News 2025/2026
Hailsham Photographic Society - Meeting 26th March
Print Competition Round 4 - Judge Ian Brash CPAGB BPE3
This was the final round of the Society's Print Competition, which attracted a total of fifty-seven images for judge Ian Brash to try to choose between. In approaching his task, Ian explained that as a judge, what he would be looking for was how the photographer had brought their personality, their "stamp" to the image or how they had managed to show originality, and convey emotion or mood through their picture. Ian's attention to detail and thoroughness in the face of so many exceptional images was commendable, making a challenging task even more difficult for himself by holding back many prints for further consideration before making his final choices. Each print and thus the photographer was given the benefit of his time,experience, advice and recommendations including helpful comments on overall presentation and mounting. After an enjoyable and, for him, a fairly exhausting evening, Ian's choices of Prints going through to the finals later in the year are as follows.
Development Class ( 15 entries )
Waddle this way - by James Verona
Solomon's Crown - by John Daly
The final glow - by John Daly
Advanced Class ( 42 entries)
Pelican portrait - by Bob Bell
Autumn Oaks - by Liz Scott
Bacterial colour in lake, Yellowstone National Park - by Carole Lewis
Recycling day - by Alan Coole
Lavender blue - by Cherry Larcombe
Fun in the snow - by Jack Taylor
Thruxton 900 - by John Lewis
Conratulations to all who entered their prints and especially to those whose images were selected to progress through to the finals. These images can be viewed on the Society's website at www. hailshamphotographicsociety.co.uk.
Print Competition Round 4 - Judge Ian Brash CPAGB BPE3
This was the final round of the Society's Print Competition, which attracted a total of fifty-seven images for judge Ian Brash to try to choose between. In approaching his task, Ian explained that as a judge, what he would be looking for was how the photographer had brought their personality, their "stamp" to the image or how they had managed to show originality, and convey emotion or mood through their picture. Ian's attention to detail and thoroughness in the face of so many exceptional images was commendable, making a challenging task even more difficult for himself by holding back many prints for further consideration before making his final choices. Each print and thus the photographer was given the benefit of his time,experience, advice and recommendations including helpful comments on overall presentation and mounting. After an enjoyable and, for him, a fairly exhausting evening, Ian's choices of Prints going through to the finals later in the year are as follows.
Development Class ( 15 entries )
Waddle this way - by James Verona
Solomon's Crown - by John Daly
The final glow - by John Daly
Advanced Class ( 42 entries)
Pelican portrait - by Bob Bell
Autumn Oaks - by Liz Scott
Bacterial colour in lake, Yellowstone National Park - by Carole Lewis
Recycling day - by Alan Coole
Lavender blue - by Cherry Larcombe
Fun in the snow - by Jack Taylor
Thruxton 900 - by John Lewis
Conratulations to all who entered their prints and especially to those whose images were selected to progress through to the finals. These images can be viewed on the Society's website at www. hailshamphotographicsociety.co.uk.
Hailsham Photographic Society - Meeting 19th March
Free Mines Coal Faces - a lecture by Nick Hodgson MA FRPS
An intriguing title for a photographic lecture turned out to be a fascinating insight into a unique part of UK social history, in addition to detailing the story of the Photo Project that led to Nick being awarded his Fellowship of the Royal Photographic Society (FRPS ). With an existing interest in the documentary photographing of mining and a great-grandfather who himself was a "free miner" in the Forest of Dean, Nick's presentation was personal and passionate in equal measure.
In recognition of their tunneling skills and support in helping to defeat the Scots at the Sacking of Berwick in 1296 ( where some historians have put the death toll at 30,000 men ), King Edward 1 granted rights to Free Mine for coal, stone, and iron to a small community of men based in the Forest of Dean. Overseeing the rules of this grant on behalf of the King was his appointed Deputy Gaveller, who bestowed area rights to the men in the form of Gales. To qualify, these individuals had to be male, 21 years of age, have been apprenticed for at least 1 year and a day, and born within the Hundred of St. Briavels in the Forest of Dean. Rights that were eventually enacted by Parliament via the Dean Forest Mines Act of 1838.
