February 2015
Feb 1st, 2nd & 3rd
Busy time in the garden making sure the veg and fruit are going to produce. I had my instructions from Rafael as to how to pull out weeds(!). He stepped up to the mark though and spread fertiliser just incase I inadvertently put it where I shouldn't! All is looking good which is satisfying, mind you, with the strong winds which have been blowing for the past week, I shall be happy if at least some of the plants survive. There's even the possibility of snow in the next few days.
I have been taking photographs although they have been more experimental than a finished product. I have also been working on editing photos and learning new skills. It's fascinating to see what's possible. Working with water splashes I tried to capture various colourful items as they dropped into the water. I came to the conclusion that I need to sort out some better backdrops to be able to do as much in camera as well as editing. Exercises of this sort have really helps to understand more about the effect of flash, both good and bad. It's also good to have this sort of project when the weather isn't good or I simply want a change.
Bringing in the washing yesterday I noticed a bee clinging onto a sheet. I brought it inside and had a go at photographing it with small changes in focus. The end result wasn't as good as I'd hoped, however, it's all a learning process and at least I did the bee a favour by warming it up sufficiently for it to fly away again.
I set off with Nell to have a good walk and eventually finding ourselves at the top of the mountain, I was surprised with the lack of wind. At home, further down it was blowing a hoolie. It tempted me to have a go with the Lee ND Filter. I didn't have my tripod so set about creating a firm base on which to set my camera. It was then that I saw the Virgen had fallen out of her recess and was laying face down. The top of the mountain has significance from Arab times as it is supposedly in direct line towards Mecca looking from nearby Bentomiz where there was an Arab fortress. I picked her up and returned her to her abode; brownie points I hope!
Busy time in the garden making sure the veg and fruit are going to produce. I had my instructions from Rafael as to how to pull out weeds(!). He stepped up to the mark though and spread fertiliser just incase I inadvertently put it where I shouldn't! All is looking good which is satisfying, mind you, with the strong winds which have been blowing for the past week, I shall be happy if at least some of the plants survive. There's even the possibility of snow in the next few days.
I have been taking photographs although they have been more experimental than a finished product. I have also been working on editing photos and learning new skills. It's fascinating to see what's possible. Working with water splashes I tried to capture various colourful items as they dropped into the water. I came to the conclusion that I need to sort out some better backdrops to be able to do as much in camera as well as editing. Exercises of this sort have really helps to understand more about the effect of flash, both good and bad. It's also good to have this sort of project when the weather isn't good or I simply want a change.
Bringing in the washing yesterday I noticed a bee clinging onto a sheet. I brought it inside and had a go at photographing it with small changes in focus. The end result wasn't as good as I'd hoped, however, it's all a learning process and at least I did the bee a favour by warming it up sufficiently for it to fly away again.
I set off with Nell to have a good walk and eventually finding ourselves at the top of the mountain, I was surprised with the lack of wind. At home, further down it was blowing a hoolie. It tempted me to have a go with the Lee ND Filter. I didn't have my tripod so set about creating a firm base on which to set my camera. It was then that I saw the Virgen had fallen out of her recess and was laying face down. The top of the mountain has significance from Arab times as it is supposedly in direct line towards Mecca looking from nearby Bentomiz where there was an Arab fortress. I picked her up and returned her to her abode; brownie points I hope!
Feb 4th
I'd been reading about the halo around the moon captured in recent images in the UK due to ice crystals in the upper atmosphere. I felt sure there would be something similar here when I looked outside into the dark. I didn't see a halo however, what I did capture though were clouds lit by moonlight and the loom of light from a coastal town; very atmospheric.
As day break arrived the clouds were coming fast and towards me from Maroma, the high mountain. I took my camera and tripod up the road a short distance and set up to try some long exposures. I wasn't able to wait for as long as I'd have liked because the wind was really buffeting me and the camera so instead of a long exposure, I made do with a longish one!
Later on out on a walk I stood and watched snow showers heading through valleys in the Sierras. Lucero, my challenging mountain, had a fair covering of snow on its peak and sprinkling further down than I recall seeing it before. It's still cold thanks to the wind chill factor, however once out of the wind, it really is very pleasant and in February!
My brother and I signed up for a photography course today! It'll be fun going through the various modules and learning together as well as being able to bounce our respective thoughts off each other. It'll also maybe help to firm up our ideas of what we'd like to photograph when we're in the USA later in the year.
I wanted to see if I could capture colouring in the clouds above Maroma after the sun went down. However, the cloud thickened and darkened and I thought that this experiment would have to wait for another day. Then the cloud lightened, the sun filtered through and light puffy clouds darted across the sky. After the sun went down the cloud over the mountain started to colour up. A snow shower came through too and it was amazing to see it too, turn orange/red.
