Saturday, 20 November 2021

An Unexpected Passion: My Day at a Classic Car Auction

Back in 2015, I found myself with a free Saturday and, not being much of a car enthusiast, decided to tag along to a classic car auction in Kings Lynn. My primary motivation was simply to pass the time; I certainly wasn't expecting to be captivated. So, naturally, I left my camera at home – a decision I would quickly come to regret!

As soon as I stepped onto the grounds of Anglia Car Auctions, the atmosphere hit me. The sheer variety of vehicles, each with its own story and unique character, was genuinely impressive. From gleaming chrome to charmingly faded paintwork, there were hundreds of cars on display, all waiting for a new owner.

My initial indifference rapidly transformed into genuine intrigue. I found myself wandering from car to car, peering into interiors and admiring the craftsmanship. The buzz of the auction hall, the anticipation as bids rose, and the sheer spectacle of it all was far more engaging than I had ever anticipated.

Of course, my regret about leaving the camera behind grew with every stunning vehicle I encountered. Thankfully, I had my trusty Nokia Lumia phone with me. It wasn't the ideal photography tool, but it allowed me to capture some of the magic of the day. I ended up snapping around 40 pictures, trying my best to capture the essence of the diverse collection on offer.

It was a truly unexpected day out on Saturday, August 22nd, 2015. What started as a casual way to fill an afternoon turned into a fascinating dive into the world of classic cars. And while I might not have left with a new set of wheels, I certainly left with a newfound appreciation for automotive history and the thrilling world of auctions. I even managed to jot down some of the guide prices, adding another layer to the memories of this surprisingly engaging day.

Who knew a classic car auction could be so captivating? Sometimes, the best experiences are the ones you least expect!

Clicking any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Lot 264. 1924/25 Austin 7 Chummy
Guide Price £13 - 16,000 

Lot 245. 1938 Austin Seven Ruby
Guide Price £5,500 - 7,000

Lot 242. 1952 MG TD LHD
Guide Price £11,500 - 12,000

Lot 235. 1957 Austin Healey 100/6
Guide Price £33,000 - 38,000

Same Austin Healey

Lot 241. 1957 Austin Healey 100-6 LHD
Guide Price £48,000 - 54,000

Lot 179. 1958 Ford Prefect 100E
Guide Price £2,750 - 3.750

Lot 243 1959 Triumph TR3A
Guide Price £16,000 - 19,000

Lot 191. 1961 Rover P4 100
Guide Price £4,700 - 5,300

Lot 113. 1961 Vanden Plas Princess
Guide Price no reserve

Lot 106. 1962 Austin Mini
Guide Price £7,500 - 9,500

Lot 101. 1965 Cadillac De Ville
Guide Price £11,000 - 13,000

Lot 244. 1966 Fiat 500 F
Guide Price £7,000 - 9,000

Lot 250. 1966 Ford Mustang Convertible
Guide Price £14,500 - 16,000

Lot 274. 1966 Porsche 912
Guide Price £18,000 - 23,000

Lot 185. 1967 Triumph GT6
Guide Price £9,500 - 10.500

Lot 187. 1999 Rover Mini Sport
Guide Price £3,000 - 3,500

Lot 103. Lotus Elan 2+2
Guide Price £7,500 - 8,500

Lot 261. 1970 World Cup Rally Morris 1800
Guide Price £20,000 - 25,000

Lot 99, 1971 Alfa Romeo 1750 GT AM
Guide Price £28,000 - 32,000

Lot 271. 1972 Chevrolet Corvette Big Block 454 Convertible
Guide Price £35,000 - 45,000

Lot 180. 1972 Jaguar E Type Series 3 V12 Auto
Guide Price £30,000 - 35,000

Lot 292. 1972 Mercedes 350 SL
Guide Price £8,500 - 9,500

Lot 295. 1973 VW Type 2 Westfalia Continental Campervan
Guide Price no reserve

Lot 268. 1975 Ford Capri II 2.0 JPS
Guide Price £10,000 - 12,000

Lot 109. 1975 MGB GT
Guide Price £2,150 - 2,350

Lot 145. 1976 Ford Escort Mexico II
Guide Price £15,000 - 18,000

Lot 151. 1977 Ford Transit Pick Up
Guide Price £4,000 -5,000

Lot 193. Mercury Monarch Ghia
Guide Price £2,000 -3,000

Lot 93. MGB GT
Guide Price £2,000 - 2,500

Lot 253. 1978 Austin Morris Mini 1000 Van
Guide Price £6,000 - 8,000 

Lot 100. 1979 Austin Allegro 1500L
Guide Price £1,500 - 1,800

Lot 258. 1980 Ferrari 308 GTS
Guide Price £55,000 - 65,000

Lot 178. Daimler Double Six HE Auto
Guide Price no reserve

Lot 230. 1985 Aston Martin Lagonda LHD
Guide Price £45,000 - 50,000

Lot 249. 1985 Ford Capri 2.8 Injection
Guide Price £4,750 - 5,750

Lot 231. 1986 Ford Capri 3.0S Series X Recreation
Guide Price £14,000 - 17,000

Lot 170. 2000 Jaguar XK8 Convertible Auto
Guide Price £5,500 - 6,500

Lot 254. BMW Z8 Roadster
Guide Price £140,000 - 160,000

Lot 182. 2002 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Tiptronic Cabriolet
Guide Price £9,000 - 11,000

Ferrari Daytona, I don't think this went through the auction that
day and does not appear in the catalogue.

