2023-2024 news
Hailsham Photographic Society - Annual Print Exhibition 2024
REPORT
Charles Hunt Centre BN27 1BG. Monday 17th - Saturday 22nd June.
The Hailsham Photographic Society was delighted to present its annual exhibition at the Charles Hunt Centre from the 17th to the 22nd of June. The event was most successful with about 130 mounted prints on display and many visitors passing through. A number of prints and post cards were sold during the week and we had many positive comments.
We were honoured to receive the Mayor Councillor Paul Holbrook who spent some time looking at the images and discussing them in detail. He clearly enjoyed our work and admired the quality of the images.
There was a raffle together with tea, coffee and cakes available to purchase. The profit from these providing a useful addition to club funds.
The committee is immensely grateful to those who put so much work in to the exhibition, particularly Liz and Roger Scott, who organized and assembled it all. Also to all the members who took turns on the door welcoming people in. Many members were involved in making and serving the refreshments, hanging the images so carefully and of course photographing and mounting the images.
The club can be truly proud of this event, giving a superb display of our work to the residents of the area.
On behalf of the committee,
Bruce Broughton-Tompkins LRPS
Chairman, Hailsham Photographic Society.
REPORT
Charles Hunt Centre BN27 1BG. Monday 17th - Saturday 22nd June.
The Hailsham Photographic Society was delighted to present its annual exhibition at the Charles Hunt Centre from the 17th to the 22nd of June. The event was most successful with about 130 mounted prints on display and many visitors passing through. A number of prints and post cards were sold during the week and we had many positive comments.
We were honoured to receive the Mayor Councillor Paul Holbrook who spent some time looking at the images and discussing them in detail. He clearly enjoyed our work and admired the quality of the images.
There was a raffle together with tea, coffee and cakes available to purchase. The profit from these providing a useful addition to club funds.
The committee is immensely grateful to those who put so much work in to the exhibition, particularly Liz and Roger Scott, who organized and assembled it all. Also to all the members who took turns on the door welcoming people in. Many members were involved in making and serving the refreshments, hanging the images so carefully and of course photographing and mounting the images.
The club can be truly proud of this event, giving a superb display of our work to the residents of the area.
On behalf of the committee,
Bruce Broughton-Tompkins LRPS
Chairman, Hailsham Photographic Society.
Hailsham Photographic Society - Annual Print Exhibition 2024
Charles Hunt Centre BN27 1BG. Monday 17th - Saturday 22nd June.
The opening date for Hailsham Photographic Society's Annual Print Exhibition is almost upon us - the Exhibition is free and everyone is invited to come and enjoy a wonderful display of photographic prints from some of the Society's most talented Members. The exhibition is at the Charles Hunt Centre, Hailsham BN27 1BG and opens in just a few days time - from Monday 17th June to Saturday 22nd June from 10.00am to 4.00pm. The Charles Hunt Centre is conveniently located adjacent to Waitrose where there is ample free parking available. Entry to the Exhibition is free and visitors will be able to enjoy some 150 displayed prints of the Society's best work showing a wide range of subjects including of local scenes, Landscape, Natural History, travel, macro and abstract. Always a popular event locally and with members of other camera clubs, the Society has over 100 members with a wide range of photographic interests and styles thus ensuring that on the day there will be something of interest for everybody. Come along and enter our competition to choose your favourite print. Prints and cards ( of some prints ) are available for sale together with Raffle and refreshments. Everybody welcome.
Charles Hunt Centre BN27 1BG. Monday 17th - Saturday 22nd June.
The opening date for Hailsham Photographic Society's Annual Print Exhibition is almost upon us - the Exhibition is free and everyone is invited to come and enjoy a wonderful display of photographic prints from some of the Society's most talented Members. The exhibition is at the Charles Hunt Centre, Hailsham BN27 1BG and opens in just a few days time - from Monday 17th June to Saturday 22nd June from 10.00am to 4.00pm. The Charles Hunt Centre is conveniently located adjacent to Waitrose where there is ample free parking available. Entry to the Exhibition is free and visitors will be able to enjoy some 150 displayed prints of the Society's best work showing a wide range of subjects including of local scenes, Landscape, Natural History, travel, macro and abstract. Always a popular event locally and with members of other camera clubs, the Society has over 100 members with a wide range of photographic interests and styles thus ensuring that on the day there will be something of interest for everybody. Come along and enter our competition to choose your favourite print. Prints and cards ( of some prints ) are available for sale together with Raffle and refreshments. Everybody welcome.
Special Competition 'Architecture'
Judge: Steve Carroll ARPS
11/04/2024
PDI results
1ST- Victorian Architectural Iron work by Jonathan Close
2ND - Reflection confusion, Trondheim by Ray Beckwith
3RD- World trade centre, NYC By Jack Taylor
Print 'Architecture' Results
1st- UP By Liz Scott
2nd - The British Museum by Liz Scott
3rd - DE La Warr Spiral stair case 1934 by Piers Hamilton
Print of the year Competition 2024 (The Gay Birddlecombe Trophy)
1st - German wasp by Roy Mariot
Judge: Steve Carroll ARPS
11/04/2024
PDI results
1ST- Victorian Architectural Iron work by Jonathan Close
2ND - Reflection confusion, Trondheim by Ray Beckwith
3RD- World trade centre, NYC By Jack Taylor
Print 'Architecture' Results
1st- UP By Liz Scott
2nd - The British Museum by Liz Scott
3rd - DE La Warr Spiral stair case 1934 by Piers Hamilton
Print of the year Competition 2024 (The Gay Birddlecombe Trophy)
1st - German wasp by Roy Mariot
The Great Silk Road Today
Lecture by David smith LRPS CPAGB
04/04/2024
We were so lucky to have this amazing lecture from David all about his travels on the great Silk Road. He spoke about the ups, downs and the goating around . He took us on the most fascinating journey Accompanied by beautiful photos. David was extremely knowledgeable and easy to listen and everyone really enjoyed his lecture.
Lecture by David smith LRPS CPAGB
04/04/2024
We were so lucky to have this amazing lecture from David all about his travels on the great Silk Road. He spoke about the ups, downs and the goating around . He took us on the most fascinating journey Accompanied by beautiful photos. David was extremely knowledgeable and easy to listen and everyone really enjoyed his lecture.
Hailsham Photographic Society - Meeting 28th March
PDI Photographer of the Year ( POTY )
Judge - Lawrence Homewood EFIAP BPE2 CPAGB
The Society's Projected Digital Images Photographer of the Year seeks entries of a portfolio
of six images demonstrating the photographer's versatility in taking high quality images across a number of different photographic genres. These might for example include landscape, natural history, abstract, creative , portrait, still life or street art. This year's competition attracted a record level of 28 entries comprising the best part of 200 images for judge Lawrence Homewood to assess. His methodical, comprehensive and constructive approach to this task was excellent - also managing to complete it within the time allotted which in itself was no mean feat given the overall number of images to consider.
In his opinion all entries had pretty well met the brief regarding versatility across a number of themes and Lawrence had the Herculean task of firstly looking at each overall portfolio of six photographs before selecting 2 or 3 individual images from each for detailed assessment and critique. Himself a firm advocate of experimenting with a number of different genres and techniques Lawrence strongly supported the principle of such competition in terms of stretching photographers to try to capture images from out with their usual genres or specialisms. Seemingly relishing the challenges of his task, he held back a number of portfolios for even further assessment and advice prior to making his final selections for Highly Commended ( HC ) and placements.
1st - Alan Cork
2nd - John Lewis
3rd - Carole Lewis
HC - Liz Scott
HC - Marston Hart
HC - Roy Marriot
HC - Louise Pemberton
Congratulations to everyone who entered their portfolios for judging and which made for a thoroughly enjoyable evening. To see the Images please click here
PDI Photographer of the Year ( POTY )
Judge - Lawrence Homewood EFIAP BPE2 CPAGB
The Society's Projected Digital Images Photographer of the Year seeks entries of a portfolio
of six images demonstrating the photographer's versatility in taking high quality images across a number of different photographic genres. These might for example include landscape, natural history, abstract, creative , portrait, still life or street art. This year's competition attracted a record level of 28 entries comprising the best part of 200 images for judge Lawrence Homewood to assess. His methodical, comprehensive and constructive approach to this task was excellent - also managing to complete it within the time allotted which in itself was no mean feat given the overall number of images to consider.
In his opinion all entries had pretty well met the brief regarding versatility across a number of themes and Lawrence had the Herculean task of firstly looking at each overall portfolio of six photographs before selecting 2 or 3 individual images from each for detailed assessment and critique. Himself a firm advocate of experimenting with a number of different genres and techniques Lawrence strongly supported the principle of such competition in terms of stretching photographers to try to capture images from out with their usual genres or specialisms. Seemingly relishing the challenges of his task, he held back a number of portfolios for even further assessment and advice prior to making his final selections for Highly Commended ( HC ) and placements.
