The Scafell Pikes from Wasdale

The view of the Scafell Pikes from Wasdale is a familiar site to so many people whose aspirations involve the ascent of England's highest mountain; indeed Wasdale Head is most commonly the start of the climb. The two mountains are probably more commonly seen in the view from Wastwater which usually includes Yewbarrow, Great Gable, Kirkfell and Lingmell; indeed I produce a print of it myself entitled 'Wastwater'. However, on this particular November morning I was looking for something different and original that focussed specifically on Great Gable and The Scafells. So, on this occasion I walked beyond the 'traditional' viewpoint for Wastwater towards Wasdale Head to a location on the lakeside beneath Yew Crag.

The main issue with which I was confronted was the direction of the light which, as always at this time of year, was low and on this occasion did introduce more shadow on the west side of the Scafells than I would have wished. I did eventually capture the image that I had intended but as a study of The Scafell Pikes it was somewhat disappointing. Thankfully, the weather remained fine and the skies clear and within a few hours the sun had moved more to the south, illuminating the western faces of the peaks.