This community of free miners still thrives to this day, the last surviving coal mining in the UK. Unique in so many ways and specifically exempted from the Environment Act, the mine workings are in the form of rudimentary drift mines sunk into the sides of the hills rather than deep pit mining. Nick's approach to his FRPS Photo Project to explain and record the history, culture, passion, and camaraderie of this community of singular individuals was set out in detail, involving much research, planning, and trust building with the free miners themselves. Culminating in presenting and talking through each of the 21 monochrome prints of the landscapes, the mines, and the miners themselves, together with a published book of the Project, this presentation was a wonderful lesson in social history in addition to an excellent example of documentary style of photography.
Free Mines Coal Faces - a lecture by Nick Hodgson MA FRPS
An intriguing title for a photographic lecture turned out to be a fascinating insight into a unique part of UK social history, in addition to detailing the story of the Photo Project that led to Nick being awarded his Fellowship of the Royal Photographic Society (FRPS ). With an existing interest in the documentary photographing of mining and a great-grandfather who himself was a "free miner" in the Forest of Dean, Nick's presentation was personal and passionate in equal measure.
In recognition of their tunneling skills and support in helping to defeat the Scots at the Sacking of Berwick in 1296 ( where some historians have put the death toll at 30,000 men ), King Edward 1 granted rights to Free Mine for coal, stone, and iron to a small community of men based in the Forest of Dean. Overseeing the rules of this grant on behalf of the King was his appointed Deputy Gaveller, who bestowed area rights to the men in the form of Gales. To qualify, these individuals had to be male, 21 years of age, have been apprenticed for at least 1 year and a day, and born within the Hundred of St. Briavels in the Forest of Dean. Rights that were eventually enacted by Parliament via the Dean Forest Mines Act of 1838.
This community of free miners still thrives to this day, the last surviving coal mining in the UK. Unique in so many ways and specifically exempted from the Environment Act, the mine workings are in the form of rudimentary drift mines sunk into the sides of the hills rather than deep pit mining. Nick's approach to his FRPS Photo Project to explain and record the history, culture, passion, and camaraderie of this community of singular individuals was set out in detail, involving much research, planning, and trust building with the free miners themselves. Culminating in presenting and talking through each of the 21 monochrome prints of the landscapes, the mines, and the miners themselves, together with a published book of the Project, this presentation was a wonderful lesson in social history in addition to an excellent example of documentary style of photography.
Hailsham Photographic Society - Meeting Thursday 5th March
" The sleeping landscape - Sussex by night " : by Giles Smith.
Giles introduced himself as primarily a landscape photographer with a particular passion for nighttime photography. The presentation was described as a beginner's guide to Astro Landscape photography, together with the technical aspects needed to achieve success. From an early years interest in all things celestial - even citing in evidence his interest in Dr Who and Patrick Moore's "The Sky at Night" Giles passion for his subject shone throughout. The presentation was illustrated throughout with many beautiful images of the Milky Way, nebula emissions, and star-spangled skies, all shimmering above well-loved and well-known Sussex locations.
Early efforts were followed by investment in acquired knowledge and use of more specialist equipment, enabling the capture of more light through better camera sensors whilst maintaining detail in captured images. Use of cameras with full-spectrum conversion ( where the UV IR filter is removed ) also enabled nebula emissions data to be captured. Such technological aids, along with, for example use of Astro Star trackers, enabled multiple and stacked images to be captured without the stars appearing as trails in the finished image. Forward Planning was essential to success, scouting locations during daylight hours for safety reasons as well as for compositional purposes together with taking test shots to help obtain optimum results. Also essential was the use of tripods, manual focussing and fast, wide-angle lenses.
