Photography
Coordinators
Ian Smith – email by clicking the name
Dave Hambley – email by clicking the name
Venue
The photographic group meets on the 3rd Monday of each month, 9.30am – 11.30am. In addition, there will be photographic field trips. All abilities are welcome.
We meet at: The Community Room, Morrisons Supermarket, Olympian Way, Leyland, PR25 3UR
Background
Members are keen to develop their skills and techniques through sharing experience and knowledge. The object of the group is personal development and providing confidence with their camera equipment. The group has no desire to be competitive, it is more about the organic development of the individual.
So far the group has demonstrated a very enthusiastic approach to the activities. This included shooting images on small projects. A major part of personal development is understanding what you have created, and how you have done it, so review and group critiques form part of the learning process. Within the group there is a diverse and experienced range of knowledge of the photographic world so we can all learn off each other. So far this is proving just so.
Subjects that are on the horizon include macro photography, studio work, portraiture etc. Remember that photography is not just about the camera.
June 2024 Update
Monthly meeting point: Morrisons Leyland community room.
9.30 – 11.30. Next meetings June 17th & July 15th 2024.
Coordinator: Ian Smith
Photographic Project: Perspective on the Past.
Earlier in 2024, the group applied for a grant from South Ribble council to fund the above photographic project. During May 2024, the group was advised that we have been successful with our bid.
The objective of the project is multi layered. In its broadest sense each person will select at least one listed building/structure, photograph it, and research it’s history/points of interest. As a group we will then create a public exhibition within the area.
Firstly, the project is designed to develop the individuals to realise that photography is not just about the camera. The individuals will go through the complete process of producing a photographic exhibition, from start to finish. All this includes photographing items, lighting, editing, framing and correct use of equipment. Understanding about protected buildings, where to find such answers. Researching their chosen items and writing it up, understanding how to print to correct sizes, preparation for exhibiting. Marketing the event and evaluation of the finished work. They need to work as a team, collaborate, communicate and have the flexibility to change direction. Completion will deliver a true sense of fulfilment.
Secondly, Perspective on the Past, hopes to raise awareness within the community of some of the listed/protected buildings that are around every corner within the community. The Leyland area has a profusion of buildings and structures that people will pass every day and not be aware of their listed status or value to the community. The project will highlight a selection of such buildings.
Our photographic group comprises of a diverse range of abilities. To assist and develop the group, I arranged a talk from Peter Houghton, chair of the Leyland Historical Soc. who clearly illustrated the depth of listed material that is very close to the centre of Leyland.
Very recently the group visited the Lancashire County Records and Archive office in Preston. A visit that just kept on ‘giving.’ But again, it underlined the motive for our project.
A visit to a working photographic studio was abandoned.
With our monthly photographic exercises and constructive critiques, the group is developing the skills needed to understand the full meaning of our objective. An achievement that makes me feel very proud.
The group is very much indebted to South Ribble council for supporting this project.
Ian Smith, Group Coordinator, telephone: 07967008698
Below is a small selection of photographs from recent challenges completed by the group.
