Footprints advising where to stand on the escalator

The restrictions will be lifted on the 19th July but we are not coming to the end of the pandemic.  We are entering a new age of living with the virus.  The discussion about mask wearing continues, the sun is shining and society needs to open up.  Is this a good time? Vaccinations are high and therefore the government is confident (if this is the right word) that the restrictions can be lifted.  For my photography journey. I wanted to catch life during the final days of the restrictions.  I was in Solihull to collect my glasses in Touchwood. I was armed only with my iPhone. The following black and white pictures give a brief insight into the mask wearing and restrictions that will soon be a thing of the past.  Let’s just hope so!

Mask wearing in Touchwood
An elderly couple wearing masks in Touchwood
sharing a kiss - no masks
Just outside Touchwood a younger couple share a kiss – no masks
Masks on or off
Masks on or off?
Social distancing
Keep apart but the writing is starting to fade
Touchwood
Segregated corridors in Touchwood
social distancing
Only one urinal in use
Social distancing
When you are buying your cards and gifts
Flower stall
Still selling flowers
Covid19 shop
The most popular shop in town is the Covid one
Solihull and Covid19
Have we done our part, have we done the right thing?

Read more
BBC news about the easing of the Lockdown
My stories about the Lockdown when I visited Solihull Town Centre in January 2021


Gas Street Basin, Birmingham

Welcome to my series on cameras, lenses, advice and taking those all-important pictures.  So which camera do you use?  This is a common question that I am asked when someone sees one of my pictures.  It is if the camera took the picture not the photographer!  There may be an element of truth in this, although there are a lot of factors that go into taking a picture and the camera is only one of them. 

FujiFilm x100v
FujiFilm x100v

To kickstart this series, I am going to talk about my ‘go-to camera’ which is the Fujifilm x100v.  The story is that I wanted to buy myself a new camera to replace my Sony RX100 V.  My requirements were many.  Simple to use but requiring the level of complexity below the surface when needed.  Weather resistance was a desirable feature.  I have had several compact zoom cameras over the years, and they have worked well.  Often the zoom mechanism has not been robust despite the camera quality with grit getting into the zoom mechanism.  Therefore, a fixed lens appealed to me.  As I grew up on 35 mmm cameras, like many reading this blog, I love the idea of owning a Leica, but the cost is prohibitive.  More realistically, I looked at alternatives and in early 2020, the release of the Fujifilm x100v came with positive reviews.  I did my homework and researched it. My decision was made after I looked at pictures people had posted and read reviews on the camera in the photographic magazines.

FujiFilm x100v buttons
FujiFilm x100v buttons

The Fujifilm x100v was waiting for me on Christmas day morning.  I unboxed it and started taking pictures.  With a new camera, I oscillate between starting to take pictures and reading the camera manual.  There are a few internet articles and YouTube videos that got me started.  One of the first differences was the position of the buttons compared to my Canon and Sony.  The tactile feel of the buttons gave me more control of my picture taking.  The buttons are traditional analogue designs and not digital.  Gradually I got the hang of the camera and then starting to use it in serious mode.  I read the manual more and more discovering even more buttons! 

I tried out the different colour settings and settled on the weak chrome colour.  Using the camera in aperture priority, I worked through the options.  My first pictures were a little hit and miss but the jpg quality began to impress me.  My confidence grew and it started to come most places with me.  In the morning whilst walking the dog, it proved to be a useful camera to record details on the high street especially during lockdown.  It is not a replacement to the big camera (Canon D5-mkIV) but it certainly does its job of delivering remarkable pictures.

What I like
In no particular order, here are my favourite things about this compact camera. 

  • The flash settings are easy to use and understand.  It gives good portrait pictures with the flash on.  This is quite something considering it is a camera mounted flash.  I use a manual setting of 1/64 sec often for a fill in.  The flash does not create many red eyes either.
  • The exposure compensation button is easy to understand and is set up next to your thumb.  I found this very useful and quick to select.
  • Some may consider it a gimmick, but the selective colour is so easy to set up and use.  If there was one fun element to the camera then this is it.
  • The double exposure is straightforward and offers three settings depending on which picture you choose to be the main feature of the setting.
  • The jpgs are stand alone, high quality and need little adjustment.
  • The back controls are easy to use and the tilted screen allows for flexibility in the framing of the pictures you take.  This includes being able to get down low.
FujiFilm x100v
FujiFilm x100v weather proofing at a price and convenience.

