Photographing Cornwall

November 2022 and 2023, I embarked on a photography trip to Cornwall, UK, with follow photographers Shelly Chapman, Andy Rouse & Mark Waidson, our aim was to capture Cornwall's unique landscapes and seascapes. Here's a rundown of my experiences on this photographic adventure to one the UK's most interesting and varied landscapes

Day 1: Setting the Stage

The adventure kicked off at the Royal Albert Bridge, an iconic structure spanning the River Tamar. Under the cover of darkness the superstructure of the bridge was illuminated with a golden glow against the backdrop of the river, providing a promising start to a day filled with exploration and new photographs to be taken.

The Royal Albert Bridge is a railway bridge which spans the River Tamar in England between Plymouth, Devon and Saltash, Cornwall. Its unique design consists of two 455-foot (138.7 m) lenticular iron trusses 100 feet (30.5 m) above the water, with conventional plate-girder approach spans. This gives it a total length of 2,187.5 feet (666.8 m). It carries the Cornish Main Line railway in and out of Cornwall. It is adjacent to the Tamar Bridge which opened in 1962 to carry the A38 road.

The Royal Albert Bridge was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel. Surveying started in 1848 and construction commenced in 1854. The first main span was positioned in 1857 and the completed bridge was opened by Prince Albert on 2 May 1859.

Brunel died later that year and his name was then placed above the portals at either end of the bridge as a memorial. During the 20th century the approach spans were replaced, and the main spans strengthened. It has attracted sightseers since its construction and has appeared in many paintings, photographs, guidebooks, postage stamps and on the UK £2 coin. Anniversary celebrations took place in 1959 and 2009.

Isambard Kingdom Brunel was an English civil engineer who is considered "one of the most ingenious and prolific figures in engineering history, "one of the 19th-century engineering giants," and "one of the greatest figures of the Industrial Revolution, who changed the face of the English landscape with his groundbreaking designs and ingenious constructions.

Brunel built dockyards, the Great Western Railway (GWR), a series of steamships including the first propeller-driven transatlantic steamship, and numerous important bridges and tunnels. His designs revolutionised public transport and modern engineering.

Golden Age of Engineering
Pentax K-1 Camera used:
Pentax DFA 28-105mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens used:
73mm Focal length:
f/4.5 Aperture:
25 Exposure time:
100 ISO:

Day 1 Sunrise: St. Michaels of Rames Head

Reaching in time for sunrise our first stop was the chapel of St. Michaels of Rames Head, this chapel is steeped in history and its commanding view over the sea and the land must have made it a significant landmark. Dating back to 1397, the chapel stands as a testament to Cornwall's rich heritage. However, capturing its essence proved challenging amidst fatigue from not having any sleep in the previous 24 hours due to work and the travel time. Unfortunately and less-than-ideal lighting really dampened any enthusiasm. Despite these obstacles, the determination to find the perfect composition I persevered.

The ground underfoot was difficult to navigate, as there was considerable amount of bracken and bramble to pass through, especially as I had eyed my composition on a steep sided edge looking back to the Chapel. Getting the composition right was the biggest challenge, I had tried to take a shot from much closer in, but this diminished the chapels prominence in the landscape. Shooting further away meant that the chapel was smaller in the frame but the landscape could then take a bigger role in directing the eye to the chapel. In the end a wider shot prevailed.

St Michaels of Rames Head
Pentax K-1 Camera used:
Pentax DFA 28-105mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens used:
28mm Focal length:
f/2.8 Aperture:
1/6 Exposure time:
100 ISO:

Day 1 Morning: Portwrinkle's Surprises

Portwrinkle, a coastal village, greeted with overcast skies and rain, casting a rather down mood over the landscape.
I struggled greatly looking for a composition here and something to photograph, wandering around aimlessly looking for something to photograph. At one point I even ended up prodding the bloated corpse of a porpoise washed up on the beach with my tripod leg (spike attached), which I quickly stopped doing after remembering how wales blow up... youtu.be/hkBscgjlCaQ?t=64

With my enthusiasm for being a marine biologist tempered I wandered back up to the carpark arguing with myself for a while, perhaps I should have filmed the explosion of the dead porpoise, could I even get it to explode, 30fps or 120fps slow mo, these thoughts entertained me for a while before I ditched the idea and got on with trying to shoot the environment instead, I ended up with a few shots from this location that never made it of the computer, I often find those shots in several weeks and months time will be my favourites, once the emotion of the day or lack of diminishes a little.