1st - Alan Cork
2nd - John Lewis
3rd - Carole Lewis
HC - Liz Scott
HC - Marston Hart
HC - Roy Marriot
HC - Louise Pemberton
Congratulations to everyone who entered their portfolios for judging and which made for a thoroughly enjoyable evening. To see the Images please click here
Hailsham Photographic Society Meeting Thursday 14th March
Members lectures/presentations
David Phillips - "A life spent in Hiding ( and various other places )
"A life spent in Hiding" provided a brief insight into David's travels, trials and tribulations in respect of his passion for wildlife and wildlife photography. Emphasising the need for patience, tenacity and, more than occasionally, endurance of very early mornings spent in hides of all varieties, extremes of temperatures and biting insects, his presentation took the audience through a number of countries in search of iconic species and wildlife spectacles. This was a journey through many of David's favoured Scandinavian countries,( Finland especially getting his vote ) up into the arctic circle, through the parched landscapes of southern Spain and onto the Virunga's National Park in Rwanda.
By way of illustration photographs of a wide range of subjects from bear cubs, the critically endangered Iberian lynx, Mountain Gorillas,mating displays of Capercaillie and Little Bustard were accompanied by David's humorous descriptions of the highs and lows behind each image. For the presenter it was evident that the totality of the experience, including extreme cold, the early mornings, biting insects, excitement of anticipation and ultimately the appearance of the animal or bird in question was the magic behind his love of the natural world and wildlife photography.
Paul Shilliam FRPS " The long fellowship road"
Paul's presentation "The long fellowship road " showed an equal passion in achieving a long-held ambition - that of obtaining a Fellowship Distinction to the Royal Photographic Society FRPS. His first visit to Africa had him hooked on that particular Continent and was when Paul determined to improve his photographic expertise. This determination led some years later to try for the RPS Distinction -a panel of African Mammals. In setting the scheme Paul explained that the three levels of RPS Distinctions ( LRPS, ARPS and FRPS ) involved submission of panels of 10, 15 and 20/21 images respectively.
Paul's endeavours to go for the Fellowship were thwarted by the lack of examples and advice on the RPS website - only finding reference to images having to be distinctive and distinguished. An early informal submission yielded a comment of "It shows promise" which appeared a more delicate way of saying "fail". One key piece of advice Paul offered to others however was that of not saying what else can I include in my Panel but rather what should I leave out - the former probably meaning that you haven't enough good images.
Lack of advice on the RPS website and difficulties in availability of mentors and advisory days on Natural History Panels further thwarted his ambition. An initial submission failed through three of the images not being of required standard. Undetermined Paul carried on - only to be again thwarted by the Pandemic. In a perverse way this did enable Paul to use the lockdown time to significantly improve his post processing skills. Following return visits to Etosha and the Masai Mara to provide yet more images his ultimately successful FRPS Panel showed from the very high-quality of the images what the RPS in its unspecified "distinctive and distinguished " wording, were aiming for.
Print competition Finals
07/03/2024
Judge: Paul O'Toole
Development class
1st- Birch Grove - By Pam Maclay
2nd- Hello im Quackers - By Paul Dryer
3rd - I'm still Someone - By Jon Daly
Advanced class
1st- Mayfly - By Janice Hewitt
2nd - Profile of a Toilet brush - By David Hoad
3rd- Storm Noa - By Jonathan Close
HC- Sprint up Druids- Roy Marriot
HC - The Sapling - By Liz Scott
View the Images Here
07/03/2024
Judge: Paul O'Toole
Development class
1st- Birch Grove - By Pam Maclay
2nd- Hello im Quackers - By Paul Dryer
3rd - I'm still Someone - By Jon Daly
Advanced class
1st- Mayfly - By Janice Hewitt
2nd - Profile of a Toilet brush - By David Hoad
3rd- Storm Noa - By Jonathan Close
HC- Sprint up Druids- Roy Marriot
HC - The Sapling - By Liz Scott
View the Images Here
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Colour show 2024 - Chairmans Report.
01/03/2023 - 02/03/2024
What great success!
Over three hundred people attended, we turned over in excess of three thousand pounds. After all expenses we divided the profit in two and donated one half, one thousand pounds, to our chosen Charity, Children’s Respite Trust.
I think that we can all be proud that everyone enjoyed our programme and went away happy.
Most people in the club lent a hand in some way, even by selling tickets.
Particular thanks go to Dave Brooker, Colour Show Producer, ably assisted by Richard Goldsmith who organised logistics and so much else. Dave has worked so hard for weeks and we are truly grateful to him. Thanks to Ray Beckwith. He is our President and was an excellent Compere for all 3 shows. As always, he undertook a considerable amount of work in the planning and organisation of the show. His knowledge and experience are greatly appreciated.
Pam Maclay and her team did a great job over all three shows with the refreshments, especially when managing to cheerfully provide 120 people with tea, coffee and biscuits in 15 minutes!
Susan and Daniel Trangmar’s raffle raised in excess of £500; they were assisted by Martin Rumary and Nicola Stone. Others were very helpful.
Shawn and his print team presented an excellent exhibition of our recent images.
Jennifer George did excellent work organising ticket sales and members manned the reception desk at each session, also covering the reception during the shows.
The Charity worked hard at the show and did their own presentation.
Thanks also to those who put together such beautiful images with their soundtracks to create the Audio-Visual presentations. A great job!
The winners of the awards for best AVs were:
Highly Commended - Seabirds on the Edge by Alan Cork.
Third - The Engines of Crossness by Richard Goldsmith.
Second - The World of the Airline Lounge by Daniel Trangmar.
First - Vision of Ashdown Forest by Dave Brooker.
Camera Centre award - Seabirds on the edge by Alan Cork.
Many people were involved in setting up and taking down the kit so that was completed by 10.30pm on Saturday.
Our next public event is the Annual Exhibition during the Monday 17th of June until Saturday the 22nd. We hope that you will all be there.
Bruce Broughton-Tompkins LRPS
Chairman, Hailsham Photographic Society
For more information on The Childrens respite trust please take a look at their website https://www.crtcharity.org/
01/03/2023 - 02/03/2024
What great success!
Over three hundred people attended, we turned over in excess of three thousand pounds. After all expenses we divided the profit in two and donated one half, one thousand pounds, to our chosen Charity, Children’s Respite Trust.
I think that we can all be proud that everyone enjoyed our programme and went away happy.
Most people in the club lent a hand in some way, even by selling tickets.
Particular thanks go to Dave Brooker, Colour Show Producer, ably assisted by Richard Goldsmith who organised logistics and so much else. Dave has worked so hard for weeks and we are truly grateful to him. Thanks to Ray Beckwith. He is our President and was an excellent Compere for all 3 shows. As always, he undertook a considerable amount of work in the planning and organisation of the show. His knowledge and experience are greatly appreciated.
Pam Maclay and her team did a great job over all three shows with the refreshments, especially when managing to cheerfully provide 120 people with tea, coffee and biscuits in 15 minutes!
Susan and Daniel Trangmar’s raffle raised in excess of £500; they were assisted by Martin Rumary and Nicola Stone. Others were very helpful.
Shawn and his print team presented an excellent exhibition of our recent images.
Jennifer George did excellent work organising ticket sales and members manned the reception desk at each session, also covering the reception during the shows.
The Charity worked hard at the show and did their own presentation.
Thanks also to those who put together such beautiful images with their soundtracks to create the Audio-Visual presentations. A great job!
The winners of the awards for best AVs were:
Highly Commended - Seabirds on the Edge by Alan Cork.
Third - The Engines of Crossness by Richard Goldsmith.
Second - The World of the Airline Lounge by Daniel Trangmar.
First - Vision of Ashdown Forest by Dave Brooker.
Camera Centre award - Seabirds on the edge by Alan Cork.
Many people were involved in setting up and taking down the kit so that was completed by 10.30pm on Saturday.
Our next public event is the Annual Exhibition during the Monday 17th of June until Saturday the 22nd. We hope that you will all be there.
Bruce Broughton-Tompkins LRPS
Chairman, Hailsham Photographic Society
For more information on The Childrens respite trust please take a look at their website https://www.crtcharity.org/
Hailsham Photographic Society - Meeting 29th February
Projected Digital Images ( PDI ) Competition Round 4
Judge : Pat Couder CPAGB BPE2 QPSA
Round 4 of the Society's PDI Competition attracted a near record entry with a total of seventy seven images submitted. Judge Pat Couder had the Herculean task of assessing, critiquing and commenting on each before finally selecting which of the many images should progress through to the PDI Finals later in the year.Within the Development Class Pat had twenty images to consider and where she offered much encouragement and constructive advice to those still developing their photographic styles and technique.Within the Advanced Class and owing to the high number of images submitted comments were of greater brevity, focussing more upon specific areas for increasing the impact of individual images. Expressing a general view as to being very impressed by the overall quality of images displayed Pat's final selections for images going forward to the Finals are as follows.
