David Shilham: photographing Lanzarote’s beauty

If you follow social media, you may have come across David Shilham’s stunning photos of Lanzarote. David, 74, from Stockton-on-Tees, shows how enthusiasm and skill combine to show Lanzarote in all its varied glory.

How did you get into photography, David?

When I was a boy. My father worked on the railways and one day he brought home a Cosmic 35mm camera a friend had sold him. He never used it, but I read the manual and started snapping. On Sundays, after the dishes were washed up, I’d turn the kitchen into a darkroom.

How long have you been on Lanzarote?

I’ve been coming to Lanzarote for 18 years and finally moved over in 2022. Over that time, I’ve walked pretty much everywhere on the island, up all the volcanoes that are accessible, along the coastlines. I still do three good hikes a week. From the start I took photos of the island. It’s my lifelong hobby, and I just wanted to share the joy of the island. I make a lot of prints, but I never sell them, just give them away to friends.

Have you ever thought about going professional?

No. I ran businesses back in the UK and I’m not interested in setting one up here. It’s a lot of paperwork and it’s a lot less easy to make money at photography these days.

What are the subjects that most attract you?

The sea. I love the ocean, and the waves at La Santa are just incredible. I’m also a scuba diver and love photographing the underwater life here. But really, I’m interested in every aspect of the island and the other Canaries. The only subject I’m not that interested in is the sports – the running and cycling.

Any parts of the island you prefer?

I’ve been everywhere, from lagoons on Alegranza and volcano peaks to caves in Haría and shipwrecks on the seabed. Currently, I love the huge waves at La Santa, but I can always find something that interests me. It’s paradise here.

I think it’s a little sad that they’re starting to limit access to wilder parts of the island. I understand why they’re doing it, but it’s disappointing to return to a favourite place and find the parking area fenced off.

Any tips for budding photographers?

I’d say that most people don’t think to use manual settings on their cameras, but it makes a lot of difference, especially when you’re getting those dramatic shots by shooting into the sun.