Customisation
The camera is also cool to customise.  I added a thumb rest and changed the strap.  I did add a shoot button but then found it much better for my shooting technique when the button was clear. The pictures also show a half case for the lower half of the camera body.

What I do not like

  • Connectivity is poor over the wireless and the app design is poor.  So one is reaching for the iPhone if you wish to quickly upload pictures to BBC weather watchers or want to get that picture sent to family and friends as soon as possible.
  • It required an extra £100 to add the weather proofing and then I could not use the Fujifilm lens cover that came with the camera. So ended up having a black plastic cover! I wish I had brought the NiSi weather proofing as then I could have used the original silver camera cap that came with the camera.
  • It took time to work out the focussing and the switching between the settings.  This is maybe the learning curve that I have got to get through including using the manual more.

Best Pictures

Canal bridge at Acocks Green
Canal bridge at Acocks Green

My first picture that I published with the camera.  It is a canal bridge in Acocks Green, Birmingham.  Catching the two people under the arch added interest.

Hatton Locks
Hatton Locks

Hatton locks – All the lines caused by railings around the lock made for an interesting pattern in black and white.  I did have the traditional picture of a boat going through a lock, but this was more intriguing.

Takeaway reflection
Takeaway reflection

Takeaways are doing well in the Pandemic and here is one customer on their way home.  I was able to get down low for the reflections (the picture was published in the Amateur Photographer letters’ page)

The Night Train to Birmingham
The Night Train to Birmingham

The night train to Birmingham taken on a very cold night on the Dorridge footbridge.  There is much to see and discuss and the colours and light add to the atmosphere.  All picked up by the camera. The picture reminded me of the following song.
Down on the night train,
feel the starlight steal away,
Use up a lifetime looking for the break of day
Night Train – Steve Winwood 1980

family portrait
Family support bubble

The Support bubble of daughter and grandson and the camera produces some good details on portrait pictures

Dandelion Clock
Dandelion Clock

I was going to take a landscape photograph and came away with this dandelion clock.  This is cropped from a much larger picture and then edited in Black and White.  The effect is quite nice but the detail that remains after heavy cropping is amazing.

Detail of the Low Lighthouse at Burnham on Sea
The red stripe of the Low Lighthouse at Burnham on Sea. Love the colours and the details.
Gas Street Basin, Birmingham
Boats in Gas Street Basin, Birmingham

This picture is of the boats in Gas Street Basin and processed to bring out the colour. It is not designed to be a landscape camera but it manages such a scene very well.

Where did I buy it from WexPhotoVideo and their service is good. I am not receiving anything for saying this either!


The Open Arms at Warwick Castle

I read the email twice.  The Open Arms at Warwick Castle were offering a free table due to the weather being a bit miserable during our last visit.  My daughter, Natasha, was very excited as she was unable to go to the last one and without a moment’s hesitation the family said yes.  Let’s go again.

When we arrived, the tables were set out along the castle moat looking up to the walls.  My grandson was as excited as his mother and posed for pictures.  The food outlets were different to before and my wife Sandy missed the Steak and Chips outlet.  She did chose a simple chicken and chips from Yardbirds.  Natasha and I went for the Brisket from the Grub shed.  Initially disappointed as some of their items were unavailable our disappointment turned to happiness at the quality of the food and its presentation. My grandson was very pleased with a bucket of chips from the Burgers stall.  All the outlet food looked scrumptious, and it is a pity that you must make one choice from so many choices!  

Following the main course, I was brave and went for a strawberry topped waffle.  My grandson so enjoyed watching it be made, with the cream and chopped strawberries.  The beer was Purity of course so no complaints there!

The Open Arms at Warwick Castle
Warwick Castle

Thank you to Harry Jenkins, Head of Marketing of the Digbeth Dining Club for allowing us the opportunity to visit so soon after the first time.   The weather was fine and there was some sunshine as well.  The castle walls add to the atmosphere, and I would thoroughly recommend the experience but then I am a big fan can’t you tell!

