Photo Stories

Capturing the beauty of the Isle of Skye was a pleasure and an inspiring experience

Capturing the beauty of the Isle of Skye. Plus, amazing macro image-stacking

My Skye journey started off at Neist Point for sunset and, with it being one of the island’s most photographed places, I was wary of it being very busy. Upon arriving I had it in mind to capture a classic view, but soon realized there was so much more to this location.

I headed off in search of an original viewpoint and I’m so glad I did because I came across such a wonderful composition with an imposing perspective that just had to be taken, even if getting into position on the cliff ledge was a little hair-raising…

My adventure continued the next morning at another famous Skye landmark, the Old Man of Storr. I set off in the pitch black on a long trek with fellow photographer Nick Hanson, who was local to the area, so I knew I was in good hands. After hiking up the mountain, which seemed to take forever, we finally reached the top where we were greeted with some amazing light. It was a

magical moment and a great achievement for me, being my first time up there.

The Quiraing was next on my list and, having seen so many beautiful images from the area, I knew I was going to be in for a treat if everything came together. Arriving just before sunrise, I found a composition I was happy with and, from then on, it was a waiting game. Finally, the sun started to rise, producing some stunning light and painting the mountains with beautiful colours.

On my last day in Skye there had been a lot of rainfall during the night, which meant there was only one place to head for – the Fairy Pools! Arriving just before sunrise, I was greeted with what felt like 50mph winds and heavy rain, but I didn’t let that put me off. My mission was to get at least one good solid image. As I started to get closer, the rain and winds eased, leaving some amazing clouds clinging on to the peaks. I jumped into the freezing cold, rushing water to set up my composition and fired off some shots. Luckily I didn’t hang about, as a few minutes later the rain and winds came back and were even worse. That was my cue to head home.

I headed off in search of an original viewpoint and I’m so glad I did because I came across a wonderful composition

01

01 RISK Sunset at Neist Point, taken from a perilous spot on the cliff ledge Lens Canon ef 16-35mm f/4l is USM Exposure 2 secs, f/11, iso100 02 WAITING gold Sunrise paints the landscape at the Quiraing Lens Canon ef 16-35mm f/4l is USM Exposure 1.3...

03 03 VICTORY Morning at the Old Man of Storr, after a lengthy hike in the dark Lens Canon ef 16-35mm f/4l is USM Exposure 1/8 secs, f/10, iso100

04 04 POWER The Fairy Pools at Glen Brittle, taken during a break in the weather Lens Canon ef 16-35mm f/4l is USM Exposure 10 secs, f/7.1, iso100