Landscape Britain - New in Hardback

Widely recognised as one of Britain's finest landscape photographers, Bath's very own Ed Collacott is thrilled at the publication of his first book - Landscape Britain. The book is a collection of photographs that highlight the stunning nature and textural diversity of our landscape. "Its a project I`ve been thinking about and developing for many years - everything finally came together this year" - Ed Collacott.

Landscape Britain has a clean, contemporary style - there is nothing to distract from over 100 stunning images, all taken from the mountains, forests, coasts and open spaces of Great Britain. We are so lucky that Britain is blessed with a such a diverse and unique landscape, a variable climate and wonderful seasons - Ed has been capturing these for over thirty years.

At the back of the book there is an anecdote section that puts into context all the images and adds interest and insight into his way of working. The sheer quality of the printing is staggering, this is thanks to a close working relationship with local printers, Park Lane Press of Corsham.

Order Your Copy of Landscape Britain
	Landscape Britain (hardback) by Ed Collacott Introductory price £25.00

Thoughts of the Photographer

This book is a collection of photographs taken over many years that hopefully highlight the stunning nature and textural diversity of our landscape. It is not meant to be a definitive study, indeed there are many areas that I would like to have included, but as yet, have not sucessfully captured or that space just does not allow. Hopefully the following text will help to put these images in context and add a little interest and insight into my way of working. This book is very much a reflection of the way I see our landscape.

Bluebell Woods - Many of us are lucky enough to remember youthful wanderings in bluebell woods. Fortunately there are still many fine bluebell woods scattered throughout the British Isles. This one near Marlborough is particularly good and I have enjoyed visiting for many years. Carpets of colour, air full of scent and the spring green of the beech canopy all make it a great location. Photographing bluebells is challenging, but as I wander through the woods I stay very focused and inspiration is never far away.

Early Summer on Exmoor - This is a wonderful image. It is taken high on Exmoor near Dunkery Beacon on what is probably an old Drovers routeway that has now become overgrown by time. I have always been fascinated by the dynamic and sculptural forms that trees possess and these ancient beeches exhibit those qualities beautifully - they create an almost magical charm, can you imagine Hobbits here? The mosses and lichens, the rich evening light and the vibrant spring green impart terrific unity to the image - I just love it.

Buachaille Etive Mor - This must be the most photographed mountain in Scotland, it stands at the top of Glencoe on the edge of Rannoch Moor. This is a fine elemental image - winter on the mountain, rich autumn colours, moving water in the foreground and a sky full of character. Weather here can be poor and it took many years and several visits before this hugely successful photograph was captured.

Somerset Lavender - Light transforms landscapes and there’s no better example than this shot taken in the Somerset countryside near Bath. The Lavender farm is not far from me so I was able to visit on several Summer evenings when the lavender was in full bloom. On this day there had been several Summer storms but the sun finally emerged from dark clouds to provide dramatic lighting not long before sunset. This terrific light contrasts so well against the retreating storm clouds and the green of the trees.

Eilean Donan Castle - Set in a magnificent location, I have seen very few really good images of this classic Scottish castle - this though is a cracker. I’d been trying for 20 years to capture a good one and the chances this day were not looking good - bleak, bitter and with leaden skies. However high tide with little wind meant good reflections and momentarily enough sun filtered through to brighten the castle and mountains beyond. Seconds later the sun was lost for the day. Persistence finally paid off.

Sunset at Marloes - Britain is blessed with endless miles of terrific coastline and Pembrokeshire certainly has its own share. Marloes just has to be one of the finest on offer with towering cliffs, caves, sea stacks, islands, rockpools and a fantastic beach (well at low tide anyway!). There’s always something to photograph here.

Misty Pines - If I were asked which of my images gave me the greatest sense of pleasure it would be this black and white image. It is not my most popular picture, but for me it excites a very deep sense of joy. Taken some time ago in the Quantock Hills, I just love the misty conditions, the pronounced grain and textural depth achieved. It’s sometimes difficult to explain ones emotional feelings but perhaps that mystery is part of the pleasure. A large print of this hangs in our sitting room and continues to give much enjoyment.

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