Path, Wall and Tree

This image was taken as a single RAW file exposure on the 20th September 2023, 3:20pm, at 14mm (APS-C) and later developed using On1 Photo RAW.

I was actually trying to find a boat mooring area, at the south end of the lake near High Nibthwaite, and went down this lovely footpath by mistake. On my way back to the car, I saw the broken wall with the tree, and then the sun came out – albeit momentarily.

Working the Scene

I first shot a bracket set from the north end of the path, looking south into the light, with the wall on the left. The main feature was the broken part of the wall with the makeshift gate repair. This was supported by the dappled sunlight and overhanging tree branch.

But when I walked on and looked back, I thought it made a better picture looking north, with the wall on the right of the path.

This image made more of a feature of the wall as a lead-in, with the gate repair, dappled light (which I had to wait for), tree branch and distant view all as coherent and supporting features.

Light

The light was coming from behind me in this second photo, so I only needed a single exposure. However, this direction of light did require me to clone out my own shadow!

Development

As usual, I took my time developing this image, using lots of On1’s effects filters and local adjustments. I deliberately took time away from the image over a few days whilst pursuing more photos.

At one point, I thought the contrast from the dappled light was too distracting to the wall’s form and presence, so several adjustments were completed until I found what I considered to be a nice balance.

Observational Photography

This is the second time this year when I’ve found a worthy image, despite having set out to photograph something else. I’ve always considered my photography to be based more on observation rather than planning.

You do have to have some ideas at least, but for me, they just lead me to observe and make the most of what I get.

I’ve never recced a scene with the intention of coming back to take it in different light or weather. I’ve never gone out to shoot in the golden hour – although it may have coincided in the past when we took holidays in winter.

I just walk, observe and shoot what I find of interest.

Comments welcome below …