Staycation 2020
Staycation
In light of COVID-19, we’ve all had a lot of time to reflect on what’s important to us in life; certainly from a personal point of view, like many, family comes first. As a result of this free time, my wife and I decided to explore three iconic locations within our beautiful country; starting with a place that has always fascinated me, the Isle of Skye. With substantial free time as a direct result of cancellations caused by the Pandemic and realising that I missed taking my camera out, we decided Isle of Skye was a must for us to visit. So, in September of 2020 we headed North to Skye. I had a few images in mind, in particular, the Old Man of Storr and the Fairy Pools.
Driving to the Isle of Skye reminded me how fortunate we are to live in Scotland; around every corner is another beautiful vista, making it very difficult to take a poor photograph, although I am not infallible and succumbed to one or two.
On our arrival at the Fairy Pools we were subjected to the most dramatic scenery imaginable, with the Cuillin Mountains as our backdrop. I was not prepared for just how busy this area was. I soon realised that a 24-70 mm lens did not do the scenery justice, however this pushed me to adapt and build my skillset to utilise my perspective to its maximum potential. What you imagine in your mind being portrayed through a photograph with the limitations of the equipment, and finally seeing it come to fruition is one of the most satisfying elements of photography. Throughout the whole visit, this perspective was one of the many things I capitalised on to capture the essence of what I imagined in my mind’s eye.
Landscape photography is a new genre that I have been able to explore further, given these strange times and has provided two functions. The first, as above, is using perspective and limitations; and the other is regaining a sense of normality – getting out and enjoying the scenery for the benefit of mental health - and giving yourself that challenge to do more and do it better. Given that we have such beautiful scenery here in Scotland, it would be remiss of us not to exploit this and use it to our advantage, in the shape of a new take on old ideas – and indeed new ones.
The second location we decided to visit was slightly closer to home and came in the form of, some might say, the most famous bridge in history – The Glenfinnan Viaduct aka “The Harry Potter Bridge”. The beauty of this area is it is a 2-for-1 offer; you have, at the road side, the stunning Loch Sheil which is surrounded by magnificent mountains and is home to the Glenfinnan Monument, as well as the Glenfinnan Viaduct itself. There are several viewing points of the viaduct, the most popular of which is at the carpark. However, for the more adventurous among you, I would suggest walking under the viaduct and up a hillside, where you’ll get the most spectacular view.
This will also afford you the best view of the Jacobite (Hogwarts Express) as it passes over the Viaduct a mere 100 ft away.
Glen Etive
Travelling South again as you pass through Glen Coe towards Taynult, and prior to Glen Coe Ski Centre, you will be met with the Buachaille Etive Mor which leads you to “The Jewel in the Crown” that is Glen Etive - the iconic landscape used in the Bond Movie, Skyfall.
However, it is much more than this. First of all, you have the imposing mountain that is Buachaille as well as the River Etive. Drive further into the Glen and if you’re lucky enough, you will find Scotland’s impressive Highland wildlife. These animals are more friendly than you would think and are pretty approachable; some will even stand and pose for you!
At the bottom of the Glen, you will come to Loch Etive itself. Wild camping, fishing bothies, and a small colony of seals make this a unique location to photograph the best of what Scotland has to offer.
So, whilst the pandemic looms without end, now is the time to explore what’s on our doorstep and discover the hidden gems and awesome beauty that our country has to offer.
Check the full gallery here