Snowdonia national park, North Wales, is a landscape photographer’s dream, offering dramatic mountains, rugged coastlines, and serene lakes. On our recent photography trip, we explored this breathtaking region with both film and digital cameras, using my Nikon F3 and Mamiya 645 for film photography and my Fuji X100F for digital photos, capturing the essence of its raw beauty in every frame.

Our journey began along the coast of Anglesey Island, where the low tide brushed the rocky shores under a purple lit sky. The contrast of topen sand dunes against the white surf was perfect for both the rich tones of film and the crisp clarity of digital photography. As we ventured further, the golden hour light illuminated the coastline, making for some truly atmospheric shots. On Anglesey Island, we visited Traeth Llanddwyn, a small island off the beach with a small chapel as a landmark. This secluded spot offered breathtaking views and a perfect composition for both film and digital captures.

Driving through the legendary Pen-y-Pass, we found ourselves surrounded by towering peaks dusted with snow. The winding road offered panoramic views of Snowdonia’s dramatic landscapes, tempting us to stop frequently and capture the ever-changing light. The film camera beautifully rendered the textures of the rugged terrain, and I found that Kodak Ektar was the best film for capturing the mountains' vibrant colors and crisp details, while the digital shots allowed us to experiment with exposure and contrast in real time.

While the lonely tree at Llyn Padarn was a memorable sight, the highlight of our trip was Traeth Llanddwyn. Standing in the lake’s still waters, this solitary tree is a favorite among photographers. We arrived in the morning during low light, casting a golden glow over the lake and creating a stunning reflection on the water’s surface. Shooting in both film and digital allowed us to appreciate the different moods of this iconic location, from the soft grain of film to the sharp details of digital imagery. For this I did shoot expired Portra VC, but it couldn’t handle the exposure. The Fuji x100f saved the moment.

Our adventure wouldn’t have been complete without a trek through the Tryfan area. With the mountain tops still covered in fresh snow, the scene was both peaceful and dramatic. The crisp mountain air and untouched white landscapes provided the perfect backdrop for some of our most striking photographs. Me and Ellie spent some time to take some photos of each other in this open and dramatic location.

Snowdonia’s wild and untamed beauty made this trip an unforgettable experience. Whether shooting on film or digital, every frame captured a piece of this stunning landscape’s soul. If you’re a photographer seeking inspiration, Snowdonia should be at the top of your list. It was a great two days, and I hope to visit again in the autumn this year.