"Lost in Winter, Found in One Shot: Reigniting My Passion for Photography"

Losing My Mojo for Photography—Until Derwent Water Brought It Back

Winter in the Lake District is supposed to be a dream for photographers. Frost-dusted landscapes, golden light breaking through misty fells, and lakes so still they turn into perfect mirrors. I used to thrive in it—chasing sunrises, braving the cold, coming home with frozen fingers and memory cards full of magic.

But this year, something was off.

The passion, the excitement—the urge to get out there and create—was gone.

Falling Out of Love with the Camera

At first, I blamed the weather.

It had been weeks of relentless grey, days where the rain fell sideways and the light never really arrived. The kind of winter that drains the soul, where even the most breathtaking locations feel uninspiring. I told myself I was just waiting for better conditions.

But the truth was, even on the rare clear mornings, I still didn’t go out. I’d half-heartedly pick up my camera, scroll through old photos, and feel... nothing. No excitement. No inspiration. Just the heavy weight of creative burnout.

Had I seen it all before? Had the Lakes—this place that had always filled me with wonder—become predictable?

It scared me. Photography had always been the thing that got me out of bed, that made me feel alive. And now? It felt like a chore.

A Short-Lived Morning at Wastwater

The forecast looked promising—clear skies, calm conditions, and a good chance of some nice light. After weeks of dull weather, I was hopeful that Wastwater would deliver something special.

The drive over only built my excitement. Patches of blue sky, soft morning light—it had all the makings of a great outing. But as soon as I arrived, things took a turn.

A Change in Plans

Almost instantly, a thick mist rolled in from nowhere, swallowing the landscape. The mountains disappeared, the reflections faded, and that crisp winter light I’d been chasing was gone. Still, I was here, so I made the most of it.

I took one shot—a simple, moody composition with the mist giving the lake an eerie calm. And then, just as quickly, the fine rain started. Not heavy, but that persistent drizzle that clings to everything. Within minutes, my lens was covered in droplets, my gear was damp, and the conditions weren’t improving.

That was that—no more photography for the day.

A Very Dull Wast Water

Not Every Trip Works Out

I sat in the car for a while, watching the mist thicken, hoping for a break in the weather. It never came. Some days, things just don’t go to plan.

But as I looked at that one image on my camera, I reminded myself—sometimes, all you need is one. Even if it wasn’t the shot I’d hoped for, it still captured the mood of the morning.

Would I have liked more? Of course. But there’s always next time little did i know id have to wait another fortnight for things to change.

A Reluctant Sunrise

One morning in mid-January, after another restless night of questioning whether I even wanted to do this anymore, I forced myself out of bed.

No grand plan, no expectations. Just go.

I drove to Derwent Water, half-hoping for a sudden wave of inspiration, half-expecting to feel nothing at all. The car park was empty. It was that eerie, pre-dawn silence where the world feels like it’s holding its breath.

I made my way down to Ashness Jetty.

The cold hit me first. That deep, biting cold that seeps into your bones, the kind that makes you regret every decision that led you to this moment. My breath curled in the air as I stepped onto the frost-covered planks, my boots crunching softly against the ice.

And then—everything changed.

The Shot That Brought It All Back

The lake was flawless. Not a ripple. Just an endless, perfect reflection of the sky, as if the world had been folded in half.

The colors were unreal—soft purples melting into fiery pinks and oranges as the first rays of sunlight kissed the summit of Skiddaw. The jetty, dusted in frost, glowed in the golden light, leading straight into a scene so perfect it felt like a painting.

My pulse raced.

Without thinking, I raised my camera. Muscle memory kicked in, my fingers adjusting settings before I even had time to process what I was doing. Click. Click. Click. Every shot better than the last.

I checked the screen, and there it was.

The shot I had been waiting for.

That one image that makes you feel something deep in your gut—the kind that reminds you why you fell in love with photography in the first place.

And just like that, I was back.

View from Ashness Jetty

Rediscovering the Spark

That one sunrise changed everything.

It wasn’t just about getting a great shot. It was about feeling something again. The excitement. The connection. The sheer joy of seeing something incredible unfold in front of me and knowing I had the power to capture it.

Sometimes, we lose our creative spark not because the world is uninspiring, but because we stop looking properly. We get caught up in the idea that every outing has to result in something extraordinary, and when it doesn’t, we let disappointment settle in.

But the magic is always there, waiting. You just have to show up.

Now? I’m setting alarms again. The hunger is back. Because if Derwent Water can do that on a freezing January morning, who knows what’s waiting out there tomorrow?

So Here’s What I’ve Learnt And Why You Should Always Go Out.

