The lusty month of May
Lochgoilhead in May - Gig in the Goil
As celebrated in the 1967 Camelot film, May is indeed a month to be celebrated. For Argyll, it seems typically to mark a spell of calm, warm, midge-free weather. It’s easily the best time to visit western Scotland. Bluebell woodlands finally play catch-up with their southern counterparts, the light (such a valuable commodity for photographers) shines crystal-clear on fresh, green landscapes. ‘High pressure dominates’ - now there’s a phrase to lift the mood of those longing for Spring to spring.
Locally, outdoor events liberate pale skinned revellers from the confines of the pub, while creaky-boned retirees begin to tend to their gardens. Children visiting the outdoor education centres squeal from their makeshift rafts in the shallow end of the loch. It’s wonderful to see the village come to life.
Personally, I’m more of a quiet observer. It’s why photography suits me. While the sounds of music and laughter filled the village, I took my camera on a long bike ride to take some shots from on high. People often misunderstand my introversion, confusing it with shyness and missing out. Please don’t drag me onto the dance floor - I assure you that I will not ‘love it’. No, I’m perfectly happy and content being in my own space. Not miserable at all.
A short interlude saw a visit to the capital to catch up with visiting family. Love and cuddles, much happiness, and of course some photos for the album. The city, however, is far from my cup of tea. In such extreme contrast to our green and pleasant home, the cold, grey skies were echoed in the dour, imposing architecture. Tourists swarmed amid grubby streets. Graffiti and posters signed every vacant space. Thousands of hard, city pavement steps later, and having somewhat fortuitously forgotten to book overnight accommodation, we were on our way home.
Of course it wasn’t that bad, but without thinking too much about it, I developed my photos of Edinburgh in black and white, simply because that’s how it felt in contrast to the vibrancy of May in Lochgoilhead.
Stay frisky.
