As August arrives, my family and I are eagerly anticipating our much-awaited annual adventure to the breathtaking Lake District. This enchanting region, nestled in the northwestern part of England, has become a cherished tradition for us, and we can't wait to embark on this journey of exploration once again. Our trusty companion, the VW T25 camper-van "Nobby," will be our home on wheels, carrying us through winding roads, lush landscapes, and picturesque villages as we delve into the heart of the North Lakes, heavily laden with bikes, boats and camera gear.
As an avid film photography enthusiast, this trip is undoubtedly the highlight of my year. The Lake District offers so many opportunities for capturing awe-inspiring landscapes, stunning vistas, and candid moments. It's a photographer's paradise, and I'm fully prepared to seize every fleeting moment and turn it into a timeless memory.
In the past, my go-to camera has been the versatile and lightweight Olympus OM-1, a reliable 35mm SLR that has never disappointed me in its ability to capture both spontaneous shots and epic vistas. However, this time, I'm spicing things up a bit by bringing along my newly acquired Contax TVS. This compact and easy-to-use camera promises to be an ideal companion for capturing moments on the go, allowing me to be ready at a moment's notice to capture those magical instances that make the Lake District so special.
Additionally, I can't wait to put my medium format Hasselblad 500c to work during this trip. Its exceptional image quality and level of detail makes it the perfect choice for capturing the ethereal morning light dancing on the surface of Derwent Water or the serene reflections on Buttermere's still waters. The Hasselblad will undoubtedly elevate my photography game to new heights during this adventure.
To add an element of creativity and experimentation to my photography, I've decided to leave my go-to Holga behind this time. Instead, I'm bringing along the Noon 6x6 Pinhole Camera, which has a unique and dreamy way of rendering images. I can't wait to explore the artistic possibilities this camera offers, creating ethereal and evocative images that will stand out from my usual repertoire. While the Noon 6x12 pinhole is also tempting, I'm considering the space constraints it presents in the van, so the decision remains uncertain.
But that's not all; this year, I've challenged myself to delve into large format photography with the Intrepid 4x5 camera. It's been a steep learning curve, but I'm determined to overcome any hurdles and capture the majestic beauty of the North Lakes using this format. The larger negative size and superior image quality of the 4x5 will undoubtedly open up new possibilities for artistic expression.
Of course, as any prudent photographer would, I have to consider the unpredictable weather of the Lake District. Since none of my cameras mentioned so far are weather-sealed, I'm contemplating bringing along my reliable Canon EOS1 as a backup option. However, its substantial weight and space requirements in the already crammed van make me wonder if it's worth the added burden.
As for film selection, I'm leaning towards shooting black and white films this time. The timeless and evocative appeal of monochrome photography draws me in, and I find immense joy in the process of developing and printing them in the darkroom. My trusty companion for black and white landscapes will be the reliable Ilford HP5+, a film that excels in various lighting conditions, from moody overcast skies to bright sunny days.
To add a touch of experimentation to my portfolio, I'm also bringing along some Ilford SFX200 film. This infrared-sensitive film will allow me to create otherworldly and haunting infrared landscapes, adding a touch of mystique to my Lake District collection. Additionally, I'll be carrying Ilford FP4, known for its fine grain and sharpness, perfect for capturing intricate details in different formats.
For my large format endeavours with the Intrepid 4x5 camera, I've decided to try out Ilford Ortho 80. This orthochromatic film will provide a unique vintage feel to the images, harking back to the early days of photography, and I'm excited to see how it interacts with the landscape's natural beauty.
With our beloved Nobby packed to its limits with all our gear, we are eagerly anticipating a 10-day family holiday filled with adventures and creative exploration. The stunning landscapes and serene lakes of the Lake District will be our playground for capturing memories and artistic endeavours. The lakes, mountains, and valleys will inspire us, and the joy of being surrounded by nature's wonders will fill our hearts.
As we set out on our journey, I can't help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the opportunity to witness such natural beauty and document it through my lens. Each click of the camera will freeze a moment in time, preserving the essence of the Lake District in all its glory. Through my photography, I hope to convey the emotions, stories, and soul-stirring experiences we encounter on this unforgettable trip.
The Lake District holds a special place in my heart, and with Nobby leading the way, we're all set for an extraordinary experience. I can't wait to immerse myself in the sights, sounds, and charm of the Lakes and capture it all through my camera's viewfinder. This journey will be filled with laughter, awe, and the bond shared among family members as we embrace the beauty of nature and revel in the joy of creative expression. Without a doubt, this will be a trip to remember for a lifetime.