Losing your mojo for photography can be frustrating. When every outing feels uninspired and the weather never seems to cooperate, it’s easy to stay home and wait for better conditions. But the truth is, creativity isn’t just about getting the perfect shot—it’s about showing up.

Even when the mist rolls in, the rain starts falling, or the light never appears, there’s always something to gain. Sometimes, it’s just the fresh air, the quiet moments, or the way a scene makes you feel—even if it doesn’t translate into an image. Other times, you might take just one shot, and that’s enough to reignite the spark.

Photography isn’t just about results—it’s about the process, the experience, and the unexpected moments that remind you why you love it in the first place. So even when the forecast is uncertain and motivation is low, go out anyway. You never know when that moment will come—the one that brings your passion back to life.

Mojo: Restored.

From Frozen Fingers to Full Control: Why I Swear by Vallerret Gloves

Why Vallerret Photography Gloves Deserve a Spot in Every Camera Bag

As a landscape photographer based in the Lake District, I know firsthand how brutal the cold can be when you're out on a shoot. There’s nothing worse than fumbling with camera settings because your fingers are frozen. So when Vallerret approached me last year to collaborate, I was both thrilled and honored. As a brand that specializes in photography gloves, their reputation for quality and innovation made this an exciting opportunity to test their gear and share my experience with fellow photographers. They sent me a pair of their Djukes photography gloves, and I was eager to put them to the test.

After using them through some of the coldest mornings and windiest walks, I can confidently say they’re a game-changer for anyone who shoots outdoors in winter. But what really sets them apart? Let’s dive in.

Gloves Designed for Photographers

One of the biggest frustrations with standard winter gloves is that they’re just not made for handling a camera. Either they’re too bulky, making it impossible to adjust settings, or they’re too thin, leaving your fingers exposed to the cold.

Vallerret has tackled this problem head-on. The flip-tech finger caps on the thumb and index fingers mean I can quickly access my camera controls without fully exposing my hands. The non-slip grip on the palms is another thoughtful detail—it ensures my camera stays secure, even in damp or icy conditions.

From adjusting my focus ring to tweaking shutter speed, I never felt like I was sacrificing control for warmth.

Warmth Without Compromise

One thing I’ve learned over the years is that warmth and dexterity don’t always go hand in hand when it comes to gloves. Too much insulation, and you lose the ability to fine-tune camera settings. Too little, and you might as well not be wearing gloves at all.

What I love about the Djukes gloves is how they strike the perfect balance. The merino wool lining keeps my hands warm while wicking away moisture, so even during long walks, my hands never felt clammy. The insulated design provides serious warmth without making the gloves feel bulky, and the windproof, water-resistant outer shell protects against the elements.

More Than Just Great Gloves: A Commitment to Sustainability

Something that really impressed me about Vallerret is their commitment to sustainability—something that matters deeply to me as a photographer who spends so much time in nature.

• For every pair of gloves sold, Vallerret plants a tree. Knowing that each purchase helps contribute to reforestation makes supporting them even more worthwhile.

• They’re moving away from single-use packaging. Instead of plastic packaging, each pair of gloves comes with a reusable organic linen storage bag. I love that this isn’t just an afterthought—it’s a practical, eco-friendly alternative that I now use for keeping my gloves safe when not in use. You can even repurpose the bag for storing food like bread or fruit!

• Black Friday profits go to conservation. Every year, Vallerret donates its Black Friday profits to The Norwegian Society for Conservation of Nature (Naturvernforbundet). This organization works to protect Norway’s stunning landscapes, including the breathtaking national parks in Lofoten and Svalbard—places high on my bucket list for future shoots.

I admire brands that align with my own values of protecting the environment, and Vallerret is one of them.

My Experience with the Djukes Gloves

So, how did the Djukes gloves actually perform in the field? In short, they exceeded my expectations.

✔ Warmth: I wore them on several freezing mornings, and my fingers never went numb. The insulation kept my hands comfortable, even when standing still for long periods waiting for the perfect light.

✔ Dexterity: Despite being warm, they never felt cumbersome. The pre-curved design meant I could operate my camera naturally, and flipping the finger caps open and closed was easy—even with slightly stiff fingers in the cold.

✔ Weather Protection: The DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating kept moisture at bay. Even when shooting in misty conditions, the gloves stayed dry and comfortable.

I’ve used a lot of different gloves over the years, but these quickly became my go-to for winter photography. They allow me to focus on my shots without worrying about my hands, which is exactly what I need when I’m out in the elements.

The Djuke Photography Glove by Vallerret

Final Thoughts: Are They Worth It?

