Latest Articles by simonkit

North Wales Landscape Photography guide to Anglesey - Benllech to Amlwch

Sun, 04 Mar 2007 00:00:00 -0600

The section of coastline between Benllech and Amlwch is probably the most contrasting section of the Anglesey Coastal Path and provides numerous possibilities for the landscape photographer. The coastal path climbs dramatically as it leaves Benllech and the view becomes expansive, with lots of interest. Again the Great Orme is in view, although a powerful telephoto lens is essential to successfully capture a photograph. The first main focus for the photographer on leaving Benllech however, is on the approach to Moelfre. It is a quaint place, with the appearance of a small Cornish fishing village, although as a consequence it can get very busy, so early hours photography provides the most tranquil shot. The only problem with Moelfre however, is finding the best location from which to take the shot as it’s located in a small corner of the coastline and doesn’t have many natural vantage points for the landscape photographer. The best option is to walk past the village on the coastal path and take a photograph looking backwards into the small harbour.

The coastline onwards from Moelfre becomes flatter and features include nicely located sandy coves with interesting detail and texture. The most notable amongst these is the beach at Lligwy, it can be reached by car too. The landscape photographer also finds added interest here in the form of Ynys Dulas, a small, rocky island on which is built a distinctive and particularly photogenic structure. It’s situated some distance from the beach so a powerful telephoto lens would be a good idea. If the coastal path is followed further however, the island does becomes closer in perspective, and as an added bonus the photographer will find the landscape provides increasingly strong foreground features, enhancing composition further.

Another special photography location, Dulas, soon becomes evident as the path continues. It is similar in nature to Red Wharf Bay, resembling an estuary. If crossed at low tide (without socks & shoes) another photographic opportunity is found in the form of a large wooden boat, long since abandoned and decaying but nonetheless an excellent subject, interestingly located.

On leaving Dulas the Anglesey Coastal Path again climbs above the coastline, the view again becoming more substantial, with the small island of Ynys Dulas constantly in view. Further interest soon appears in the form of the lighthouse at Point Lynas, an imposing structure sat high on the cliff top, seen from a good distance away. It provides the landscape photography with a variety of options, whilst the surrounding bracken and heather form excellent foreground features. Immediately below the lighthouse is Porth Eillan, a small bay enclosed by high cliffs, it provides the landscape photographer with further excellent opportunities. The beach itself, although small, has interesting features and sand detail and its location in particular provides scope for a good wide-angle seascape.

Continuing along the Anglesey Coastal Path from Porth Eillan, the landscape becomes rugged as it climbs further above the coastline, fewer photography opportunities exist however. The path soon reaches Amwlch, unfortunately now in decline. The old port however is still an excellent place for photography, particularly for those interested in maritime history or industrial landscapes and architecture. The old port has a small, very atmospheric harbour and interesting structures from its ancient industrial past remain.

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my website article at www.landscapephotographyuk.com

My website :Landscape Photography UK .com

North Wales landscape photographs - Anglesey, Snowdonia and other UK regions

Source: http://www.articletrader.com

North Wales Landscape Photography guide to Anglesey - Amwlch to Cemaes

Sun, 04 Mar 2007 00:00:00 -0600

The Anglesey Coastal Path after Amwlch becomes very rugged and it rises and falls dramatically, passing through more highly photogenic industrial ruins. The landscape photographer walking this section of the Anglesey coastal path is spoilt for choice.

The first major opportunity for the photographer along this section of the coastal path is Bull Bay, a nice enough place and a popular tourist destination, but perhaps lacking any substantial opportunities for photography - it’s still worth a visit just to be sure. From Bull Bay the path starts to climb dramatically and it’s from here onwards that the landscape provides a great deal of inspiration for the photographer. Near the end of the long climb you arrive at the stunning Porth Wen, a large bay surrounded by rocky cliffs with, on one side, the remains of disused Victorian brickworks. Although abandoned the main structures remain, the kilns, chimneys and a small harbour wall, it is actually quite impressive, its location enhancing its appeal. Porth Wen is an excellent location for the landscape photographer, particularly anyone interested in industrial landscapes.

