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"It's not always sunshine and beaches, but there's usually adventure and smiles" The brand new @hyundaiuk #kona inched slowly down the narrow Miner's Track as I attempted to avoid the steep drop to the right and the wrath of the mechanics. A tumble down that slope wouldn't do the bodywork any good...... let alone the damage to my companion and I! The Miner's Track is usually the sole territory of hillwalkers making their way to the summit of #mountsnowdon the highest summit in England and Wales. We'd been given a pass, special permission to drive the track. However, it was already quite dark, witn a heavy mist and even heavier sheet of rain hitting our windscreen, even the hardiest walker was almost certainly tucked up warm inside the nearby #penypass hostel. The same one in which we'd earlier sheltered from the brutal weather, sipping hot chocolate while waiting to find out if the drive up the track was on. So here we were, having completed a fun day tasting out the new #hyundai baby, the Kona. Winding our way through the mountainous country roads of north #wales and on the beach at #blackrocksands Blogging can be hard work, early starts and late finishes, long days filled with short stop offs to find stories and images to represent a destination. Sometimes, however there are just fun days, like this one, thrashing a cool little car around the Snowdonia countryside. The sun may have been missing for most of the day, but smiles certainly weren't. TIP: A good image doesn't have to be taken in perfect conditions, occassionally heavy rain and dwindling light can provide an abundance of atmsosphere. Set up your equipment prior to venturing out, make use of any available light and protect your equipment, speed counts. However, the image probably won't be possible unless you get wet! To find out more about this story, follow the link in my bio. (at Snowdonia-Nationalpark)

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"Once upon a theme, somethings are worth continuing" Continuing the theme of older images retouched with some new found editing magic skills, this is a favourite from #padarisland in #komodonationalpark #indonesia in 2015. It was a short, but in places quite steep and slippery slope getting to this high point, not all of the group decided to make the effort. With views like this, I think it was a mistake. Panoramic views over the beaches, bays and hills of the island in the hazy evening light just before sunset, were our reward for making the trek. Even without a camera it was worth taking the time and effort to climb. There were a few that ventured up, that were nervous on the narrow, rocky paths, needing some help and encouragement, but pretty sure they were pleased they did. As I've mentioned recently, been investing some time learning some new post-capture editing techniques and putting the new skills to use on some favourite images. If you look back through this gallery, you'll find the original image. Why not compare the two and let me know in the comments which you prefer? It's important not only to use newly acquired skills and techniques to work on new projects, but also to improve old portfolio images. These are the ones used to find work, impress friends and rekindle memories, so improving them and showing them at their best will be is beneficial. TIP: Only carry the equipment you absolutely need, don't let a heavy pack or bulky tripod discourage you from making a climb or trekking to a location for a shot. If the amount of kit carried is an encumberance, that may result in missing an opportunity, something has to give. Reduce weight, travel as light as possible. To see more #travelphotography follow the link in my bio. (at Pulau Padar)

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"Calm before the storm" Just moments after this lovely scene at Twr Mawr lighthouse on the small tidal #llanddwynisland near #newboroughwarren on #anglesey the heavens opened. We'd actually walked out twice, walking out across the tidal beach with the dog to recce for places to shoot later. Returning to tne camper, we loaded up with kit and made the 40 minute trek to the lighthouse again. There were a few threatening clouds and the wind was gusting strongly, making steady shots even with a tripod a challenge. The clouds gathered just beyond the confines of this frame, and we received an instant soaking with a heavy squall settling over us. Although we were equipped with waterproofs, the camper was far away, the best option seemed to bolt for the nearby pilots cottages. They were all shut up, but here we were able to find some shelter in the porch of the first cottage. Fortunately, the burst of rain turned out to be short, all over in a matter of minutes. As the sun sunk lower in the sky, darkness crept over the landscape, its inky depths swallowing up the landscape, so we dawdled a little longer. Seeing the final colours of this Welsh sunset meant a walk back in the dark but the beauty of day end in west #wales more than made up for it. TIP: Blustery conditions are a challenge for the landscape photographer. A sturdy tripod is a must, especially in low light conditions, but even then, care needs to be taken. Patience is key, waiting for gusts to subside and provide a moment of calm, allowing a steady, focused capture. To see more #travelphotography and stories from our campervan adventures follow the link in my bio. (at Ynys Llanddwyn)