I'd been reading about the halo around the moon captured in recent images in the UK due to ice crystals in the upper atmosphere. I felt sure there would be something similar here when I looked outside into the dark. I didn't see a halo however, what I did capture though were clouds lit by moonlight and the loom of light from a coastal town; very atmospheric.
As day break arrived the clouds were coming fast and towards me from Maroma, the high mountain. I took my camera and tripod up the road a short distance and set up to try some long exposures. I wasn't able to wait for as long as I'd have liked because the wind was really buffeting me and the camera so instead of a long exposure, I made do with a longish one!
Later on out on a walk I stood and watched snow showers heading through valleys in the Sierras. Lucero, my challenging mountain, had a fair covering of snow on its peak and sprinkling further down than I recall seeing it before. It's still cold thanks to the wind chill factor, however once out of the wind, it really is very pleasant and in February!
My brother and I signed up for a photography course today! It'll be fun going through the various modules and learning together as well as being able to bounce our respective thoughts off each other. It'll also maybe help to firm up our ideas of what we'd like to photograph when we're in the USA later in the year.
I wanted to see if I could capture colouring in the clouds above Maroma after the sun went down. However, the cloud thickened and darkened and I thought that this experiment would have to wait for another day. Then the cloud lightened, the sun filtered through and light puffy clouds darted across the sky. After the sun went down the cloud over the mountain started to colour up. A snow shower came through too and it was amazing to see it too, turn orange/red.
Feb 5th,
Coldest day of the year so far I reckon with a wind chill factor keeping temperatures low. I ventured out in the morning with the idea of taking some long exposures, however there weren't that many clouds and as there are no convenient lakes on the mountain, I made my way home and set about capturing some images I'd had in mind for a while.
The first go I had involved some old scales which are hanging in the kitchen. They were throwing shadows on the tiles and I wanted to try and capture both. At first I used natural light, however I wasn't really happy with the results. I then tried with flash, using my wireless flash to move it around until I was able to achieve the image I was hoping for. I experimented with different heights too and even brought in the steps to climb and see what would happen to the shadow, the higher I went. It was really interesting to learn of the effects of flash at different intensities and angles.
Then I wanted to photograph my clarinet in a different way from that I did a few weeks ago. Again I experimented using natural and flash light as well as different angles. I wasn't exactly sure of what I was after with composition so played around with different depth of fields. I wanted it to be different from the normal perspective of this instrument and was happy with what I was able to achieve. It looks complicated and that, for me, is an apt representation of the complexities of mastering the clarinet!
I kept my eye on the sunset. It was one of those which may have just petered out, however I took the chance and set up my camera, managing to capture one long exposure image.
Coldest day of the year so far I reckon with a wind chill factor keeping temperatures low. I ventured out in the morning with the idea of taking some long exposures, however there weren't that many clouds and as there are no convenient lakes on the mountain, I made my way home and set about capturing some images I'd had in mind for a while.
The first go I had involved some old scales which are hanging in the kitchen. They were throwing shadows on the tiles and I wanted to try and capture both. At first I used natural light, however I wasn't really happy with the results. I then tried with flash, using my wireless flash to move it around until I was able to achieve the image I was hoping for. I experimented with different heights too and even brought in the steps to climb and see what would happen to the shadow, the higher I went. It was really interesting to learn of the effects of flash at different intensities and angles.
Then I wanted to photograph my clarinet in a different way from that I did a few weeks ago. Again I experimented using natural and flash light as well as different angles. I wasn't exactly sure of what I was after with composition so played around with different depth of fields. I wanted it to be different from the normal perspective of this instrument and was happy with what I was able to achieve. It looks complicated and that, for me, is an apt representation of the complexities of mastering the clarinet!
I kept my eye on the sunset. It was one of those which may have just petered out, however I took the chance and set up my camera, managing to capture one long exposure image.
Feb 6th
A trip to find snow and ice! Working on the basis that the nearer towards Granada we went, the more likely we were to find the opportunity to capture snow and ice images we set off early with hope. The snow was lower down than I'd seen before, however it was fairly light. The covering was enough to give contrast and we made the most of the conditions. There was definitely ice around although nothing photogenic.
It was a good trip out even though Nell became caught up with burrs again. I knew we were in the area where she'd become severly entangled before, however I didn't recognise the plants which caused the problem until it was too late. It didn't take as long to untangle her this time although I found a burr stuck between her pads later at home. She was trying to dig it out herself and drew my attention to it. Although they're horrible things it not possible to ignore the ingenuity of nature's reproduction processes.
A trip to find snow and ice! Working on the basis that the nearer towards Granada we went, the more likely we were to find the opportunity to capture snow and ice images we set off early with hope. The snow was lower down than I'd seen before, however it was fairly light. The covering was enough to give contrast and we made the most of the conditions. There was definitely ice around although nothing photogenic.
It was a good trip out even though Nell became caught up with burrs again. I knew we were in the area where she'd become severly entangled before, however I didn't recognise the plants which caused the problem until it was too late. It didn't take as long to untangle her this time although I found a burr stuck between her pads later at home. She was trying to dig it out herself and drew my attention to it. Although they're horrible things it not possible to ignore the ingenuity of nature's reproduction processes.
Feb 7th
Such a contrast to the past few weeks, absolute stillness and not a breath of wind. At first it was clear blue skies and small fluffy clouds. By the time I had persuaded myself to get going and take Nell for a walk, the clouds had started to increase in number and become denser. I took my tripod with me though in the hope of being able to get in some more long exposure practice.
Instead of being able to capture clouds coming towards me as I had anticipated from the westerly movement I'd observed from home, I saw that they were still coming from the north. It meant the movement I captured was sideways both looking directly out to sea and from over the mountain. As I photographed, the cloud really began to build and one of the aspects of long exposure that I enjoy is the way colours and light are accentuated.
Towards evening the clouds had indeed altered and coming from a more westerly direction. Looking out to sea I could see streaks of light filtering through less dense cloud and on the horizon the sun had created a curtain call for Gibraltar. There was still very little cloud movement and even with a 30 second exposure they generally retained their form. The long exposure did however, help to emphasise what movement and colour there was. The blue tone of the scene was due to heavy rain clouds slowly making their way towards us and added to what was a lovely tranquil and pleasing ambience.
Such a contrast to the past few weeks, absolute stillness and not a breath of wind. At first it was clear blue skies and small fluffy clouds. By the time I had persuaded myself to get going and take Nell for a walk, the clouds had started to increase in number and become denser. I took my tripod with me though in the hope of being able to get in some more long exposure practice.
Instead of being able to capture clouds coming towards me as I had anticipated from the westerly movement I'd observed from home, I saw that they were still coming from the north. It meant the movement I captured was sideways both looking directly out to sea and from over the mountain. As I photographed, the cloud really began to build and one of the aspects of long exposure that I enjoy is the way colours and light are accentuated.
Towards evening the clouds had indeed altered and coming from a more westerly direction. Looking out to sea I could see streaks of light filtering through less dense cloud and on the horizon the sun had created a curtain call for Gibraltar. There was still very little cloud movement and even with a 30 second exposure they generally retained their form. The long exposure did however, help to emphasise what movement and colour there was. The blue tone of the scene was due to heavy rain clouds slowly making their way towards us and added to what was a lovely tranquil and pleasing ambience.
Feb 8th
I packed my wellies in the car and took off to explore an area where water flows into the local reservoir. I was hoping to be able to get closer to some old bits of fencing which I'd seen in the water on a previous visit. I hoped that there would be enough wind to be able to practice long exposure images using the fencing as a focal point.
As Nell and I headed towards the river, there was an unfamiliar noise. Turned out to be water hurtling down towards the reservoir and there was evidence to show for much greater flows of late. I headed further down river to where the flow was weaker as the volume dispersed over a wider area. The flow was just about negotiable for me and much easier for Nell with her four legs as well as fleet of foot! Once over the other side I headed towards the fencing, however it was impossible to get a reasonable angle to include the reservoir without actually getting into the water. I decided not to push my luck as it was very muddy.
As we walked alongside the river and up to the head of the river I heard voices. Looking over towards a track behind me I could see a group of cyclists. I was interested to see where they went because the river crossing to that side was washed away a couple of years ago. They disappeared and I assumed they would be heading to a nearby village. Suddenly, just in front of me there was a lone cyclist inspecting the river. I assumed he fancied finding a short cut, however he didn't seem to fancy it and disappeared after a short time. It must've been a good half an hour later that the group of cyclists I'd seen earlier, emerged on the other side of the river. No wonder the loner cyclist was looking for a short cut!
I packed my wellies in the car and took off to explore an area where water flows into the local reservoir. I was hoping to be able to get closer to some old bits of fencing which I'd seen in the water on a previous visit. I hoped that there would be enough wind to be able to practice long exposure images using the fencing as a focal point.
As Nell and I headed towards the river, there was an unfamiliar noise. Turned out to be water hurtling down towards the reservoir and there was evidence to show for much greater flows of late. I headed further down river to where the flow was weaker as the volume dispersed over a wider area. The flow was just about negotiable for me and much easier for Nell with her four legs as well as fleet of foot! Once over the other side I headed towards the fencing, however it was impossible to get a reasonable angle to include the reservoir without actually getting into the water. I decided not to push my luck as it was very muddy.
As we walked alongside the river and up to the head of the river I heard voices. Looking over towards a track behind me I could see a group of cyclists. I was interested to see where they went because the river crossing to that side was washed away a couple of years ago. They disappeared and I assumed they would be heading to a nearby village. Suddenly, just in front of me there was a lone cyclist inspecting the river. I assumed he fancied finding a short cut, however he didn't seem to fancy it and disappeared after a short time. It must've been a good half an hour later that the group of cyclists I'd seen earlier, emerged on the other side of the river. No wonder the loner cyclist was looking for a short cut!
Feb 9th & 10th
Well I'd hoped for wind at the reservoir and there was very little, yesterday, the day after, it was present by the bucket load! The day had started with little wind on the mountain although it seemed as if something was coming as the surf was building on the coast.
A power cut for work to the transformer frustrated me somewhat in the morning; it's ridiculous really how lost all of a sudden I feel without an internet connection! However I was at least able to get on with the jobs needed to be done.
It was obvious where I was going in the afternoon! The call of the wild was as strong as the wind blowing; it really reminded me of my days living on the north Norfolk coast; when there was a storm, I'd take off down to the beach and lay on top of the cliffs, watching the awesome power of nature.
It was a strong onshore wind so I needed to work out where to actually go. I trawled along the coast as well as visiting the port to see what I might be able to capture; the noise was incredible with wind howling through the stays of the moored yachts. It was almost impossible to stand and yet there were still fishermen mending their nets. I stopped to ask one guy if I could photograph him; he was tightly wrapped up and although was happy for me to take photos, was just finishing up.
Outside the port, wind surfers and sailboarders were taking advantage of the strong winds and huge waves and owners of beach cafes were patrolling their establishments, with good reason. The sea was hurtling towards them and the wind was ripping to shreds some of their covers.
I wandered along the coast looking for a location where I could stand in a bit of shelter as well as take photos. I eventually finished up next to a lighthouse! The sun was just beginning to go down and although I wasn't able to get onto the beach because of the strength of reach of the waves, I did manage to find a place to practice long exposures. The noise of the sea retreating after a large wave had come onto the stones was spooky, especially after the sun went down. Worth hanging on though as I was able to record the sunset colours even though the sunset itself hadn't been anything special. The last long exposure I took lasted for 5 minutes.
Well I'd hoped for wind at the reservoir and there was very little, yesterday, the day after, it was present by the bucket load! The day had started with little wind on the mountain although it seemed as if something was coming as the surf was building on the coast.
A power cut for work to the transformer frustrated me somewhat in the morning; it's ridiculous really how lost all of a sudden I feel without an internet connection! However I was at least able to get on with the jobs needed to be done.
It was obvious where I was going in the afternoon! The call of the wild was as strong as the wind blowing; it really reminded me of my days living on the north Norfolk coast; when there was a storm, I'd take off down to the beach and lay on top of the cliffs, watching the awesome power of nature.
It was a strong onshore wind so I needed to work out where to actually go. I trawled along the coast as well as visiting the port to see what I might be able to capture; the noise was incredible with wind howling through the stays of the moored yachts. It was almost impossible to stand and yet there were still fishermen mending their nets. I stopped to ask one guy if I could photograph him; he was tightly wrapped up and although was happy for me to take photos, was just finishing up.
Outside the port, wind surfers and sailboarders were taking advantage of the strong winds and huge waves and owners of beach cafes were patrolling their establishments, with good reason. The sea was hurtling towards them and the wind was ripping to shreds some of their covers.
I wandered along the coast looking for a location where I could stand in a bit of shelter as well as take photos. I eventually finished up next to a lighthouse! The sun was just beginning to go down and although I wasn't able to get onto the beach because of the strength of reach of the waves, I did manage to find a place to practice long exposures. The noise of the sea retreating after a large wave had come onto the stones was spooky, especially after the sun went down. Worth hanging on though as I was able to record the sunset colours even though the sunset itself hadn't been anything special. The last long exposure I took lasted for 5 minutes.
Feb 11th & 12th
Not too much time for photography these last couple of days. I was taken on a mystery tour in the city by a friend last night though. We were heading towards the railway station to meet my brother and although I knew roughly where to go, I was directed away from what would be rush hour traffic. I was completely lost and just following directions. We found our way into the underground car park at the railway station and then had to find our way to the platforms. The only way seemed to be via an escalator, which of course Nell wasn't too keen on. I lifted her up and we reached the top only to find ourselves in a shopping mall where dogs weren't allowed! Brazening it out, even passing a security guard, no-one bothered us and we eventually found our way to the arrivals area! I kept my eyes open for photo opportunities however there wasn't much about.
Today I awoke to steady rain falling. It was a shopping day and waiting at various shops, I was able to play around with capturing images involving raindrops.
Not too much time for photography these last couple of days. I was taken on a mystery tour in the city by a friend last night though. We were heading towards the railway station to meet my brother and although I knew roughly where to go, I was directed away from what would be rush hour traffic. I was completely lost and just following directions. We found our way into the underground car park at the railway station and then had to find our way to the platforms. The only way seemed to be via an escalator, which of course Nell wasn't too keen on. I lifted her up and we reached the top only to find ourselves in a shopping mall where dogs weren't allowed! Brazening it out, even passing a security guard, no-one bothered us and we eventually found our way to the arrivals area! I kept my eyes open for photo opportunities however there wasn't much about.
Today I awoke to steady rain falling. It was a shopping day and waiting at various shops, I was able to play around with capturing images involving raindrops.
Feb 13th - 15th
Busy few days heading to the NE of England. Hiring a car this time the opportunities for photography should have been numerous. However, the weather, although very different from home, made composing an image much more challenged as the mist was low. Conditions also in general, called for more detailed or close range photos as mist obscured long range features. I also improvised a little and tilted the angle of capture to try an increase interest in some of the images.
Busy few days heading to the NE of England. Hiring a car this time the opportunities for photography should have been numerous. However, the weather, although very different from home, made composing an image much more challenged as the mist was low. Conditions also in general, called for more detailed or close range photos as mist obscured long range features. I also improvised a little and tilted the angle of capture to try an increase interest in some of the images.
Feb 16th
A trip out to High Force Waterfall; a truly spectacular sight at this time of year. I've been here a couple of times before, however have never seen this amount of water thundering through. I was able to use my newly purchased ND filters and was chuffed to bits with how they performed. Even though there was a tremendous amount of spray about water droplets didn't seem to affect the photos I took. The noise of so much water falling was deafening and when Jack and I went almost behind one waterfall we found, we had to use hand signals.
As it is half term, we found that one of the local restaurants was open. As there were home made cakes as well as delicious hot chocolate and coffee available, we stopped and indulged; a welcome fuel stop before we walked along to the next waterfall.
Calling in at my daughter's cottage we were further refreshed and as we left, treated to the sun breaking through highlighting this beautiful scenery.
A trip out to High Force Waterfall; a truly spectacular sight at this time of year. I've been here a couple of times before, however have never seen this amount of water thundering through. I was able to use my newly purchased ND filters and was chuffed to bits with how they performed. Even though there was a tremendous amount of spray about water droplets didn't seem to affect the photos I took. The noise of so much water falling was deafening and when Jack and I went almost behind one waterfall we found, we had to use hand signals.
As it is half term, we found that one of the local restaurants was open. As there were home made cakes as well as delicious hot chocolate and coffee available, we stopped and indulged; a welcome fuel stop before we walked along to the next waterfall.
Calling in at my daughter's cottage we were further refreshed and as we left, treated to the sun breaking through highlighting this beautiful scenery.
Feb 17th
Travels to a part of the UK I've never visited before. We headed for the Lake District not really sure of what we might find, other than water! It's difficult trying to work out where to go from a map and other people's photos, however a schedule of sorts was created. We'd decided to head for Ullswater Lake as our first stop. The scenery en route looked promising with snow still on higher ground and the sun beginning to shine.
The wind was really strong and cold. We'd taken the likelihood of such conditions into account and so set off for a look around bundled up. As the water was rough, I set up my camera to take some long exposure shots. The image difference is incredible and any colour is brought out. I also remembered to take out of my bag a small crystal ball I have. We had some fun taking photos of it perched on a rock. It has the effect of showing a scene upside down and has some great potential for messing around in photoshop.
My daughter and I had a giggle when we went to the loo. The cost was 20p oer person so we decided to double up and squeezed through the barrier setting off an alarm in the process! However, we were in, did the business and then went to wash our hands. There was no water, seemingly only a drier. We tried it and instead of hot air belching out, water suddenly started to flow; a bit of a shock to the system and of course a great source of amusement.
It was half term and we found a little tea room open, and full, so decided to venture in for a hot drink. It was a welcome break from the cold and fortified us for the next stop.
Heading towards Lake Windermere we could see the area was more commercialised and with many tourists. Deciding to bypass what was on offer, we saw a sign for a ferry to cross the lake and take us towards Coniston Lake which was where we hoped to capture a sunset across the water. There wasn't a sunset on offer, however there was a jetty extending out into the water and no-one else around so we were able to play around capturing the images which we could see.
By then we were all tired, so headed back home and to a welcome cup of tea.
Travels to a part of the UK I've never visited before. We headed for the Lake District not really sure of what we might find, other than water! It's difficult trying to work out where to go from a map and other people's photos, however a schedule of sorts was created. We'd decided to head for Ullswater Lake as our first stop. The scenery en route looked promising with snow still on higher ground and the sun beginning to shine.
The wind was really strong and cold. We'd taken the likelihood of such conditions into account and so set off for a look around bundled up. As the water was rough, I set up my camera to take some long exposure shots. The image difference is incredible and any colour is brought out. I also remembered to take out of my bag a small crystal ball I have. We had some fun taking photos of it perched on a rock. It has the effect of showing a scene upside down and has some great potential for messing around in photoshop.
My daughter and I had a giggle when we went to the loo. The cost was 20p oer person so we decided to double up and squeezed through the barrier setting off an alarm in the process! However, we were in, did the business and then went to wash our hands. There was no water, seemingly only a drier. We tried it and instead of hot air belching out, water suddenly started to flow; a bit of a shock to the system and of course a great source of amusement.
It was half term and we found a little tea room open, and full, so decided to venture in for a hot drink. It was a welcome break from the cold and fortified us for the next stop.
Heading towards Lake Windermere we could see the area was more commercialised and with many tourists. Deciding to bypass what was on offer, we saw a sign for a ferry to cross the lake and take us towards Coniston Lake which was where we hoped to capture a sunset across the water. There wasn't a sunset on offer, however there was a jetty extending out into the water and no-one else around so we were able to play around capturing the images which we could see.
By then we were all tired, so headed back home and to a welcome cup of tea.
Feb 18th
My usual gripe commenced again with a trip to Durham Cathedral. This time, armed with the knowledge that it was possible to photograph inside the cathedral with a £15 pass, I was hopeful that I could at last capture some (expensive) images of this iconic cathedral. Even before entering the building there are requests for donations and when I asked about a pass, one of the helpers kindly took me to the Chancellors office where passes are issued. On the way she expressed the view that it was unlikely to happen, albeit agreeing that it should. She was right! OK, it was Ash Wednesday and services would be held at times, however there were also long periods during the day when there were no services. The answer was still no. I shan't bother trying again.
There were still plenty of photos to be had around the river area and this time there were loads of rowing boats with crews of up to 8 onboard. It made for an interesting and different view of the river. I also took along my crystal ball and Jack and I were able to capture some very different perspectives of the cathedral towers.
My usual gripe commenced again with a trip to Durham Cathedral. This time, armed with the knowledge that it was possible to photograph inside the cathedral with a £15 pass, I was hopeful that I could at last capture some (expensive) images of this iconic cathedral. Even before entering the building there are requests for donations and when I asked about a pass, one of the helpers kindly took me to the Chancellors office where passes are issued. On the way she expressed the view that it was unlikely to happen, albeit agreeing that it should. She was right! OK, it was Ash Wednesday and services would be held at times, however there were also long periods during the day when there were no services. The answer was still no. I shan't bother trying again.
There were still plenty of photos to be had around the river area and this time there were loads of rowing boats with crews of up to 8 onboard. It made for an interesting and different view of the river. I also took along my crystal ball and Jack and I were able to capture some very different perspectives of the cathedral towers.
Feb 19th
An early start meant that plans to photograph into the night in Newcastle became less attractive. Instead we spent the time on the NE coast north of the city. Looking for a curved breakwater located in Spouth Shields (according to the Internet) was more difficult than anticipated. We could actually see where we wanted to get to and after nearly an hour and a half, made it! It was worth the effort though as the greayness of the weather and shape of the breakwater combined to enable just what I was after. We found another interesting breakwater at Blyth and then headed towards St. Mary's Bay in Whitley. There is a pensinsular there over which planes landing at Newcastle airport fly. I've seen it often and thought it would be a good place to visit. It is possible to cross on foot a few hours either side of low water and as we'd already sorted out the tide times, knew we would be OK to visit. There were quite a few other people milling around the lighthouse too when Jack and I had a walk. We met with a guy just shutting up the bird watching area and had a chat and the Jack and I started to return to the crossing. It was a bit of a shock to see just how much the tide had come in and was now flowing over the crossing. Everyone else was on the other side watching as Jack and I approached. Jack simply took off and ran across leaving me to plod along behind! At least I had on waterproof boots!
An early start meant that plans to photograph into the night in Newcastle became less attractive. Instead we spent the time on the NE coast north of the city. Looking for a curved breakwater located in Spouth Shields (according to the Internet) was more difficult than anticipated. We could actually see where we wanted to get to and after nearly an hour and a half, made it! It was worth the effort though as the greayness of the weather and shape of the breakwater combined to enable just what I was after. We found another interesting breakwater at Blyth and then headed towards St. Mary's Bay in Whitley. There is a pensinsular there over which planes landing at Newcastle airport fly. I've seen it often and thought it would be a good place to visit. It is possible to cross on foot a few hours either side of low water and as we'd already sorted out the tide times, knew we would be OK to visit. There were quite a few other people milling around the lighthouse too when Jack and I had a walk. We met with a guy just shutting up the bird watching area and had a chat and the Jack and I started to return to the crossing. It was a bit of a shock to see just how much the tide had come in and was now flowing over the crossing. Everyone else was on the other side watching as Jack and I approached. Jack simply took off and ran across leaving me to plod along behind! At least I had on waterproof boots!
Feb 20th - 22nd
Returning from the UK it was a question of diving straight in to everything that had been waiting for attention. It was today when Nell and I went for our first long walk. I set out with the intention of taking black and white photos and was looking for contrasting light and dark areas. I found a few views yet not really what I was hoping to find. When processing the landscape images later, I experimented with different effects and was delighted to come across a process which gave a different and stunning perspective of the distant mountain ranges.
It wasn't long after I arrived back home that Rafael arrived ready to give me a hand to prune the vines. I'd forgotten what back breaking work it was, however after a few hours all was complete and now it's a question of waiting for lovely bunches of grapes to form.
I wanted to experiment with lighting up shaded areas using flash and Rafael kindly said he's sit for me. As he went off to finish another job, I set up the area where I wanted him to sit and had a play around. I used a plant to see where shade would fall and in which way to point the flash, when JJ suddenly appeared and started to investigate. I was able to take a photo of him heading towards the flash gun which then fired! That event stopped her in her tracks, however it provided me with a good image.
Returning from the UK it was a question of diving straight in to everything that had been waiting for attention. It was today when Nell and I went for our first long walk. I set out with the intention of taking black and white photos and was looking for contrasting light and dark areas. I found a few views yet not really what I was hoping to find. When processing the landscape images later, I experimented with different effects and was delighted to come across a process which gave a different and stunning perspective of the distant mountain ranges.
It wasn't long after I arrived back home that Rafael arrived ready to give me a hand to prune the vines. I'd forgotten what back breaking work it was, however after a few hours all was complete and now it's a question of waiting for lovely bunches of grapes to form.
I wanted to experiment with lighting up shaded areas using flash and Rafael kindly said he's sit for me. As he went off to finish another job, I set up the area where I wanted him to sit and had a play around. I used a plant to see where shade would fall and in which way to point the flash, when JJ suddenly appeared and started to investigate. I was able to take a photo of him heading towards the flash gun which then fired! That event stopped her in her tracks, however it provided me with a good image.
Feb 23rd
I was a bit later going out for a walk this morning, however it didn't matter because I was presented with photo opportunities nonetheless.
My first stop was to see the Andalusian horse which is stabled down the mountain. It disappeared for a while and I thought it had either died or been sold. Wherever it went it must've been agreeable because he's in really good condition. I was trying to get a close up of his eyes and was standing high on a wall to get a view over the fencing. As I was concentrating on focussing close up I wasn't aware of where my knee was resting until I felt a sharp pain on my knee. He bit me through the fencing!
Walking on I reached the point where a view across the valley presents itself. This morning the cloud formation was awesome and the light highlighted distant villages perfectly. Further on, a different view dramatically highlighted the ravages of a huge mountain fire last year.
I was weeding the strawberry plants this afternoon and thought again how cleverly nature aims to ensure reproduction. The bed was full of nettles and it crossed my mind to do a bit of research as to why this was so. Appears that it is an indicator that an area has fertility. That's OK then, I'll put up with the stings in exchange for a bed of big juicy strawberries in the summer.
I was a bit later going out for a walk this morning, however it didn't matter because I was presented with photo opportunities nonetheless.
My first stop was to see the Andalusian horse which is stabled down the mountain. It disappeared for a while and I thought it had either died or been sold. Wherever it went it must've been agreeable because he's in really good condition. I was trying to get a close up of his eyes and was standing high on a wall to get a view over the fencing. As I was concentrating on focussing close up I wasn't aware of where my knee was resting until I felt a sharp pain on my knee. He bit me through the fencing!
Walking on I reached the point where a view across the valley presents itself. This morning the cloud formation was awesome and the light highlighted distant villages perfectly. Further on, a different view dramatically highlighted the ravages of a huge mountain fire last year.
I was weeding the strawberry plants this afternoon and thought again how cleverly nature aims to ensure reproduction. The bed was full of nettles and it crossed my mind to do a bit of research as to why this was so. Appears that it is an indicator that an area has fertility. That's OK then, I'll put up with the stings in exchange for a bed of big juicy strawberries in the summer.
Feb 24th - 27th
Seems at the moment that I sort out one problem and another one comes along. I guess it's known as life! I was on the point of having to arrange to get the cess pit emptied as the toilet wouldn't clear properly. Two days of using various means to help clear the blockage didn't work, however one last go at flushing before I went to make arrangements to get in the shit wagon, suddenly resulted in success! There were plenty of shitty jokes flying about for a while and it's unbelievable how just being able to use the loo normally can give so much pleasure!
That left an electrical problem to sort out which I did by making a temporary repair.
Visiting friends today, I noticed the temperature gauge on the car starting to creep up. Turning on the heater to try to release heat, I found there was none. Conclusion? The radiator was short of water. It could also explain why my car heater wasn't working as efficiently of late. If there wasn't enough water in the radiator then it couldn't filter through to the mini radiator which heats up the water to disperse heat inside the car. My friend not only totted up the water for me (2 pints), he also put in some anti-freeze. Coming home, I heard a distinct click, click on the front wheels. I think the time is coming when I will need to get a new wheel bearing installed for the wheel which wasn't done last year.
Still, frustrations such as these are put into perspective when plans for the summer holidays begin to fall into place. My grandson, Jack and his Dad will be with me for the last two weeks in July, Jack then stays on for the rest of the summer and his Mum comes out to join us both for two weeks at the end of August, prior to Jack's return to the UK. As my daughter said in January, feels like 2015 is going to be a good one.
Despite demands for my attention on household matters. I have managed to nip out and cross off the list one of the sunset images I wanted to have a go at capturing as well as give Nell a good run on the beach a few times.
Seems at the moment that I sort out one problem and another one comes along. I guess it's known as life! I was on the point of having to arrange to get the cess pit emptied as the toilet wouldn't clear properly. Two days of using various means to help clear the blockage didn't work, however one last go at flushing before I went to make arrangements to get in the shit wagon, suddenly resulted in success! There were plenty of shitty jokes flying about for a while and it's unbelievable how just being able to use the loo normally can give so much pleasure!
That left an electrical problem to sort out which I did by making a temporary repair.
Visiting friends today, I noticed the temperature gauge on the car starting to creep up. Turning on the heater to try to release heat, I found there was none. Conclusion? The radiator was short of water. It could also explain why my car heater wasn't working as efficiently of late. If there wasn't enough water in the radiator then it couldn't filter through to the mini radiator which heats up the water to disperse heat inside the car. My friend not only totted up the water for me (2 pints), he also put in some anti-freeze. Coming home, I heard a distinct click, click on the front wheels. I think the time is coming when I will need to get a new wheel bearing installed for the wheel which wasn't done last year.
Still, frustrations such as these are put into perspective when plans for the summer holidays begin to fall into place. My grandson, Jack and his Dad will be with me for the last two weeks in July, Jack then stays on for the rest of the summer and his Mum comes out to join us both for two weeks at the end of August, prior to Jack's return to the UK. As my daughter said in January, feels like 2015 is going to be a good one.
Despite demands for my attention on household matters. I have managed to nip out and cross off the list one of the sunset images I wanted to have a go at capturing as well as give Nell a good run on the beach a few times.
Feb 28th
Dia de Andalucia and supposedly a holiday! No such luxury today, Nell decided to wake me early although I didn't mind because it meant I could get on with weed clearance; there was no wind. I was out as soon as there was sufficient light and it was head down and getting on. After several hours I was doing well when Rafael arrived to help prune the fruit trees. I downed tools and acted as labourer as bits of branches came flying down. There was a huge pile by the time we'd finished and I was able to get some breakfast although it was past lunchtime!
With a satisfied feeling I sat down to watch the rugby. Scotland lost - yeah!
I played around later with my globe and once I'd decided where to place it I was setting up my camera and JJ arrived to inspect everything. As she sniffed at the globe I managed to capture an image and I was chuffed to bits how it turned out. As I moved around looking for other potential photos, so she came with me and in the finish actually sat down between me and the globe! Togetherness is what it's called I think!
Dia de Andalucia and supposedly a holiday! No such luxury today, Nell decided to wake me early although I didn't mind because it meant I could get on with weed clearance; there was no wind. I was out as soon as there was sufficient light and it was head down and getting on. After several hours I was doing well when Rafael arrived to help prune the fruit trees. I downed tools and acted as labourer as bits of branches came flying down. There was a huge pile by the time we'd finished and I was able to get some breakfast although it was past lunchtime!
With a satisfied feeling I sat down to watch the rugby. Scotland lost - yeah!
I played around later with my globe and once I'd decided where to place it I was setting up my camera and JJ arrived to inspect everything. As she sniffed at the globe I managed to capture an image and I was chuffed to bits how it turned out. As I moved around looking for other potential photos, so she came with me and in the finish actually sat down between me and the globe! Togetherness is what it's called I think!