Leaving Porth Wen the Anglesey Coastal Path climbs further and the drama of the landscape increases, becoming even more rugged and visually stunning. The photographer really is spoilt for choice, the industrial ruins continue with a series of kilns and buildings located where the path falls suddenly back to sea level in a series of valleys. It really is difficult to overemphasis the photogenic nature of this section of the Anglesey Coastal Path. This continues as the path heads towards Cameas, passing along the way the Llandabrig Church. It is perched high on the clifftop overlooking the sea and has a unique character. The church is an excellent photography subject, a wide-angle lens is being essential to make the most of the opportunity.

A short distance down the cliffs from the church is another section of coastline not to be missed. A large, rock-strewn beach appears, the main appeal the landscape photographer being a large section of the mainland that has broken away. It now stands in the centre of the beach resembling a rugged monument. It makes an excellent subject for the landscape photographer, foreground interest is abundant too.
From here the Anglesey Coastal Path falls gradually on its approach to Cemaes. This quaint coastal village has lots of potential for photography, with the small harbour and the large sweeping bay provide the main subjects. Unfortunately though, just around the bay from Cameas things get distinctly less photogenic in the form of a monstrous nuclear power station. This is actually seen occasionally on the approach from Porth Wen but fortunately not too often to detract from the otherwise stunning coastline. I cannot recommend this section of the Anglesey Coastal Path highly enough, in its relatively short distance it provides the landscape photographer with a wealth of opportunities.

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my website article at www.landscapephotographyuk.com

My website :Landscape Photography UK .com

North Wales landscape photographs - Anglesey, Snowdonia and other UK regions

Source: http://www.articletrader.com

North Wales Landscape Photography guide to Snowdonia - The valleys of Nant Ffrancon & Ogwen

Sat, 03 Mar 2007 00:00:00 -0600

These two valleys alone could provide the photographer with a lifetime of possibilities. Access is via the A5, travelling either from Bethesda in the west or Capel Curig in the east. Bethesda, although lacking the attractive appearance of the more picturesque Snowdonia villages is certainly not without character. It was built around the slate quarrying industry and is surrounded by the evidence of this, photographers particularly interested in industrial landscapes will find it a fascinating area, don’t dismiss it on first impressions. In contrast, Capel Curig is much smaller and generally speaking, more visually appealing. It is more a hamlet than a village and is surrounded on all sides by impressive scenery. The Afon Llugwy runs through the centre, providing the spectacle of the Pont Cyfyng falls, particularly photogenic after a period of rainfall. Also, just on the outskirts are the desolate looking lakes known as Llynnau Mymbyr, surrounded by Moel Siabod, the Glyderau mountains and in the distance, the highest mountain in Wales, Snowdon.

Starting the journey along the A5 from the west, after leaving Bethesda the Nant Ffrancon valley appears dramatically in view, the road surrounded by two impressive mountain ranges, the Glyderau on one side and the Carneddau on the other. The picturesque river Ogwen flows through the valley too, nearby the road for much of the route towards Ogwen and it provides a great ‘lead-in’ for a shot along the valley, mountains and all. For those energetic photographers, equipped with a well-detailed “Ordnance Survey” map, there are several walking routes that start from Bethesda and climb the surrounding mountains, indeed it’s possible to walk the full distance from Bethesda to Capel Curig along the mountains – a distance of 16 kilometres and height gain of 1600metres, a full day walk. The drive along the A5 to Ogwen presents multiple photographic opportunities, indeed the most difficult decision is what not to photograph. A stop at Ogwen is not to be missed as here you will find mountain lakes, waterfalls, impressive rock formations, flowing rivers and all of these no more than 30 minutes walk from the car park. For the more energetic the walking routes from Ogwen are nothing short of spectacular and provide a further wealth of photographic opportunities.

