idea to show two elements which were problems in the area. I knew I'd be able to capture cracks across the dried out area to illustrate drought. The second element I decided would be related to the problems for local industry connected to lack of water.
I'd had to arrive early at the location because roads were due to be closed as participants in a duathlon were passing through the area. I managed to get everything done as well as visiting friends both in that area as well as slightly further afield. A satisfying and enjoyable day.
A varied and interesting weekend both in terms of the weather and activities. I went for a walk around the mountain early on Saturday and it was really overcast. I was interested to see if I could expose an image sufficiently clearly to show the furthest mountains almost disappeared in the clouds.
Sunday saw me off early to the furthest part of the local reservoir. I had an idea to show two elements which were problems in the area. I knew I'd be able to capture cracks across the dried out area to illustrate drought. The second element I decided would be related to the problems for local industry connected to lack of water.
I'd had to arrive early at the location because roads were due to be closed as participants in a duathlon were passing through the area. I managed to get everything done as well as visiting friends both in that area as well as slightly further afield. A satisfying and enjoyable day.
December 7th & 8th
Today I should have been climbing to the top of the second highest mountain in the region. Car problems meant I had to pull out, however looking at the dull, cloudy weather I wasn't too disappointed. Instead, Nell and I went out for an extra long walk of our own, 2 hours of hiking around the area. The route we took led around the mountain where I was able to witness a glorious sunrise due to the misty conditions. I met Cillie on her way home on her own and had a chance to get a bit closer and lower down to take some photos. Then it was onwards and along a route I hadn't taken for a while. I was able to get some different views over and across the village too.
Later on in the day this week's photo challenges were posted. Both are to do with cinematic edits; one involves colour grading, the second a film noir treatment. When editing the photos of Cillie, I managed to get some of the black and white contrasts associated with film noir, however there's still some additions I want to do to include element of fear as well.
Today I should have been climbing to the top of the second highest mountain in the region. Car problems meant I had to pull out, however looking at the dull, cloudy weather I wasn't too disappointed. Instead, Nell and I went out for an extra long walk of our own, 2 hours of hiking around the area. The route we took led around the mountain where I was able to witness a glorious sunrise due to the misty conditions. I met Cillie on her way home on her own and had a chance to get a bit closer and lower down to take some photos. Then it was onwards and along a route I hadn't taken for a while. I was able to get some different views over and across the village too.
Later on in the day this week's photo challenges were posted. Both are to do with cinematic edits; one involves colour grading, the second a film noir treatment. When editing the photos of Cillie, I managed to get some of the black and white contrasts associated with film noir, however there's still some additions I want to do to include element of fear as well.
December 9th &10th
I had to check back to see what photos I'd taken over the last couple of days to remind myself what I had been up to. As I always have my camera with me and usually find at least one image I want to capture, it comes in useful as a diary reference too.
Whatever the problem was with my car didn't reveal itself to the mechanic. I don't suppose it will have gone away, so for now I shall just have to drive around on full alert!
I've submitted my photos for this week's challenge. I'm not really sure I understand the intention behind the two processes other than to induce mood in an image. I suppose I've normally looked to capture mood in ambient light, however at least I now know of alternatives.
The spectacular sunsets are back, although they are really brief as there's still a fug over the horizon. When the sun breaks through, vivid colour is being diluted and reds turn rapidly to yellow. I hope there's a chance of capturing a sunrise or sunset on the shortest day of Dec 21st. Symbolic somehow.
I had to check back to see what photos I'd taken over the last couple of days to remind myself what I had been up to. As I always have my camera with me and usually find at least one image I want to capture, it comes in useful as a diary reference too.
Whatever the problem was with my car didn't reveal itself to the mechanic. I don't suppose it will have gone away, so for now I shall just have to drive around on full alert!
I've submitted my photos for this week's challenge. I'm not really sure I understand the intention behind the two processes other than to induce mood in an image. I suppose I've normally looked to capture mood in ambient light, however at least I now know of alternatives.
The spectacular sunsets are back, although they are really brief as there's still a fug over the horizon. When the sun breaks through, vivid colour is being diluted and reds turn rapidly to yellow. I hope there's a chance of capturing a sunrise or sunset on the shortest day of Dec 21st. Symbolic somehow.
December 11th-13th
Not too many opportunities for photography over the past few days. I have managed to have walks, however the weather is just grey and flat. There's little wind and consequently little cloud movement. I did catch sight of the sun showing itself briefly on one of the mornings and dew drops caught in a spider's web also caught my eye.
I'm still mulling over just how to carry on my blog in the New Year. I want to be able to concentrate on at least one project rather than just take photos with no clear direction.
Not too many opportunities for photography over the past few days. I have managed to have walks, however the weather is just grey and flat. There's little wind and consequently little cloud movement. I did catch sight of the sun showing itself briefly on one of the mornings and dew drops caught in a spider's web also caught my eye.
I'm still mulling over just how to carry on my blog in the New Year. I want to be able to concentrate on at least one project rather than just take photos with no clear direction.
December 14th & 15th
It's difficult to believe that we are in winter! The weather is warm enough for some people to be swimming as well as sun bathing on the beach. The only person I saw though, had on a wet suit so I guess it's cold.
A fishing boat was on its way home and the number of gulls swooping around made it look as if it was being taken over.
I've been trying to look for shapes for a change as I walk. There are some interesting tree trunks which I've seen. One of them I duplicated and joined. There are lots of things which show up with scrutiny which makes it an interesting image, however it's not something I'd want to concentrate on to any great extent.
It's difficult to believe that we are in winter! The weather is warm enough for some people to be swimming as well as sun bathing on the beach. The only person I saw though, had on a wet suit so I guess it's cold.
A fishing boat was on its way home and the number of gulls swooping around made it look as if it was being taken over.
I've been trying to look for shapes for a change as I walk. There are some interesting tree trunks which I've seen. One of them I duplicated and joined. There are lots of things which show up with scrutiny which makes it an interesting image, however it's not something I'd want to concentrate on to any great extent.
December 16th-18th
Strange few days one way or another. However, I managed to get to a rocky beach this morning and take some photos. A lone bird posed for quite a while and although I inched close I tried to keep a respectful distance so as not to spook it. I'm not sure what species it was although for certain, it is one that dives and fishes. It's still gloriously warm and set to be so for the next few days anyway.
My photography challenges for this week involve an image where a lit light is the main subject. The other one is to take a photo of what I do and then another one of what others think I do! Now this will really be an interesting exercise.
Strange few days one way or another. However, I managed to get to a rocky beach this morning and take some photos. A lone bird posed for quite a while and although I inched close I tried to keep a respectful distance so as not to spook it. I'm not sure what species it was although for certain, it is one that dives and fishes. It's still gloriously warm and set to be so for the next few days anyway.
My photography challenges for this week involve an image where a lit light is the main subject. The other one is to take a photo of what I do and then another one of what others think I do! Now this will really be an interesting exercise.
December 19th & 20th
Managed to get out and about and be shown some new areas and vantage points from which to take some photos. The hope was to catch the sunset catching the buildings in a local village. It wasn't a spectacular, however it was worth the effort to capture what was on offer.
I've also been able to spend some time sorting out photos to post for the weekly challenge. The lights worked out reasonably, the image showing what I do, was a bit of a mishmash, however at least I have something to submit. I know what I want to do for the image representing what others think I do, time may be the issue.
Managed to get out and about and be shown some new areas and vantage points from which to take some photos. The hope was to catch the sunset catching the buildings in a local village. It wasn't a spectacular, however it was worth the effort to capture what was on offer.
I've also been able to spend some time sorting out photos to post for the weekly challenge. The lights worked out reasonably, the image showing what I do, was a bit of a mishmash, however at least I have something to submit. I know what I want to do for the image representing what others think I do, time may be the issue.
December 21st & 22nd
The days are just whizzing past to the end of the year. It's not that I haven't been taking photos either; I have a whole load I've been processing, however they are not ones I want to upload publicly as they are of a new born baby.
