We're a bit late with the gallery round-up this week as we were out scrambling on Tryfan at the weekend, during Ellis Brigham's first gear testing day. Judging by the state of the gallery when we got back, everyone else looks to have had a top weekend as well. There was the OM meet in Eskdale, for a start, but this week's photography round-up also includes highlights from the Dolomites, Arran, and good old Snowdon ...
First of all, Neil Higgins' picture of Windermere at sunset has been far and away the most popular image in the gallery over the last week or so, for obvious reasons. In fact, it's in serious danger of bagging Neil a couple of pairs of Bridgedale socks. Those of you who've spent much time browsing Neil's albums in the past won't really be surprised though. This particular photo comes from Lakeland Memories Part II - and yes, there's not only a part one but a part three as well - if you want to look any further. You might need to allow more browsing time than you think, judging by the amount of time OM members have spent voting for Neil's photos. The Part II album alone has attracted less than 106 votes shared between the seven photos - and yes, we were sad enough to do the calculation:-)
Windermere at Sunset, by Neil Higgins
The next shot is oozing 'atmosphere' (says she, hoping that's one of the 'in' photography terms:-) Count the valleys, count the hills, try and name them all - or just say 'wow', depending on how you feel. After all, the photo certainly has a wow-factor. We've seen Snowdon in the sunshine, the mist, the drizzle - but never looking quite this ghostly. If you want to see more of Peter Freeth's photography, try his album Ascent - the adventure coaching experience. It combines scenic landscape shots with jubilant summiteers raising their arms on Snowdonian summits. Enjoy.
Snowdon at Dawn, by Peter Freeth
Marcus Crompton headed north recently, when many of us went south to the Alps, Dolomites and Pyrenees. His photos of the isle of Arran are just as eye-catching as the dramatic Alpine glaciers we've been lapping up recently though. Here's a taste of the variety of his trip - a panorama of hilltops and a coastal shot with a decidedly placid sea. Enjoy more of his photos in the Latest Pictures album.
Catacol Bay, Arran
North Arran Panorama, by Marcus Crompton
Speaking of the Dolomites, you don't get much better than this. We reckon it's time to raise another sock alert. For a small but stunning collection of Paul's other photos from the Dolomites, take a look at his Dolomites - September 06 album. Now, what time's the next flight to Italy ...?
Sunset from Nuvolau, by Paul Taylor 4
And finally, we can't round off this week's gallery overview without a word about Dave Mycroft's new buff design. Anyone who's been keeping an eye on the OM forum recently will know that the merits of buffs have been endlessly debated, with a number of stalwart advocates, and a party of fierce dissenters led by no other than 'Weird Darren - the buff slayer'. If you've missed out on OM's earth-changing buff-banter, you can get up to date by having a quick look at these forum threads:
So, make yourself a cup of tea, stretch your stomach muscles ready for a good bit of laughter-exercise, and have a browse. And when you're done, place your order for a Weird Darren buff - coming to an outdoors website near you soon:-)
Buff Design, by Dave Mycroft 
Weird Darren - the Buff Slayer
