Destinations
5 places it’s worth taking a real camera
As analogue photography makes a comeback, we showcase five beauty spots worth capturing on film, from Loch Rusky to the Seven Sisters.
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Analogue photography is making a comeback. Here’s our pick of beauty spots around the British Isles worth capturing on film.
The resurgence of old-style film photography has brought a renewed interest in capturing the timeless beauty of UK landscapes.
From remote lochs and spectacular waterfalls to iconic chalk cliffs and wildlife havens, we have a wealth of scenic locations in this country to inspire the nostalgic photographer
1. Loch Rusky, Scotland
You’ll have heard of Loch Lomond. But you might not know about its less familiar cousin Loch Rusky. This smaller but equally beautiful freshwater lake near Callander is one of the most picturesque hidden gems in the Trossachs National Park.
So, if you want to escape the crowds of Loch Lomond to practise your camera skills in peace, this is the place to go.
Photography tip: Misty mornings and sunsets are good times to capture the loch's reflective surface. Look for foreground elements like rocks or boats to add depth to your photos and make your compositions more compelling. The surrounding trees and hills can also frame your shots nicely.
As one of England’s largest waterfalls, High Force is a spectacular sight in the heart of the Durham Dales. The powerful free-flowing water of the River Tees plunges 70ft over a rocky ledge into the gorge below, creating a standout scene for photographs.
The landscape is eye-catching whatever time of year you visit, from the vibrant green shoots of spring to the warm hues of autumn. What’s more, you don’t have to hike miles to reach it. Take a short woodland walk along the sloping gravel path to the base of the waterfall to find your perfect vantage point.
Photography tip: Try using fast shutter speeds to capture the flow of water so you don’t lose the sense of motion. You might also want to think about using a tripod for stability during long exposures.
Stay at: Best Western Walworth Castle Hotel
3. The Calf of Man, Isle of Man
Just off the southern tip of the Isle of Man is a small island known as the Calf of Man. It’s a spectacular spot for wildlife photography, which you can access in the summer months by taking a boat from Port St Mary or Port Erin.
The Calf is known for its seabird colonies and migrating birds, with more than 30 species breeding here each year. Keep an eye out for Manx shearwaters, kittiwakes, razorbills and hen harriers. It’s also a hotspot for seals, which like to sunbathe on the rocks. And, if you’re really lucky, you might even see dolphins and basking sharks.
Photography tip: Remember to take your zoom lens to get close-up shots of the wildlife from afar, and be ready to click when you anticipate movement. After all, you can’t exactly ask a dolphin to sit and pose for you while you get the right angle.
Stay at: Best Western Palace Hotel & Casino, Douglas
4. Seven Sisters, East Sussex
When it comes to capturing a landscape with the wow factor, few locations in the UK rival the Seven Sisters white chalk cliffs.
Stretching from Seaford to Beachy Head in the South Downs, this series of glistening peaks offers dramatic coastal views that lend themselves perfectly to picture-postcard shots.
Photography tip: A wide-angle lens will help you capture the expansive views of the cliffs and the beauty of the English coastline. If possible, shoot during the ‘golden hour’, the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset. The soft, warm light will enhance the cliffs and create stunning shadows.
Stay at: Best Western Plus Citrus Hotel Eastbourne
5. Pembroke Castle
Who doesn’t love a dramatic castle backdrop? Set on the banks of the Pembroke River estuary, this mighty fortress adds fanfare to any photo. There are numerous opportunities to capture the majesty of Pembroke Castle, while the beauty of the surrounding Pembrokeshire landscape is also immensely camera-worthy.
Photography tip: For the best pictures of the castle, try to capture it from a vantage point across the lake so you get the building’s reflection in the water. A misty morning can add a mystical feel to your photos, while twilight is a chance to practise shooting with a higher film speed.
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