“Paul’s walks are fully tailored to the needs of the customer, and come with the benefit of his photographic expertise as well as his vast local knowledge, making for a unique experience. I couldn’t recommend him highly enough.”
Dartmoor Guided Photography Walks
Photography Walks on Dartmoor with a fully qualified guide - (comes with free unpredictable weather, lots of bogs and maybe some actual fun)
I’m a Dartmoor based landscape photographer offering guided photography walks on Dartmoor for anyone from curious beginners with a phone camera (who love the outdoors and have little desire to produce art gallery pieces) to grizzled old camera‑draggers with way too many lenses who’d like to capture some of the more “off the beaten track” images.
These walks are bespoke, not “one size fits all” workshops. We choose routes and pace together, live with Dartmoor’s interesting weather rather than chasing perfect forecasts, and aim for honest, atmospheric images that feel like the moor you actually walk through, not the picture postcard version the tourist guides show you.
“ ‘Paul... Paul who? Oh, that Glavind bloke? Ah yes... ‘
I’ve been taking photos on Dartmoor (and other places like beaches, etc) for a few years - and even had a gift of a photography session with another photographer some years ago (don’t tell Paul).
But, Paul’s friendly there’s-no-such-thing-as-doing-it-wrong approach was really great and helped me to relax into finding my own style of photos - they don’t need to look “correct”, they can be whatever I’d like - and using whatever equipment is available.
The most interesting thing was being shown freelensing, which just blew my mind.
If you want a relaxed, creative walk with a friendly person taking some photos, give Paul a shout... or an email if he’s too far away.”
Nobody is expecting you to trek across miles and miles of open moorland in torrential rain. On the other hand, being out in the mist or the snow is not only exhilarating it lends itself to way more interesting photography.
If you’re after some “chocolate box” images of Dartmoor, you can drive to a nice parking spot and grab yourself some beauties.
If you fancy creating something a little more memorable and a few hours away from the hustle bustle, get in touch and we can discuss where you’d like to go.
Ten Tors
I was born in Devon, raised in Devon and have been walking on Dartmoor since I was a toddler.
I grew up in Plymouth and remember exploring around Burrator with my parents and lobbing sheep shit at my dad by Yelverton aerodrome.
I completed all three Ten Tors with my school.
All of this is true, it could; in today’s age of virtue signalling and internet tomfoolery; also equally be seen as nothing more than standard marketing BS.
I don’t do marketing. I do photography and I do walking.
“ ‘When the student is ready, the teacher appears’.
I was fortunate to meet Paul on a Hill and Moorland course and from the start he demonstrated how knowledgeable he was about Dartmoor (knowing a hell of a lot more than me!!!)
I was so impressed, I asked if I could do a few walks with him to learn from him and since then we have been on many walks and he has become my Dartmoor learning mentor!
Paul is generous with his time, down to earth, kind and very personable.
He is extremely knowledgeable about the lay of the land on Dartmoor, knows great hidden features, lovely areas to walk and always chooses walks away from the usual ‘touristy’ routes.”
“If you want to discover the real, natural, raw, beautiful, untouched, parts of Dartmoor- Paul is the man to guide you.
He is also a fabulous photographer and shares his great passion of Dartmoor through his beautiful images.
I highly recommend him as he’ll take you to all the good places to take some fab shots. You will leave at the end of a day, not only with great knowledge of Dartmoor but also some lovely pics to take home with you.”
There’s an argument that people need to discover the worst of Dartmoor to truly understand it.
I’m not sure I agree, however, I do believe that the best of what Dartmoor can offer isn’t just available to summer visitors. Exploring at anytime of the year can only enhance it’s beauty. People who know me well will say I enjoy mist more than sunshine (they might be partly right) however you can’t deny the aesthetic nature of moorland in mist.
Devon Born & Bred
Does my being Devon born or having done The Ten Tors make me a better guide than the next person?
Does it mean I have better knowledge of the moor than somebody who moved here 5 years ago?
Inconclusive at best.
