The Catalonia region is not what most people consider as representative of Spain. Its because of the rain. And the mountains. The green landscape is heavily farmed thanks to its fertile and volcanic soil, but there is more. Its Mediterranean position means it can reach baking temperatures in summer and snowy, wet and cold in the winter. Its guaranteed sunshine that makes it a nice compliment to Scotland. Coupled with some interesting landscapes and lovely beaches.
This is another medieval village located 100km north of Barcelona and lies 800m up on hills in Catalonia, Spain. You can visit 12th Century churches, old buildings as well as carefully arranged fields which hint to its working life. Nowadays its charm attracts many visitors. Usually I shoot in colour, but for a change here is Rupit photographed in black and white.
It’s not a frequent habit of me to shoot frames low in detail, shape and colour. Yet these shots can carry more weight and thoughtful curiosity. I hope you enjoy these Clackmannanshire abstracts.
Over the past ten years my family went “doon the water”, touring the Clyde estuary, its seaside ports and islands aboard the last sea-going paddle steamer in the world – a day out on the Waverley.
If you have visitors, or just need to get some fresh-air then a day on the Waverley is an invigorating experience. From the rush of sea air to foaming seas, the searing heat, smell of the engine room and the chattering paddles. Their cutting of the sea propelling the boat along rapidly. On two trips we had the of luck being accompanied by pipers, guitarists and more. This creating a jolly soundtrack.
Highly recommended. Book tickets Waverley tickets here.
Imagine sitting in Volvo heated seat holding a BMW M5 steering wheel while changing gears mated to a Bugatti Veyron mixing petrol and fire venting gas out a TVR exhaust cloaked in an Aston Martin suit? This cannot be done outside a Top Gear Research Facility, but in photography it is available to all.
I have been testing a Sony A7R mirrorless camera recently and would like to show off some very early test frames. This camera has astounding image character and although early days, I’m looking forward to bolting all sorts of lenses onto it.
First comment is the great dynamic range of the sensor. The lens used in this test is a perfect match with great detail across the frame giving lovely colour accuracy. Wide open it drops the background with an attractive character.
I will also write about my success getting Nikon flashguns to work with this camera, if there is interest.
All images shot with Sony Zeiss 35mm f2.8 lens.
I have often wanted to play at Alloa Golf course, but never got around to it. Tennis and skiing are my relief valve. Thinking about golf its something I think I would find compulsive. You sense the magic in the split second striking the ball and feel it, knowing the shot was a winner. It happens in tennis, and that is the temptation that brings you back. So I have avoided golf because I think it would be compulsive.
My Son’s play golf, and being so young means I tag-a-long as they learn. They are members of Alloa Golf Club, in the grounds of old Schawpark House. Quite a picturesque course sometimes blessed with ‘Montana skies’.
