The Mission.

Canal Boats on the Kennet & Avon at Thatcham.

This part of the Kennet & Avon Canal is the River Kennet. Although the water looks still in this photo, there is quite a flow here. We are part of a dozen or so boats moored up here for the Mission.

We are involved with Canal Ministries. We are here to share the Gospel. People can visit the boats and walk through them – even have a short cruise. We also go into schools and other groups to take assemblies, give talks, etc.

The Mission is a great opportunity to meet people. It is surprising how many people live near a canal, yet have never even seen inside a narrowboat, let along cruised on one!

This photograph was taken late evening. This has given the wonderful rich blues. The slightly slow exposure has smoothed the water. In the distance, you can just see a lock. This is Monkey Marsh Turf Lock, one of two remaining on the canal.

To the right, you can see the gantries for the forthcoming electrification of the Great Western main line. During our time on this canal, we have seen these very slowly going up.

The photograph of the Mission has been given a bit of HDR treatment to boost the colours, and give atmosphere. It is a style I rather like – a sort of mix between a painting and a photograph.

Photograph Details:

• Taken: 21 May 2017
• Camera: Olympus OM-D E-M10 MkII
• Lens: Olympus 14-42 1:3.5-5.6
• Focal Length 14mm
• F/4
• 1/50 Sec
• ISO 400