Experiments in Portrait Lighting

A very interesting evening at CCC Portrait Group - my first visit to the group in a lot of years in the club. We were using mannequins rather than live models and I found it fascinating how just small changes in the light source, positioning of the model and, even, mode used in the camera (I had a film simulation on by mistake at some stage) affected the outcome. Certainly helped me appreciate the skills required on this genre a little more. Many thanks Clive for all the hard work that goes into such evenings.

Goosanders at Paxton Pits

Now the ice has gone from the first pit at Paxton, the Goosanders, Gadwall, Pochard and Teal have returned there. Female Goosander performed a couple of close swim pasts; most other birds were at quite a distance.

Konig Ponies and Raptors at Wicken Fen

Very dull light yesterday afternoon for CCC walk at Wicken Fen. We were hoping for Barn Owls and Hen Harriers to photograph but these were only seen after the light had fallen too low. So here the beautiful Konig ponies. I have left in the recorded white balance as this is as I would portray them in watercolours using sienna and ultramarine. Lots of Kestrels and Marsh Harriers but all rather distant.

Cold Clear Day at Fen Drayton Pits

In contrast to our last visit to Fen Drayton pits, yesterday was sunny though very cold. Good views of Kestrel, Starlings and Fieldfares together with more distant views of Coot, Heron, Tufted, Pochard, Golden Eye and Marsh Harrier plus a rabbit.

Happy New Year

Happy New Year from two girls who love life to the full - thanks for loan of second blonde Ian and the flash!!

London Old and New

We had a few hours in the City of London before getting the train home and I got intrigued by the juxtaposition of old and new building in the City, which is growing ever taller. The Turkish baths in the first image have sat in Bishopgate’s Churchyard for two centuries. The present Bath House was designed by G Harold Elphick in 1895. The bathhouse uses tessellating Arabic motifs in classic colours. We couldn't identify all the new buildings other than Lloyd's, the Walkie Talkie and the Gherkin from within the area - must return sometime to do justice to the structures on a day with a bit more light.