Howden Marshes
After post processing my images from the Yorkshire Dales and reflecting on the various settings used which could be improved upon, I set about another photographic shoot on the next sunny day as this is when infrared photography works at its best.
Unfortunately, beset by constant rain and overcast weather, the sunny days are few and far between. When it happens, living in an area of Yorkshire that is particularly windy, the conditions are then excellent for infrared. This particular year in August, there is no guarantee of warmer weather, although the temperatures seem to hover around only 18 degrees this year, with a high of about 21 degrees, so when the time is right, I have to be ready to go. I identified a spot near to where I live which I have not explored for years. It is known as the Marshes and it is a particularly peaceful area, with plenty of dog walkers and people feeding the ducks.
Having walked around the pond twice, I identified one particular length, off the recycled wooden path and set up at around six points, making notes in my field notes book so that I could cross-reference with the meta-data.
At first, even though it was a nice afternoon, sunny and only five minute's walk from my home, I did feel aware of my own security and was pleased that my phone was charged, in case of emergency. I did encounter a group of your adults walking towards me at one point, but they were extremely helpful and wanted to know if I was photographing the ducks and dutifully informed me where the best locations were and what to feed them. Interesting to note that this is the second time 'strangers' have asked if I am photographing the wildlife, which pleases me as I do love all animals.
The worst aspect that actually happened to me was that I got stung my several stingy nettles at various points (note to self: wear trousers next time). It was so lovely to get outside, even though I only had about an hour before the sun went in again, it was enough time to get some powerful shots and I really feel that I am getting somewhere with this technique now. I felt the images were hauntingly beautiful. I need to ensure that the next time I limit the hotspots in camera and also perfect my post-production technique of the ones already encountered. No ducks in the shots due to the slow shutter speed.