If you’re a photographer and you have trouble admitting there’s a 16 year old on Instagram with a hand-me-down iPhone 12 from Bristol who is a way better photographer than you’ll ever be, then you’re not likely to either enjoy your photography, or create anything people will want to see.
Emma Cunis or Dartmoor’s Daughter as she is most affectionately known is a truly spirited Dartmoor guide, author, storyteller and nature connection facilitator whose obvious enthusiasm for Dartmoor is infectious.
After a 20 year global career, she returned to her Devon roots (Emma is the the granddaughter of Eric Hemery, author of what has been called Dartmoor’s Bible, “High Dartmoor: Land and People” (1982)) and now leads inspiring walks, tours and talks that naturally blend history, folklore, archaeology, wildlife and wellbeing into an unforgettable experience.
Emma’s deep family connection to the moor, stretching back through generations of local guides, gives her a uniquely lived perspective that she weaves into each adventure.
Her excellent and delightful new book, “Dartmoor Myths and Legends: Exploring Origins and Inspirations”, (illustrated by her aunt, Gina Hemery) brings to life the magic and mystery of the moor’s ancient tales with real warmth and insight.
The same could easily be said about knowledge of the moor. A friend of mine Max Piper is still only in his early 20’s and has probably forgotten more about Dartmoor than I will ever know 😂
He’s already authored his first book “East Dartmoor’s Lesser-Known Tors and Rocks” and is heavily involved in helping run the fantastic Dartefacts website, and the brilliant Tors of Dartmoor.
Paul Rendell or Dartmoor Paul, as he is fondly known, is one of Dartmoor’s most passionate champions
A guide, author, storyteller and educator who, in his numerous and varied roles, past and present, actively brings the moor to life.
Paul has decades of experience walking on Dartmoor. Not just the more popular and well trodden but also the lesser explored nooks and crannies. He manages to combine expert knowledge with inspiring zeal (presumably South 😁).
Whether he’s leading any of his numerous quirky guided walks, writing about Dartmoor’s history and wildlife, either for The Dartmoor News or in one of his numerous books, his approach is at once, both warm and generous and always tremendously motivating.
So, why choose me for your photography walk?
No idea - check out my work and even if you don’t like my style, do the locations look interesting?
You can read my reviews (they’re all real) or you can message somebody who knows me, or has been on a walk with me.
I’m definitely not everybody's cup of tea, I’m fairly opinionated and I don’t mind a decent debate if one is on offer.
I do not walk on the moor to take photographs.
I leave that to the photographers who love to stand on a hillside freezing their butt’s off for a half hour before the sun is supposed to rise and then complain it’s a cloudy day. My usual planning involves being in the rough area of somewhere picturesque at around the time the sun will rise.
If I’m lucky, I get some amazing sunrise (or sunset) photographs, if I’m not, I just carry on walking …
Read about my Guided Walk with the Museum of Dartmoor Life
“I invited Paul to organise a walk on Dartmoor, with photo opportunities, for some of the volunteers at the Museum of Dartmoor Life.
He asked many questions about what we required and the abilities of our walkers and from that planned a very accessible route.
We met on the most theatrical of misty mornings which was amazing for photographs and the mist seemed to clear whenever there was another spectacular view to admire.
Paul’s knowledge of the area was vast and we all learned a great deal about its history and he also gave us hints to improve our photos.
We felt safe in Paul’s hands, so we did not have to worry about maps and directions and everyone agreed that it was a marvellous adventure.
I would recommend Paul as a guide to anyone.”
These Aren’t Photography Lessons
That being said, I am more than happy to pass along my experiences and make suggestions about how you might improve your photography (or to shut my mouth and allow you to do your own thing)
My work is for me and if it doesn’t resonate with you, why would you wish to emulate it in any way?
I’m not in the slightest bit “renowned”, nor even highly thought of for that matter 😂
I’m just some bloke who wanders around Dartmoor and likes to take photographs when the urge takes me.