The Open Arms at Warwick Castle
Warwick Castle

Weston super Mare

I had this desire to take a sunset photograph at the seaside.  With the pandemic, it has been a long time since I have seen the sea.  Natasha and Rob were married in Kos, Greece last year and I saw the sea every day for a week. I had my fill of beautiful sunrises and sunsets. Therefore, the plan was to visit Weston super Mare and experience the seaside and hopefully a sunset would happen as well.  The visit to Weston was with my photographic companion John Bray and our first port of call was the town of Burnham on Sea to visit the low lighthouse

Weston super Mere
Knightstone Island at high tide
Weston super Mere
The sea mist rolls in
Weston super Mere
Great evening for fishing
Weston super Mere
Not many people around in the wind

Just opening the car door on arrival in Weston and breathing in the sea air was exhilarating.  Hold on! The next sensation was sand being blown into my face and mouth.  Yes! this was Weston super Mare and in the middle of flaming June, it was blowing a gale!  It did not spoil the fun of being at the seaside. We parked on Marine Parade and then set off to take photographs of Weston.  Within 30 minutes it became obvious that the weather was closing on us, and a sea mist was descending on the town.  Photographs of the Grand Pier, Marine lake and Knightstone Island followed as we made our way around Anchor Head and finally ending up at the abandoned Birnbeck pier.  This looked very sad and in a poor state of repair.  It seems there is an ongoing saga of what is going to happen with the pier.

The sea was being whipped up to a frenzy by the wind and the waves crashed onto the promenade.  There was one person protesting at the strange times we are living in, and he was yelling at the high tide and blowing a horn.  All the walking and photographing had given us an appetite and we fancied fish and chips.  What else would you choose on your overdue visit to the seaside.  It appears that Weston super Mare shuts down at around 7pm and nothing was open except for a few pubs and restaurants.  The amusement arcades were empty, and they too were shutting down for the night.  Fortunately, we found two community police officers who gave us directions to a traditional fish and chip shop.  Hallelujah, at last we found one.  The premises were very traditional and looked new and vibrant against the quietly dilapidated charity shop rich streets of Weston.   Leaving the empty roads to the people wandering around, we returned to Marine parade and sat down to have our fish and chips.  What a racket the seagulls made. They were getting ready to dive bomb us and they hung in the wind waiting for the opportunity to grab a stray piece of fish or even a chip. 

Weston super Mere
The Tide is High
Weston super Mere
Traditional fish and chip shop
Weston super Mere
Fish and Chip Supper

We then looked for the sunset.  Alas that was not going to happen, although there were some occasional flashes of light and the retreating tide left beautiful reflections.  But no sunset! So we decided to call it a day and head back to Birmingham.  It was an enjoyable trip down but we left with mixed thoughts.  Weston has a wonderful promenade but the town is so quiet at night with not a great deal taking place in the town. Maybe the poor weather was keeping people in their hotels. Maybe we should return when the people return.

Weston super Mere
Sunset Colours
Weston super Mere
Tropicana amusement park

Whilst in Weston, I did enjoy finding some interesting street art dotted around the parade and the town. The street artist Jamie Scanlon known as JPS is one of the artists that features heavily in the town. There are others and here is a selection of the pictures that I found.

Street Art in Weston
Street Art in Weston
Weston super Mere
Seascape off Anchor Head

Burnham-on-Sea Lighthouse

The low lighthouse at Burnham on Sea stands alone on the beach just north of the town.  It is an imposing structure and commands the horizon and your attention.  It has 9 legs, a ladder to the door of house and is painted mainly white.  There are squares of black with a bright red vertical stripe at the front of the building.  The legs are metal sitting in the sand and the structure itself is wood.
We visited it late afternoon and the storm clouds were moving in and out with occasional flashes of blue sky.  The single structure is iconic and reminded me of Chesterton Windmill which commands your attention against a changing skyline.  Here are my photographs of the low lighthouse.  I have taken several pictures around it and then a deconstructed view of all the parts to it.

Burnham-on-Sea LightHouse
Overlooking Burnham-on-Sea
Burnham-on-Sea Lighthouse
Lighthouse deconstructed

The funny story about the lighthouse is that I spent a great deal of time taking pictures of the back of it looking out to see. I only discovered the red stripe when my photographic buddy pointed out that I needed to look at the front of the lighthouse. I think there is a photographic tip somewhere in the story!

