Leaving Plymouth, a photo from Devon, England

Photographer's Note

Plymouth has been associated with the voyages of pioneers and colonists for centuries- so it's hardly surprising the city is the inspiration for around 50 places of the same name around the world.

In 1585, Sir Richard Grenville led what was probably England's first expedition to colonise the New World.Seven ships sailed from Sutton Harbour to Roanoke Island, in what is now North Carolina.

Despite several attempts to establish themselves over the following five years, most returned home.Those that remained are believed to have been 'adopted' by native Indian tribes.

A quirk of fate gave Plymouth its historic connection with the Pilgrim Fathers- the group of Puritans who famously built the first permanent settlement and were founders of the American constitution.

They had originally set off from Southampton in two ships;the Speedwell and the Mayflower,in August 1620.But the Speedwell was not up to the voyage and they were forced back twice due to leaks.
They eventually made the perilous journey across the Atlantic from Plymouth on board the Mayflower- landing on the coast of Massachusetts on 21st December 1620 at a spot now called Plymouth Rock.

It may have been by accident, but the Pilgrims couldn't have picked a better port for help and encouragement and they later expressed their gratitude for all the kindness they received during their time here, in Plymouth.

The original quay that they departed from disappeared long ago, but the Mayflower Steps are a symbol of where the Pilgrims last set foot on English soil.

As you look through the arch you can see a small balcony,stand on this and to your right there are some steps as a reminder of that journey made so long ago.

If you visit this arch you will be able to read many plaques which help explain the significance of Plymouth's maritime roots.

[Notes taken from www.bbc.co.uk/devon/content/articles/2005/06/07/coast05]

Thanks for looking.

tyro, jhm, gunbud, kmarscher oznaczył to zdjęcie jeko użyteczne

Critiques | Translate

tyro (30513) 2007-07-18 13:47

Hello, Jean.

You have presented a nice picture and a very interesting note indeed. I often think that the explanatory note is almost as important as the picture.

That is not to say that your picture isn't good: the exposure is spot-on, it is crystal-clear and sharp and the colours are superb. I don't know, however, had you moved slightly to the right to take the shot, if the top of the arch might have been straighter and you could perhaps have either included the whole of that plaque on the right or else excluded it all together. That might have also prevented the arch being right in the middle of the picture. Not sure - just a wee suggestion - photography is so subjective anyway and you might have had good reason to take the shot from this point of view.

Anyway, a very nice shot and an excellent note.

Best Wishes,

John.

jhm (211736) 2007-07-19 3:21

Hello Jean,

A through look give always a very nice image, we get depth and perspective.
Not alone the statue is very interesting, but also the background with the rocks and the yachtport. Very well colours and composition.
Indeed I read very gladly your note, I learn almost everyday on TE.
Thanks for sharing.

Best regards,
John.

gunbud (34066) 2007-07-23 21:10

Hi Jean,
Wonderful POV through this ancient arch to the blue sea and the lovely hills. Very good color and sharp details with an excellent historic note.
Regards, Tom

kmarscher (2887) 2007-08-21 15:52

Naturally, we have a monument at the place the Pilgrims first set foot on the colonized soil in Plymouth, Massachusetts at Plimouth rock. Your post is my first view of the departure point so I thank you greatly for this.

As far as compo goes, I think I would try to move to the left, if possible, to hide the piping on the right behind the columns and perhaps frame the distant cliff edge at the coastline inside the column frame. I know, not always possible! I think you have good color range but may be able to pump up the contrast slightly in PP.