I love Dartmoor
My love of Dartmoor is authentic and heartfelt. It’s not something I lightly decided to package up and sell on as some kind of half baked commodity.
I’m one of the many people who were fed the lie that working hard meant you got on in life. It’s “way” more complicated, and now I find myself getting on and having zero pension, my proposed solution, to do what I enjoy.
If you enjoy photography or Dartmoor or both, then let me share that love and be able to afford rent and food this month 😂
Guaranteed Better Photographs?
Will my walks drastically change your life? Who knows! They might.
Will you enjoy your time with me, here’s hoping so.
I’m witty, whimsical and not adverse to a good debate - am I always right? nope
My oeuvre is a little odd - I’m drawn to a kind of what I can only describe as a neo classical way of editing - though, I’m also the first to admit that I don’t really have any set idea what I’m doing.
What’s with your unusual photography style?
As I’ve mentioned elsewhere, I take photographs for myself.
I’m beyond attempting to chase any kind of recognition, if somebody happens to like them, great. If that person then buys a print (or two) even better! You’re not on this page to do that, you’re here to see if I can guide you somewhere where you can take some photographs of Dartmoor.
I shoot nearly all my work with old film camera lenses (adapted to digital cameras) … though I also sometimes still shoot and develop film I still, regularly only take a single lens out with me (because part of the fun is to stretch yourself).
My photographic style came about by not trying to be anybody else. Does it borrow from others? of course it does, should you like it in order to want me to guide you?
Absolutely not. I’m not a teacher, I am happy to help you discover your own style, or to just point you towards pretty things on Dartmoor that you can then capture in your own way 😍
Why Choose me to guide you?
Here’s the bit where I try and convince you to spend money with me by either appealing to your vanity or through some kind of misguided hierarchical status thing … well, that’s what the marketing gods would like 😂
Here’s the deal, you’re the customer, I’m providing a service - I’m a fairly easy person to get along with and I promise to make your walk as enjoyable as possible … lets talk!
I’ve attempted to create videos and other social media things (with very little success); photography is subjective and not everybody will like my take on things and you really shouldn’t want to.
I’m definitely not the worlds greatest photographer, and although I’ve successfully completed my Hill & Moorland Leader course, I can think of at least a half dozen Dartmoor Guides who could probably do a better job (absolutely none than can do both even half as well though).
I don’t pretend to know everything and if you think that by coming with me on a trip to the moor will automatically make you a better photographer, then you’re better off paying for one of those “Online Photography Courses” 😂
You’ll only get better at photography by doing photography 💚
Adventurous Dartmoor Photo Walks
If you want a totally unique adventure and you’re willing to take a risk on the unpredictability of Dartmoor, I can guarantee you an experience to remember
What to Bring on one of my Photography Walks on Dartmoor
Clothing
Waterproof Jacket – preferably actually waterproof, not just “popping to the shops waterproof”. Breathable is a massive bonus.
Waterproof Trousers – optional until they suddenly aren’t.
Warm layers – fleece, jumper, or just extra t-shirts. Dartmoor really can do “four seasons before lunch” and as the Boy Scouts say - Be Prepared!
Sturdy walking boots – waterproof and broken-in - there’s nothing worse than wet or blistered feet.
Hat & gloves – even in summer these really are an essential item to pack.
Spare socks – for morale, if nothing else.
In Your Rucksack
Rucksack – large enough for those essentials, but small enough you’re capable of picking it up!
Water – way more than you think you’ll probably need. There are very few convenience stores.
Food – Anything you fancy - after all you’ll be carrying it.
Sun Cream – Yes! really! Even on the coldest days the sun can be vicious.
Personal Medication – inhalers, tablets, EpiPens, etc. Probably best to mention these to me before we embark on our journey!
Nice to Have Extras
Map & Compass – I rarely use either when I’m on the moor, but I ALWAYS carry them with me
Notebook & Pen – or an app on your phone for jotting down photography tips or writing poetry about the beauty around you.
Sense of Humour – Probably one of the most important things - especially if the rain is horizontal!
