Storm Ellen hit Porthleven, one of the best places to storm watch in Cornwall, on 20 August 2020. I drove down to film and photograph the action as the Atlantic swell rolled into the harbour and broke against the sea walls with real force.

The wind was strong, carrying bursts of spray through the air, and every few minutes a larger wave would rise up and crash over the outer pier. The sound was constant, the deep rumble of the sea mixed with the roar of the wind, and the whole harbour felt alive with movement.

Even with conditions like these, a few people still ventured out to watch from a safe distance, drawn by the spectacle of the storm. The shifting light and spray made it challenging to film, but also rewarding, with each wave showing the raw power and unpredictability of the Cornish coast.

Porthleven always delivers during storms, and Storm Ellen was no exception. The combination of high winds, rough seas, and that unmistakable energy made for a memorable day of filming and a striking reminder of why this harbour remains one of Cornwall’s most dramatic locations in bad weather.

Looking back towards the Porthleven harbour. The sea is deceptively calm but the wind was blowing a gale.

Masses of sea foam gathering at the harbour entrance.

One of the gun barrels salvaged from HMS Anson points out towards the sea to protect Porthleven from marauders.

Nothing like the enormous waves I have seen at Porthleven in the past but still a demonstration of the storms raw power.

The safety of the harbour.

You’d be amazed at how many people still ignore these very clear warnings to get a selfie.

Heading back to the car after a great session filming Storm Ellen.