I would like to Introduce a special photo feature from John Mavin. John is one of the photographers who has contributed to this site over the last year.

This feature is entitled "A Stormy Day" and I will let John's words and pictures tell the story.

A  S t o r m y  D a y  -  6 t h  O c t o b e r   2 0 0 6

Being advised of the stormy conditions predicted I decided to toddle off with some camera gear to see what I could record.

Being the world’s greatest advocate of a big tripod, I found that my big and trusty Gitzo was not much use even with what appeared to be a blacksmith’s anvil hanging from the base and a steel girder acting as a lens support – ‘twas the gusting wind you see!

Firstly it was off to the Admiralty Pier. As any excursion along the top walkway could be interpreted as an act of suicide, I remained on the lower level of the Cruise Terminal to see the waves pounding over the wall ( a fortunate day not to have a cruise ship turning around).

It was then off to the pier extension where the western end of the breakwater was taking a pummelling.

After a quick diversion to Shakespeare Beach, where I decided not to have a paddle, it was up to the Citadel road where the conditions were such I could not even attempt to capture a reasonable photo, but I did wonder at the sea conditions inside the harbour compared with those outside.

Wondering how the ferries were coping I coasted gently to Landon Cliffs to catch some pictures of various arrivals and departures. As I was opening my second kitchen roll (to dry my equipment) I saw Speed One in the distance. Anticipating a dramatic shot I stayed on and got wetter – but no! She just aimed for the Western entrance and ploughed right through without any spectacular nose-diving or bow waves – bit of a disappointment really. 

John Mavin

Equipment Used:

Nikon D70 with 50-500mm Sigma EX, Cosina 19-35mm and Nikon 70-300mm

Minolta Dimage A1