There have still been plenty of landscape spectaculars though to keep my blog ticking over.
The days are just whizzing past to the end of the year. It's not that I haven't been taking photos either; I have a whole load I've been processing, however they are not ones I want to upload publicly as they are of a new born baby.
There have still been plenty of landscape spectaculars though to keep my blog ticking over.
December 23rd & 24th
A couple of days catching up with friends. There were a few photo opportunities, not least the little dog which had on a coat with Police written on it together with a replica handgun. I managed to capture an image whilst it was sniffing at a pole too!
Christmas Eve brought a day on the coast with friends and their dog. We had a lovely walk along the beach and stopped off for something to eat. As we left the beach bar, we spotted a couple dressed up in Christmas outfits having just had some sort of celebration using a small fire. Turns out they were having a German Christmas, they said. However, I'm not entirely sure what was involved. They were happy for me to take their photo. As we walked away, so we looked back and there was an even better photo as the couple sat looking out to sea.
Lovely day.
A couple of days catching up with friends. There were a few photo opportunities, not least the little dog which had on a coat with Police written on it together with a replica handgun. I managed to capture an image whilst it was sniffing at a pole too!
Christmas Eve brought a day on the coast with friends and their dog. We had a lovely walk along the beach and stopped off for something to eat. As we left the beach bar, we spotted a couple dressed up in Christmas outfits having just had some sort of celebration using a small fire. Turns out they were having a German Christmas, they said. However, I'm not entirely sure what was involved. They were happy for me to take their photo. As we walked away, so we looked back and there was an even better photo as the couple sat looking out to sea.
Lovely day.
December 25th & 26th
Christmas Day and Boxing Day passed by pleasantly. On my walk today, I had a play around with trying to get different angles on shadows. I wanted to get to the side of Nell and capture a shadow from that perspective. Apart from the fact that I couldn't get into position because she wanted to always be in the lead, I also realised I needed to be on higher ground to achieve a good shadow. The forecast for tomorrow is for rough seas; I'll keep a watch on what's happening in case it's worth a quick foray down to the coast.
Christmas Day and Boxing Day passed by pleasantly. On my walk today, I had a play around with trying to get different angles on shadows. I wanted to get to the side of Nell and capture a shadow from that perspective. Apart from the fact that I couldn't get into position because she wanted to always be in the lead, I also realised I needed to be on higher ground to achieve a good shadow. The forecast for tomorrow is for rough seas; I'll keep a watch on what's happening in case it's worth a quick foray down to the coast.
December 27th - 29th
My blog seems to be dribbling to a close as the end of the year approaches. Sometimes life gets in the way and although I know that there have been photo opportunities, when focus is elsewhere photography takes a back seat. It will be interesting to see what my focus will be in the New Year. At the moment I have a few ideas I'm mulling over, however nothing so far which has really inspired me. I want to take my photography skills into others areas as well as continue to improve, how, is still the question posed though.
My blog seems to be dribbling to a close as the end of the year approaches. Sometimes life gets in the way and although I know that there have been photo opportunities, when focus is elsewhere photography takes a back seat. It will be interesting to see what my focus will be in the New Year. At the moment I have a few ideas I'm mulling over, however nothing so far which has really inspired me. I want to take my photography skills into others areas as well as continue to improve, how, is still the question posed though.
December 30th & 31st
The last entry for this year. It's unbelievable that 2015 is heading out with such warmth; the drought goes on though. A lovely walk on the beach presented a few photographic opportunities and I took advantage to make a record before 2016 arrives.
I'm still not sure how I may carry on with this blog next year, I guess it'll sort itself out one way or another and all will be revealed before too long.
The last entry for this year. It's unbelievable that 2015 is heading out with such warmth; the drought goes on though. A lovely walk on the beach presented a few photographic opportunities and I took advantage to make a record before 2016 arrives.
I'm still not sure how I may carry on with this blog next year, I guess it'll sort itself out one way or another and all will be revealed before too long.