Colour or Black & White?

Photography is often about capturing light, but what happens when the light is scarce? On a recent outing with my good friend and fellow photographer Diarmuid O'Donovan (DOD), I faced this very challenge. We decided to explore Two Mile Gate, a location on the shores of Lough Derg near Killaloe, known for its wooden T-shaped jetties that jut out along a wooded outcrop. The weather wasn’t on our side—low clouds, misty rain, and very little light—but that didn’t stop us from making the most of the conditions. It provided a unique opportunity to think outside the box and embrace the beauty in grey.

The Location: Two Mile Gate, Killaloe

Two Mile Gate is a picturesque spot, ideal for photographers who enjoy the interplay of water, wood, and natural landscapes. The jetties that extend into the lake offer a strong leading line for compositions, and the surrounding reeds and woods provide natural framing elements that can enhance the balance of your shots. The location is versatile, lending itself well to different types of photography, from wide-angle landscapes to intimate, detailed shots.

Embracing Monochrome in Dull Weather

Given the overcast conditions, my initial thought was to focus on black-and-white photography. Grey skies often lack the vibrancy that colour photography thrives on, but they can bring out the textures and contrasts in a scene, making it ideal for monochrome work. By removing the distraction of colour, black-and-white photography allows the viewer to focus on the shapes, lines, and tones of a composition.

As I explored the jetties, I carefully selected one that had reeds on either side, which I knew would add balance and symmetry to the shot. Positioning myself at the end of the pier, I took some long exposures to smooth out the water, creating a minimalist effect that emphasized the structure of the jetty against the soft, blurred background.

Using Natural Framing to Enhance Composition

Another key technique I employed during this shoot was natural framing. When the weather is dull, you need to work a bit harder to create interest in your images. The woods surrounding the jetties provided the perfect opportunity for this. By positioning myself further back into the woods, I used the leaves and branches to frame the scene. This not only added depth to the photograph but also drew the viewer’s eye towards the main subject—the jetty extending into the misty lake.

Natural framing is a powerful compositional tool that can make a significant difference in your images. It helps to create a sense of focus and directs attention to the subject, making the photograph more engaging. When you’re out in the field, always look for elements that can act as a frame within your shot, whether it’s branches, rocks, or even man-made structures.

Surprising Results in Post-Processing

What surprised me most about this shoot was the outcome during post-processing. Given the dull weather and my initial plan to edit everything in black and white, I was prepared to strip the colour from the images entirely. However, as I started reviewing the photos back at base, I found that the subtle colours in the scene provided a pleasing contrast against the grey skies.

The soft greens of the reeds and the muted tones of the wooden jetty added an unexpected layer of depth and mood to the images. Instead of converting everything to monochrome, I decided to leave some images in colour, allowing the subdued tones to complement the misty atmosphere. This was a reminder that sometimes, the conditions that seem least favourable can produce some of the most unique and interesting results.

The Importance of Experimentation in Photography

This outing also highlighted the importance of experimentation in photography. Often, we go into a shoot with a fixed idea of what we want to achieve. While having a plan is essential, it’s equally important to remain open to what the environment offers you. By experimenting with different compositions, and perspectives, and even including myself in the shots, I was able to create a diverse set of images that captured the essence of the day.

Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try something new. Whether it’s a different angle, a long exposure, or even experimenting with colour versus monochrome, pushing your boundaries can lead to unexpected and rewarding outcomes.

The Value of Photography Friends

Finally, it’s worth mentioning the value of having a photography friend or “wingman” like Diarmuid. Not only did we enjoy great chats and laughs during the shoot, but we also pushed each other creatively. Photography can be a solitary pursuit, but sharing the experience with someone who understands your passion can make it even more enjoyable and productive.

Diarmuid and I have a long history of working together, and even though we talk almost daily, nothing beats being out in the field together, cameras in hand, facing whatever challenges the day throws at us. If you have the opportunity, I highly recommend finding a photography buddy. It’s a great way to stay motivated, learn from each other, and of course, have a lot of fun along the way.

You can watch the episode here and see the images I captured in the Gallery