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"As twilight descends, beauty often ascends to new heights" Continuing the theme of revisiting images from the past, even a more recent one from #thebattery in #stjohns and giving it a makeover. Striking the day before as I cruised past on a small boat to see an iceberg, I knew that it would have to be shot at sunset and the 'blue hour'. So returning the following evening with camera and tripod I set about capturing the attractive neighbourhood of #stjohnsnl for a few hours. I wasn't alone, there were several other photographers making the most of a beautiful evening. Chatting for one awhile, Mike, an Albertan that had come across temporarily for some work, but loved jt so much had brought his wife and young family over nearly fuve years ago. We chatted while the golden rays of sunset slowly faded and the shadows of the blue hour deepened. The lights of tne harbour and battery gradually coming on, one by one, like fireflies. He didn't specify how his wife felt about his impromptu move. Touring the #avalonpeninsula of #newfoundland there had been plenty of opportunities to enjoy the colourful villages of the region in a variety of circumstances. Under dramatic brooding skies, bathed in the golden light of sunrise or sunset and the clinging shadows of dusk. Yet, here right on the doorstep of the city was a neighbourhood attractive enough to persuade the locals to come out and photograph it. Recommendation enough for me! TIP: It's essential to continue to learn new skills, improving your photography. Once the basics are sufficiently familiar, practice, then practice somemore until the skill becomes ingrained. Then it's time to experiment and add some creativity of your own. To see more photography and learn more about the villages of Newfoundland follow the link in my bio to find the latest posts. (at The Battery, St. John's)

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"Giant diamonds on a black lava beach" Another image recently retrieved from a trip to #iceland two winters back which I'm pleased has resurfaced. I remember the feeling of stepping onto the beach near the #jokulsarlonglacierlagoon vividly, simply being awestruck by the crystalline structures littered around the laval beach, with waves rolling in from the ocean. I'd already spent around two hours wading in the icy waters of the lagoon, grateful for the chest waders I'd invested in before flying out. Avoiding the odd car sized berg that drifted slowly through the lagoon, carved from the nearby glacier, now seeking passage to the beach. It's a spectacular scene, but photographers wading in the water in early December was obviously more interesting for a visiting coach load of Japanese tourists. They took more photographs of us than the actual lagoon! Impressive the lagoon maybe, but these bergs on the beach seemed even more spectacular. Some as large as cars, but most small ice boulders worn down by sea and wind. Their crystalline structure of pure water, was clear, looking closely it was possible to see right through some of them. Others appeared aquamarine, in the early light of the day, strange shaped diamonds 'cut' by the elements, sculpted by nature. Waves washed around and over each berg, every pattern produced by the receding water on the black sand was unique. Leaving streaks as they slowly clawed their way back to the cold ocean. Beautiful, if strangely cold and desolate. TIP: Long exposure photography of crashing and receding waves is a matter of judgement. Deciding how long the exposure will need to be and the exact moment to close the shutter to create the desired effect is about judgement. ND grad filters allowing long exposures of a second or more in daylight are needed and maybe an app to help choose the shutter speed, but ultimately judgement through experience will dictate the success of the results. To see more #travelphotography from #jokulsarlon and Iceland follow the link in my bio. (at Glacier Lagoon-Jökulsárlón)

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"Looking forward is the way to go, but looking back can rekindle more than just memories" Watching and learning some new post capture editing techniques via @youtube tutorials recently I decided to revisit some old images and try again. A winter trip to #iceland several years ago had provided some memorable moments, good images but also many which had proved disappointing. Shooting with the original Canon 7D there had been excessive noise and a few other issues. Exploring new techniques with some of these, I managed to breathe new life into otherwise discarded images. #goðafoss has always been a bit special for me, first visiting on a guided ecursion in 2008, I've been back twice. It's the backdrop to my profile pic on all social media accounts from the start. It is a beautifull waterfall, possibly my favourite in a country bursting with impressive and often stunning cascades. This shot had many pleasing elements, the long exposure softening the water yet managing to emphasise the power of the flow. The beautiful light of an #icelandic winter. Yet, it had posed a few challenges I'd been able to satisfactorily deal with, so it was discarded. With a few new strings to my bow I gave it another shot ...... and very pleased I did. TIP: Improving your photography is your responsibility, don't ever rest on your laurels or think you know it all. Nobody can improve your skills but you, they can assist, but ultimately by attending workshops, following online tutorials, reading relevant books or magazines or just getting out and taking photographs, it will be you that forces improvement. Have you got any old images which you'd discarded but recently refound and surprised you? (at Goðafoss)