If you’re serious about outdoor photography, investing in a solid pair of gloves is just as important as choosing the right camera gear. Vallerret gloves aren’t just warm—they’re designed for photographers, and that makes all the difference.

Plus, knowing that they’re an eco-conscious brand that gives back to conservation efforts makes me feel even better about using their products.

So, if you’re tired of cold fingers ruining your shoots, I highly recommend checking out Vallerret’s range of photography gloves on their website below.

Have you tried Vallerret gloves before? I’d love to hear your thoughts—drop a comment below or let’s chat on Instagram!

Kasefilters & Why i Use Them for Landscape Photography and Long Exposures

"I've been using Kase magnetic circular filters since 2021, starting with the Wolverine Pro set. Last year, I upgraded to the Kase Revolution Magnetic Circular Filters Pro Kit, and they’ve become an essential part of my photography bag. These filters go everywhere with me, and for good reason—they're incredibly easy to set up, and I absolutely love the image quality they deliver. The glass toughness exudes quality, and their water-repellent properties are a game-changer.

One of the best things about these filters is how compact they are; they fit effortlessly into my bag without taking up much space. As a female landscape photographer, carrying loads of gear isn't ideal, so having lightweight, space-saving equipment is a huge advantage.

What truly sets these filters apart for me is the ease and speed of swapping them out. In landscape photography, timing is everything—missing beautiful light that disappears in a split second is not an option. With Kase filters, I can quickly adapt to changing conditions without hassle, ensuring I never miss the perfect shot."

• Color-coded filters for easy organization.

• New inlaid ring design reduces vignetting on wide-angle lenses.

• Magnetic stackable mounting for quick and secure setup.

• Made with toughened Pro HD optical glass for durability.

• No noticeable color cast for true-to-life results.

• Scratch-resistant for long-lasting performance.

• Features metallic nano coatings for extra protection.

• Water, dust, and dirt repellent, keeping your gear cleaner for longer.

• Super easy to clean!

The Kase Revolution Magnetic Circular Filters Pro Kit is the ultimate solution for photographers and videographers seeking exceptional image quality combined with convenience and durability. Designed with precision and crafted from tough, color-neutral pro glass, these filters ensure stunning optical performance and reliable construction for all your creative needs.

This kit includes a range of essential magnetic filters, including

ND8,

ND64,

ND1000,

Polariser,

Magnetic Adapter,

Inlaid Ring,

Carry Pouch,

FREE Magnetic Lens Cap.

The innovative magnetic system allows for quick and effortless filter swapping, making it ideal for capturing fleeting moments in challenging lighting conditions.

Perfect for those who prefer a lighter, more compact setup over a full square system, the stackable neutral density filtersand CPL provide excellent control over light and reflections. Whether you're shooting long exposures, managing bright conditions, or enhancing color contrast, the Kase Revolution Magnetic Circular Filters Pro Kit offers versatility and performance in a portable package.

note that the Magnetic Lens Cap is specifically designed for use with the Magnetic Adapters only and is not intended as a filter cap

NO Filter

Kase Revolution Magnetic ND64

Coloured rings to identify each filter

So my final thoughts on the Kase Revolution Magnetic Filter system : to simplify your workflow and deliver professional-grade performance. These filters are all about practicality and reliability, with a color-coded system for quick identification and full compatibility with your existing adapters, hoods, and step rings.

A newly designed inlaid ring reduces vignetting on wide-angle lenses, while the magnetic stackable mounting ensures effortless setup and flexibility. Crafted from toughened Pro HD optical glass, these filters offer stunning clarity with no noticeable color cast, making them ideal for any shooting scenario.

Durability is at the core – they’re scratch-resistant, feature advanced metallic nano coatings, and repel water, dust, and dirt for optimal performance in any environment. Plus, they’re easy to clean, keeping maintenance simple and stress-free.

Whether you’re capturing sweeping landscapes or detailed portraits, these filters are built to deliver consistently great results while making your gear work seamlessly.

So easy even a woman can use them !

Also in my bag i have the Black Mist Magnetic 1/4 – perfect for reducing highlights, softening contrasts, and adding a cinematic glow around bright light sources. They create an ethereal, atmospheric vibe that’s ideal for portraiture, landscapes, and videography. Whether you’re looking to soften the edges of harsh digital footage or bring a dreamy, organic feel to your still photography, these filters deliver. Favored by filmmakers for their ability to craft a more cinematic look, they’re a versatile must-have for anyone wanting to elevate their visuals.

Finally the Kase Revolution Mag Circular Combined ND64 & CPL