Sussex Shield ( Development Group ) - 20 entries
1.Final frontier - by Jon Daly
2.A Mother's touch - by Andrea Irvine
3.Harbour blur - by Diane Bickerstaff
4.Good hair day - by Terry Harrington
Albert Hillman Cup ( Advanced Class ) - 57 entries
1.No hope left - by Jonathan Close
2. Winksworth weir - by Louise Pemberton
3.Dalmation Pelican flips fish - by Alan Cork
4.Sunrise on beach ice - by Sally Watson
5.Bergy bits - by Peggy McKenzie
6.All the fun of the Fair - by Jonathan Close
7.Deep in a Sussex woodland - by Liz Scott
8.Green Gecko in the Seychelles - by Roy Broad
View images HERE
Projected Digital Images ( PDI ) Competition Round 4
Judge : Pat Couder CPAGB BPE2 QPSA
Round 4 of the Society's PDI Competition attracted a near record entry with a total of seventy seven images submitted. Judge Pat Couder had the Herculean task of assessing, critiquing and commenting on each before finally selecting which of the many images should progress through to the PDI Finals later in the year.Within the Development Class Pat had twenty images to consider and where she offered much encouragement and constructive advice to those still developing their photographic styles and technique.Within the Advanced Class and owing to the high number of images submitted comments were of greater brevity, focussing more upon specific areas for increasing the impact of individual images. Expressing a general view as to being very impressed by the overall quality of images displayed Pat's final selections for images going forward to the Finals are as follows.
Sussex Shield ( Development Group ) - 20 entries
1.Final frontier - by Jon Daly
2.A Mother's touch - by Andrea Irvine
3.Harbour blur - by Diane Bickerstaff
4.Good hair day - by Terry Harrington
Albert Hillman Cup ( Advanced Class ) - 57 entries
1.No hope left - by Jonathan Close
2. Winksworth weir - by Louise Pemberton
3.Dalmation Pelican flips fish - by Alan Cork
4.Sunrise on beach ice - by Sally Watson
5.Bergy bits - by Peggy McKenzie
6.All the fun of the Fair - by Jonathan Close
7.Deep in a Sussex woodland - by Liz Scott
8.Green Gecko in the Seychelles - by Roy Broad
View images HERE
Print Competition Round Four 22nd February 2024
Judge Cherry Larcombe
ARPS DPAGB EFIA BPE5
Development Class -Keith Donald Shield
The Shard- Jon Daly
Cumil the sewer worker- Graham Wilkinson
Advanced class - Founders cup
Looking seaward - Colin Christmas
Namaskaro Geothermal Field, Iceland - Ray Beckwith
No flies on me - Paul Shilliam
Just Hovering - John Evans
Seafront Shelter Hastings- Liz Scott
Reach for the moon- Carol Lewis
Evening arrival- Roy Marriot
Judge Cherry Larcombe
ARPS DPAGB EFIA BPE5
Development Class -Keith Donald Shield
The Shard- Jon Daly
Cumil the sewer worker- Graham Wilkinson
Advanced class - Founders cup
Looking seaward - Colin Christmas
Namaskaro Geothermal Field, Iceland - Ray Beckwith
No flies on me - Paul Shilliam
Just Hovering - John Evans
Seafront Shelter Hastings- Liz Scott
Reach for the moon- Carol Lewis
Evening arrival- Roy Marriot
Hailsham Photographic Society - Meeting 15th February
Strong Trophy - Panel Competition for Prints
Judge - June Sharpe ARPS
June opened the evening by reaffirming that whilst all Panel entrants should be aware, essentially, in assessing Panel Competitions each panel should be showing a synergy whereby the impact of the Panel as a whole was greater than the sum of its individual parts. Thus a given number of individually strong images would not necessarily make a good Panel if they could not acheive this..
Each of the submitted panels for the Strong Trophy consisted of six prints and June's firm, often forthright appraisals of each provided solid advice, suggestions and encouragement to those looking to pursue this type of exhibit. Her assessment centred upon seeking a fluid visual passage between the various displayed images making up the panel, looking for a complimentary palette of colours, textures and tonal values to acheive success. Each Panel needs to hold one's attention using carefully selected placings of images to bring "punch" and dynamism whilst avoiding the rather nuanced danger of simply utilising too many similar, rather than complimentary, images. June's final selections of those Panels for the award of placements and highly commended ( HC ) were as follows.
1st Sculpted by the waves - by David Mills
2nd Ripples on the water - by Jack Taylor
3rd Auschwitz and Birkenau - by Graham Wilkinson
HC Birds of Prey - by Bob Bell
HC Giraffes - by Paul Shillingham
HC Seeing in infrared - by Jonathan Close
VIEW IMAGES HERE
Strong Trophy - Panel Competition for Prints
Judge - June Sharpe ARPS
June opened the evening by reaffirming that whilst all Panel entrants should be aware, essentially, in assessing Panel Competitions each panel should be showing a synergy whereby the impact of the Panel as a whole was greater than the sum of its individual parts. Thus a given number of individually strong images would not necessarily make a good Panel if they could not acheive this..
Each of the submitted panels for the Strong Trophy consisted of six prints and June's firm, often forthright appraisals of each provided solid advice, suggestions and encouragement to those looking to pursue this type of exhibit. Her assessment centred upon seeking a fluid visual passage between the various displayed images making up the panel, looking for a complimentary palette of colours, textures and tonal values to acheive success. Each Panel needs to hold one's attention using carefully selected placings of images to bring "punch" and dynamism whilst avoiding the rather nuanced danger of simply utilising too many similar, rather than complimentary, images. June's final selections of those Panels for the award of placements and highly commended ( HC ) were as follows.
1st Sculpted by the waves - by David Mills
2nd Ripples on the water - by Jack Taylor
3rd Auschwitz and Birkenau - by Graham Wilkinson
HC Birds of Prey - by Bob Bell
HC Giraffes - by Paul Shillingham
HC Seeing in infrared - by Jonathan Close
VIEW IMAGES HERE
Hailsham Photographic Society - Meeting 1st February 2024
Round 3 -Projected Digital Images ( PDI ) Competition.
Judge Ian Brash CPAGB BPE2
Our judge Ian Brash was given the Herculean task of assessing and providing a critique of no less than 82 images in the Society's ever popular PDI Competition ( Round 3 ).There were thirty-one entries within the Development Class and an impressive fifty-one entries within the Advanced Class. Indeed, Ian described his task on the night as appearing to be the potential speed dating equivalent of judging.
He nevertheless tackled this with an impressive conscientiousness and enthusiasm; offering helpful advice and suggestions for each and every projected image - with pointers and suggestions as to corrections on verticals, cropping, and the removal of distracting features to improve the overall impact of the final image. Obviously a keen advocate of using "keylines" where appropriate to define the edges of images as was evidenced by his suggestions on a number of occasions, Ian's eventual choices of images going through to the PDI Finals were as follows.
Sussex Shield- Development Class - 31 entries
1.Sunset over the pier - by Jennifer George
2.Making honey - by Chris Hall
3.Catch - by Pam Maclay
4.The overtake - by Andrea Irvine
5. Coffee morning - by Diane Bickerstaff
Albert Hillman Cup - Advanced Class - 51 entries
1.Sanderling feeding on the beach - by Andrew Burns
2.Golden Eagle with remains of prey - by Alan Cork
3.Chalkhill Blues - by Andrew Burns
4.Riches to Rags - by Martin Rummery
5.Barn Owl - by Roy Marriot
6.Sky Tower Auckland - by Dave Brooker
7.Decaying poppies - by Richard Goldsmith
8.Winter visitor- by David Phillips
Congratulations to everyone who entered their images and who helped make for such an enjoyable evening.
Round 3 -Projected Digital Images ( PDI ) Competition.
Judge Ian Brash CPAGB BPE2
Our judge Ian Brash was given the Herculean task of assessing and providing a critique of no less than 82 images in the Society's ever popular PDI Competition ( Round 3 ).There were thirty-one entries within the Development Class and an impressive fifty-one entries within the Advanced Class. Indeed, Ian described his task on the night as appearing to be the potential speed dating equivalent of judging.
He nevertheless tackled this with an impressive conscientiousness and enthusiasm; offering helpful advice and suggestions for each and every projected image - with pointers and suggestions as to corrections on verticals, cropping, and the removal of distracting features to improve the overall impact of the final image. Obviously a keen advocate of using "keylines" where appropriate to define the edges of images as was evidenced by his suggestions on a number of occasions, Ian's eventual choices of images going through to the PDI Finals were as follows.
Sussex Shield- Development Class - 31 entries
1.Sunset over the pier - by Jennifer George
2.Making honey - by Chris Hall
3.Catch - by Pam Maclay
4.The overtake - by Andrea Irvine
5. Coffee morning - by Diane Bickerstaff
Albert Hillman Cup - Advanced Class - 51 entries
1.Sanderling feeding on the beach - by Andrew Burns
2.Golden Eagle with remains of prey - by Alan Cork
3.Chalkhill Blues - by Andrew Burns
4.Riches to Rags - by Martin Rummery
5.Barn Owl - by Roy Marriot
6.Sky Tower Auckland - by Dave Brooker
7.Decaying poppies - by Richard Goldsmith
8.Winter visitor- by David Phillips
Congratulations to everyone who entered their images and who helped make for such an enjoyable evening.
