What do I need to bring with me on a Photo Trail or Day Out?
As well as your photography gear,you should bring normal walking gear –boots or stout shoes that can cope with rough/muddy/awkward terrain,a waterproof layer,and suitable levels of clothing for the conditions (bear in mind that standing around taking pictures can be colder than when you’re moving and that you may decide that kneeling,sitting or even lying on the ground is what it takes to get the shot!). Also some snacks or a small drink could be useful.
Is food provided?
Sorry no. Aside from being impractical in some places,it helps keep the costs to an absolute minimum. On half days,we suggest you make sure you have a good breakfast/lunch beforehand,and the session will finish in reasonable time for you to get lunch/dinner yourself. On full days,we will advise you whether there is likely to be a pub/cafe stop en-route or whether you need to bring your own lunch.
Are there loos on the route?
That depends on the route,but on a half-day trip (usually 2.5hrs) you should not expect a loo to be available. On a full-day session it depends entirely on the route,but we will endeavour to visit a cafe or pub for lunch if practical.
What sort of camera do I need?
You will get the best results from an SLR camera or CSC (compact SLR-like camera with interchangeable lenses eg the Panasonic G3 or Olympus E-PL3),and some techniques do require the use of an SLR/CSC. But “composition and seeing the image”can be taught whatever camera you have,so don’t worry if you don’t (yet!) have a camera with interchangeable lenses.
Anything specific for photographing bluebells?
A macro lens/long zoom and standard zoom/wide-angle lens are always useful. Additionally a tripod would be useful,and a polarising filter and/or flashgun could be useful.
Is it safe?
It is the outdoors –so you do need to look where you’re going! There will be tree roots and rocks that could trip you up,there may be branches to poke at your eyes,and mud to slip on. Oh and photographers tend to have three-legged tripping-up devices commonly known as tripods! You are expected to use basic common sense and watch where you’re walking,but other than that,there shouldn’t be any significant risks.
What if the weather’s bad?
If its raining,then that’s not a reason to cancel,as sometimes this can give great shots! But in such conditions you really need good waterproofs for yourself and an umbrella/waterproof cover to protect your camera. (And a small supply of chocolate often helps too!) If it’s really stormy (strong winds + rain) then it is likely the leader of the trail will postpone the session to a day with better weather. You will be given as much notice as possible on this.
What should I wear?
Normal outdoor clothing is fine,but good walking footwear (preferably boots or approach shoes) is usually needed. However,you may find that you end up sitting,kneeling or even lying on the ground in search of that perfect shot,so if you think there’s even the slightest chance of that,it’s best to wear something that won’t object to such treatment!
How do I Enquire about a Photo Trail/Day Out/Holiday?
Either fill in this form to enquire about a Photo Trail/Photo Day Out/Photo Holiday,or call me on 07812 001505:
