Saltwick Bay is a favourite location for photographers that can find it (footpath down the cliff from within the caravan park). It is a favourite because of its geology, rock formations, rock shelf and the lighting conditions that can arise here. I was looking forward to paying a visit on this particular holiday on the North Yorkshire Moors.

I timed my arrival to coincide with sunset but had to wait a while for the tide to retreat from the narrow beach revealing the rocks and rock shelf. It left little time for properly exploring and I struggled for inspiration finding it difficult to find a composition amongst the rocks that would work whilst also dealing with the reflective nature of the rock shelf.

In this composition the boulders shapes have been positioned to lead the eye from the foreground through to 'Saltwick Nab' the headland on the horizon. But its a bit cluttered, I failed to filter for the brightness of the rock shelf and rocks, it was a bit rushed and the light wasn't that interesting in any case. At least there was a bit of pink afterglow in the clouds. Its not a complete disaster but it pays to study your own work particularly after some time has passed since taking the shot. Being self critical helps me to learn and progress.

Date: 16/09/2013

Location: North York Moors