If the walking route directly behind Ogwen Cottage is chosen, ascending the Glyderau, a fascinating range of mountain scenery can be captured. The rugged and austere mountain known as Tryfan, world famous amongst climbers, the picturesque lake of Llyn Idwal and the mountain pass of Devils Kitchen. On reaching the summit the views down the Nant Ffrancon valley towards the Isle of Anglesey and across the Llanberis Pass to Snowdon are just breathtaking. Notable features on the summit include Bristly Ridge, Yr Wyddfa and Castell y Gwynt on Glyder Fach and the infamous Cantilever, a precariously balanced slate slab. These are only a few of the numerous attractions of this distinctive mountain range, all of which provide more than adequate compensation for the photographers efforts in reaching the summit.

If the path across from Ogwen Cottage is chosen then an ascent of the Carneddau is the objective. Even before starting the climb you arte confronted by the imposing figure of Pen yr olwen, a rugged and distinctive mountain standing directly alongside the A5. The Carneddau are quite different in character to the Glyderau mountains, equally as high, but on reaching the summit much flatter and less rugged in appearance. The view across to Tryfan from here is excellent, probably the place to capture Tryfan at its best. Walking along the ridge between Carnedd Dafydd and Carnedd Llewelyn, the Isle of Anglesey and the Menai straits are constantly in view, although some distance away so a good telephoto is essential. The reservoir of Ffynnon Llugwy also appears well below in a hidden valley, forming the source of the Afon Llugwy river that follows the A5 down to Betws-y-Coed.

Restarting the journey by road from Ogwen travelling along the A5 towards Capel Curig, the Ogwen valley opens out wider, mountains still surrounding the valley but less imposing. Open moorland becomes evident and the Afon Llugwy river continues its route through the valley. There are several parking places along the route and a photograph taken looking back towards Ogwen provides a view of Llyn Ogwen and its spectacular backdrop, the Glyderau mountains. Tryfan is outstanding from here too, the best photograph probably captured during a winter sunset. Nearing Capel Curig the valley sides flatten somewhat and the drama of earlier subsides as the rugged mountains are left behind. Capel Curig itself though has several possibilities, as already mentioned.

Finally, if time was limited and I had to choose the best photographic opportunities along this part of the A5, without doubt it would be Ogwen. The variety of scenery and drama it provides the photographer, within such a small area, make it just too appealing to miss.

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my website article at www.landscapephotographyuk.com

My website :Landscape Photography UK .com

North Wales landscape photographs - Anglesey, Snowdonia and other UK regions

Source: http://www.articletrader.com

North Wales Landscape photography guide to Snowdonia - Capel Curing to Llanberis

Sat, 03 Mar 2007 00:00:00 -0600

The route along the A4086, particularly between the two villages of Capel Curig and Llanberis has an abundance of opportunities for the landscape photographer, it is also the route most first time visitors to Snowdonia take as it passes through some stunning scenery. Capel Curig, surrounded on all sides by impressive scenery, is a popular place from which to climb the many mountains in the area and provides an excellent base if wishing to spend some time discovering the mountain summits. The Afon Llugwy river also runs through the centre, providing the spectacle of the Pont Cyfyng falls, particularly photogenic after a period of rainfall.

On leaving Capel Curing via the A4086 towards Llanberis, the valley widens and the lakes of “Llynnau Mymbyr” appear in view surrounded on one side by the solitary Moel Siabod and the Glyderau mountains on the other. More distant can be seen the highest mountain in Wales, Snowdon. These lakes provide a good subject, particularly with the surrounding mountain backdrop and a short walk will produce several vantage points. Moel Siabod too provides the perfect vantage point, either for an aerial shot of the impressive valley or more likely the unbroken view across to Snowdon. It’s also a relatively gentle mountain to climb so requires a little less energy than most in the area.

