British photographer and author, Joe Cornish is one of the most famous commercial photographers in the world. Known for his dramatic landscapes, he is responsible for the photography in more than 30 travel books, has worked as an expedition photographer in Alaska and regularly works freelance for the National Trust.

The artist's passion for natural landscapes and his ability to capture the beauty of nature's wilderness has led to his work becoming symbolic with environmental protection. In 2006, Amateur Photographer honoured him with their annual Power of Photography Award, and in 2008 he was made an honorary Fellow of the Royal Photographic Society.

Students have been investigating landscape photography as part of their coursework and looking at the amazing work of Joe Cornish for inspiration. Mrs Mulryan, who runs and teaches our Photography courses at King James was therefore understandably delighted when he agreed to meet our students and take part in an informal Q&A session.

A full day of photography-related activities, which included meeting Mr Cornish at his studio, was organised for 25 students in Years 10 and 12 during the last week of half-term. The day began with a visit to Cod Beck Reservoir, near Osmotherley, where students were able to practice the composition theory and technical skills they have been learning in class.

This area of outstanding beauty allowed students to photograph a range of diverse landscapes including lake views and woodland.

This was followed by a visit to the Joe Cornish Gallery in Northallerton, which holds a permanent exhibition of the artist's work, as well as his print archive. Here students met Mr Cornish for a fascinating talk on how and why he chose photography as a career, his favourite locations and his tips for achieving unique and evocative landscape images.

The day culminated with a visit to Saltburn, where a friendly competition began between two teams of students, led by Art and Photography Teacher, Mrs Mulryan and Mr Grieveson, our Head Teacher. The teams became rivals in a challenge to see who could take the best photographs of the sea, beach, cliffs, pier and fishing boats. This coastal environment offered dramatic contrast in terms of texture, shape and form, and the results were outstanding.

Students photographs will be exhibited in school soon. We are most grateful to Mr Cornish for his support.