Autumn Approaches here in the Beautiful Elan Valley

I believe it is the most amazing time of year (October and November) here in the hills. I find myself out and about more as there is much work to do outdoors with the sheep on the farm. Everyone is gathering  and sorting out those to go off to tack for winter or to be sold at local sheep fairs. These early mornings do allow me moments to sneak off with the camera and capture the "secret times" in this landscape.

The Picture below is Craig Goch Dam, when I pulled up I just stood and admired the way the landscape had changed with the usual hills cloaked out and hidden in the grasp of the white mountain mist; to start with it was very thick and slowly over the morning time the features started to emerge from its white shadow. Light played within the white veil and it was so spectacular to see, this was further enhanced by the cool sting of the damp air on my skin. Then it was time to see could my camera capture that ethereal quality. A kestrel hovered in front of the mighty Craig Coch and then flew under the arches of the dam - a gift to keep in my precious memories store.

Craig Goch - F 9:  ISO 125 1/50sec 

The clouds looked amazing in the sky once the mist had burned off, like ripples of silk across the sky. Rowan trees are currently laden with berries, if you are a wildlife photographer now is a good time to scan the autumn bounty for possible ring ouzel, redwing thrush and fieldfare. 

Craig Goch and Rowan tree - F11:  ISO 125 1/40

This picture below was my attempt to record the Elan Valley view down from the Craig Goch dam in a "middle earth" type of shot. I wanted to do something with the sun behind the mist. The colouring was down to the camera dealing with the light and I liked the effect. I sharpened the image and added contrast.

Looking down Penygarreg Reservoir - F .6: ISO 160 1/1250

Hoping this is the start to a busy and beautiful autumn here in the Elan valley. Some Dark Sky nights are also a hopeful wish at this time of year.