Burnham-on-Sea Lighthouse
Burnham-on-Sea Lighthouse

If you are interested in reading more about the lighthouse then there are several articles on it. 
Lighthouses in Burnham on Sea

Please read about my photographic afternoon in Weston super Mare just up the coast

If you wish to see photographs of Chesterton Windmill then I have done several blogs about it
Chesterton Windmill Revisited
Chesterton Windmill

Cameras used with these pictures
Canon D5 with lenses 16-35 and 70-200mm
FujiFilm x100v

Burnham-on-Sea Lighthouse
Burnham-on-Sea Lighthouse

Cotswolds Lavender Fields

This summer, all the flowers, plants and trees are 2 to 3 weeks late.  After the late appearance of the poppies, it was noticeable that the purple lavender was also not as rich in colour as last year.  This did not stop us making a visit to the Cotswolds lavender fields.  This year we had all three grandchildren with us and there are so many photographic opportunities.  However, whilst the location is superb, trying to get three young children who love nothing more than running up and down the lines of the lavender fields to stay still for photos is more difficult.  Whilst the lavender are in the early stages of growing, the wild flower fields were up and running.  Yet again great for the children to be running around. 

Cotswolds Lavender Fields
Close up of the lavender
Cotswolds Lavender Fields
Lots of photographic opportunities
Cotswold Lavender Fields
Pictures of the family
Cotswold Lavender Fields
Wild Flowers
Cotswold Lavender Fields
Maybe a little early in the season but still beautiful

After a picnic, we moved onto Broadway Tower which is nearby.  Compared to last year when the pandemic had made such visits more worrying, this year it looked like a normal English summer around the Tower.  The only tale tail sign were people wearing masks when in the local shop and restaurant.  The views were good and the tower looked as always so interesting.  Looking to get a different picture, I wandered around and shot upwards to avoid the crowds.  I was happy with my picture but then again, the traditional view when you first see the tower is always an inspiring one.

Broadway Tower
Looking up
Broadway Tower
A classic view of the Tower with the RAF memorial

The Open Arms

The pandemic has started a trend for outdoor eating with many different venues coming up with novel ways to make the experience more enjoyable.  Last year, I saw the pictures of the Open Arms at Warwick Castle.  What an iconic place to enjoy a drink and something to eat.  Further reading revealed that the Digbeth Dining Company were involved and then I knew the quality of the food would be good.  Add in that the beer is supplied by local brewery Purity then my mind was made up.  I did my homework and found out that it was just under £20 to book a table for 6 people. 

The Open Arms
Onwards towards the table
The Open Arms
The steak was cooked to perfection
The open Arms
Burgers galore
The Open Arms
Lots of Spicy Foods as well

The food is brought at the DDC outlets and there is table service for the drinks.  What could stop me?  The inclement English weather for one thing, and I thought an evening in June should be OK as I booked the table online for family and friends evening.  Nervously checking the weather forecast the heat broke and there was rain.  Fortunately, it cleared up and the venue gave the green light.  The Open Arms are very good as they will let you know if there are problems and although it can’t be helped any rebooking is a disappointment.  However, it is something you have to expect with open dining not everything in this world is predictable.

Parking is in the Castle grounds for a nominal fee and then there is a security check to go through.  We were in the Castle Courtyard and having ordered drinks we checked out the food outlets.  The quality of the food is excellent and there is a range catering from vegans to meat lovers.  Our party enjoyed a range of food from steak and chips to the Asian food offering.  No one was disappointed and the food presentation and quality was good.  The price of the meals ranged from £10 to 15.  Deserts were from the cheesecake outlet and I treated myself to a Guardians of the Galaxy chocolate fantasia followed by Coffee.  Drinks were served promptly and Longhorn IPA, Bunny Hop and Lawless larger which are part of the Purity family were available.  There were red and white house wines available plus non-alcoholic drinks. 

