Several shades of blue

Last time it was the bright blue summer of Australia. And now the blues are different, courtesy of another April day in London when the weather was schizophrenic.

I’m pleased it resulted in this capture – sailing craft racing on the nearby River Thames at Hammersmith. The angry dark blue sky is ripe for a downpour, while the sun shines on the river, dazzling shades of silvery-blue. And the sails are in another hue of the colour.

The wind played havoc with a couple of the little craft which capsized, depositing their sailors into the water. But just a short while earlier, the sky was kinder, a real canvas of beauty which really deserved another shot – showing how unsettled this island’s weather is at the moment.

Fair weather photography

After yesterday’s April showers here in London, I’ve decided to be typically English and talk about the weather again.

When does the weather seriously affect your photography? If I’m thinking about an excursion somewhere and there is little sunshine, then I’m likely to stay at home. Natural light – and plenty of it – can be the lifeblood of decent photographs.

And if rain threatens – as it often does in the UK – then an outdoor session is less likely. Nothing like a shower to cloud the lens and dampen your enthusiasm.

Also, the cold winter months put photography trips in jeopardy. Nothing like some sub-zero temperatures and freezing hands to make those finer camera adjustments really tricky.

Going up on Hampstead Heath to do night shots overlooking London in January wasn’t my best idea – but at least the frostbite I suffered resulted in some pleasing shots.

But should the weather deter you from going out to take photographs? They can be the essence of a lovely image. Is it time to just man up and get out there, come rain or shine?! Please share your thoughts.