The Portwrinkle Porpoise
Pentax K-1 Camera used:
SMC Pentax-DA* 60-250mm f/4.0 Lens used:
170mm Focal length:
f/32 Aperture:
1.5 Sec Exposure time:
100 ISO:

Day 1 Afternoon: Golitha Falls Woodland

Golitha Falls, nestled in the heart of Cornwall's ancient woodland, is a captivating subject for landscape photography enthusiasts. The falls cascade gracefully through a lush gorge, creating a mesmerizing display of water and rock. From a photography perspective, Golitha Falls offers a myriad of opportunities to capture the interplay of light and shadow, as sunlight filters through the dense canopy above, dappling the cascading water in a soft, ethereal glow.

The rugged beauty of the granite boulders juxtaposed against the gentle flow of the river provides a striking contrast that photographers often seek to capture. Whether shooting from the vantage points along the well-maintained trails or venturing off the beaten path to discover hidden perspectives, there are endless compositions waiting to be explored.

The changing seasons further enhance the photographic allure of Golitha Falls, with vibrant foliage in autumn, frost-kissed branches in winter, and delicate wildflowers in spring. Each season offers its own unique palette of colors and textures, inviting photographers to return time and again to capture the ever-changing beauty of this enchanting landscape.

Nestled within Golitha Falls Woodland, the namesake falls cascade through a lush landscape, offering a picturesque setting for photographers. However, technical glitches and damp conditions added hurdles to the photography process. Despite these challenges, a single shot managed to capture the ethereal beauty of the woodland, with its moss-covered rocks and vibrant foliage.

continuing on with the mornings weather, the woodland was dark and wet and I was struggling for enthusiasm, a few shots piqued my photographers eye and I ended up shooting the cascading water and the remnants of the autumn colours. Unfortunately technical issues with my main camera started to become quite announced, with an issues thats persists to this day where the metering of the scene in live view differs significantly for the metering in the viewfinder,and with every frame taken the exposure now gets exponentially darker or brighter, without any settings change. Quite the frustration.

Golitha Falls Woodland
Pentax K-1 Camera used:
Pentax DFA 28-105mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens used:
37mm Focal length:
f/5.0 Aperture:
0.3 Sec Exposure time:
100 ISO:

Day 1 Afternoon: Roche Rock

Roche Rock, a dramatic granite outcrop crowned by the ruins of a medieval chapel, is a captivating subject for landscape photography enthusiasts. Perched precariously atop a rocky crag in the Cornish countryside, Roche Rock commands attention with its rugged beauty and storied history. From a photography perspective, Roche Rock presents a unique challenge and opportunity to capture the convergence of nature and human ingenuity. It position in the landscape and getting access to it makes the photography a challenge, much better would we have been to have found a location to shoot from further away to capture the chapel in context to the wider landscape.. alas this isnt waht we did, we took the challenge of photographing the chapel up close and are quite difficult oblique angles, which for the most part was a challenge, but did yield some different images then I have seen elsewhere.

The imposing silhouette of the chapel ruins against the expansive sky provides a striking focal point for photographers seeking to capture the essence of this ancient site. The weathered stone walls and arched doorways evoke a sense of mystery and intrigue, inviting viewers to contemplate the passage of time and the enduring spirit of the past.

At sunrise and sunset, the warm hues of the golden hour cast a magical glow upon Roche Rock, transforming it into a scene straight out of a fairy tale. Photographers often flock to this vantage point during these hours to capture the interplay of light and shadow, as the sun bathes the landscape in a soft, ethereal light.

In addition to the chapel ruins, the surrounding landscape offers a wealth of photographic opportunities, from sweeping vistas of the rolling countryside to intimate close-ups of the wildflowers and grasses that cling to the rocky terrain. Each season brings its own unique charm to Roche Rock, with vibrant wildflowers in spring, lush greenery in summer, and fiery foliage in autumn.

