Bob Brind Surch was one of Retford and District Photographic Society’s keynote speakers this season. A lifelong photographer and educator, he visited with his wife, Ann, to give an insight into macro photography.
Next came Sally Sallett, who told members you should ‘Never underestimate an old woman with a camera’. She took the title from a T shirt bought for her by her family after she took up photography seriously later in life. She has certainly embraced the hobby and is now a practiced exponent in the skills of creating composite images. This is an area not really explored as a club, but they will repurpose a trophy to reward the creator of the best composite image next year.
The final part of the Society’s portfolio competition – the class for digital images – was held in March with Stephan Nicholson judging. The winning entry of four images was from Andy Stephenson, underlining his impressive debut season as a competitive photographer. Tom Coulson, another relatively new member, came second with a long-standing member, Mike Vickers, taking third place.
Their final speaker of the year was local photographer, Chris Upton, who spoke specifically about monochrome photography. He discussed how you need to be able to envisage a coloured scene in black and white, by developing an awareness of the way different colours are viewed in tones of grey. Chris takes overseas workshops and included some shots from Venice in his talk.
At the end of April the Society take their summer recess, although they are hoping to hold a presentation dinner in May. Their website, www.retford-photographic.co.uk, is the place to look for more information about the club.