Landscape Photography on Fuji Velvia 50 – A Return to Analog Magic

The year 2013 was a turning point in my photography journey. While the digital revolution was in full swing, I felt the urge to step back in time and master the art of shooting on slide film. My choice fell on the legendary Fuji Velvia 50 – a film that had captivated landscape photographers for decades with its incredibly rich colors, stunning contrast, and exceptional detail. Little did I know how much this experience would shape my perception of the world through the lens.

The Challenge and Magic of Slide Film

Velvia 50 is a demanding film. It offers spectacular colors and sharp details but does not forgive exposure mistakes. With an ISO of just 50, longer exposures often became necessary, yet paradoxically, the film did not respond well to extended shutter speeds. Every frame required precise light metering and careful planning.

A Morning in Co. Wicklow – Vartry Reservoir, Glendalough, and Lough Tay

One of my first outings with Velvia 50 took place at sunrise in County Wicklow. Armed with my Bronica ETRS, I set out to capture the magic of the morning over Vartry Reservoir, Glendalough, and Lough Tay. The cool, pink-gold light of the rising sun slowly awakened the landscape, and I felt as if I was witnessing something almost mystical.

Shooting on film forces you to slow down. Each press of the shutter is a decision that comes at a cost. There is no room for randomness – every frame must be carefully thought out. This process – deliberate composition, light analysis, waiting for the perfect moment – brings a sense of magic that is often lost in the digital era.

An Expensive but Unforgettable Lesson

Velvia 50 is not only demanding but also expensive. Every roll of film and every development process was an investment. Yet, every developed frame made it all worthwhile. Holding the finished slides and viewing them on a light table was like opening a treasure chest – the colors seemed unreal, the sharpness was astonishing, and the tonal transitions were beautifully subtle. This experience taught me to respect every frame and to anticipate the final outcome even before pressing the shutter.

Why Shoot on Film?

While digital photography offers immense possibilities, working with film teaches patience and sensitivity to light like nothing else. Fuji Velvia 50, despite its limitations, allows photographers to rediscover photography – not as a quick image-capturing process but as a carefully considered ritual of preserving a moment in its most beautiful form.

Will I return to shooting on film? Definitely. Despite the cost and challenges, the feeling of seeing your first developed slides is priceless.

 

If you enjoyed this post and are looking for more inspiring places and unique photographs, feel free to check out the post Bull Island Dublin - A Natural Paradise Full of History. You’re also welcome to visit my Landscape Photography Portfolio Gallery, and those interested can explore my stock footage as well.

Rafal Rozalski.

Glasnevin Cemetery - History, Atmosphere, and Impressions

Glasnevin Cemetery in Dublin is one of the most significant historical sites in Ireland. Established in 1832 to provide Catholics with a dignified burial place, it has since become the final resting place for many key figures in Irish history, including Daniel O’Connell, Michael Collins, and Éamon de Valera. The cemetery plays a crucial role in Ireland’s national identity, with its monumental Celtic crosses and vast walkways adding to its unique character.

History and Significance of Glasnevin Cemetery

Founded by Daniel O’Connell, the cemetery was created to ensure that the Catholic community in Dublin had a place to bury their loved ones with proper rites. Over the years, it has evolved into more than just a burial ground—it is a national memorial site where important ceremonies related to Ireland’s struggle for independence have taken place. Today, Glasnevin is the resting place of over a million people, and its architecture and gravestones create an extraordinary, almost mystical atmosphere.

Atmosphere and Impressions While Visiting

Walking through Glasnevin Cemetery feels like stepping back in time. On overcast days, the place can be particularly overwhelming—towering Celtic crosses adorned with intricate carvings and aged tombstones give it an unforgettable, historic character. A slow walk among the rows of graves allows visitors to feel the weight of history surrounding them. In the silence and serenity of this place, one can almost hear echoes of the past, the stories of those who rest here.

Visiting and Attractions at Glasnevin Cemetery

For those eager to explore the history of this place, Glasnevin offers a museum and guided tours. Knowledgeable guides share fascinating stories about the individuals buried here, while the view from Daniel O’Connell’s tower provides a panoramic perspective of the entire cemetery and Dublin. Nearby, the National Botanic Gardens offer a peaceful retreat after an emotionally profound visit to the cemetery.

Glasnevin Cemetery is a place filled with history, emotion, and reflection. Its monumental gravestones, especially the towering Celtic crosses, leave a lasting impression on visitors. For history enthusiasts and those seeking contemplation on the past, this is one of the most intriguing sites in Dublin.

If you have visited Glasnevin Cemetery, share your impressions in the comments! What emotions did this place evoke in you?

If you enjoyed this post and are looking for more inspiring places and unique photographs, feel free to check out the post Bull Island Dublin - A Natural Paradise Full of History. You’re also welcome to visit my Landscape Photography Portfolio Gallery, and those interested can explore my stock footage as well.

 

Rafal Rozalski.