The Open Arms
Guardians of the Glaxy

What made the evening so enjoyable was eating in the Warwick castle courtyard.  What would the past inhabitants make of all the common peasants eating in their backyard.  Quite a thought.  There was a special patrol through the tables by the local head peacock who made sure everyone was enjoying themselves.  As it gets darker, the castle walls are lit up in different colours.  Then it is time to go as our carriages wait for us.  The evening was even better than I expected with good food and ale and company of family and friends.  This experience is being repeated at various venues across the West Midlands.  Just think before Covid19, would we have even given such an idea a second thought.  Now we realise that it is such a fun experience why did we not think of it before. Looking at the DDC site, there are other iconic venues including the site of Coventry Cathedral to visit.  Let’s just hope we have a sunny evening!

The Open Arms
The Castle Courtyard
The Open Arms
Peacock Patrol
The Open Arms
Damien and Sandy enjoying the Open Arms
The Open Arms
Over the moat to the courtyard

If you want to make a weekend of it, why not visit Warwick and my blog provides links to the Streets of Warwick and Lord Leycester’s Hospital which are well worth a visit.


Poppy Fields, Leamington Spa, 2021

Poppy field season is upon us and after a very damp May, it is noticeable that many plants and flowers are delayed in making their appearance by around 2 to 3 weeks.  The recent bout of sunshine has had a dramatic effect on everything, stimulating the countryside into life.  It is lovely to see all the flowers in full bloom.  But back to poppies, each year one finds it increasingly difficult to find these elusive flowers.  Farmers appear reluctant to let their fields turn into a sea of red for fear of the unwelcome attraction it brings.  For photographers such red carpets are a heavenly delight designed by the supreme being to bring joy to anybody who loves taking a picture.  Keeping to the sides of the field and not trampling the delicate flowers into the ground is part of our photographic code.  We too are horrified by the poor regard some members of the public have for poppy fields which in turn make it difficult for others. Therefore if visiting such places then respect the countryside.

Poppy Field
A carpet of red

I got the call (via Facebook) from my Photo Buddy, John Bray, informing me that a Poppy Field had been sighted just north of Leamington Spa.  It had already been announced on the local Facebook pages.  The field is not that accessible being surrounded on two sides by a country road that is better described as speed test track for the locals.  The partially hidden gate leads into the field which has a gentle westerly elevation.  Taking care not to trample more vegetation than is absolutely necessary, we slowly navigate ourselves to the top of the field taking pictures along the way.  We arrived at the field at 7.30pm and then by 8.45pm we had filled up our photocards with red poppies.  There will be some serious editing of the numbers of pictures taken when I get back home. 

Poppy Field
Making sure to stay to the paths around the field

When you are in a poppy field there is the intense red of the flower petals and then there is the gentle swaying of the stems in the breeze.  It is most restful and soothing to gaze over the red rippling petals of the flowers.

Taking pictures of poppies is one of personal taste.  I like the distant telephoto shots where the flowers are compressed, and you are able to convey the carpet of red.  For many of the pictures. I placed my polariser filter on the lens so as to pick out the reds.  Also concentration is needed so that the horizon does not go wonky or there are any unnecessary distractions inadvertently included in the picture. 

Poppy Field
Some poppies are higher than others
Poppy Field
The Poppy Field set in the surrounding countryside

There was strong sunlight, so I was able to use it to my advantage to back light the stems of the poppies.  This makes for an attractive look and highlights the spikey hairs on the stems. 

Poppy Field
Back lit poppies

There is also the “kitchen sink factor” where I wish I had brought all my lenses including my wide angled lens.  I should also have brought my graduated filters.  What I did bring that still surprises me with its quality, is my Fujifilm x100v and of course I did have my iPhone.  But the workhorse of the evening was my Canon 5D mark IV with both 24-105mm and the 70-200mm lens.  And the all-important tripod.

Poppy Field
Captured in a mini world

I also brought my lens ball.  I never know when it is going to be a good picture when I use it.  I was happy with the result of this picture with the poppies even though it was hand held.

Poppy Field
Deep red poppy colour

Decision time!  Where is the best picture for that sunset view?  There is a hint that we may get a colourful sunset, so we had to find the ideal place.  This is where you get an adrenaline rush and we pushed to the back of the field.  There was dense overgrowth but luckily there was a path on the perimeter that allowed us to get a view of the sunset radiating over the field.  We were happy with the position of our cameras on for the photographs.  Taking pictures of the sunset can be tricky and without my graduated filter (mental note must remember to bring this in future trips), I took several bracketed shots with the intention of building up a HDR picture later.  As the light dropped it was possible to compensate for the exposure.

