Behind the Lens: The Morning I captured St Mary's "Imagine"

As a landscape photographer I’m often drawn to the ethereal beauty of the coast, especially the iconic St Mary’s Lighthouse. Early on January 1st, I embarked on an adventure that turned out to be one of the most memorable experiences in my photography journey.

The Location and Setup

Arriving at the lighthouse just before 5:30 AM, I was greeted by the chilly air that instantly invigorated my senses. The sound of waves lapping at the shore mixed with the crisp, salty breeze of the ocean. Even in the cold, I felt a palpable energy in the air—a sensation that hinted today’s sunrise would be truly special. The horizon hinted at an impending show, and I was ready to capture every moment.

As the first light began to seep into the sky, I strolled along the shore. The tranquil landscape felt alive; the tide was slowly rolling in, and I could see little ripples forming on the surface of the water. This area of Tyneside never ceases to amaze me, and the serene beauty of this early hour propelled my thoughts into creative overdrive.

With camera in hand, I began scouting for the perfect composition. I wanted to encapsulate not just the lighthouse but the dynamic relationship between the land and water as well. I walked along the rocky outcrops, careful not to get too close to the tide that was advancing steadily. I discerned several captivating angles, but I needed just the right composition to tell the story of this magnificent place.

After a few scouting shots I decided on my spot—a rock formation that provided a sweeping view of the lighthouse against the vast ocean—I prepared my camera settings, ensuring I was ready to capture the soft hues of dawn as they began to bloom across the sky. As I stood, anticipation building within me, I reveled in the stillness of the moment—just me, the lighthouse, and the promise of daybreak.

The Moment of Truth

Knowing that the light would be fleeting and that I needed to start taking my images before the sun fully rose over the horizon, I set my camera for a series of 12 long exposures, each taken at 20 seconds. Timing was crucial, and as darkness gradually fell away, I triggered the shutter, capturing the transformation of the scene.

In those precious moments before sunrise, I felt a meditative calm wash over me. The sky transitioned from dark purple to soft pinks oranges and reds, reflecting beautifully on the water below. Then, as if on cue, the sun peeked over the horizon, casting a warm, golden light over the landscape. It was an awe-inspiring sight, and I wasted no time in capturing the magnificent colors dancing across the sky.

With each click of the shutter, I felt more connected to this landscape. I was not just a photographer; I was part of the moment, nuanced and fleeting. The lighthouse stood sentinel at the edge of the water, its beams of light slicing through the morning mist—a testament to resilience and beauty in a world that constantly shifts.

As the sun fully broke free from its slumber, the scene transformed before my eyes. The vibrant colors settled into a pale blue morning, and the soft light enveloped the rocks below. I took a moment to soak it all in, feeling grateful for the opportunity to witness such a breathtaking spectacle. 

Packing up my gear, I felt a sense of fulfillment that went beyond the images I had created. This morning at St Mary’s Lighthouse was more than just another shoot; it was a reminder of the beauty that exists in our world and the magic that can unfold with patience and a keen eye.

Conclusion

St Mary’s Lighthouse continues to be a source of inspiration for me, a place where I can witness the world’s transformations, one sunrise at a time. With my camera in hand and a heart full of wonder, I look forward to my next adventure, wherever it may take me.

Camera Settings

12 images stitched together
Shutter Speed- 15 seconds
Aperture- 8.0
ISO 250