This scene will be a familiar view to many. The “Kit Kat” stones are a popular focal point from this rocky outcrop with stunning views into Derbyshire. The jovial name, belies the history and brutality of this exposed landscape. Around 2000 years ago this place was probably an iron age hill fort, perfectly positioned for a natural defensive structure high above the valley, but also perfectly positioned for the harsh elements of nature.
I visited on a cold, wet and blustery November morning, wrapped in winter clothing I was pretty content and warm as I searched for a composition, my mind wandered thinking how difficult life here would have been in winter 2000 years ago.
Although cloudy I was treated to a colourful sunrise, a slither of a gap was just enough to allow the red colours of the rising sun through illuminating the wet gritstone rocks. The light was glorious but brief. Seeing in a new day can be a short but exhilarating experience. With fast moving clouds the weather soon became much bleaker, a grey soft light blanketed the landscape.
I felt I hadn’t really captured anything particularly worth while with the early colourful light and began to observe the changing conditions. Although now there was no direct light, the sunlight illuminated the rocks like a giant softbox creating depth and texture. Rain clouds began to roll in and the atmosphere began to build.
This popular scene, well photographed, can leave me feeling a little underwhelmed creativity. The composition in not overly original, however I still enjoyed placing the elements within the frame and using the light.
This bleak and almost monotone image actually relates to me more. It really reflects the many cold and windy mornings I’ve experienced here. It also connects me to the life that people would have experienced here in winter. I can only imagine how difficult living here must have been back then. Quite different to enjoying this landscape for pleasure. My images of the Peak District can often be a little nod to the history of this place. Taking a moment to reflect on the people that once called this place home.