Respect for the Moor – leave no trace, close gates, admire livestock from a polite distance. Take only Photographs, leave only boot prints.
What “Not” to Bring
Flip-flops or basically any flimsy footwear.
Umbrellas
The idea that Dartmoor is fairly flat and it’s tarmacked
Any clothes you aren’t happy to get covered in mud and sheep shit.
Why Choose A Walk with Glavind Strachan? - A slightly irreverent guide to how I see Dartmoor
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![A moody Dartmoor landscape]()
A Profound and Intimate Knowledge of Dartmoor.
Meaning, of course, that I’ve been rained on, got lost in mist or fallen into enough bogs that most of my personality has been replaced with peat, moss or fungi (or all three depending on the day).
I rarely see any photograph of Dartmoor as having a true “authenticity” unless at least one of the previous scenarios mentioned existed at the time of it’s taking, or the photographer was experiencing a blissful ecstatic shift in consciousness, lost in a haze of deep spiritual enlightenment or being chased by a ragtag group of angry cows.
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![A gnarly oak at Whiteworks, an abandoned Tin Mine on Dartmoor]()
A Fanatical Devotion to Moodiness
Every image must essentially prioritise atmosphere over spectacle.
Despair, uncertainty and deep contemplative introspection are the only true precursors to great art.
The bleaker, mistier, or more existential the better.
The effect is substantially enhanced if the results make me look ever so mystical, deep and/or pious on numerous tedious, insipid and thinly disguised self congratulatory social media posts.
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![Sheep in the mist on Great Links Tor on Dartmoor]()
An Obsession With Places So Bleak Even Sheep Refuse to Hang Out.
The people want photographs of Haytor but I give them abstractly artistic images of bogs and random bits of granite jutting out of even more bogs.
Bonus points if I can spout some pretentious drivel interspersed with seemingly meaningless phrases like “transitional spaces” or “liminal thresholds” on my posts on Threads that nobody will read and even fewer will understand.
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![Ponies in the mist at Merrivale Stone Rows on Dartmoor]()
Historical and Mythological Gravitas
Every rock is ancient, every puddle has folklore, and every clump of moss is probably haunted. This must be stated loudly and often.
Every pebble apparently has a mystical backstory, each more tenuous than the last, the chance to exploit tourists with ever increasingly bizarre and unlikely stories or myth’s conveniently transposed from Eastern European fables or some obscure Victorian periodical can never be over estimated.
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![Rainbow over Rattlebrook Railway on Dartmoor]()
Weather That Inspires
Blue skies are for rank amateurs and mobile phone photographers. Real artistry can only be achieved by deep introspection and avoiding airborne cows.
A devotion to Dartmoor’s raw, untamed essence - Primarily expressed through enthusiastic descriptions of how miserable it was to take the photo
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![Paul Harris - Owner of Glavind Strachan Photography in a lichen encrusted hawthorn tree]()
A Truly Personal Emotional Narrative
Each and every photo symbolises at least three major life crises, none of which I truly explain but all of which are deeply “felt” - your incapability to understand the obvious profundity encapsulated in the images is a reflection of societies collapse.
My work is a manifestation of inner turmoil. Most commonly as a result of getting lost or rained on again.
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![Paul Harris sits below the canopy of the famous Black-a-Tor Copse on Dartmoor]()
Cringingly Niche Social Media Hook
Some random excessively performative type of interaction - organ grinder/monkey territory.
The idea that a persons passion might also become their profession is, unfortunately, only something that comes to those who can continually support themselves whilst attempting to be seen amongst the incalculable dross that is social media, or requires you to compromise you ideas or interests to align with whatever trend or fad is prevalent this morning.
Obviously this last bit is a little “Tongue-In-Cheek” look at the maelstrom of drivel that is written about and around the Dartmoor experience, the truth is I feel a connection with Dartmoor (and the outdoors in general), and I really do love being out in the wilds, shooting images - if you like my stuff (or even if you don’t, but you can appreciate the time and effort I put into my work) why not come on a walk with me?