Last year, (I know that was only a few days ago), I found myself working right up until Christmas eve.

As well as a few articles to write, talks to give and meetings to attend, I delivered a series of workshops to a number of delightful people who had travelled up to the lakes.

Whilst we didn't have typical wintery weather, we did manage to capture some fantastic photos and it is always pleasing to see the look on peoples faces when they start to capture photographs that they are proud of.

The penultimate workshop was with a husband and wife 'team' who were spending a week away in the lakes and it is fair to say that both Joyce and Amar were a pleasure to be with.

Joyce and Amar working together and laughing a lot by Blea Tarn

My last workshop of 2016 was with a lovely lady from Singapore, Tien Yang who spent three days with me.

Coming from a country that has a high humidity and a usual temp of 23 did not prove to be the shock I thought it would be for her and Tien embraced the beauty of the landscape. Good clothing helped, although to be fair, it was more wet than cold.

Tien by a moody and mirrored Wqst Water. Glorious!

On her first day at Wast Water it really was a 'mirror of the Gods' occasion. Rarely have I seen it so calm and still. The effect was spectacular and I will be posting my own new images in the shop soon.

You cannot comprehend the strength of the wind blowing straight at us by Ennerdale! 60+mph gusts.

Tien by a very moody Crummock Water just before the heavens opened. We retreated for a nice Hot chocolate...

The Christmas period came and went so quickly and I am now preparing images for stock agencies as well as arranging a substantial commercial shoot for a Lake District company.

Glad to say that it is a very busy year ahead with many workshops already being booked.

Today is a very cold, dank day and the sooner that the real winter turns up (not too disruptive I hope) then the better.

Enjoy whatever you do and be safe!