Hailsham Photographic Society - Meeting 25th January
Presentation by Tonbridge Camera Club - Audio video ( AV ) Group
Presenter - Phil Smithies
Presenter Phil Smithies opened the evening by providing Members with a brief explanation and definition of AV's, confirming his view that essentially these were a combination of images, often themed and set to appropriate music accompaniament and /or narrative.
In what proved to be a thoroughly enjoyable and entertaining evening members were treated to no less than 15 AV sequences covering titles as diverse as "Canterbury Cathedral " and " Badgers behaving badly ". The opening sequence entitled "All night long" showcased many memorable and iconic buildings beautifully photographed at night, with scenes from Vienna, Amsterdam and London whilst "A tale of two Palaces " briefly detailed the history of Hampton Court from its original Tudor beginnings and occupants to the later Baroque inspired ediface created by William and Mary in the 1700s. Throughout the evening Phil was keen to offer his advice on the availablity of free Apps and software to help others with their own AVs - in particular recommending Route Generator, Shortcut ( video editing ) and Audacity ( sound editing ).
Wildlife AV sequences also featured strongly with "Clowns of the Sea" providing an insight into the lives of puffins - those likeably comical and colourful seabirds, whilst "Badgers behaving badly" highlighted the nocturnal capers of one of our best loved mammals.Phil's " Going Underground not only provided historical detail on the early beginnings of London's major transport infrastructure: with the opening in 1863 of a connection from Paddington to Faringdon but also wonderful engineering and architecural images - and all appropriately set to The Clash 's famous track Going Underground. " Canterbury Cathedral " proved to be a concise lesson in English History for this 1500 year old buiding which, since the restoration of the Monarchy in 1660, has evolved over many years and left us with today's world famous cathedral.
Other titles too numerous to detail here completed a thoroughly enjoyable evening with a touch of general knowledge and education thrown in. The majority of the AVs had been ably and painstakingly put together by Phil himself who was enthusiastic in encouraging others to try this particular branch of photography.
Presentation by Tonbridge Camera Club - Audio video ( AV ) Group
Presenter - Phil Smithies
Presenter Phil Smithies opened the evening by providing Members with a brief explanation and definition of AV's, confirming his view that essentially these were a combination of images, often themed and set to appropriate music accompaniament and /or narrative.
In what proved to be a thoroughly enjoyable and entertaining evening members were treated to no less than 15 AV sequences covering titles as diverse as "Canterbury Cathedral " and " Badgers behaving badly ". The opening sequence entitled "All night long" showcased many memorable and iconic buildings beautifully photographed at night, with scenes from Vienna, Amsterdam and London whilst "A tale of two Palaces " briefly detailed the history of Hampton Court from its original Tudor beginnings and occupants to the later Baroque inspired ediface created by William and Mary in the 1700s. Throughout the evening Phil was keen to offer his advice on the availablity of free Apps and software to help others with their own AVs - in particular recommending Route Generator, Shortcut ( video editing ) and Audacity ( sound editing ).
Wildlife AV sequences also featured strongly with "Clowns of the Sea" providing an insight into the lives of puffins - those likeably comical and colourful seabirds, whilst "Badgers behaving badly" highlighted the nocturnal capers of one of our best loved mammals.Phil's " Going Underground not only provided historical detail on the early beginnings of London's major transport infrastructure: with the opening in 1863 of a connection from Paddington to Faringdon but also wonderful engineering and architecural images - and all appropriately set to The Clash 's famous track Going Underground. " Canterbury Cathedral " proved to be a concise lesson in English History for this 1500 year old buiding which, since the restoration of the Monarchy in 1660, has evolved over many years and left us with today's world famous cathedral.
Other titles too numerous to detail here completed a thoroughly enjoyable evening with a touch of general knowledge and education thrown in. The majority of the AVs had been ably and painstakingly put together by Phil himself who was enthusiastic in encouraging others to try this particular branch of photography.
Hailsham Photographic Society - Meeting 11th January
Print Competition Round 3
Judge - David Smith LRPS CPAGB
David's opening comment on the evening was just how nice it was for judge's to be able to see such a broad range of genres represented as Prints - in his words " proper photographs ".Reaffirming this as a great joy for any judge he was also taken with the extremely high quality of images on display. Explaining that in such situations he was undoubtedly going to have to disappoint some but nevertheless reaffirming that his final choices would always be subjective and somewhat arbitrary would be based upon the emotional impact and reaction that he himself had to any particular images. David's detailed, carefully considered, constructive and empathetic approach in assessing each Print was much appreciated. Again, remarking upon the high quality of so many images and apologising in advance to those who may be disappointed by his final selection David's eventual selections are as follows . Those selected will now progress to the Print finals later in the year.
Development Class - 14 entries
Birch Grove - by Pam McClay
Female Reed Bunting - by Brian Gell
Snuggled up - by Brian Gell
Advanced Class - 40 entries
Turbulence - by Liz Scott
Toilet Brush - by David Hoad
Entombed - by Roger Scott
Hoverfly at rest - by Janice Hewitt
Seaside groyne study - by Colin Chrismas
A trip on the Pier - by Wendy Chrismas
Well done to everyone who entered their images.
Print Competition Round 3
Judge - David Smith LRPS CPAGB
David's opening comment on the evening was just how nice it was for judge's to be able to see such a broad range of genres represented as Prints - in his words " proper photographs ".Reaffirming this as a great joy for any judge he was also taken with the extremely high quality of images on display. Explaining that in such situations he was undoubtedly going to have to disappoint some but nevertheless reaffirming that his final choices would always be subjective and somewhat arbitrary would be based upon the emotional impact and reaction that he himself had to any particular images. David's detailed, carefully considered, constructive and empathetic approach in assessing each Print was much appreciated. Again, remarking upon the high quality of so many images and apologising in advance to those who may be disappointed by his final selection David's eventual selections are as follows . Those selected will now progress to the Print finals later in the year.
Development Class - 14 entries
Birch Grove - by Pam McClay
Female Reed Bunting - by Brian Gell
Snuggled up - by Brian Gell
Advanced Class - 40 entries
Turbulence - by Liz Scott
Toilet Brush - by David Hoad
Entombed - by Roger Scott
Hoverfly at rest - by Janice Hewitt
Seaside groyne study - by Colin Chrismas
A trip on the Pier - by Wendy Chrismas
Well done to everyone who entered their images.
Hailsham Photographic Society - Colour Show 2024
Friday 1st March & Saturday 2nd March - Civic Community Hall, Hailsham
March 2024 sees the return of Hailsham Photographic Society's ever popular colour show to the Civic Community Hall, Hailsham. A two-hour spectacular of the very best photography from HPS Members featuring a number of short Audio-Visual presentations put together with musical accompaniment and narrative. The show will also feature a number of stills images sequences covering a wide variety of photographic topics ranging from local events and places of interest, travel, landscape, street photography, natural history and miscellaneous. Also on display will be a standing exhibition of mounted prints from the Society.
There are three performances available in order hopefully to suit everybody's diary; one on the evening of Friday 1st March, with two performances on Saturday 2nd March ; one in the afternoon and another on the evening. Tickets cost just seven pounds and are available from " Frameworks " in the High Street, Hailsham, through any HPS Member or alternatively can be reserved via the "contact us" link on the Society website ( www.hailshamphotographicsociety.co.uk). Raffle tickets will be available to purchase prior to each show with a number of fantastic prizes. Ticket sales will go towards this year's chosen Charity which is the Children's Respite Trust - a Charity which supports families with disabled children across Sussex and Kent through the provision of respite care.
The Civic Community Hall is conveniently situated adjacent to the Wealden District Council Offices and Lagoon Leisure Centre in Hailsham where there is ample free parking available. Everybody is invited and welcome to attend the Colour Show for what is sure to be an enjoyable and entertaining event in addition to supporting a very worthwhile local Charity.
Friday 1st March & Saturday 2nd March - Civic Community Hall, Hailsham
March 2024 sees the return of Hailsham Photographic Society's ever popular colour show to the Civic Community Hall, Hailsham. A two-hour spectacular of the very best photography from HPS Members featuring a number of short Audio-Visual presentations put together with musical accompaniment and narrative. The show will also feature a number of stills images sequences covering a wide variety of photographic topics ranging from local events and places of interest, travel, landscape, street photography, natural history and miscellaneous. Also on display will be a standing exhibition of mounted prints from the Society.
There are three performances available in order hopefully to suit everybody's diary; one on the evening of Friday 1st March, with two performances on Saturday 2nd March ; one in the afternoon and another on the evening. Tickets cost just seven pounds and are available from " Frameworks " in the High Street, Hailsham, through any HPS Member or alternatively can be reserved via the "contact us" link on the Society website ( www.hailshamphotographicsociety.co.uk). Raffle tickets will be available to purchase prior to each show with a number of fantastic prizes. Ticket sales will go towards this year's chosen Charity which is the Children's Respite Trust - a Charity which supports families with disabled children across Sussex and Kent through the provision of respite care.
The Civic Community Hall is conveniently situated adjacent to the Wealden District Council Offices and Lagoon Leisure Centre in Hailsham where there is ample free parking available. Everybody is invited and welcome to attend the Colour Show for what is sure to be an enjoyable and entertaining event in addition to supporting a very worthwhile local Charity.
