Story
Chance Encounter
A December sunrise, first light filtering into the Borrowdale valley. These are the mornings when shepherds, solitude-seekers, and the occasional photographer make their way out—drawn to the quiet beauty of Lakeland in its stillest season.
Leaving Rosthwaite in search of Herdwicks, I hadn’t gone far when I met them, cresting the old packhorse bridge over the Derwent, a flock of ewes heading straight toward me. We both stopped in surprise. They stood together, silent and watchful, waiting for the moment to pass. I took their photograph, and they moved on, fading into the soft blue shadows of their home valley.
That moment has stayed with me ever since. A simple meeting that became the beginning of my journey. It sparked something that continues to guide my work, and to this day, it reminds me why I chose to walk the path I now follow—alongside the Herdwicks.
You can also acquire this photograph as a Framed Dibond Print.
I offer Museum-grade artworks up to 2.5 metres wide. Please contact me for info regarding size, framing options and bespoke installations.
A National Trust Property | Photo Permissions kindly granted | Picture © Ian Lawson