..Otherwise known as Porth Nanven.  This is a designated site of Special Scientific Interest because of the prehistoric raised beach that sits above the cove, regularly delivering dinosaur egg sized pebbles down to the beach below.  The pebbles are captured in clay, probably a 100 or so feet above the beach. Weathering causes them to be released from where they’ve been held captive in the clay for millennia.  These pebbles are prehistoric, evidence of a beach that existed millions of years ago. To contemplate the weather patterns that could create such huge pebbles should probably give us pause for thought. We can understand tides that can turn small rocks into pebbles.  What forces must have been in play to create a pebble you couldn’t possibly lift.  I’m not so great on my prehistoric geology.  I know a man who is but he’s not here right now so I can’t tell you more.

Besides the scientific interest, this is a superb place to take photographs and that’s just what I did but I really didn’t get what I wanted

Instead I’m posting a picture I took last time I was down on that beach.  As photographers we’re so dependent on conditions, tides and a ton of other variables. The great Ansel Adams said if you could get 12 pictures a year, you were doing well.  I don’t think I’ve quite managed that, not that I’m in any way comparing myself to him, but it’s a reminder that so many factors have to come together to get that memorable photograph.  The one that’s really worth something. Worth pondering.  It may be a little conceited but I have this one on my wall.  It’s Cornwall, it’s the ocean, it’s the beach, all the things I love.

I’ll aim to try and post once a month now.  See how we go.  Sometimes with photography it’s about putting yourself in the right place and waiting for the right time.  Sometimes, lets be honest, it’s pure luck. I’ll not deny I’ve had a few of those.  This was one of them.  Within seconds of taking this exposure, the whole scene was deluged with incoming sea water and that delicate balance between the fresh water making its way to the sea and the sea water surging forward was gone. Catching the moment is what it’s about.

By the way, I’ve been chosen as one of the judges for this year’s Weather Photographer of the Year competition.  I feel quite honoured.  It’s going to be an interesting job, trying to pick a winner.  :-)