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"When the light of day fades, an old light never seems to fade" Taking a planned road trip around #dumfriesandgalloway I was pleased to stray over the border into nearby #ayrshire Apart from the lovely #turnberry #lighthouse the nearby fishing village of #dunure with its picturesque harbour and atmospheric #dunurecastle was an especially pleasant surprise. We also met some crab and lobster fishermen, who were happy to share some stories of the town, their history and culture. We even bought a lobster off them, which made a tasty lobster thermadore with tagiatelle once we arrived home. Visiting the lighthouse at Turnberry, not once but twice hoping for some spectacular golden hour scenes, I shot it from a variety of angles. A classic over the nearby green shot and several from down by the sea. The lighthouse isn't a working beacon anymore, but it has become a high end accommodatikn, which watching the visiting people stroll around left me feeling slightly envious. The light didn't really play ball, a distinct lack of spectacular fiery skies, but a more moody, almost sulking evening light over the lighthouse. Still finding a pleasing shot is part of the fun and a challenge that rarely disappoints. TIP: When photographing a popular often photographed landmark, discovering a different perspective requires imagination, a little technical competance and a lot of hard work. Don't merely settle for the first spot you find, explore the area before setting up the tripod, observe the light and clouds, how will the scene develop? Find an interesting perspective you are happy with and give it your best shot. To see more #travelphotography from #scotland follow the link in my bio (at Turnberry, South Ayrshire, United Kingdom)

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Enjoyed a day exploring classy #bilbao in #euskal / #basquecountry on my own before a recent media trip. Obviously Google did too, as it made one of those cool little slideshows for me. I still insist on pretending they're a story, so here it is. The #guggenheimmuseum is undoubtedly the jewel in the Spanish city, a marvel of architecture and creative artistry in many of the innovative exhibitions. However, it's also a green city, with a number of attractive parks scattered around and quite appropriate as it was to be our gateway to #InGreenSpain the collaboration between the Spanish regions of the #basque country, #cantabria #asturias and #galicia Early afternoon and office workers in stylish suits or chic, matching ensembles stream from the offices and fill one of the many bars. Descending on their favourite for a bite to eat and a glass of chilled wine. I hope you enjoy my afternoon in Bilbao as much as Google and I did. (at Bilbao, Spain)

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"There is a story on every street, and every street has stories to tell" As we arrived at the small, outdoor market in #santiagodecompostella #galicia our guide advised us "you have five minutes!" No pressure then. Fortunately, it's a small market, easy to explore and even so there is plenty going on. There aren't any traditional stalls with display counters, or computerised cash registers. Fresh produce, usually fruit and vegetables are sold directly from wooden crates on the floor. Cash is kept in pockets or metal biscuit tins. The market is frequented primarily by women, that's just an observation, not a comment. Experienced eyes and sensitive fingers test the ripeness of colourful oranges and the firmness of over-sized tomatoes, squeezing them with well practiced hands. Fashionably dressed mothers have their purchases weighed by hand, by ladies that have seen enough years to be their mother. Filling plastic shopping bags and raising them up so their customer can see the weight for themselves. Located down a narrow side street, outside the larger indoor market, tourists looking for a coffee shop or the Praza do Obradoiro pass through. Most rarely pause, passing by without a sideways glance, only a handful notice the stories happening just a few feet from them. The market is the stage for a series of events, interactions between strangers, their stories being played out on a daily basis. The stage is packed up each evening, but the theatre remains, the streets of Santiago de Compostela, #InGreenSpain TIP: When browsing markets, try to remember to capture a snapshot of daily life. Images of colourful fruit, interesting vegetables or artistic shallow depth of field shots are all worthwhile but the people are the real story. To see more photography from Galicia and the rest of northern Spain follow the link in the bio. (at Santiago de Compostela, Spain)

