Day 154 of 366: Capturing the Winter Waves at Storm Bay

Embracing Winter Weather:

Today, with winter weather swirling around, I decided to head out after breakfast to capture the rough seas that the southerly wind had stirred up over the last couple of days. The dramatic conditions were perfect for some dynamic seascape photography, and I was eager to see what Storm Bay had to offer.

Arrival at Storm Bay:

Upon arriving at Storm Bay, I found that the waves, while not as large as I had hoped, were still creating a beautiful scene as they crashed into the rocky shoreline. The light was excellent, casting a lovely glow over the landscape and adding depth to the scene. The combination of turbulent waves and dramatic lighting set the stage for some captivating shots.

Setting Up the Shot:

To capture the entire bay, I used my Sigma 24mm lens, which provided a wide enough field of view to encompass the sweeping scene. I also employed a graduated ND filter to reduce the brightness of the sky, ensuring that the exposure was balanced across the image. This technique helped to bring out the details in both the sky and the water, enhancing the overall composition.

The Photography Experience:

Standing at the edge of the bay, I was mesmerized by the power of the ocean. The waves rolled in continuously, each one slightly different from the last. The rocks and the pine trees lining the bay provided a rugged, natural frame for the scene. Despite the chill in the air, the experience was invigorating, a reminder of the raw beauty of the coast during winter.

Editing the Images:

Back home, I began the editing process, focusing on enhancing the natural colours and contrasts in the image. The graduated ND filter had done an excellent job of managing the sky's brightness, allowing me to bring out the details in the clouds and the texture of the waves. The final image beautifully captured the essence of Storm Bay, showcasing the interplay between the rocky coastline, the powerful waves, and the dramatic winter sky.

Reflecting on the Experience:

Today's shoot at Storm Bay was a wonderful reminder of the beauty that winter can bring to coastal landscapes. The rough seas and dramatic light provided a perfect opportunity to capture the raw power and serenity of the ocean. This experience reinforced my love for seascape photography, particularly in challenging and dynamic weather conditions.