Capturing Cornwall: Photographing the Boats of the Coast

I love this shot taken in Cornwall, and since taking it, I have often tried to find a similar scene to try to improve on this image, but to date have failed. This image is not technically perfect, but it just works for me. 

I find the composition, textures, and colours combine to produce a pleasing, interesting and slightly different image.

As with many other images I have produced, my best images are often those taken where others weren't looking.

There are endless views of the lovely town of Padstow, and I am sure I have taken many of those views myself. This is one of my favourite shots from a day visit to Padstow, though. Of my other favourites, none are the routine pretty harbour town type images. They are all a single part of a broader landscape that I have isolated.

I am not saying there is anything wrong with nice scenes of nice places. Far from it. These images are completely valid and relevant, and I take lots of them.

As a landscape photographer, I find that after capturing the overall scene to the best of my ability, I can then focus on individual elements within it. By doing this, I have produced some very interesting images that give my portfolio more depth and variety. 

I am a landscape photographer based in Dorset. The main locations for my landscape photography are Bournemouth, Poole, Sandbanks, Dorset, Hampshire and Cornwall. 

Here are some more thoughts since I originally wrote this blog post.

The stunning Cornish coast, with its charming harbours and vibrant maritime life, is a photographer's dream. From weathered fishing boats to sleek dinghies, each vessel has a story to tell. This guide will walk you through the process of capturing a truly unique photograph in one of Cornwall's most picturesque towns. For anyone interested in Cornwall photography, seascape photography, or capturing authentic travel photography, this is a must-read.

The photograph accompanying this post is an amazing, high-angle shot, providing a unique perspective of a classic Cornish scene in Padstow. The main focus is a pair of distinct boats moored in the water: a sleek, elegant wooden boat with a green trim, and a rugged, orange powerboat with twin outboard motors. In the foreground, a worn, white-painted wooden ladder descends from the viewpoint, adding a strong leading line that draws the eye into the frame. The water is a deep, dark blue-green, providing a beautiful, textural background for the boats. The overall composition is peaceful and highlights the timeless beauty of the Cornish coast.

I took this photo with my trusty Canon 5D camera and a 17-40mm lens, shooting at f/22, a slow shutter speed of 1/40th of a second, and a low ISO 100. This was a deliberate choice. By using a small aperture (f/22), I ensured maximum depth of field, keeping both the foreground ladder and the boats in sharp focus. The slow shutter speed allowed me to capture the subtle movement of the water, giving it a smooth, painterly look that contrasts beautifully with the sharp details of the boats. Finally, the ISO 100 setting guaranteed the highest possible image quality with zero digital noise. This is my professional approach to capturing scenes where the subject is not moving.

1. Seek Out Weathered Textures and Details

When photographing boats in Cornwall, the most compelling images are often found in the details. Don't just take wide shots; get in close to capture the textures of weathered wood, peeling paint, and the ropes and nets of fishing boats. These close-ups tell a story and add a personal touch to your seascape photography.

2. Play with Reflections in the Water

The calm waters of the harbour offer a fantastic opportunity to use reflections. A boat moored in still water can create a perfect mirror image, adding a sense of symmetry and calm to your composition. Look for the best light to bring out the colours of the boats and their reflections. This is a core principle of compelling Cornwall photography that will make your photos stand out.

3. The Power of Composition: Leading Lines and Framing

As seen in the accompanying photograph, you can use the natural lines of the scene, such as jetties, ladders, ropes, and moorings, to guide the viewer's eye through the frame. These leading lines can create a sense of depth and a more dynamic image. You can also use elements like harbour walls or surrounding buildings to frame your subject, drawing attention to the boats and creating a more balanced and interesting composition.

4. Don't Be Afraid of a Cloudy Day

While golden hour is often prized, a cloudy day in Cornwall can provide a beautiful, soft, and even light that minimizes harsh shadows. The diffused light creates a moody and atmospheric feel, and it's an essential tip for anyone wanting to capture the rugged beauty of the Cornish coast. The cloudy sky can also provide a dramatic backdrop for the colourful boats.

Final Thoughts

Photographing the boats of Cornwall is a fantastic way to practice and improve your travel photography skills. By paying attention to details, reflections, and composition, you can go beyond a simple snapshot and capture a truly memorable image of this magnificent coastline. This is an excellent addition to your travel photography toolkit.

#landscape-photographer