Roche Rock, a rocky outcrop crowned with an ancient chapel, emerged as a beacon of inspiration amidst the day's trials. The chapel, dating back to the 12th century, stands defiantly against the elements, offering a striking subject against Cornwall's rugged backdrop. Its weathered facade and commanding presence spoke volumes about the resilience of Cornwall's heritage.

Roche Rock
Pentax K-1 Camera used:
Pentax DFA 28-105mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens used:
53mm Focal length:
f/4.5 Aperture:
1/50 Exposure time:
100 ISO:

Day 1 Evening: Reflections and Relaxation

As the day drew to a close, a moment of respite awaited at The Duke of Leeds pub. Nestled in the heart of Leedstown, the pub provided us with our evening meal, cheap and cheerful for some, for others not somewhere they would eat again, a local pub for local folk where food is served with a surprise that anyone wanted something to eat with their pint, is probably how one of the group members would describe it, for me however, I had no complaints, it was hot and tasty and filled a gap. The day's photography was in great discussion though, from what worked, what didn't, struggles and excitime about what photos had been captured throughout the day, leaving behind a sense of anticipation for the next days photography.

Day 2: Embracing Cornwall's Dynamic Beauty Holywell Beach

As the Cornwall photography adventure unfolded into its second day, Shelly, Andy, Mark and I ventured to the coast and to Holywell Beach, greeted by perfect breaking waves cascading past sea stacks and rocky outcrops

Holywell Beach presented a lot of changeable conditions, offering both beauty and challenge. The interplay of light among grey clouds created a dramatic backdrop, while gusting winds added an element of frustration. Amidst the dynamic environment, capturing the perfect shot became a test of skill and perseverance. Despite the shifting sands and wet terrain, the allure of the rolling waves and ever-changing light compelled u to linger, sacrificing a second morning location to focus our efforts on this captivating scene.

From a photography perspective, Holywell Beach is a study in contrast, where the meeting of land and sea creates dynamic compositions ripe for exploration. The towering cliffs that flank the beach provide a dramatic backdrop against which the ever-changing light of the sun paints a stunning pattern of colors and textures.

At low tide, the expansive beach reveals hidden treasures such as sea caves, rock pools, and intricate patterns in the sand, offering endless possibilities for creative compositions. Photographers often venture out during this time to capture the interplay of light and shadow, as the sun dances across the landscape, casting ethereal reflections upon the shimmering surface of the water.

Holywell Beach is also a haven for wildlife photographers, with its diverse array of seabirds, marine life, and coastal flora providing ample subjects to capture in their natural habitat. From the graceful flight of seagulls overhead to the playful antics of seals basking in the sun, there is no shortage of opportunities to capture the beauty and diversity of life along the coast. In addition to its natural beauty, Holywell Beach is steeped in history and legend, with ancient relics and stories waiting to be discovered by intrepid photographers. Whether framed against the backdrop of a fiery sunset or bathed in the soft light of dawn, Holywell Beach offers a timeless canvas upon which photographers can weave their own narratives of beauty and wonder.

The Admiral
Pentax K-1 Camera used:
SMC Pentax-DA* 60-250mm f/4.0 Lens used:
200mm Focal length:
f/7.1 Aperture:
1/160 Exposure time:
100 ISO:

Day 2 Afternoon: Wheal Coates

The afternoon found the group at Wheal Coates, a former tin mine nestled on Cornwall's north coast. Steeped in history dating back to 1692, Wheal Coates is preserved and maintained by the National Trust. The site's rugged beauty and historic significance provided ample inspiration for photography. The surviving buildings, including engine houses and a calciner, stand as testament to Cornwall's rich mining heritage. Despite the limited time, Wheal Coates offered a wealth of photographic opportunities, beckoning visitors to explore its storied past and dramatic landscapes.

Wheal Coates is a captivating subject for landscape photographers seeking to capture the essence of Cornwall's mining heritage against the backdrop of the sea. This iconic tin mine, nestled amidst the windswept heathland, offers a rich tapestry of textures, colors, and historical intrigue waiting to be immortalized through the lens.