Hailsham Photographic Society - Meeting 4th January
President's Evening - with Ray Beckwith
Ray's slide for opening his evening was titled "The President Entertains" - and the carefully selected Audio Videos ( AVs ) coupled with Ray's own still images certainly lived up to that Billing.
Opening the night with a hauntingly melancholic monochrome AV showing images of the former Hellingly Mental Hospital one was drawn inescapably to sense the feelings of desperation that many poor troubled souls endured within those brooding Victorian walls. Intense and powerful images of dark, stark corridors bedecked in cracked and peeling paintwork, broken windows and graffiti seemed to resound with the imagined and tortured cries of the building's residents. The whole sequence was musically accompanied by an equally powerful rendition of Simon and Garfunkel's "Sound of Silence" as performed by Disturbed. Ray did confess that, following its closure, he had broken into the building on a number of occasions to photograph it - somewhat ironic as historically at least most people were possibly more intent in breaking out of it.
Moving on to a number of stills sequences Ray showed in his indomitable, humorous and often self-deprecating way his many photographic interests and skills. As a self-confessed " North West Kent lad" his sequence on Buildings ( note not on "Architecture" ) showed both a cultural and photographic appreciation of buildings as diverse as the Birmingham Library, Canterbury Cathedral and the Arab Room at Cardiff Castle. Further sequences on Sport, Natural History and Landscape showed his many interests as well as photographic talent - or as Ray himself confessed, sometimes the lack of it.
Additional stills sequences covering Street and Studio photography followed in Part 2 of the presentation and where Ray's accompanying and often candid remarks on the sometimes-bemusing comments of judges were generally well received. Concluding his special evening with moving and thought-provoking AVs on Britain's Thankful Villages ( where all young men and women serving in both World Wars returned safely to their respective settlements ) and on the tireless efforts of Chad Varah the man whose humanity, compassion and perseverance led to the founding of the Samaritans; these sequences perhaps gave a closer insight into the nature of Ray Beckwith himself. A person who the French would undoubtedly describe as "un bon oeuf"
President's Evening - with Ray Beckwith
Ray's slide for opening his evening was titled "The President Entertains" - and the carefully selected Audio Videos ( AVs ) coupled with Ray's own still images certainly lived up to that Billing.
Opening the night with a hauntingly melancholic monochrome AV showing images of the former Hellingly Mental Hospital one was drawn inescapably to sense the feelings of desperation that many poor troubled souls endured within those brooding Victorian walls. Intense and powerful images of dark, stark corridors bedecked in cracked and peeling paintwork, broken windows and graffiti seemed to resound with the imagined and tortured cries of the building's residents. The whole sequence was musically accompanied by an equally powerful rendition of Simon and Garfunkel's "Sound of Silence" as performed by Disturbed. Ray did confess that, following its closure, he had broken into the building on a number of occasions to photograph it - somewhat ironic as historically at least most people were possibly more intent in breaking out of it.
Moving on to a number of stills sequences Ray showed in his indomitable, humorous and often self-deprecating way his many photographic interests and skills. As a self-confessed " North West Kent lad" his sequence on Buildings ( note not on "Architecture" ) showed both a cultural and photographic appreciation of buildings as diverse as the Birmingham Library, Canterbury Cathedral and the Arab Room at Cardiff Castle. Further sequences on Sport, Natural History and Landscape showed his many interests as well as photographic talent - or as Ray himself confessed, sometimes the lack of it.
Additional stills sequences covering Street and Studio photography followed in Part 2 of the presentation and where Ray's accompanying and often candid remarks on the sometimes-bemusing comments of judges were generally well received. Concluding his special evening with moving and thought-provoking AVs on Britain's Thankful Villages ( where all young men and women serving in both World Wars returned safely to their respective settlements ) and on the tireless efforts of Chad Varah the man whose humanity, compassion and perseverance led to the founding of the Samaritans; these sequences perhaps gave a closer insight into the nature of Ray Beckwith himself. A person who the French would undoubtedly describe as "un bon oeuf"
Hailsham Photographic Society - Meeting 14th December
The Joy of seeing - Ken Scott ARPS, APAGB, MBPsS
Prior to commencing his presentation Ken explained a little about his background in academia and in particular Psychology. Ken's approach to the evening was to provide Members with an introduction to Mindfulness and its application to photography.
With many of us simply being too busy in the modern world most go through life not seeing much at all - too busy and preoccupied with our everyday lives. Ken explained that for him Mindfulness is stillness in a stressful world : the ability to declutter and immerse oneself in the here and now. Photographically this should mean immersion in that special moment, responding to rather than seeking out images. Using his love of being in the mountains as a metaphor, this signalled that if we fully experience it ( the moment ) images will come naturally. The photographer Don Mc Cullin neatly sums up this approach with his view of Photography as being centred upon feeling rather than simply looking. Further explaining the importance of this concept and its approach Ken quoted from Henri Cartier Bresson and his view of Mind, Heart and Eye being on the same axis in making images.
Many of our barriers to seeing stem from prior judgements, habituated approaches to our photography, expectations ( as opposed to the realism of what is happening now ),the need for peer approval of our images, and staying within our respective repertoires. These can all result in missed opportunities. Overcoming these barriers necessitates the removal of these "labels" to give us a new visual language - a simple appreciation of space, perspective, colour, pattern and rhythm in the here and now. For example, to see again with a child's curiosity, to be authentic in our approach to making images, to understand but not slavishly follow, the ( photographic ) rules, to not follow the crowd and to be confident to express yourself.
Achieving this state of Mindfulness involves an initial open and unconstrained approach in our appreciation of our surroundings-a conscious awareness of the myriad of data our brain receives to facilitate divergent thinking and creativity. To then stop, breathe and explore - to appreciate without judgement whatever the outcome. Drawing from various examples as diverse as his 20 photos challenge, Magic in the Mundane ,Travel large and small and Intermediate Nature, Ken both challenged and encouraged everyone to think differently about their approach to making images.
Concluding with a few " Moments of Truth" from his own images and the stories behind them these ably illustrated the sense of feeling and authenticity in these moments over and above any technical competence. His concluding advice to keep the camera ready at all times and to wait for something to speak to you rather than to merely to seek out images opened up a new challenge for us all as photographers. A thoroughly entertaining, enjoyable and thought-provoking evening encouraging the application of the equivalent of the spirit of Zen to our photography.
References : Photography and the Art of seeing - by Freeman Patterson
Tao of Photography, seeing beyond seeing - Phillipe Cross & S. Shapiro
Hailsham Photographic Society - Meeting 7th December
Stafford Trophy for Monochrome Prints
Judge : Clive Tanner FRPS, MPAGB, APAGB
Many visiting judges express their particular pleasure in being able to judge Print competitions and Clive Tanner was no exception, remarking upon how nice it was to see a very healthy number of entries ( 54 ) for the Society's Stafford Trophy - Monochrome Print Competition.He was also most complimentary about the very strong competition on display for him to select winners from.
A regular visitor to the Society, this particular judge was also pleased not to have to award individual scores to images - remarking upon the apparent futility of attributing numerical values to artistic and subjective assessments of such divergent subjects.Each assessment was individualistic and subjective - and just his opinion.He nevertheless explained his adopted approach of seeking to explore what the photographer was trying to convey through subtle use of light and shade,dominance of subjects and points of focal interest. An approach that manifested itself in the detailed analytical dissection and critique of each image, laced with Clive's enjoyable dry humour.
In a very strong field many images were "so nearly there" but just lost out to stronger competition on the night. Placements and Highly Commended ( HC ) images were as follows.
1st Quiet please - by Carloe Lewis
2nd Thirsty lionesses - by Paul Shillingham
3rd Bison trudging through snow - by John Lewis
HC Tree leopard - by Marston Hart
HC Snow pattern - by John Lewis
HC Bodiam Castle - by Jonathan Close
HC The white tree - by Carole Lewis
HC Elizabeth R - by Roy Marriot
Congratulations to everyone who entered the Stafford Trophy and whose printed images made for such an enjoyable evening for everyone.
Stafford Trophy for Monochrome Prints
Judge : Clive Tanner FRPS, MPAGB, APAGB
Many visiting judges express their particular pleasure in being able to judge Print competitions and Clive Tanner was no exception, remarking upon how nice it was to see a very healthy number of entries ( 54 ) for the Society's Stafford Trophy - Monochrome Print Competition.He was also most complimentary about the very strong competition on display for him to select winners from.
A regular visitor to the Society, this particular judge was also pleased not to have to award individual scores to images - remarking upon the apparent futility of attributing numerical values to artistic and subjective assessments of such divergent subjects.Each assessment was individualistic and subjective - and just his opinion.He nevertheless explained his adopted approach of seeking to explore what the photographer was trying to convey through subtle use of light and shade,dominance of subjects and points of focal interest. An approach that manifested itself in the detailed analytical dissection and critique of each image, laced with Clive's enjoyable dry humour.
In a very strong field many images were "so nearly there" but just lost out to stronger competition on the night. Placements and Highly Commended ( HC ) images were as follows.