Poppy Field
Sunset clouds and poppies

Then the sunset came into its own and the sky turned a pinky red.  Remember earlier that I said that there is someone up there who enjoys seeing a good photograph.  Well he or she decided to turn on the light show, and it was very much appreciated.  I just retreated into a happy world of taking pictures.  Surfacing around 10 o’clock it was dark, and we had filled our cameras with enough poppy pictures for the evening.

Poppy Field
Beautiful sunset complimenting the poppies
Poppy Field
Yellows and reds of the sunset
Poppy Field
A yellow sky
Poppy Field
A line of red holding up the sunset

Walking back to the car I turned back for one last look and there was the crescent moon in the sky with the embers of the sunset still illuminating the red poppies.  I reflected positively on the evening and John said it had been “A perfect antidote to a crazy life”.

Thank you, Poppies.

Poppy Field
The moon over the poppy field

If you enjoyed reading about this poppy field then you may wish to read my previous blog on Poppy Fields and my other entries on the Cotswolds Lavender fields


Stratford Greenway

Looking for days out with a camera?  Look no further than the Country Parks managed by Warwickshire County Council.  I have featured their parks in my blog with visits to Burton Dassett and Kingsbury water park.  All their parks are well maintained and have many different activities. 

Stratford Greenway
Start of the Stratford Greenway where you collect your bikes
Stratford Greenway
On your bikes and get ready, go

The Stratford Greenway is a 5 mile stretch of disused railway that runs from the west of Stratford dwon towards Long Marston.  Along the way there are iron bridges, signs, wild flowers and beautiful countryside to view.  My photo buddy, John and I met at Stratford Cycle Hire at the start of the trail.  Parking is easy and a short walk leads to two train carriages.  The first is the bicycle hire and the second is Buddy’s Café with views over Stratford-upon-Avon Racecourse.  I had previously arrange the bike hire with Vic the owner and there was a cheerful person to meet us and get us ready for our bike ride. 

Stratford Greenway
views over Stratford upon Avon Racecourse

The track runs along the racecourse and the first encounter was the iron railway bridge.  Lots of beautiful rust and overgrowth of bushes etc around the bridge.  There is also the change to get down onto the river path and take some tourist pictures looking back at the bridge.  The bridge is fascinating, and the iron rust makes for contrasting views with the greenery of the countryside.  Many leading lines and processing in black and white.  It was one of those structures that I could have spent a lot of time photographing. 

Stratford Greenway
The river Avon crossed by the old Iron Bridge
Stratford Greenway
Taking pictures

The cycle trail takes you through some picturesque Warwickshire countryside and you are able to move along holding a conversation.  My experience is that the Greenway is relatively quiet and therefore only occasionally do you have to go single file.  This may be different at the weekends.  Several minor roads and farm entrances are passed on the way.  It is part of the National Cycle way and therefore many signs are place commemorating this.

Stratford Greenway
National Cycle Route sign-posts

At Long Marston there is still the old railway lines in the road.  There is a large industrial estate and rail works and so a left turn and around half a mile down the road and you arrive at Expresso Coffee.  Time to sit down with a coffee and a pastry.  The café is owned by ExpressoStation They have outlets at Dorridge and Moor Street railway stations and expanding further afield.  A lovely rustic place to stop and refuel.  Rust is the word in this blog. 

Stratford Greenway
Expresso Station at Long Marston

Then the return journey.  At the half way point we took the right hand fork for a slightly different route and discover another train carriage which is Milcote Station Café.  It was after 4pm so the place was quiet and not open.  However the camera was at the ready and we were able to take some great photos of the place.  Then the final bit back to get the bikes in before 5pm.  There was then a chance to take a few pictures of Bobby’s Deli café and the Stratford Racecourse.

Stratford Greenway
Railtrack wheels
Stratford Greenway
Back of the Carriages
Stratford Greenway
Lightbulbs at Bobby’s
Stratford Greenway
Bobby’s Deli Cafe

A grand day out and one to recommend for photographers who like to add a bike ride to their day out.

If you enjoyed this, then I have other blogs covering the Warwickshire Country Parks
Walking in the hills and discovering Fox Covert covers one of my many visits to Burton Dassett Hills.
Feel free to browse through my blog for a range of places that I have photographed over the recent years. Enjoy!