Vincent Rapide Combination
Wasn't listed, it was on display to advertise an upcoming bike auction.


The images were all taken by Colin Green and the copyright shall remain mine.

The additional information regarding vehicle info and guide prices were taken from the Anglia Car Auctions brochure, all credit must go to them for this.

Please take a moment to share this post, follow me on social media, and explore my work on Clickasnap and Photo4Me using the links below. Your support means a lot!



Saturday, 13 November 2021

A November Lens on Bruges: Capturing the Medieval Charm

November in Bruges. While some might shy away from the cooler temperatures and shorter days, for a photographer, it's an invitation to capture a different kind of magic. My short trip in November 2015 to this enchanting medieval city was precisely that – a deep dive into its ancient beauty, seen through the unique lens of the season.

Stepping off the train and onto the cobbled streets, the air was crisp, carrying the faint scent of waffles and history. Unlike the bustling summer months, November offers a quieter, more contemplative Bruges. This was a distinct advantage for photography. The crowds were thinner, allowing for unobstructed views of iconic landmarks and the chance to linger, composing shots without feeling rushed. The softer, diffused light, characteristic of autumn and early winter, cast a gentle glow on the historic architecture, highlighting textures and colours in a way that harsh summer sun simply can't.

My days were a delightful blend of exploration and capturing moments. The Market Square, with its towering Belfry and ornate guildhalls, was an obvious first stop. Without the usual throngs, I could truly appreciate the intricate details of these centuries-old buildings. The red brick and gold accents seemed to glow against the often-overcast November skies, creating a dramatic contrast that was a joy to photograph. I spent a good amount of time experimenting with different angles, trying to convey the sheer scale and historical weight of the Belfry, a silent sentinel that has watched over Bruges for nearly eight centuries.

Beyond the main square, Bruges truly revealed its photographic treasures. The serene canals, often described as the "Venice of the North," took on an ethereal quality. The bare branches of the trees lining the waterways, reflected perfectly in the still water, added a sense of stark beauty. Boat tours, though chilly, offered unparalleled perspectives, allowing for shots of picturesque bridges and charming waterside houses that are inaccessible on foot. The lack of vibrant foliage in November also meant that the architectural lines and details of the buildings along the canals were clearer, making for sharper, more defined compositions.

Wandering through the labyrinthine alleyways and quiet residential streets was equally rewarding. Every corner seemed to offer a new photographic opportunity: a hidden courtyard, a whimsical doorway, or a charming cafe radiating warmth. The muted palette of the season meant that splashes of colour, like a vibrant red scarf on a passerby or a basket of bright flowers outside a shop, stood out even more, becoming natural focal points in my images. I particularly enjoyed capturing the intricate details of the Gothic facades and the weathered textures of ancient stone, elements that speak volumes about Bruges' rich past.

Of course, a visit to Bruges wouldn't be complete without experiencing its culinary delights, and these too offered photographic moments. The steam rising from a freshly made waffle, the rich hues of Belgian chocolates, or the inviting glow of a cosy pub interior – each was a scene waiting to be captured, adding a sensory dimension to the visual narrative of my trip.

A photographic visit to Bruges in November 2015 was a truly enriching experience. It proved that sometimes, stepping outside the peak tourist season can unveil a city's true character, offering a more intimate connection and unparalleled photographic opportunities. The soft light, the fewer crowds, and the timeless charm of medieval architecture combined to create a memorable and visually stunning journey. If you're a photographer seeking to capture the soul of a historic city, consider a November adventure to Bruges – you might just find its quiet beauty speaks volumes through your lens.

The images below were taken with a Polaroid is2132, clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.



Beginhoff Bridge


Bruges Market Place from the Historium


Canal from Mariaburg


Church of our Lady

City Hall

Dijver Canal

Dijver Canal

Embrace of 2 Monks

Fish Market

Historium and Provincial Court

Horse Head Fountain

Minnewater Bridge and Powder Tower

Minnewater

Minnewater

Nepomucenus Bridge and Statue


St John's Hospital

Saint Salvator's Street

Church of Our Lady Spire



The following pictures can also be seen on my previous blog post about the Belfry of Bruges.















All the pictures were taken on the 2nd November 2015, Please take a moment to share this post, follow me on social media, and explore my work on Clickasnap and Photo4Me. Your support means a lot!



 All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

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