1st Quiet please - by Carloe Lewis
2nd Thirsty lionesses - by Paul Shillingham
3rd Bison trudging through snow - by John Lewis
HC Tree leopard - by Marston Hart
HC Snow pattern - by John Lewis
HC Bodiam Castle - by Jonathan Close
HC The white tree - by Carole Lewis
HC Elizabeth R - by Roy Marriot
Congratulations to everyone who entered the Stafford Trophy and whose printed images made for such an enjoyable evening for everyone.
Hailsham Photographic Society - Meeting 30th November
Projected Digital Images ( PDI ) Competition - Round 2
Members Judges : Liz Scott, Wendy Chrismas, Colin Chrismas
The Society's club competitions are always well supported with Members keen to enter their images for assessment and critical appraisal by the judges. This Round 2 of the PDI competition was no exception with an overall entry of eighty ( 80 ! ) images- 30 entries in the Sussex Shield ( Development Class ) and 50 within the Albert Hillman Cup ( Advanced Class ). On this particular occasion there was an added spice to the evening owing to "selection" of Members from the Society to undertake the task of judging. Did I say "selection" ? Or was there perhaps an element of army volunteering? All 3 judges - Liz, Wendy and Colin are of course very accomplished photographers in their own right.
Nonetheless it is never an easy task to judge eighty images and to endeavour to offer each a similar amount of consideration. However, with the added tension of potentially being seen to be overly harsh or conversely overly soft on the ( anonymously entered ) images of colleagues, peers and friends one must applaud all judges for their dedication to task. Skilfully treading the narrow pathway between being likened to Judge Jeffreys, the Hanging judge - and one's favourite grandmother - who will always offer praise however bad the image may be, our judges were masterful in their dedication to duty. Ably assisted by Piers Hamilton, the Society's stand in for Carol Vordeman's mathematical prowess, and who was ultimately responsible for totalling the marks from each judge for each entered image.
Images selected to progress through to the finals later in the year are ...
Sussex Shield ( Development Class )
On the Marsh - by Andrea Irvine
Lost in Tyne - by Diane Bickerstaff
Autumn foliage - by Jennifer George
Kings Inspection - Richard Moon
Where did you get that hat? - by Terry Harrington
Albert Hillman Cup ( Advanced Class )
Hellooo - by Luke Shepherd
Nest building spoonbill - by Bob Bell
The way out - by Carole Lewis
Keeps you going - by Roger Scott
Slice of Orange - by Dave Brooker
Pike's Peak Storm - Mike Hammerton
Moon landing - by Carole Lewis
Coffee Time - by Janice Hewitt
Congratulations to all those whose images were chosen to progress though to the finals later in the year
Projected Digital Images ( PDI ) Competition - Round 2
Members Judges : Liz Scott, Wendy Chrismas, Colin Chrismas
The Society's club competitions are always well supported with Members keen to enter their images for assessment and critical appraisal by the judges. This Round 2 of the PDI competition was no exception with an overall entry of eighty ( 80 ! ) images- 30 entries in the Sussex Shield ( Development Class ) and 50 within the Albert Hillman Cup ( Advanced Class ). On this particular occasion there was an added spice to the evening owing to "selection" of Members from the Society to undertake the task of judging. Did I say "selection" ? Or was there perhaps an element of army volunteering? All 3 judges - Liz, Wendy and Colin are of course very accomplished photographers in their own right.
Nonetheless it is never an easy task to judge eighty images and to endeavour to offer each a similar amount of consideration. However, with the added tension of potentially being seen to be overly harsh or conversely overly soft on the ( anonymously entered ) images of colleagues, peers and friends one must applaud all judges for their dedication to task. Skilfully treading the narrow pathway between being likened to Judge Jeffreys, the Hanging judge - and one's favourite grandmother - who will always offer praise however bad the image may be, our judges were masterful in their dedication to duty. Ably assisted by Piers Hamilton, the Society's stand in for Carol Vordeman's mathematical prowess, and who was ultimately responsible for totalling the marks from each judge for each entered image.
Images selected to progress through to the finals later in the year are ...
Sussex Shield ( Development Class )
On the Marsh - by Andrea Irvine
Lost in Tyne - by Diane Bickerstaff
Autumn foliage - by Jennifer George
Kings Inspection - Richard Moon
Where did you get that hat? - by Terry Harrington
Albert Hillman Cup ( Advanced Class )
Hellooo - by Luke Shepherd
Nest building spoonbill - by Bob Bell
The way out - by Carole Lewis
Keeps you going - by Roger Scott
Slice of Orange - by Dave Brooker
Pike's Peak Storm - Mike Hammerton
Moon landing - by Carole Lewis
Coffee Time - by Janice Hewitt
Congratulations to all those whose images were chosen to progress though to the finals later in the year
Hailsham Photographic Society - Meeting November 23rd
Landscape Competitions - Judge David Eastley LRPS
Always a popular subject area for photographers, the Society's annual Landscape Competitions attracted no less than 66 entries overall with 27 images submitted in the Print category and 39 in the Projected Digital Images ( PDI ) category.
Judge David Eastley had the enviable, if difficult, task of assessing each entry before making his final selections for placements and highly commended awards. David is a regular judge at Hailsham and his perceptive analysis of each entry, alongside his helpful suggestions and advice is always welcome. Emphasising the absolute " joy of light" and how and where it highlights the natural forms and features of landscape David was keen to see how an image portrayed a sense of place and feeling. He was however also keen to point out that there were no wrongs or right in approach but that what really mattered was what works for the individual photographer.
After holding back many images for further consideration and often remarking on the very high quality of entries David's final selections for placements and choices for Highly Commended awards ( HC ) were as follows ..
Print Competiton - Landscape ( 27 entries )
1st - Dark Forest by Piers Hamilton
2nd - Autumn Colours, Leonardslee by John Lewis
3rd - Evening Light by Bob Bell
HC - Autumn Danube by Jack Taylor
HC - Windswept sand dunes at sunset by Carole Lewis
PDI Competition - Landscape ( 39 entries )
1st - Fairfield Church in the frost - by Louise Pemberton
2nd - Glencoe sunshine and rain - by Carole Lewis
3rd - View through the clouds Jonathan Close
HC - Atmosphere by Fiona Flower
HC - Disappearing Glacier by Roy Broad
HC - Cuckmere Haven looking eastward by Collin Chrismas
Congratulations to everyone who entered their images for scrutiny and especially to those receiving placements and commendations .
Landscape Competitions - Judge David Eastley LRPS
Always a popular subject area for photographers, the Society's annual Landscape Competitions attracted no less than 66 entries overall with 27 images submitted in the Print category and 39 in the Projected Digital Images ( PDI ) category.
Judge David Eastley had the enviable, if difficult, task of assessing each entry before making his final selections for placements and highly commended awards. David is a regular judge at Hailsham and his perceptive analysis of each entry, alongside his helpful suggestions and advice is always welcome. Emphasising the absolute " joy of light" and how and where it highlights the natural forms and features of landscape David was keen to see how an image portrayed a sense of place and feeling. He was however also keen to point out that there were no wrongs or right in approach but that what really mattered was what works for the individual photographer.
After holding back many images for further consideration and often remarking on the very high quality of entries David's final selections for placements and choices for Highly Commended awards ( HC ) were as follows ..
Print Competiton - Landscape ( 27 entries )
1st - Dark Forest by Piers Hamilton
2nd - Autumn Colours, Leonardslee by John Lewis
3rd - Evening Light by Bob Bell
HC - Autumn Danube by Jack Taylor
HC - Windswept sand dunes at sunset by Carole Lewis
PDI Competition - Landscape ( 39 entries )
1st - Fairfield Church in the frost - by Louise Pemberton
2nd - Glencoe sunshine and rain - by Carole Lewis
3rd - View through the clouds Jonathan Close
HC - Atmosphere by Fiona Flower
HC - Disappearing Glacier by Roy Broad
HC - Cuckmere Haven looking eastward by Collin Chrismas
Congratulations to everyone who entered their images for scrutiny and especially to those receiving placements and commendations .
Hailsham Photographic Society - Meeting 16th November
"The Pat and Ian Collection" - Pat Coulder CPAGB, BPE1*,QPSA
Ian Brash CPAGB, BPE3*
Pat and Ian's presentation focussed upon examples of their stunning images from around the world grouped into a number of specific photographic Themes such as Buildings,Coastal, Floral, Landscapes and Nature.Their joint approach provided for an entertaining and educational showcasing of their work with a very clear embedded message as to the almost limitless creative opportunities now possible in post production through use of the increasingly sophisticated software techniques now available.
Many of the illustrations shown centred upon the projection of paired sets of images from both Pat and Ian with their original " in camera" version of the shot displayed alongside another which had been through a series of post production techniques and effects.As the debate rages as to the use of Artificail Intelligence in the Arts, the ease with which these various techniques are now widely used might suggest to some that this argument is in part somewhat academic. Indeed Pat confirmed that she considered themselves more as creators of images rather than "just" photographers with many of her initial shots being considered more as works in progress awaiting further consideration.