Continuing along the A4080, passing the lakes of Llynnau Mymbyr, several abandoned barns are easily located and with a little effort can create a very effective foreground to the distant Snowdon. The Glyderau mountain range towers above the road all the way to the junction of the A498 and the A4086, the start of the ‘not-to-be-missed’ Llanberis Pass. Parking near the Pen-y-Gwryd Hotel, allows access to several hiking routes which climb the Glyderau – in my view the most distinct and feature rich mountains around Snowdonia – don’t miss the rock formations of Yr Wyddfa and Castell y Gwynt on Glyder Fach, essential photography subjects. One word of warning though, this area is extremely busy during peak holidays so to capture a landscape shot devoid of people requires a very early start, alternatively winter is much quieter and the weather often more conducive to photography.

Immediately after the Pen-y-Gwryd Hotel turn right onto the Llanberis pass. This climbs steeply and reaches the carpark & Youth Hostel at Pen-y-Pass, the most popular starting place for those climbing Snowdon. For the photographer looking for some impressive aerial photographs, Snowdon will certainly not disappoint. From Pen-Y-Pass the "Pyg Track", is the route to take, after a short distance the view to Llanberis and its lakes appears, an impressive sight and worthy of a photograph. Also from here mountain streams start to tumble down the mountain side, great foreground interest. The routes here provide many photographic opportunties, too many to describe tham all. Most notable however, are Grib Coch, an ominous looking ridge only to be crossed by experienced hikers. There are two particularly photogenic lakes well below the mountain path, Llyn Llydaw and Glaslyn – a wide angle lens is essential to do them justice. The mountain views to Lliwedd, Crib Y Ddysgl and Snowdon itself are all impressive. For the energetic photographer who continues to the summit, whilst the view is impressive, personally I don’t believe it’s nearly as photogenic as those available during the climb. One notable summit feature is the unique train that, except for the winter months, brings hundreds of tourists to the top of Snowdon – forget any thought of mountain isolation, this is a difficult summit from which to capture a “person free” shot. The train itself makes an interesting photographic subject as it winds its way up the steep track from llanberis. It also provides another option for those photographers not too keen on hiking to the top of a mountain.

Back at the Pen-Y-Pass Youth Hostel an excellent vantage point of both Snowdon and the Llanberis Pass itself can be captured with minimum effort. Take the path which climbs the mountain side directly at the side of the Youth Hostel, heading up the Glyderau mountains. Within a very short distance and minimal climbing the impressive views of Snowdon, Crib Goch, Crib y Ddysgl and down the Llanberis Pass itself are seen. This viewpoint is a much easier option than the “Pyg Track” and still provides some rewarding photography.

Back on the A4086, the road drops dramatically down the boulder strewn Llanberis Pass towards the village of Nant Peris, passing along the way a series of waterfalls and mountain streams, each increasing in drama and photogenic qualities following heavy rainfall. Nant Peris itself provides an opportunity for a walkabout with the camera, there are also hiking routes up either side of the pass, towards either Snowdon or the Glyderau mountains. Once again as the height increases so does the mountain panorama that can be capture.

Continuing from Nant Peris towards Llanberis be careful not to miss a hidden gem, Dolbadarn Castle. It’s perched imposingly alongside the entrance to Llanberis but is hidden from view on approach. Fortunately signposts uncover its hiding place. The small climb to the castle produces a surprisingly impressive panorama of the Llanberis Pass, Snowdon and the Glyderau. The castle itself, relatively unknown amongst Welsh castles, is a great subject – a “must visit” on my photography list. The lake of Llyn Padarn can be seen from the castle, together with the numerous slate quarry workings scattered around the Llanberis mountainsides. Llanberis itself was built around the Slate mining industry and retains many of the scars, however these actually add to the photogenic qualities of this interesting place, as does Llyn Padarn. Llanberis is also the base for the Snowdon Mountain Railway, a “must see” for train enthusiasts. It’s worthwhile having a stroll around the village, streams and waterfalls can be found within a short distance, Llyn Padarn is particularly photogenic. Another series of hiking routes onto the surrounding mountains leave from here too, the most popular being the Llanberis Path which follows the route of the railway to the top of Snowdon.