Charlecote park

So many photographers talk about their 3.30am starts, getting up early so that they are able to catch the sunrise.  This got me thinking that it was time I looked for a good place to visit for a sunrise with a difference.  Amateur photographer had a recent feature on places to visit in the UK whilst interesting, they were a long road trip away, so I searched on the Internet for more suggestions closer to home.  On my search, a 2016 AP article came up from Stu Meech who lives near Charlecote park, a National Trust property in Stratford upon Avon.  What a great read and Stu advises where to park and how to access the public footpath in the park.  So I got ready, packed the gear and went to bed early.  I woke up before the alarm went off at 3.30am and got dressed.  The dog took a while to settle down as I had woken him up, but I eventually got out of the house but silly me, I made the decision to go down on the M42 and M40.  It was the fastest route, but I had not factored in night time roadworks. Eventually I got off the motorway and then the misty wonderland was all around me.  The village of Barford looked marooned by an eerie white carpet which was flowing around the old bridge.  I nearly stopped but Charlecote awaited. 

Charlecote Park
The early morning mist in Charlecote Park
Charlecote Park
Mist and a sunrise in Charlecote Park

Passing through the village of Charlecote, eventual I came across the lay-by described in the article about 50 metres away from the West Gate to the park.  Time 4.35am and all looking good so far.  Once through the gate, there is a recent sign that informs you that you must rigidly stick to the footpath and not to enter other parts of the park.  You may only do so if you have registered with reception (which opens at 9.00am).  Not possible this early in the morning so sticking to the public footpath is the only option.  Everywhere I look the park has a beautiful carpet of mist.  Out of the corner of my eye, I see movement and a herd of the resident fallow deer have picked up the noise that I am making.  Do I stay here, do I take pictures of the deer or do I move on?  Moving on has to be the best option and I eventually come to a hollow where the path opens up to show the beautiful Charlecote House. 

Charlecote Park
Sunrise through the trees
Charlecote Park
Charlecote House in the mist

The sun is impatient and already the beams of light are pressing through the mist.  I find a good spot as the intensity of the sun increases.  Excitement rises.  Do I put a filter on such as my half grad filter. Wide or telephoto lens? Decisions, decisions.  Settling down I switch my lens and filters as I see sunshine hitting the tops of the trees.  Then it starts to lower gradually becoming stronger and stronger.  I place the sun behind a tree, close down the aperture for a potential starburst and take pictures.  The light is magical.  Whilst this is going on, there is a procession of deer and goats passing through my line of sight.  There is too much to take in and I take as many pictures as I possibly can.  My kit bag falls over spilling lenses etc on the dewy grass but luckily, no damage done (I thought).  It was about 6:00am and I had been taking pictures since sunrise at 4.45am. 

Charlecote Park
A misty scene in Black and White

I moved further along the path and then looked over to some trees and saw the deer frolicking in the mist.  Telephoto lens on and more pictures.  One of the pictures of a deer in the mist got a big reaction on my social media. Reflecting I should have brought my 100 to 400mm lens but then I could have brought the kitchen sink as well! Photographers are never happy.

Charlecote park
Morning mist and deer in Charlecote Park

My next steps were to follow the footpath towards the village of Charlecote.  Everything was very quiet in the village and entrance gates to the park were locked.  The church was catching the sun and there were some super photos to take which normally I miss when you are rushing to park and get to the house during a day visit. 

A black and white path with sun and mist.

Then it was time to slowly retrace my steps back to the car.  There were a few more photographs but the mist was gone, having been burnt away by the sun.  The time 7.00am and the day was starting.  An enjoyable drive back home through Stratford and Henley in Arden.  The only drawback was that I left my lens hood in the park.  It was broken and loose on the camera so no regrets.  Leaving bits behind is a photographer’s lot in life but what I took with me was some wonderful pictures of the park.

Did you enjoy this article. Then please follow these links for other articles of taking pictures in the mist and fog. Please comment if you liked it too!
The Fog creates a Black and White Landscape describes a walk in the fog with my camera
Mist at Packwood is about a misty morning at this local National Trust Property

…..and if you go remember to stick to the footpath.