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"Recently declared by @natgeo photographers as one of the most beautiful places in the world" #cabovidio in #asturias and it's lighthouse are certainly spectacular and stunningly beautiful, so who am I to argue with people far wiser and more talented than I? We had shaved sometime off all the planned visits during the day to ensure there was enough time to squeeze a visit to these impressive sea cliffs. Definitely worth it! The views are equally breath taking in either direction, they stretch as far as the eye can see east and west. Steep sea cliffs plunging into a foaming ocean with a scattering of rocky sea stacks reaching above even the highest waves. Although it's easy to imagine this place can be pretty ferocious when a storm hits the shore. The lighthouse known as #farodecabovidio was probably once an absolute necessity here, guiding ships away from the treacherous sea stacks and an early grave for vessel and sailors alike. Now, it just adds an additional feature of interest to a beautiful scene. There is also a handful of semi feral goats grazing on the heathery shrub which covers the top. If you're ever exploring #InGreenSpain don't miss this place; @natgeotravel photographers can't be wrong! TIP: My usual advice when taking landscapes is don't focus on infinity, but add some foreground interest. Sometimes it's ok to break the rules, find another way of adding interest and allow a strong composition to speak fir itself. (at Cabo Vidio)

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"Size may matter, but usually natural beauty prevails" The #bayofsantander is the largest estuary in northern #spain but it's doubtful this is the reason it is one of two Spanish bays to be included in the exclusive club "Most Beautiful Bays in the World". It's not just a self proclaimed club either, but is even recognised by the United Nations, having representation at the Conference of Oceans, We'd been scheduled to visit the impressive La Magdalena Palace which overlooks the bay, but as soon as the guide mentioned its prestigious status it was impossible to resist a visit to the bay. Slipping away from the group at the earliest opportunity, the bay beckoned, a kind of siren song of #santander I was soon drawn towards this long, narrow breakwater, with a small island, which I believe is called "Isle of the Tower" (correct me if you know better) just beyond its reach. In a bay of great beauty they were the highlights for me. This perspective has the breakwater stretching far into the distance, as if connected to the island, yet it would be a good swim between the two. Fed by numerois rivers, lined by long stretches of beach and with several other small islands, including Isle Mouro, with a lighthouse and Horadada Island. The inner bay is protected by "El Puntal" sandbanks and dunes which are clearly visible from the shore. The palace was indeed an impressive piece of architecture, a grandiose statement of wealth and human endeavour. However, the natural beauty of the bay which it overlooks is natures palatial statement of natural beauty and for me at lesst, rivals the palace as one of the regions greatest attractions. #visitcantabria #InGreenSpain TIP: Make use of perspective to add drama and interest to images. Breakwaters can stretch to the horizon, skyscrapers reach for the sky, use this to create leading lines drawing the viewer into the image. To see more #travelphotography from northern Spain follow the link in my bio. (at Bay of Santander)

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"If you're going to walk the dog, do it in style" Part of the joys of travelling is observing the culture, meeting people or merely interacting with them even in a minimal way. Often a smile is all that is needed, a universal language which can speak volumes. Photographing people is probably my favourite form of the art, capturing snapshots of the daily life in small villages and close knit communities. There was very little interaction with tnis gentleman, fashionably dressed for walking his dog, both man and dog pretty much ignored me. He suddenly emerged from a well lit side street, I smiled and gestured towards the camera but he seemed intent on shuffling along the quiet streets of the town, blinkered to anything which distracted from his walk. We visited at lunchtime, dining at Hospedería Los Parajes restaurant in #laguardia #InGreenSpain where we enjoyed an excellent meal. The town was pretty quiet, a small coach load of visitors had just departed and the narrow, high alleys with washing hanging in the upper levels were almost deserted. We basically had the town to ourselves. Small groups or families were sat outside a few, scattered restaurants, sipping espresso, known as "solo" here after their meal. Dad was possibly enjoying a beer, maybe having gallantly passed the car keys to Mum. It was especially enjoyable ambling around this sleepy little town, exploring at a relaxed pace. The narrow street curving out of view tempting any curious visitor to discover what is just beyond their view. TIP: The essence of street photography is really about capturing the moment, don't get too obsessed with technical aspects ot the 'perfect' capture. By the time you've changed settings the moment is lost, grab the capture first. To see more from northern #spain follow the link in my bio (at Laguardia)