From a photography perspective, Wheal Coates presents a striking silhouette against the ever-changing sky, with its weathered engine houses and chimney stacks standing as silent sentinels to Cornwall's industrial past. The contrast between the crumbling ruins and the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean creates a compelling visual narrative that speaks to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of nature's relentless forces.

At sunrise and sunset, the warm hues of the golden hour bathe Wheal Coates in a soft, ethereal light, casting long shadows and accentuating the rugged beauty of the landscape. Photographers often flock to this vantage point during these hours to capture the interplay of light and shadow, as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of pink, orange, and gold.

In addition to its historical significance, Wheal Coates is also a haven for wildlife photographers, with its windswept cliffs and heathland habitats providing a sanctuary for a diverse array of seabirds, wildflowers, and coastal flora. From the graceful flight of seagulls overhead to the delicate blooms that cling to the rocky terrain, there is no shortage of subjects waiting to be captured in their natural habitat.

In summary, Wheal Coates is a treasure trove of photographic inspiration, offering a timeless canvas upon which photographers can weave their own narratives of beauty, history, and the enduring spirit of Cornwall's mining heritage. Whether framed against the backdrop of a stormy sea or bathed in the soft light of dawn, Wheal Coates stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the timeless allure of the Cornish coast.

The Golden Tin Mine
Pentax K-1 Camera used:
SMC Pentax-DA* 60-250mm f/4.0 Lens used:
153mm Focal length:
f/11 Aperture:
1/60 Exposure time:
200 ISO:
Buy The Golden Tin Mine as a Print

Day 2 Evening: Braving the Elements

As the late afternoon tide turned, we ventured to the final location of the day Godrevy Lighthouse, braving the strengthening waves and fading light and scrambling over wet rocks, with the sea waves breaking around us the changing conditions posed a challenge, with fading daylight and encroaching marine haze diffusing the details of the distant lighthouse. Despite the less-than-ideal circumstances, the experience served as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of landscape photography, capturing not only images but also memories of moments shared amidst Cornwall's dynamic beauty.#

From a photography perspective, Godrevy Lighthouse presents a striking subject against the ever-changing seascapes and skyscapes. Whether shrouded in mist during a storm or bathed in the soft light of dawn, the lighthouse stands as a solitary sentinel, guiding ships safely through the treacherous waters of the Cornish coast.

At sunrise and sunset, the warm hues of the golden hour cast a magical glow upon the landscape, illuminating the lighthouse in a soft, ethereal light. Photographers often flock to this vantage point during these hours to capture the interplay of light and shadow, as the sun paints the sky in hues of pink, orange, and gold.

In addition to its visual appeal, Godrevy Lighthouse is also steeped in history and legend, with tales of shipwrecks and heroic rescues adding to its allure. From the rugged cliffs that surround it to the pristine beaches that stretch out below, the landscape offers endless opportunities for creative compositions and storytelling.

In summary, Godrevy Lighthouse is a photographer's paradise, offering a timeless canvas upon which to capture the ever-changing beauty of the Cornish coast. Whether framed against the backdrop of a stormy sea or bathed in the soft light of dawn, the lighthouse stands as a symbol of hope, resilience, and the enduring allure of the sea.

Reflecting on Day 2

Day 2 of the Cornwall photography adventure was a testament to the region's diverse landscapes and rich history. From the drama of Holywell Beach to the historic charm of Wheal Coates, each location offered its own unique allure and challenges, mostly the weather. . As the day drew to a close we enjoyed an evening meal prepared by Mark, as we took a look at the images captured over the day, eventually retiring to the lounge at our Air B&B for a few beers and more photography talk.

Dont Slip - Godrevy Lighthouse
Pentax K-1 Camera used:
Pentax DFA 28-105mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens used:
28mm Focal length:
f/5.6 Aperture:
1/250 Exposure time:
800 ISO:

Day 3: Chasing the Light Across Cornwall

As day three of the Cornwall photography expedition dawned, the we found themselves at the town of Marazion to photography the iconic St Michaels Mount. Having found a suitable location to park the car we were greeted not by a spectacular sunrise, but by a fleeting glimpse of color well after daybreak. The dull, flat light persisted throughout the morning, casting a muted ambiance over the iconic landmark. I struggled significantly to make an image work from this location, relying on the morning ferry commute from the main land to the island to add some human interest to the images I took. I have seen some spectacular images of this iconic location, however, for me, I didn't capture one of them this time.

St Michaels Mount, a tidal island crowned by a medieval castle and chapel, boasts a rich history dating back centuries. Perched atop the mount, the castle and gardens offer panoramic views of the surrounding coastline, providing a picturesque backdrop for photographers. Despite the subdued sunrise, the fleeting moment of color amidst the persistent gray served as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of landscape photography.

Marazion and St. Michael's Mount are iconic landmarks along the southwestern coast of Cornwall, England. Marazion itself is a picturesque town nestled on the shores of Mount's Bay, known for its stunning views of the bay and its proximity to the legendary St. Michael's Mount.

St. Michael's Mount is a tidal island crowned by a medieval castle and chapel, reminiscent of its counterpart, Mont Saint-Michel in France. The island is accessible by a causeway during low tide and by boat during high tide, adding an element of enchantment to the visitor's experience.

From a photography perspective, both Marazion and St. Michael's Mount offer endless opportunities to capture the beauty and charm of the Cornish coastline. Marazion's sandy beaches, colorful fishing boats, and quaint streets lined with historic cottages provide a picturesque backdrop for capturing the essence of coastal life.

St. Michael's Mount, with its dramatic castle perched atop a rocky island, is a photographer's dream. The changing tides, shifting light, and stunning vistas across Mount's Bay offer a wealth of opportunities for capturing dynamic compositions and breathtaking landscapes.

At sunrise and sunset, the warm hues of the golden hour cast a magical glow upon the landscape, illuminating the castle and surrounding waters in a soft, ethereal light. Photographers often flock to this vantage point during these hours to capture the interplay of light and shadow, as the sun paints the sky in hues of pink, orange, and gold.

In addition to its natural beauty, St. Michael's Mount is steeped in history and legend, with tales of knights, monks, and mermaids adding to its allure. Whether framed against the backdrop of a stormy sea or bathed in the soft light of dawn.

Mount Struggle
Pentax K-1 Camera used:
Pentax DFA 28-105mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens used:
53mm Focal length:
f/7.1 Aperture:
5 Sec Exposure time:
100 ISO:

Day 3 Morning: Lands End & The Longships Lighthouse

The morning's journey led to Lands End and The Longships Lighthouse, where the dull overcast conditions persisted, shrouding the landscape in a heavy marine haze. Undeterred by the challenging conditions, the we tried to embrace the unique atmosphere, aiming to capture images that deviated from the norm. Lands End, with its rugged cliffs and dramatic coastline, provided a compelling subject, despite the subdued lighting. As it happens this location produced one of my favourite shot from the entire Cornwall adventure. Titled: The Terror - I could only imaging fishmen of yesteryear hugging the coast line looking for home port only to be caught unawares in the darkness by such rocky outcroppings.

With sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and rugged coastline, Lands End offers a wealth of opportunities to capture the raw beauty and untamed wilderness of the Cornish landscape.

From a photography perspective, Lands End is a study in contrast, where the forces of nature have sculpted the landscape into a dramatic mix of cliffs, sea stacks, and hidden coves. The ever-changing light and weather conditions add an element of unpredictability to the photographer's experience, creating dynamic compositions that evolve with each passing moment.

At sunrise and sunset, the warm hues of the golden hour bathe Lands End in a soft, ethereal light, casting long shadows and accentuating the rugged beauty of the coastline. Photographers often flock to this vantage point during these hours to capture the interplay of light and shadow, as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of pink, orange, and gold.

In addition to its natural beauty, Lands End is also steeped in history and legend, with tales of shipwrecks, smugglers, and ancient landmarks adding to its allure. Whether framed against the backdrop of a stormy sea or bathed in the soft light of dawn, Lands End offers a timeless canvas upon which photographers can weave their own narratives of beauty and adventure.

The Longships Lighthouse, located just off the coast of Lands End, adds an extra layer of intrigue to the photographer's experience. This iconic lighthouse, perched atop a rocky outcrop amidst the crashing waves of the Atlantic, offers a striking subject for capturing the power and majesty of the sea.

