peak district heather including salt cellar and fair brook waterfall

Peak District Heather: Photographing an icon – 9th August

Immerse yourself in the vibrant beauty of the Peak District’s blooming heather on this captivating photography workshop. On the 9th of August, we’ll embark on a scenic journey to capture the iconic landscapes of this breathtaking region, adorned with the rich purple hues of heather in full bloom.

Why Photograph the Peak District’s Heather?

For a few fleeting weeks each year, the Peak District’s moorlands undergo a dramatic transformation. The typically brown landscape erupts in a vibrant display of purple heather, creating a visual spectacle that captivates photographers and nature lovers alike. This workshop offers a unique opportunity to witness and capture this fleeting beauty, creating images that showcase the Peak District’s unique character and charm.

Our Heather Photography Day:

• Fair Brook’s Hidden Treasures: Our day begins at Fair Brook, a picturesque stream nestled on the northern slopes of Kinder Scout. We’ll ascend the brook, discovering hidden waterfalls, picturesque pools, and breathtaking views of the surrounding hills, all framed by the vibrant purple heather.
• Trident Waterfall: One of the highlights of our journey will be the captivating Trident Waterfall, a cascading torrent that plunges over a rocky outcrop, surrounded by a tapestry of heather and framed against the majestic backdrop of Kinder Scout. We’ll spend time at this unique location, experimenting with filters and long exposures to capture the beauty and drama of the scene.
• Derwent Edge and Beyond: After exploring Fair Brook, we’ll venture to Cutthroat Bridge, the starting point for our ascent onto Derwent Edge. This scenic gritstone edge offers a wealth of photographic opportunities, with gritstone formations, panoramic vistas, and, of course, abundant heather. We’ll capture the unique character of Lead Hill and Whinstone Lee Tor before reaching our final destination.
• The Salt Cellar: Our ultimate goal is to capture the iconic Salt Cellar, a remarkable gritstone formation that has become a symbol of the Peak District. As the sun begins its descent, we’ll position ourselves to capture this majestic landmark bathed in the warm glow of golden hour light, surrounded by a sea of purple heather.

What to Expect:

• A Photographic Hike: This workshop is designed for those who enjoy a good walk and are comfortable covering a considerable distance over varied terrain. We’ll be hiking approximately 5-6 miles throughout the day, with some challenging ascents and descents.
• Emphasis on Exploration: While this workshop focuses on capturing the beauty of the heather, it also offers a chance to explore some of the Peak District’s less-visited locations. We’ll venture off the beaten path, discovering hidden gems and enjoying the tranquility of the moors.
• Learning: Throughout the day, I’ll be there to provide guidance, support, and encouragement. We’ll discuss photography techniques, share ideas, and learn from each other’s experiences.

Itinerary:

• 1:45 PM: Meet and greet at our designated location, where we’ll get to know each other and discuss the plan for the day.
• Afternoon: Hike to Fair Brook and explore the brook, including the Trident Waterfall.
• Late Afternoon: Drive to Cutthroat Bridge and ascend Derwent Edge, capturing the beauty of the landscape along the way.
• Sunset: Arrive at the Salt Cellar and capture its iconic form as the sun sets, surrounded by the vibrant purple heather.
• 9:45 PM: Conclude the workshop after our return to the car park.

Additional Information:

• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging. This workshop requires a good level of fitness and experience with hiking on uneven terrain.
• Group Size: Maximum 4 participants for personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Included: Expert tuition, guidance on hiking and photography techniques, kit list, discount codes, and a pre-workshop questionnaire.

Important Notes:

• Beginners: If you’re new to photography, you might prefer one of my other heather workshops that focus more on camera techniques and visit a greater number of locations with shorter walks. However, if you’re comfortable with the physical demands of this workshop and eager to explore more remote locations, you’re welcome to join!
• Trident Waterfall: Please note that the descent to the Trident Waterfall can be challenging, and the location itself is quite small, accommodating only two photographers at a time.

Ready for a Peak District adventure that combines stunning landscapes, vibrant heather, and photographic exploration?