Loch Cill Chriosd, nestled on the Isle of Skye in Scotland, is a location of extraordinary beauty, renowned for its golden reeds that grace the loch throughout the year. These reeds, sometimes standing motionless and serene, and at other times encased in a delicate layer of ice, add a unique charm to the landscape. During the winter months, there is a fleeting moment each day when the sun bathes the reeds in a golden glow, transforming the scene into a photographer’s dream. This magical light, combined with the majestic backdrop of the hills, creates an ideal setting for capturing the interplay of colour and reflection.
On one fortunate occasion—or perhaps through experience and careful planning—I found myself at Loch Cill Chriosd at precisely the right time. However, even with perfect timing, the window of opportunity was brief, and I had to work swiftly to seize the moment. My instinct told me that the vibrant colours of the scene could best be captured using Velvia film, known for its rich saturation and fine detail. Fortunately, I had come prepared with a medium-format 6×7 camera already loaded with Velvia, ready to immortalise the fleeting beauty before me.
While the view of the hills is undeniably stunning, on this occasion, I chose to turn my attention to their reflection in the loch. A solitary strand of reeds caught my eye, and I decided to incorporate it into the composition to fill the lower right corner of the frame. This subtle addition balanced the image perfectly, adding depth and interest to the scene.
Loch Cill Chriosd is a place where nature’s artistry is on full display, offering endless inspiration for visitors. Whether through the golden reeds, the icy stillness, or the ever-changing light, this iconic location never fails to evoke a sense of wonder and creativity.
If you are interested in visiting the area, please have a look at my series of eBooks. They will assist you in finding photographic locations with remarkable precision. I share all my knowledge about various places, supported by countless hours of research, both online and on location. The ebooks are available as PDF files and can be read on PCs, Macs, iPads, Android, and most small devices. All images in the ebooks are high definition and may be printed for personal use only.
