Rochdale Canal from Under Bridge 16 at Hebden Bridge

This image was taken as an exposure-bracketed set at 4:30pm on the 21st March 2026 and later developed with On1 Photo RAW.

I've taken similar shots before, including earlier on the same day, when light was plentiful but harsh. This appears to be a particular issue with shooting this scene from under the bridge; when there's plenty of light, it's often harsh and contrasty with a huge dynamic range.

Pragmatism?

I've always been a pragmatist when it comes to conditions. I never plan to shoot at a particular time of day for optimal light. I mostly just walk, observe and work with what I've got when it's convenient for me.

But that doesn't mean I don't appreciate when and why certain conditions can yield better photos in some circumstances.

The reason the above image worked better than previous captures was probably due to the time of day, lower height of the sun and softer, less contrasty light.

However, I took this late afternoon bracket set on my way back to the carpark as contingency. It was still convenient for me, and it turned out to be the better capture.

Hebden Bridge

Hebden Bridge is a favourite location for Gill and I. It's ideal for an extended-weekend holiday with it being just 30 miles from where we live in Irlam. Although that 30 miles can take over an hour in today's traffic compared to the 40 minute-journey when we first started holidaying there in the 90's.

Also, the Caravan Club site at Cragg Vale doesn't have a pointless toilet/ shower block, so we don't have to pay extra for something we never use. And it has serviced pitches, which save valuable time - ideal for a shorter stay!

There are lots of landscape and architectural photography opportunities in the area with the Rochdale canal, its locks and bridges being a major feature.

And having holidayed there for decades, we're familiar with it. We often don't have to think so long when planning a day, which is great.