Yorkshire dales

Had a fantastic trip up to the Yorkshire dales a couple of weeks ago. I signed up for the Nikon school UK’s  Yorkshire dales experience, sadly only for one day but still lots to learn in a short period of time. The course was run by Nikon schools training manager Neil Freeman, Neil is a passionate photographer and very approachable, tailoring the information given to the individual or group. The day started off with a meet and greet, first Neil and then the group. Nothing too taxing, but enough for Neil to know what kit we had, what we were looking to get from he course and what level he needed to pitch the day at. This was followed with some basic settings and a rough itinerary for the day (weather permitting). Only 7 days earlier the UK had a good downfall of snow, which we hadn’t had for a few years. So we were lucky it had cleared so well.

More importantly, Neil was keen to say the final image is down to what the individual wants to achieve, and not a ‘It must be done this way, and look like this.’ That said there are some basics which we must use to start with. I’ve said it before but there are only 4 things you need for a good photo, composition and exposure.

I must take this time to also mention my accommodation. The Riverside Bed and Breakfast at Bainbridge, run by the fantastic Roxana. The accommodation is on the second floor of an old water mill, so you need to be able to climb the stairs. The room I had (number 1) was exceptionally clean and laid out, with a really nice welcome pack detailing the fire procedure, which included the torch plugged into the mains socket, a simple thing but a great touch and a hint to small details. The pack also contained a list of local eateries that Roxana has tried and could recommend, and the need to book in advance and where possible what to expect to pay. The village of Bainbridge has a Tea room, about 100 yards from the B&B which I didn’t get chance to try, there is a pub approx ¼ mile away which does a small menu, it’s OK for simple food, and the price is about what you’d expect. There is also another restaurant about ½ mile away which I didn’t get to try, but the prices (I’m told) are a little higher. If you want something a little more than simple, you’ll need to either drive, cycle or be up for a good walk. Breakfast is spot on for the day, wether it’s a full english, egg on toast or cereal accompanied with fruit juice, tea or coffee. In short I will definitely stop there again.

Anyway the photo’s;