DP reader Darren Athersmith share his Lake District images
Keen amateur photographer Darren Athesmith
(www.lakeand-images.co.uk) has
lived on the edge of the Lake District his whole life, ‘I’ve never lived more
than a 20 minute drive from one of the Southern Lakes. My job takes me to some
of the major cities in the country and I like nothing better than driving home
to the distant hills that signal my arrival back in The Lakes, it’s a fantastic
place to live.’
And idyllic location foe landscape
photographers, Darren says, ‘The Lake District has everything a landscape
photographer could wish for, from lakes to mountains, rivers to streams and so
much more.’ Suggesting one of his preferred places to shoot, Darren says, ‘My
favourite location has to be Coniston. The lake has may jetties and it is a
great place to photograph a sunrise or sunset.’ He adds, ‘I tend visit the same
places time and time again but you can always find “another” picture either by
venturing out in different weather or trying another composition.’
For those who are keen to explore, Darren
suggests, ‘Research the area and plan where you want to go to shoot. Be
prepared to get up early for the best light, if you are visiting a popular lace
then you may beat the crowds too.’
In terms of the kit you will need to take
with you to take your best shots of the Lakes, Darren recommends a robust and
durable tripod with a couple of good graduated neutral-density filters. You
will also need to make allowances for the unpredictable weather as he adds, ‘We
are talking about the Lake District, which by definition is usually wet so take
a waterproof jacket and a good pair of waterproof boots as walking over rough
ground is usually required.’ He adds, ‘The weather is not always great but
don’t let it put you off, sometimes the clouds break for a brief moment and
reward you with the most fantastic light.’
Local knowledge and advice: Ambleside
Holiday
cottages in Ambleside
The array if imagery around the Ambleside
area can suit photographers of all levels. Even the least adventurous can feel
like a mountaineer aloft a modest summit. The views from the tops of peaks
across deep valleys can be so captivating with just a little effort, but don’t
get caught out.
As with all outdoor pursuit, pack carefully
and charge all equipment. Be prepared to sit in the cold, even in summer, so
ensure layers are part of the kitbag. Strap the tripod to your back and use
walking poles.
1. Do not overload your camera bag. Lenses that cover 17-300mm will be
all you need
2. Take a charged GPS, map, compass and tell others where you are
headed
3. Timing is critical. Be aware that climbing down treacherous paths in
the dark is dangerous
Local knowledge and advice: Keswick
Lake
District - Keswick
The mountains to the west of Keswick are
some of the most photogenic in the whole of England. Views like Latrigg and
Surprise View are utterly magnificent, but don’t get catch up in the ‘Ashness
Bridge’ fiasco. A classic none the less, but remember there are so many other
places to photograph around this are that can be just as special. A short climb
is not only good for the body but for the photographic soul. Take the
initiative and get away from the crowds. This will not only test your skills,
but also build your understanding.
1. Don’t just go for the clichés! Get walking and build your knowledge.
2. Shoot longer focal lengths and pick out parts of the landscape.
3. Make panoramas; the eye almost defaults to this format.
Photographer essentials – Did you know?
Scafell
Pike, the highest mountain in England
Scaffell Pike is the highest mountain in
England at 3,208ft. It can be seen from various positions in the Lakes and is
often confused with other peaks. Every year rescue attempts are made when
unprepared tourists climb the mountains without proper knowledge of the weather
or terrain