Whether photographed from the cliffs of Lands End or from a boat out at sea, the Longships Lighthouse stands as a symbol of resilience, guiding ships safely through the treacherous waters of the Cornish coast. From the dramatic cliffs of Lands End to the solitary sentinel of the Longships Lighthouse, this corner of Cornwall offers endless opportunities for photographers to capture the beauty and drama of the natural world.

The Terror
Pentax K-1 Camera used:
Pentax DFA 28-105mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens used:
43mm Focal length:
f/7.1 Aperture:
1/80 Exposure time:
100 ISO:

Day 3 Evening: Crowns Engine Houses, Botallack Mine

As evening descended, the group ventured to Crowns Engine Houses at Botallack Mine, a historic site steeped in Cornwall's mining heritage. Dating back to the 16th century, Botallack Mine was a submarine mine with tunnels extending beneath the sea, yielding significant quantities of tin, copper, and arsenic over its lifetime. The engine houses and remnants of mining infrastructure stand as a testament to Cornwall's industrial past, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history. For me this was one of the most enjoyable and interesting locations to visit. A small landbridge leads from the mainland out a hundred foot above the sea to a sea stack, which allows the brave or stupid photographer the opportunity to shoot the Tim Mine from the iconic vantage point, how long this land bridge ill remain is uncertain, the weather and the sea is constantly eroding the ground and at some point, it will collapse into the waters below and hopefully not taking any photographers with it.

Reflecting on Day 3

Day three of the Cornwall photography expedition was marked by a blend of challenges and opportunities. From the subdued sunrise at St Michaels Mount to the atmospheric landscapes of Lands End and the historic allure of Botallack Mine, each location presented its own unique charm. Despite the persistently overcast conditions, the I embraced the opportunity to capture Cornwall's diverse landscapes and rich history through the lenses, creating a visual narrative of the region's timeless beauty, especially in dull, persistent overcast conditions. Imagine what it would look like in better weather and light. With this in mind a return trip was planned for 2023

Summary and Conclusion: Capturing Cornwall's Essence

Over the course of three days, the Cornwall photography expedition offered a journey through the diverse landscapes and rich history of this southwestern gem of the United Kingdom. Despite facing challenges such as unpredictable weather and technical difficulties, the photographers persevered, capturing moments that encapsulated Cornwall's raw beauty and timeless allure.

Day 1: Exploration and Triumph

The adventure began with a pilgrimage to iconic landmarks such as the Royal Albert Bridge and St Michaels of Rames Head. Despite initial struggles with fatigue and less-than-ideal lighting, the photographers emerged triumphant, capturing glimpses of Cornwall's rugged charm amidst the challenges.

Day 2: Dynamic Beauty Unveiled

Day two brought the group to Holywell Beach, where perfect breaking waves provided a dramatic backdrop against a canvas of changeable conditions. The adventure continued with visits to Wheal Coates, a testament to Cornwall's mining heritage, and a final evening spent braving the elements at Crowns Engine Houses, Botallack Mine. Despite the persistently overcast skies, the photographers embraced the opportunity to capture Cornwall's diverse landscapes and historic landmarks.

Day 3: Chasing Light Across Cornwall

The final day of the expedition dawned with subdued sunrises at St Michaels Mount and continued with explorations of Lands End and the Longships Lighthouse. Despite facing challenges such as heavy marine haze and flat lighting, the photographers sought to capture the essence of Cornwall's rugged coastline and rich history, culminating in an evening spent amidst the historic remnants of Botallack Mine.

Conclusion: A Journey of Discovery

As the expedition drew to a close, the photographers reflected on their journey through Cornwall's landscapes and history. Each location offered its own unique charm and challenges, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems steeped in centuries of history. Despite facing adversity, the group emerged with a collection of images that told the story of Cornwall's timeless beauty and resilient spirit. The expedition served as a reminder of the unpredictable yet undeniably rewarding nature of landscape photography, capturing not only images but also memories of moments shared amidst Cornwall's dynamic landscapes and rich heritage.

Botallack
Pentax K-1 Camera used:
Pentax DFA 28-105mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens used:
43mm Focal length:
f/16 Aperture:
5 Sec Exposure time:
100 ISO: