Dear Readers,
The new book, The Grange Trilogy, is now with the editor! The final novella is with the VIP Readers, who are beta-testing it as I write this to you.
The new Shop page is now open, starting small, and here is the person behind the first luscious item there. This is James Kitto, the Cornish photographer who took this treasured photo of me being invested as a Bard of the Gorsedh of Cornwall earlier this year. As the Amanda Cadabra series is so firmly embedded in his beautiful land and historic culture, James has kindly agreed to be interviewed about his path to capturing its beauty through his lens.
James, thank you for taking part in the Q&A and sharing your unique experience and insights into the magic of your land.
 Can I start off by asking you, what are your links with Cornwall?
I was born in Penzance, and my family is deeply rooted here in the west of Cornwall. Both of my parents come from farming families that have lived in Cornwall for many, many generations. Cornwall is in my DNA!
 You can’t get more Cornish than that! The genuine article then.
Tell us about your very first camera. Where did it all begin?
I received my first camera – a Kodak Instamatic – from my Great Granny for my 10th birthday! I remember thinking that it was the most exciting present I’d ever received. I have a lot to thank Granny for – she was a big influence in my life in many ways. I think about her often.
What a special gift. It sounds like you were close, and your granny knew exactly what you’d love. An insightful lady.
Now, photography was not your main career choice. What was that, and what visual elements does it have?
I studied for a degree in Biology at Royal Holloway and Bedford New College (University of London), and after a couple of years of temporary jobs at British Gas and BUPA, I decided to study for a PGCE at the University of Exeter to train to become a primary school teacher. I have been a teacher here in Cornwall for over 30 years now. I have always tried to include visual elements in my teaching – from eye-catching classroom displays to using my photographs in various ways in different lessons to capture the children’s interest.
From biology to energy to health to teacher. Quite a journey.
So, how did you become a professional photographer?
I think I’m still working towards that goal, to be honest with you! I guess my journey began with family and friends admiring my photographs and telling me that I should do more with my photography. I started entering various local shows and competitions, which helped me to raise my own aspirations. The dawn of social media helped me to see a wider range of local photographers’ work – many of whom really inspired – and continue to inspire- me to develop my own photography. I’ve been fortunate to have had some of my photographs used in various newspapers, magazines and books, which has been a real joy for me. My biggest joy was being invited to become a Bard of Gorsedh Kernow in 2020, having been recognised for promoting the. Celtic spirit of Cornwall through my photography.
You’ve been remarkably proactive, and well done fitting around the day jobs. I’m sure it’s been more than luck that has landed you in so many publications! Congratulations on having your obvious talent acknowledged and appreciated. And, of course, on deservedly receiving your place as a Bard.
What is the importance of Cornwall to you, your art and work?
Cornwall is my main inspiration! It is the most beautiful of lands – who could fail to be inspired by its wide-ranging landscapes and seascapes?! The colours, the light, the raw, rugged beauty – Cornwall has it all! West Penwith is the part of Cornwall that many of my ancestors came from and it is definitely where my heart beats loudest!
And no wonder. I agree, James. Who could fail to be touched by it? Its inspiration comes to me even over distance to here in London and even over the years since I had last visited before September of this year. If that isn’t magic, I don’t know what is.
Is this source of inspiration something you try to impart to your young students? If so, how do you do that?
I like to think that the lasting memory my pupils will have of me is my deep passion for Cornwall and its rich traditions. From re-enacting Padstow’s ‘Obby ‘Oss and Helston Flora Day to making pasties and exploring ancient sites on field trips, I’ve always loved sharing the magic of all things Cornish with the children that I have taught.
And how lucky your pupils are to have a teacher who takes the time and care to share the richness of these experiences with them, which they will no doubt carry through to adulthood, to inspire them in the years beyond.
Tell us about your work with CASPN. What is that?
CASPN (Cornish Ancient Sites Protection Network) is a volunteer-led charitable trust that was set up more than a quarter of a century ago to protect and preserve Cornwall’s ancient sites. Having been a supporter for many years, I joined its committee a few years ago and became its Chair in 2023. CASPN organises a schedule of monthly clear-ups at various ancient sites throughout the year, where volunteers can come along and help cut back encroaching vegetation to keep these precious places accessible for all to enjoy. We have site monitors who provide reports on specific prehistoric sites – these provide us with regular updates on conditions at these sites. In May each year, we organise outreach’ Pathways to the Past’ weekend – two days of guided walks and illustrated talks, and a chance for CASPN members to get together.
That’s remarkable. So, if we want to find out more, including how we can support this vital project, we can go to https://cornishancientsites.com/Â
I understand that you produce a calendar. What do you feel is special about it?
Yes, I’ve been producing the ‘My Beautiful Cornwall’ calendar for the past 9 years now. Selecting the twelve images always involves much deliberation. I always try to include a range of images that represent various aspects of Cornwall’s beauty. I seem to have quite a list of repeat customers for the calendars each year, so I guess I must be doing something right!
Definitely! I’m not surprised you have customers coming back for more year after year. As well as many new ones.
What advice would you give to amateur photographers?
I’d say always try to make sure you have your camera with you, as you never know when inspiration will strike! Be sure to take plenty of shots at your chosen location, as small changes in light can really alter the image that you capture. Take a look online at the work of other local photographers in your area – they are sure to inspire, both with their work and the locations they capture.
Excellent advice. Thank you, James.
Coming back to your calendar, when will that be available?
My calendar is available to order now by contacting me either via my website, https://www.jameskittophotography.co.uk/contactform.html or through my Facebook Page: James Kitto Photography. https://www.facebook.com/jameskittophoto/
That’s excellent news. Before I rush off to get my order in, let me thank you so very much, James, for joining us today to share your wealth of experience and deep connection with the extraordinary land of Cornwall.
The Amanda Cadabra Shop
‘My Beautiful Cornwall’ marks a landmark here on amandacadabra.com as it cuts the ribbon on the new ‘shop’ page. More magical items will be appearing over the coming weeks and months, and I’ll let you know about them here, with advance news in the newsletter. If you’d like to have that you can join here.
Giveaway Reminder
This cozy paranormal mystery is now running. Free to enter!
Link to use and share: https://aconitecafe.com/aparanormalcozymysterybattywitchgiveaway/
Next
Coming up will be updates on the coming release of the new novella trilogy. All I can say is the above. It has passed beyond my hands. When it returns from the editor and VIP Readers (you can become one of them here, as there are still a few spaces available), the final amendments and polishes will be made. The ebook cover is done. The paperback cover remains to be put in place. We are moving out of the aircraft hanger, preparing to taxi ….
Back soon,
Happy December Holiday Preparations,
Holly
PS If you want to start the series now:
