An Early Start in the Fells
There's a lot that goes into bringing a new season to life, and it usually starts with an early alarm and a hopeful look and the forecast.
We met the gang at 7:30am, just as the sun was making its way over the hills. Blue skies were a promising start, and with the forecast suggesting the rain might hold off, we were feeling optimistic. Of course, we'd brought the kit to handle it either way.
Backpacks packed with new season gear, an arguably excessive amount of snacks and coffee making essentials, we set off towards Red Tarn. The plan? Put the kit through its paces, capture the new season looks out in their natural habitat and most importantly make it feel like a proper day in the hills with your mates.
The Journey
For this season’s shoot we wanted to capture the bits that happen between the big views and the perfect shots. The little detours, the catch ups along the way, stopping to take in the views and all the usual moments that make a day in the hills a good one.
Our models for the day were Jacob and Christy from our Ambleside store. Both are regulars in the mountains and know their stuff when it comes to outdoor kit, so it felt pretty natural to get them out doing what they love.
The walk up to Red Tarn came with the usual distractions including, stopping to say hello to a few dogs along the way. Priorities.
Once we reached the tarn, it was time for a well earned brew. Out came the Primus gear, and we took a moment to sit back, enjoy the views and refuel before heading up towards Swirral Edge. With plenty of chat, some debate over the best hill snacks and great views along the way, it was a pretty good day out and exactly the kind of experience we wanted the shoot to reflect.
Into the Afternoon
After making our way down for lunch, it was time to refuel before round two. Haribo featured heavily. Possibly too heavily.
With lunch done and a sugar rush kicking in, we got back to it, working through more of the lifestyle looks including pieces from Finisterre and Patagonia.
From technical layers for the hills to everyday outfits for the hours either side of the adventure, we wanted to show how this season’s kit fits into real life.
And somehow, the weather stayed on our side all day. Anyone who knows Ambleside will appreciate just how much of a result that is.
As the light started to fade, we wrapped up the and headed back down. Tired legs, well used kit and a full day out in the Lakes. Not a bad way to spend a day at work.
Our AW26 shoot was a reminder of what we love about this time of year. The changing conditions, the extra layers, the quieter trails and the excuse to get out for a full day with good people.
Autumn and winter don’t have to mean packing away the outdoor plans. With the right kit, there’s still so much to explore: whether you’re heading for the hills, taking the long way home or just making the most of a crisp morning.
The shoot was just the start. We’ve got plenty more new season gear, looks and stories to share over the coming weeks, and we can’t wait to show you.
Want to see how the day unfolded? Check out the reel below for more BTS at our AW26 shoot in the Lakes.
See you out there.