Both presenters were enthusiastic advocates of using the creative oportunities that now exist such as the merging of composite images,opacity tools,layering,cloning,flipping,rotating, stretching and the application of background textures etc. These in addition to the older traditional photographic methods of dodging and burning to emphasise contrast and to introduce "punch" into the final image. Pat confirmed her painstaking use of no less than 39 layered images to arrive at one final piece whilst Ian had made multiple use of a picture of an elderly beggar to insert into final successful images from as far apart as Barcelona and London. In considering the majority of paired images,undoubtedly the post production effects applied to the final version had often resulted in a more arresting image for the viewer.
Whilst the old adage that the camera never lies remains true in some instances the blurring between reality and the created image is certainly becoming increasingly indistinct.
Hailsham Photographic Society - Meeting 9th November
Print Competition Round 2 - Judge Malcolm Bull
This, the second round of the Society's annual Print Competition had provided Ray Beckwith the Society's programme secretary with something of a dilemma when the original judge had had to cry off at short notice having contracted Covid ( yes, it's still out there folks ! ). Ray's intrepid, well practised and swift endeavours to find a replacement however had paid off in spades in inviting Malcolm Bull, a local qualified judge and accomplished photographer.
With some 57 entries submitted in total for judging, the diverse range and high quality of displayed Prints provided for a truly excellent evening. Malcolm's easy going and helpful approach to critiquing each Print, coupled with his spontaneous and infectious dry humour certainly provided for an additional and entertaining bonus for the evening. Those Prints selected to progress through to the Print Finals later in the year are detailed below.
Development Class - 12 entries submitted
A winter scene - by Brian Gell
Chim Chimney - Paul Dryer
Nuns Valley - Graham Wilkinson
Advanced Class - 45 entries submitted
Dreams by the sea - by Piers Hamilton
The sapling - Liz Scott
Dartmoor mist - Roger Scott
Reeds in ice - John Lewis
Lunchtime - Paul Shillingham
Sprint up to Druids - Roy Marriot
Tulips - Liz Scott
Congratulations to everyone who entered their Prints and especially to those whose images were selected to progress through to the final.
Print Competition Round 2 - Judge Malcolm Bull
This, the second round of the Society's annual Print Competition had provided Ray Beckwith the Society's programme secretary with something of a dilemma when the original judge had had to cry off at short notice having contracted Covid ( yes, it's still out there folks ! ). Ray's intrepid, well practised and swift endeavours to find a replacement however had paid off in spades in inviting Malcolm Bull, a local qualified judge and accomplished photographer.
With some 57 entries submitted in total for judging, the diverse range and high quality of displayed Prints provided for a truly excellent evening. Malcolm's easy going and helpful approach to critiquing each Print, coupled with his spontaneous and infectious dry humour certainly provided for an additional and entertaining bonus for the evening. Those Prints selected to progress through to the Print Finals later in the year are detailed below.
Development Class - 12 entries submitted
A winter scene - by Brian Gell
Chim Chimney - Paul Dryer
Nuns Valley - Graham Wilkinson
Advanced Class - 45 entries submitted
Dreams by the sea - by Piers Hamilton
The sapling - Liz Scott
Dartmoor mist - Roger Scott
Reeds in ice - John Lewis
Lunchtime - Paul Shillingham
Sprint up to Druids - Roy Marriot
Tulips - Liz Scott
Congratulations to everyone who entered their Prints and especially to those whose images were selected to progress through to the final.
Hailsham Photographic Society - Meeting 26th October
Natural History Competition - Judge Roger Reynolds APAGB, FBPPA, FBPE, Hon. FRPS
Always a popular subject matter with Members this season's Natural History Competition yielded some 17 Print entries and no less than 46 in the Projected Digital Images ( PDI ) section. Judge Roger Reynolds, an experienced natural history judge, nevertheless had a difficult task in deciding final placements and commendations for images in both categories. His easy going, humorous style of judging was interspersed with an obvious passion for and knowledge of his subject.This, together with his many divergent anecdotes of places and subjects that he had visited for his own photography provided for a very entertaining and educational evening.
Natural History Prints - 17 entries
Highly commended images
Gannets Greeting - Bob Bell
Pair of blue tailed damsel flies - Phil Smith
Wildebeast Rut - Morston Hart
Chalkhill Blue butterfies mating - Phil Smith
1st Place - German wasp - Roy Marriot
2nd Place - Leopard on termite mound - Morston Hart
3rd Place - Cormorant in flight - Bob Bell
Projected Digital Images - 46 entries
Highly commended images
Sawfly larva - Chris Coates
Emerged Broad - bodied chaser - Roy Broad
Hornet mimic hoverfly on scabious - Colin Chrismas
Icicle on Broom ( Genista ) - Dave Brooker
Chicken in the woods - Martin Rumery
1st Place Goldfinch conflict - Alan Cork
2nd Place - Common Terns - Andrew Burns
3rd Place Garden spider with prey - Jonathan Close
Congratulations to all who entered images for Roger's critical appraisal and advice and especially to those whose images received placements or commendations.
Natural History Competition - Judge Roger Reynolds APAGB, FBPPA, FBPE, Hon. FRPS
Always a popular subject matter with Members this season's Natural History Competition yielded some 17 Print entries and no less than 46 in the Projected Digital Images ( PDI ) section. Judge Roger Reynolds, an experienced natural history judge, nevertheless had a difficult task in deciding final placements and commendations for images in both categories. His easy going, humorous style of judging was interspersed with an obvious passion for and knowledge of his subject.This, together with his many divergent anecdotes of places and subjects that he had visited for his own photography provided for a very entertaining and educational evening.
Natural History Prints - 17 entries
Highly commended images
Gannets Greeting - Bob Bell
Pair of blue tailed damsel flies - Phil Smith
Wildebeast Rut - Morston Hart
Chalkhill Blue butterfies mating - Phil Smith
1st Place - German wasp - Roy Marriot
2nd Place - Leopard on termite mound - Morston Hart
3rd Place - Cormorant in flight - Bob Bell
Projected Digital Images - 46 entries
Highly commended images
Sawfly larva - Chris Coates
Emerged Broad - bodied chaser - Roy Broad
Hornet mimic hoverfly on scabious - Colin Chrismas
Icicle on Broom ( Genista ) - Dave Brooker
Chicken in the woods - Martin Rumery
1st Place Goldfinch conflict - Alan Cork
2nd Place - Common Terns - Andrew Burns
3rd Place Garden spider with prey - Jonathan Close
Congratulations to all who entered images for Roger's critical appraisal and advice and especially to those whose images received placements or commendations.
Hailsham Photographic Society - Meeting 28th September
Print Competition Round One - Judge Andy Smith LRPS CPAGB
This first round of the Society's annual Print competition attracted no less than a total of 67 entries, with 11 entered in the Development Class and 56 in the Advanced Class. Judge for the evening Andy Smith had the somewhat daunting but nevertheless enjoyable task of selecting those winning prints that would proceed to the finals of the Print Competition later in the season.
Andy's extremely thorough, carefully considered and detailed analysis of all images provided each photographer with helpful advice, guidance and suggestions to maximise the impact and effectiveness of their work. Stressing the importance both of use of titles and of endeavouring to convey the photographer's message through their submitted image Andy' choice of images to proceed to the finals was as follows.
Development Class ( eleven entries )
"Hello I'm quackers" - Paul Dryer
Crashing waves at Godrey Lighthouse - Mandy Wiley
Tulips in a jar - Diane Bickerstaff
Advanced Class - ( fifty six entries )
Tree lined walk - Colin Chrismas
Mayfly - Janice Hewitt
Ghostly trees - Carole Lewis
Swirl of colour - John Lewis
Male impala at sunset - Paul Shillingham
Storm Noa - Jonathan Close
A wintry lane - Dave Brooker
Congratulations to all those who entered their prints for the competition which made for an excellent and enjoyable evening. All images chosen to proceed to the finals can be seen on the Society's website at www.hailshamphotographicsociety.co.uk
Hailsham Photographic Society - Meeting 21st September
5 Portrait photographers - " Have a go yourselves"
Presenter : Lawrence Homewood EFIAP BPE2*CPAGB
Part 1 of Lawrence's presentation on Portrait photography provided an excellent insight and analysis of the images of five famous portrait photographers- David Bailey, Richard Avedon,Annie Liebovitz, Terry Richardson and Steve McCurry.A brief background to each of these famous names provided a fascinating insight into their work ( Bailey for example beginning his work primarily as a social commentator - documenting the people,clubs and pubs of London's East end prior to its re developemnt before embarking upon a successful career through his now iconic fashion and celebrity images ).Lawrence's analysis of the works of each of these "famouis five" and their use of lighting styles, composition, black and white,angles etc gave Members a clearer understanding of their images and the reasons behind their success.
Differing approaches as to how photographers interact with their subject will yield different results .Liebovitz often used soft lighting, preferring her subjects to "present themselves" to the camera rather than encouraging or wanting them to take up her pre preferred poses. Bailey was renowned for socialising with subjects for hours before attempting to take images whilst Avedon often favoured minimalistic images with posed models using gestures and body shapes in his fashion photography.Richardson's fashion work on the other hand was characterised by the use of youthful,sultry, long- legged models taken in snapshot style. Mc Curry was maybe a little more different from the other named examples, using primary and evocative colour and focussing on subjects in their environment - his most celebrated image being "Afghan Girl- Peshawar, Pakistan ". An incredibly impactful and haunting image.