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"Artificial fog by Nakaya Fujiko, creating an atmospheric shot of the amazing museum" The #guggenheimmuseum in #bilbao is an icon of the city, if not #thebasquecountry maybe #spain or even #europe.... hey it's just iconic. I photographed it yesterday in late afternoon and early evening, it was beautiful, yet when we arrived this morning with the sun just peering over the building it appeared much more atmospheric. Then on cue, the creative display of mist by Japanese artist Nakaya Fujiko began. At first some didn't realise it was an actual exhibit, even complaining the mist ruined their photograph. Fortunately, as I'd bed the day before I realised it was a display and tried to make the most of it. It is an active piece of art, interacting with the other art exhibitions outside the museum, constantly changing how their appear as the ephereal mist drifts around them. Principally built from titanium, glass and Spanish limestone, the museum reacts well to the soft light which Bilbao seems produce. Inside there is an eclectic mix of art displays, from contemporary art to more traditional art with a contemporary twist and even video displays.. They may not be to everybodys taste, but they do provoke thought and discussion, there are some evocative creations. I also really enjoyed the photography exhibition along the river, which demosntrates before and after images of the waterfront. The contrast of industrial shipyards and the new palisades outside the #guggenheim is both dramatic and startling. TIP: To photograph a global icon in a different way is like the holy grail of destination photography. To do it well, the photographer needs to be very lucky or spend a considerable amount of time waiting for the right moment from the right place. The best usually live there. To see more #travelphotography of northern Spain follow our trip using #InGreenSpain on twitter and instagram (at Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao Spain)

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"A meal prepared over several hours in possibly the largest slow cooker in tne world" Okay, it's not often that pictures of food appear in this timeline, but then most meals aren't as special as a traditional Cozido das Furnas! Slow cooked, basically boiled for about five hours in a pot lowered into a piping hot volcanic steam from hot springs at the side of the lake. The ingredients are layered and cooked in the juices from these ingredients, the only liquid which is used. It's a hearty meal, the plate is about a foot (30cm) square, with a variety of meat and vegetables, so best to arrive hungry. I visited the Terra Nostra Garden Hotel, #furnas for my feast of chicken, beef, pork, pork belly, pig trotter, local blood sausage, chouriço, kale, cabbage, carrots, heart of palm, yam, potato, sweet potato and rice, with further 'jus' poured over the meal. Suffice to say I didn't manage to finish and couldn't resist laughing when offered dessert! A stroll around the grounds of the nearby, lovely park is the best way to walk of this substantial #azorean meal. Though keep the receipt from the restaurant to gain access, I didn't have one, so some quick explaining was required. While stood on the small bridge at the entrance, I was certain that there were several tiny tremors, just causing the bridge to vibrate slightly. I fiund out at the airport the following day, there had un fact been a small quake in the islands. A drive along the lake and a visit to the #caldeirasdasfurnas located on the edge of the town was a great way to finish off my visit to this authentic little town #visitazores TIP: Photographing food is an art in itself, the most important aspect for me is that it looks appetising and attractive. The chef has usually gone to great lengths, producing a visual as well as culinary masterpiece, presentation almost as important as flavour. It only seems fitting photographers should be equally diligent when presenting images. I ask the chef for their approval before posting whenever possible. To discover mkre about my trip to the #azores checkout the posts soon appearing on my site. (at Hotel Terra Nostra Park)

