Solstice
Winter light over Lochgoilhead
The Winter Solstice is a pleasing turning point for anyone who chases light for a hobby, or at least for a part of their living. Nature’s narrow aperture will now, ever so imperceptibly, creak open and these dark Scottish days will shine once again. We haven’t really had much of a winter yet. A few chilly nights, but no significant snow, ice, or deep morning frosts. Even the busy gritter lorries, with their rust-inducing road slurry haven’t been out much. I’ve a feeling the Scottish weather still has a bitter sting in its tail. Anyway, that big coat I bought earlier in the year hasn’t yet had an outing…
I briefly considered exploring astro photography over winter - at least it would get my shutter count ticking along and my expensive gear earning its keep, but it feels like it’s been raining for practically every day since October. I also think the fleeting glimpses of stars between the clouds call for a more experienced hand than mine, and whose set-up is already geared towards shooting crisp celestial images. Perhaps I’ll just stick to my daytime guns and get out when I can. I did manage to capture a few images on a sunny, misty walk with visiting family and it felt good to get some shots in the bag.
The passing of the shortest day feels immediately to signal positive change; good things begin to happen. A few early birds start to sing. Chores are finally tackled in the lull between holidays starting and festivities stopping them again. If I’m honest (and I try to be here), I’m not one for Christmas and New Year celebrations. My family live so many miles away and my introversion dictates that I’d rather be at home with a whisky and a fat cat for company than at social gatherings. For me, the new photography year begins at the passing of the Winter Solstice, and that’s really something to celebrate.
Let there be light.