Part 2 of the presentation focussed upon various of Lawrence's own projects and current work - his use of Models to build his Box of Pin Ups and Miss Dreadful projects, emphasising the importance of using Mood Boards to clearly identify the scope, style, costume, props and locations for the works that he wished to create. The evening concluded with him outlining the detailed preparation for his "The Gathering - fear of the Dark" project and a run through of the many hours of layering in post production work necessary to produce a succesful composite final version - in Lawrence's own words "selling the fake" as it were. By better understanding, and perhaps incorporating, the techniques of others Members were indeed encouraged to have a go themselves.
Hailsham Photographic Society - Meeting 14th September
"Looking at Ourselves" - Steve Carrol ARPS
The Society's first visiting presentation of the season was from Steve Carroll ARPS whose favoured genre of photography was that of Street Photography and his presentation brought over 400 images to help illustrate his subject. A basic premise of the art of street photography was quite simply - Observe, See, Anticipate and then Shoot.
As in all other forms of photography however Composition and lighting were critical and Members enjoyed Steve's informative and often self critical analysis of his many wonderful images and explanations of basic approaches. Shooting through spaces, using people to frame images and as layers within the image to give depth. Critically the art of placing " faces in spaces" to ensure sufficient separation between key figures and elements within the final images.A little pre planning to notice and make use of interesting backgrounds as a Theatre and then "waiting for something to happen" - the human actors to arrive as Steve put it, was certainly a succesful technique. Using wet weather for interesting reflections, the use of shadows, verticals, as well as spotting the possibilities of candid or quirky images all provided excellent advice for budding street photographers.Many wonderful images from around the world, from places as far apart as India, China , Berlin and London in addition to those much closer to home showed what excellent results could be had.
Advocating the use of a small, discreet camera with use of a 35mm or wider angle lens the success of many images of people was to get in close- even "cutting off " heads or legs to add interest or intrigue to his photography Steve's other significant message was simply to have fun. For those who might feel a little self conscious about getting in close his advice was to first experiment by going to carnivals, festivals and even protest marches where people expected, even wanted to be photographed. Overall an excellent evening with many excellent images.
"Looking at Ourselves" - Steve Carrol ARPS
The Society's first visiting presentation of the season was from Steve Carroll ARPS whose favoured genre of photography was that of Street Photography and his presentation brought over 400 images to help illustrate his subject. A basic premise of the art of street photography was quite simply - Observe, See, Anticipate and then Shoot.
As in all other forms of photography however Composition and lighting were critical and Members enjoyed Steve's informative and often self critical analysis of his many wonderful images and explanations of basic approaches. Shooting through spaces, using people to frame images and as layers within the image to give depth. Critically the art of placing " faces in spaces" to ensure sufficient separation between key figures and elements within the final images.A little pre planning to notice and make use of interesting backgrounds as a Theatre and then "waiting for something to happen" - the human actors to arrive as Steve put it, was certainly a succesful technique. Using wet weather for interesting reflections, the use of shadows, verticals, as well as spotting the possibilities of candid or quirky images all provided excellent advice for budding street photographers.Many wonderful images from around the world, from places as far apart as India, China , Berlin and London in addition to those much closer to home showed what excellent results could be had.
Advocating the use of a small, discreet camera with use of a 35mm or wider angle lens the success of many images of people was to get in close- even "cutting off " heads or legs to add interest or intrigue to his photography Steve's other significant message was simply to have fun. For those who might feel a little self conscious about getting in close his advice was to first experiment by going to carnivals, festivals and even protest marches where people expected, even wanted to be photographed. Overall an excellent evening with many excellent images.
Dear Friends,
So here we are, halfway through the summer break. We might moan about the erratic weather but at least we are not being burned alive nor flooded out so it's not so bad!
A group of about 15 of us had a successful visit to the Crossness pumping station a couple of weeks ago. A fascinating site with the immense beam engines beautifully restored and fully functional. I am taking up another group on the 5th of August, if you would like to join us let me know. https://www.crossness.org.uk/visit.html
Dave Brooker has kindly escorted two groups of members on a fascinating tour of the Police training centre which is on the same base as the Nuclear bomb shelter near Maresfield. I never knew that such a huge base existed so close to here. At one time during the second world war the most powerful radio in the world was based here. Part of its task was aimed at disseminating false information to the Germans and disrupting and twisting information going to the U-boats and Luftwaffe.
The bomb shelter is designed to sustain 160 people for up to three months and appears to be fully functional today. Those to live in the bunker would be specialists in all fields, engineers, electricity generation, communication, Government and thirty women of childbearing age whose job it would be to repopulate the world!!! Volunteers please!
Cathie and I were delighted to host my "Chairman's Lunch" which eventually went well after sadly having to be postponed from Saturday to Wednesday because of the weather. We had about 35 people including a few of our own friends.
We have had three zoom meetings and if you did not attend the one last Thursday night you really missed out. Highly informative and interesting presentation by Chris Upton on the closing down of Thoresby coal mine. His images really inspired me. Ray has just sent round a link to the recording of the presentation, and I do recommend that you look at it. You must download it within two weeks, or it disappears.
Peter Milson will be presenting his zoom talk on sports photography on the 17th of August. Something I have never seriously done so I am looking forward to it.
Following Jet Lendon’s interesting Zoom lecture “More than just a camera phone” in early March, this was followed by a most enjoyable “Smartphone Safari” on Eastbourne Pier on 4th June attended by 11 members. Jet gave us many tips and advice on how to get better results using our smartphones and how to edit these using the free Snapseed app. The safari finished with refreshments in the Victorian Tea Rooms.
Our Annual Exhibition in June organised by Liz & Roger was a great success. One comment I received was how very professionally it was presented. We can all be proud of our images and the Mayor was especially complimentary, staying for an hour and a half admiring and discussing the images.
The new year starts on the 7th of September, we will be welcoming several new members and my "Chairman's presentation" on that evening will be "The Chairman's ramble". A voyage to several historic parts of the world and also an introduction to an old friend of mine.
The 21st of September print entries need to be brought in. The 5th of October PDIs need to be in.
Ray has arranged a fascinating year of competitions and lectures; the committee and I very much look forward to seeing you all.
Kindest Regards
Bruce
So here we are, halfway through the summer break. We might moan about the erratic weather but at least we are not being burned alive nor flooded out so it's not so bad!
A group of about 15 of us had a successful visit to the Crossness pumping station a couple of weeks ago. A fascinating site with the immense beam engines beautifully restored and fully functional. I am taking up another group on the 5th of August, if you would like to join us let me know. https://www.crossness.org.uk/visit.html
Dave Brooker has kindly escorted two groups of members on a fascinating tour of the Police training centre which is on the same base as the Nuclear bomb shelter near Maresfield. I never knew that such a huge base existed so close to here. At one time during the second world war the most powerful radio in the world was based here. Part of its task was aimed at disseminating false information to the Germans and disrupting and twisting information going to the U-boats and Luftwaffe.
The bomb shelter is designed to sustain 160 people for up to three months and appears to be fully functional today. Those to live in the bunker would be specialists in all fields, engineers, electricity generation, communication, Government and thirty women of childbearing age whose job it would be to repopulate the world!!! Volunteers please!
Cathie and I were delighted to host my "Chairman's Lunch" which eventually went well after sadly having to be postponed from Saturday to Wednesday because of the weather. We had about 35 people including a few of our own friends.
We have had three zoom meetings and if you did not attend the one last Thursday night you really missed out. Highly informative and interesting presentation by Chris Upton on the closing down of Thoresby coal mine. His images really inspired me. Ray has just sent round a link to the recording of the presentation, and I do recommend that you look at it. You must download it within two weeks, or it disappears.
Peter Milson will be presenting his zoom talk on sports photography on the 17th of August. Something I have never seriously done so I am looking forward to it.
Following Jet Lendon’s interesting Zoom lecture “More than just a camera phone” in early March, this was followed by a most enjoyable “Smartphone Safari” on Eastbourne Pier on 4th June attended by 11 members. Jet gave us many tips and advice on how to get better results using our smartphones and how to edit these using the free Snapseed app. The safari finished with refreshments in the Victorian Tea Rooms.
Our Annual Exhibition in June organised by Liz & Roger was a great success. One comment I received was how very professionally it was presented. We can all be proud of our images and the Mayor was especially complimentary, staying for an hour and a half admiring and discussing the images.
The new year starts on the 7th of September, we will be welcoming several new members and my "Chairman's presentation" on that evening will be "The Chairman's ramble". A voyage to several historic parts of the world and also an introduction to an old friend of mine.
The 21st of September print entries need to be brought in. The 5th of October PDIs need to be in.
Ray has arranged a fascinating year of competitions and lectures; the committee and I very much look forward to seeing you all.
Kindest Regards
Bruce