Exploring locations (Patreon)

One of the things I have learned over time is exploring options. I was visiting Cathedral quarries near Little Langdale in the Lake District with Eowyn Luna. The main attraction is the Cathedral cave, a 40ft high chamber lit by two windows. 

As always, getting the light to hit the model at an optimum angle is the main priority, so based on the light's location, there are a select number of places the model can be.

The angle is very high (perhaps a bit too high) on the first image, so Gwyneth had to tilt her face upward to have pleasing light on the face.

In the second image, I'm standing on the same rock Gwyneth is occupying in the first image, and she is on the rock in the lake. I had to create a bit more of the water pool and thus reflections in post production.

When exploring the holes that allow light into the cave, I came across the stone arch on the third image, creating a gorgeous framing. And opposite the stone arch is that little house.

Venturing a bit around the area revealed a gorgeous mossy patch with big rocks, and finally, a great view over Little Langdale. 

And since it's a sleet mine, and I always try to integrate the model into the landscape, I had Gwyneth do a bit of heavy lifting.

In the span of just 90min, we shot 8 or 9 gorgeous images before people started to show up.

The moral of this is always to explore a location. Even though you go looking for a cave, don't be blind to the other opportunities present. They will only be apparent when you look for them, though, so keep an open mind.

I suggest taking a walk around the area before shooting if you have time. You don't know what else is in store before you see it, and it is a pity to waste a lot of time and energy on a spot if there are better places around.