If I were only to have a short time in this area and had to choose my favourite places for the most productive photography I would select Pen-Y-Pass and walk a short distance along both the “Pyg Track” and the route opposite, alongside the Youth Hostel – both produce impressive viewpoints. The other highlight for me is Dolbadarn Castle, infrequently photographed, which comes as a great surprise to me considering its excellent location and appearance.

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my website article at www.landscapephotographyuk.com

My website :Landscape Photography UK .com

North Wales landscape photographs - Anglesey, Snowdonia and other UK regions

Source: http://www.articletrader.com

Landscape photography guide to Anglesey, North Wales - Beaumaris to Penmon point

Wed, 17 Jan 2007 00:00:00 -0600

Beaumaris is one of the most attractive towns on Anglesey, its location and castle ensuring its appeal to the landscape photographer. It’s situated directly across the Menai straits from Snowdonia National Park, whose impressive mountains provide a stunning backdrop. It’s also an excellent location for sunrise photographs as the sun rises directly behind the Snowdonia Mountains and creates stunning reflections in the Menai Straits. Beaumaris pier itself provides a good vantage point from which to capture these stunning scenes. In the Menai Straits themselves yachts and boats are frequently moored and can provide a good subject or alternatively some added foreground interest. Alongside the pier is a natural harbour, the main area for the numerous yachts and boats that visit Beaumaris, it’s another interesting possibility for the landscape photographer. Within the town itself is an impressive and particularly photogenic 13th century castle. A visit inside the castle can provide good views across the Menai Straits and towards the Snowdonia mountains, also a short distance along the coastal path behind the town is a small hill which provides the ideal vantage point for a wide angle photograph of the town, the castle and the surrounding landscape.

From Beaumaris to Penmon point the coastal path is flat all the way, running directly alongside the Menai Straits - be aware that at high tide much of the path is actually underwater. This section of the path provides a constant view of the Menai Straits, the Snowdonia Mountains and at a distance, the imposing Great Orme. Here though the beaches are not particularly photogenic, being mainly flat and indistinct. Personally, if I was to choose one particular photography location along this section of the coastal path I would go directly to Penmon point, easily accessible by car from Beaumaris. Here options for the landscape photographer include Penmon priory, Penmon point lighthouse and excellent views towards Puffin Island, the distant Great Orme and the ever-present Snowdonia mountains. Interesting rock formations can also be found a short distance along the shoreline from the lighthouse, offering the possibility for some imaginative macro shots.
Penmon Point to Benllech

Heading from Penmon point towards Red Wharf Bay the coastal path starts to climb above the coastline, providing the photographer with a new viewpoint of the lighthouse, Puffin Island and the Great Orme. Along this section of the path though the best location for a good landscape photograph has to be Red Wharf Bay, again accessible by car. It is a large open bay, appearing much like an estuary, which during low tide is a mass of golden sand – the of which character changes dramatically with the incoming tide. Personally, I think the best time for photography here is at low tide. The small village itself is directly alongside the bay and has some character. In particular the small harbour, with its usual collection of yachts, provides the landscape photographer with excellent opportunities. Continuing along the coastal path towards Benllech now involves a walk along the beach, tide permitting. The beach between Red Wharf Bay and Benllech has golden sand and again provides opportunities, although it lacks any particularly strong features. Benllech itself is a large town, mainly located slightly away from the coastline, which although pleasant, doesn’t have any special interest for the photographer.

http://www.landscapephotographyuk.com

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my website article at www.landscapephotographyuk.com

My website :Landscape Photography UK .com

North Wales landscape photographs - Anglesey, Snowdonia and other UK regions

Source: http://www.articletrader.com