I had such a good morning with pro photographer Chris Sale in our first week in the Lakes, I signed up for another session the following week.
The weather forecast had been looking a little ropey in the day or two before our meet up. However, Chris reminded me that the BBC weather forecast isn’t to be relied upon.
Regarding the weather and outlook, Chris’ glass was half full so I quickly adopted the same outlook.
The western edge of Derwentwater was the location Chris recommended and in order to be there for sunrise, we would meet at 04:45, so a 03:45 get up for me, ouch!
The shoot
We parked up and began our walk to the shore of Derwentwater.
First up was this recognisable tree sticking out from the rocks, and Chris said I would need to clone out another tree’s branches in the top-right of the scene as were viewing it.
This shot needed to be bracketed due to the dark foreground and bright sky and water.
Chris stepped me through bracketed exposures, which I generally know about but very rarely do, so I was pleased to step through it and re-learn it.
I move from one capture to the next with three wheel movements controlling shutter speed, so effectively a ‘stop’ each time.
I don’t usually bother with bracketing at all but I could see the benefits, and must consider this more often I think.
Next up was a jetty, and the same principles applied to this shot.
The shoreline at this location early morning is quite something.
Of course, Chris has lived in the Lakes for a few years, ran lots of 121s and workshops so he knows all the places, and his tip for this one was superb.
In between shooting, we were chatting away catching up on things.
It’s a real insight talking to pro photographers about their business, the struggles, the successes, and also where they may need to diversify to increase the likelihood of being able to make an income.
I was privileged that Chris agreed do 121s with me when he no longer does them. Okay, you’re saying “Well he gets money for it…”. True, but he doesn’t advertise and doesn’t need to do them when he’s got plenty of other work to focus on for his business.
Next up was a shot of this rock with reflections which I’m very pleased with as I love the reflections and the scene.
Chris seemed to big on portrait orientation shots so advised me to take this in both orientations to see what I thought.
Usually, I’m quick to set up in landscape orientation, and rarely think to go portrait. His advice was that portraits often emphasise foreground which can add more impact to our captures.
Below is the portrait orientation of the same scene, which will perfectly demonstrate the point related to impact.
Next up was the somewhat famous or well-known Otter Island.
It’s a fantastic location and probably a honeypot shot.
As you can see, the morning light was getting brighter and a little harsh, and unfortunately there was movement in the water, due to a light breeze.
Our presence also seemed to attract attention of the nearby duck population, but there was a window of opportunity where the ducks realised we weren’t there to feed them, and passed us by.
Despite all of that, I’m pleased with the shot – it’s no comp winner but decent enough. I can see why local photographers want to get here in misty conditions.
Next up was stopping off in Manesty Park with a shot looking into the jaws of Borrowdale.
Chris helped me compose this shot, and it was clear the path was a major leading line.
I was shooting now without bracketing so this one is a single shot.
We walked further round, almost to the road near Ashness Bridge and Lodore Falls, where we stopped to see if we could bag a shot with an “S” shape.
It was time to head back, but we had time for one more.
Some shots of this lovely tree.
It’s good as a mono shot too, but seems a shame to deny the viewer the vibrant green colours!
That was a wrap!
I thanked Chris for a great morning.
We had chatted a lot about loads of stuff, and I was pleased to hear he has recovered from his health issues as he has described on social media.
He has moved from 121s and YouTube to personal photography coaching online, and his personal challenges have meant needing to diversify. He cites helping a few photographers to their RPS qualifications which is impressive.
I was very pleased and privileged to spend time with Chris and have the benefit of his company and advice, and may well tap him up again next time we’re in the Lakes.
Onwards and upwards…