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"When the world rushes by, the best option is to sit, relax and let it pass" Driving through the villages of the #azoresislands can be challenging, the narrow, winding roads often continue right through the towns. Local drivers almost never pause to allow you to pass, they rarely bother to slow, playing chicken with the tourists in their rental cars. Furthermore, driving even at night you come across people walking along the road, often outside the towns, where there isn't any street lighting. Trust me when I say high visibilty vests aren't common, so care must be taken. Then there are the cows, which seem to be the main cause of traffic stoppages here, driving around a hair pin bend, it's quite common to find cows being herded to the farm. Oh, and talking of farms, expect to be driving behind tractors quite often, there seem to be more tractors per capita than anywhere else I've visited. At least they're generally easy to pass! However, this is all part of the rustic charm of the #azores and a reason to drive slower, savouring the beauty and rich culture of each island. Personally, I'm drawn to cultures where groups of men sit on street corners or with an espresso outside local bars, discussing local issues and putting the world to right. Admitedly, there never seem to be groups of women with time to spare, probably too busy actually keeping village and family life ticking over, but the male groups seem typical of rustic Europe. This gentleman was sat on a street corner in the town of #setecidades possibly waiting for some companions to join him. It provided him with a strategic view down several streets, and is obviously a popular lookout as he was the second person I noticed sat there. His skin is lined and leathery, demonstrating a challenging life, probably working the land, a face of true #azorean character. #visitazores TIP: In a destination with a rich heritage and culture some images of people are desirable. The difficulty is often the language barrier, greet them with a genuine smile and request permission by gesturing with the camera. It usually works, but work quickly, don't inconvenience them and remember to show them the results.

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"To be unique doesn't take great effort, it takes great imagination" It is impossible not to be attracted by the port of #horta on the island of #faial in the #azores with the fantastic backdrop of #mountpico it's a view which you'd never tire of. Each of the nine volcanic #azoresislands has a very different character as a visit to the interesting and pretty spectacular #capelinhosvulcano and interpretation centre, with its lighthouse will testify. Forged by the power of the earths molten core, they appear beautiful and impressive. I'm looking forward to discovering some of this beauty for myself. A wander through the old streets of Horta between the port and picturesque half cresent beach at Porto Pim, I found it a wrench to drag myself away and discover more of the island. There's plenty to see, and traditional restaurants like Genuino serving fresh, locally caught fish and reared meats. Genuino is usually about, sharing tales of his two solo circumnavigations of the planet, the only Portuguese sailor to have completed this apparently. Canto da Doca is also worth a visit, serving fresh fish and meats which you grill on a very hot stone at the table. As well as the flotilla of fishing boats and luxury yachts moored at the marina is this unique form of street art. All along the breakwater are insignia and messages from visiting crews, left as a mark of their time in harbour. It's apparently unique and I've certainly never seen or heard of anything similar. I just wonder who started the harbour wall graffiti. TIP: When making use of a lead line, such as the harbour wall here, try 'anchoring' it in a corner, it will help lead the eye of the viewer through the image. Follow my adventure with #visitazores here on instagram and twitter. (at Marina da Horta)

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"Doing once in a lifetime...... everyday experiences in #trondelag #norway" Really enjoying Google making these little slideshows, taking all the effort out of making a story. They maybe automated, but sometimes they do a pretty good job. We'd spent a great day in #røros a lovely town and #unescoworldheritage site in Trøndelag with @VisitNorwayUK. We'd strolled through the quaint streets, sometimes walking in cobbles at other times on gravel, the narrow alleys lined by pretty, colourful, timber houses. Every house was different, such a far cry from the characterless housing estates back home. The following day, we set out early from Røros for #oppdal for our short musk ox expedition with Sigg of @oppdalsafari We stayed with them for several hours, even having lunch within sight of about eleven #muskox including one of this years calves. Our experienced guide kept us sufficiently far away and ensured we acted appropriately, allowing the musk ox to relax, their behaviour natural. Sigg shared some stories and images from previous expeditions, including a few in winter, they looked and sounded spectacular, I only wanted to return even more. All too soon, it was time to leave, to be honest I could have stayed much longer, happily camping out for say a month, 😉 following the herd! It was a few hours really well spent and along with the visit to the attractive, old mining town of Røros the previous day meant we'd been treated to two very different, but very special experiences in consecutive days. Just another couple of days in extraordinary Trøndelag #visitnorway (at Oppdal, Nord-Trondelag, Norway)