RUGGED SOUTH-WEST PEAK DISTRICT WORKSHOP

South-West Peak District: Escarpments, Gritstone, and Hidden Gems – 11th April

Join me on April 11th for a packed day of photography in the South-West Peak District, home to some of the most dramatic gritstone escarpments and captivating landscapes the National Park has to offer, spanning the Cheshire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire borders.

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Why the South-West Peak?

This area is defined by its rugged gritstone features, offering a dramatically different feel from the central White Peak. Our highlights for the day include:

• The Roaches: The undisputed highlight. This stunning gritstone escarpment juts out dramatically, providing endless photographic subjects, including Doxey Pool, views over the five clouds and Hen Cloud.
• Three Shires Head: A picturesque packhorse bridge and waterfall where the three counties of Derbyshire, Staffordshire, and Cheshire meet. Perfect for starting the day with long exposure practice.
• Ramshaw Rocks: A fantastic gritstone viewpoint offering quick access (about a 5-minute walk from the car) and a great spot to discuss composition and planning.
• Other Potential Vistas: The area is also home to Shutlingsloe, locally known as ‘The Matterhorn of Cheshire’, and Windgather Rocks, an easy-to-reach edge that lives up to its name!
• Potential Bonus: If time allows, we might squeeze in a visit to the rustic Roach End Barn.

Our Photographic Journey

We will start in the afternoon to maximise our time through sunset, ensuring we catch the best light.

• ~12:30 PM: Meet and Greet
  • We will meet before heading to Three Shires Head.
  • Focus: This relaxed start allows us to capture the stunning waterfall under the old packhorse bridge, getting to grips with your camera, practising the use of filters, and mastering long exposures.
• Afternoon Exploration:
  • We will likely head to Ramshaw Rocks, a quick, rewarding walk where we can discuss the intricacies of composition and location planning.
• ~16:30 PM: Lunch and Review
  • We will break for lunch. If time allows, we’ll look at my own images on a laptop to discuss basic processing techniques within Adobe Lightroom.
• Sunset Finale:
  • We will aim to finish with a breathtaking sunset from The Roaches. We will be spoilt for choice here with numerous compositions available. If we do well for time, we can finish our day at Roach End Barn.

Learning and Skill Development

This workshop is designed for all abilities, from beginners looking for hands-on guidance to competent photographers seeking new locations and specific technical advice. I aim to split my time equally to ensure personalised 1-2-1 tuition.

• Key Techniques Covered: Throughout the day, we will look at techniques such as:
  • Focusing: Achieving tack-sharp images.
  • Tripod Usage: Mastering stability and slowing down your workflow.
  • Filters vs. Exposure Blending: Understanding how to manage dynamic range.
  • Composition: Creating visually compelling photographs.
  • Working with Light: Utilising the natural light to create mood.
• Advanced Techniques: I am more than happy to discuss other more advanced techniques on a 1-2-1 basis or with the group, depending on what is beneficial.
• Tailored Approach: The day is tailored around you as much as possible, and I strive to give each of you the best day, ensuring you leave with new skills and images you will be proud of.

What’s Included

• Expert Guidance: Benefit from my extensive experience and intimate knowledge of the Peak District.
• Small Group Size: With a maximum of 4 participants, you are guaranteed personalised attention and plenty of 1-2-1 tuition.
• Kit and Equipment Provided:
  • I have four sets of Maven Filters available for the group to use (a set per person). This is ideal for testing or upgrading your filter system.
  • I will also have spare tripods available for use.
• Pre-workshop Information: Upon booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email with meeting details, a comprehensive kit list, discount codes, and a questionnaire to help me tailor the workshop to your needs.
• Post-workshop Support: You will receive access to my private Facebook client area for ongoing support, image sharing, and connecting with fellow photographers.

Weather Adaptability

• Don’t worry about poor weather! Unless it’s torrential all day, I have plenty of locations that suit a variety of conditions (e.g., waterfalls are brilliant on overcast days).
• I am well adapted to getting us to the best spots if the itinerary needs to change, which may include chasing the light using forecasts, webcams, and my local knowledge (which I will share with you).
• We will spend significant time on technique and composition, ensuring that even if we don’t get a spectacular sunset, you will have learned new skills you can take away.

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Booking Information

• A £40 deposit is required to secure your place.
• The full balance is due no later than 6 weeks before the workshop date.

Ready to capture the dramatic gritstone landscapes of the South-West Peak District at sunset?