Year of the snake
Taking a trip north from London to Cambridge, I set off with my trusty camera and an assortment of accessories, brimming with eager anticipation for a leisurely evening stroll through this charming city.
My plan was simple: wander the storied streets, allow the city's character to inspire my photography, and scout intriguing locations for the following mornings adventures.
However, I quickly learned that failing to prepare is truly preparing to fail—a lesson I learned all too well this time around.
My first oversight? Neglecting to check the weather conditions.
Instead of the idyllic morning glow I had envisioned and experience in London on the Saturday, I was greeted by an unexpected downpour, drenching both me and my enthusiasm.
To compound my rookie errors, I also failed to research any events happening during my visit; thus, I missed out on vibrant street performances and exhibitions that could have livened up my evening.
As I sought shelter from the cold and crowds, it became clear that while the beauty of Cambridge still held promise, my lack of preparation had muted the experience.
In this moment, surrounded by the echoes of history and charm, I was reminded that the best photographs often require not just a keen eye, but also a well laid planning, temperatures that greeted me the next morning, coupled with the constant grey overcast sky, the utter lack of sunlight, and the multitude of people who had gathered in the city to celebrate Chinese New Year all took me by surprise.
Cambridge, with its enchanting historical structures and meandering streets, promises an abundance of photographic opportunities.
However, during my visit, the sheer number of fellow enthusiasts, all vying for the same captivating shots, created a somewhat overwhelming atmosphere.
While I set out with high hopes for a successful day of exploration, unforeseen variables dampened my experience, leading me to feel as if I had maybe missed an opportunity.
Despite these challenges, I did manage to capture some images that I genuinely like.
The beauty of the city still shone through, offering glimpses of its charm amid the chaos. Yet, the siren call of a relaxing brunch, complete with a hot cup of coffee, proved too inviting to ignore, especially after the exhausting twenty-five thousand steps logged in London the previous day.
In the heart of the vibrant Cambridge, I found solace in the idea of pausing to appreciate not just the scenery, but also the simple joys of life and that cup of coffee.
