The forecast is rain and sure enough it’s raining heavily in Durham. The temptation to call in sick is great but, with a superhuman effort, I take off early for Teesdale with the intention of a hike up to High Force before the others arrive. This plan is scuppered due to frequent stops to photograph the glorious Teesdale landscape, complete with old barns, dry stone walls and summer rain softly-drenched hay meadows. How would Lilian capture these magical scenes? I know he’s out there somewhere.
At the Bowlees car park meeting point Barry is already there with killer pictures under his belt (as you’d expect from a Pentax User). The others roll up and there follows the usual light hearted banter and general hilarity before moving up the gorge to the waterfalls and Gibson’s cave. The serious landscapers are soon setting up tripods and 10 stoppers actually in the river (impressive). Many are also peering intently at rocks from a very close distance (the extra challenge for the day is lichen and moss which abound in the crystal clean air of upper Teesdale). Make mental note to acquire a macro lens. Even with existing lenses the macro world looks utterly beautiful. Find out getting the DOF right is not as easy as it looks. The rain has eased off completely.
On the way down, we explore the old quarry area. I would have passed by but a dozen nature lovers are peering intently at the ground. Sure enough, wild orchids, tiny snails (make mental note to buy macro lens) and other fascinating stuff abounds. Best of all, there are faces in the stone of the cliffs. “I see faces” Colin has pointed out this phenomenon on a number of occasions.
Eventually, off to lunch in Middleton in Teesdale. I arrive early and, on impulse, explore the nearby churchyard (hoping to see more faces? Ed). The ancient grave stones are covered in even better, more diverse lichens and mosses. Over an excellent lunch I am torn. Do I tell them about Lichen City next door? I confess I am tempted not to for some time but the conviviality is such that (of course) I pass this gem of intelligence on. Such is the culture of generosity to fellow photographers within Durham Photographic Society.
On the drive home I come across an abandoned derelict cottage high up on the moors. Urgently, I try to phone the others but, sadly, I struggle to find a signal up here …
Altogether, a great day out in good company and photographing outside your comfort zone. What’s not to like?
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