A detailed explanation of the relationships between the "Exposure Triangle', namely aperture, shutter speed, and ISO ( light sensitivity setting ), provided further advice on how to take images of the landscape at night. Reference to a basic rule of 500 by which a successful shutter speed might be obtained came from the following equation: 500 divided by the focal length of the lens = suitable shutter speed, which provided a prompt to all who wanted to try their hand at this genre of photography. A short concluding AV of some of his favourite images provided a fitting tribute not only to Giles's passion but also to the wonders of our galaxy and the nighttime skies.
" The sleeping landscape - Sussex by night " : by Giles Smith.
Giles introduced himself as primarily a landscape photographer with a particular passion for nighttime photography. The presentation was described as a beginner's guide to Astro Landscape photography, together with the technical aspects needed to achieve success. From an early years interest in all things celestial - even citing in evidence his interest in Dr Who and Patrick Moore's "The Sky at Night" Giles passion for his subject shone throughout. The presentation was illustrated throughout with many beautiful images of the Milky Way, nebula emissions, and star-spangled skies, all shimmering above well-loved and well-known Sussex locations.
Early efforts were followed by investment in acquired knowledge and use of more specialist equipment, enabling the capture of more light through better camera sensors whilst maintaining detail in captured images. Use of cameras with full-spectrum conversion ( where the UV IR filter is removed ) also enabled nebula emissions data to be captured. Such technological aids, along with, for example use of Astro Star trackers, enabled multiple and stacked images to be captured without the stars appearing as trails in the finished image. Forward Planning was essential to success, scouting locations during daylight hours for safety reasons as well as for compositional purposes together with taking test shots to help obtain optimum results. Also essential was the use of tripods, manual focussing and fast, wide-angle lenses.
A detailed explanation of the relationships between the "Exposure Triangle', namely aperture, shutter speed, and ISO ( light sensitivity setting ), provided further advice on how to take images of the landscape at night. Reference to a basic rule of 500 by which a successful shutter speed might be obtained came from the following equation: 500 divided by the focal length of the lens = suitable shutter speed, which provided a prompt to all who wanted to try their hand at this genre of photography. A short concluding AV of some of his favourite images provided a fitting tribute not only to Giles's passion but also to the wonders of our galaxy and the nighttime skies.
Hailsham Photographic Society - Meeting Thursday 26th February
Strong Trophy ( Panel Competition for Prints ) - Judge Andy Smith LRPS CPAGB
The Strong Trophy asks each entrant to submit a panel of six printed images that, when read together form a cohesive whole - perhaps through their use of subject matter, pattern, colour or theme. Indeed, in many ways, the six images, when presented as a panel, can be seen as combining to form a seventh, overall image. Judge for the evening, Andy Smith, explained that he would be looking at how the chosen images had been selected and arranged within the panel to provide a consistent story through their cohesion and creative arrangement. In certain circumstances, it was explained that six good but largely unrelated images did not necessarily make for a good panel. Further, in some instances, an overtly strong or strident image, or one positioned incorrectly within the set, might upset the balance and symmetry of an otherwise successful panel.
With sixteen high-quality panels entered, Andy had the enjoyable if taxing task of choosing his winners.
As a returning and very popular judge, his careful and considered analysis of each, together with explanation and helpful comments, interspersed with gentle humour and a number of "Guardian worthy" puns, made for both an enjoyable and educational evening.
Andy's selected Panels for highly commended ( HC ) and placements were as follows.
1st place - There's a hum in the air - by Martin Ingle
2nd place - Carnival in Venice - by Alan Coole
3rd place - Woodland fungi - by Phil Smith
HC Bugs in bloom - by Wendy Chrismas
HC Salt and structure - by John Daly
Andy's selected Panels can be viewed on the Society's website at www.hailshamphotographicsociety.co.uk
Strong Trophy ( Panel Competition for Prints ) - Judge Andy Smith LRPS CPAGB
The Strong Trophy asks each entrant to submit a panel of six printed images that, when read together form a cohesive whole - perhaps through their use of subject matter, pattern, colour or theme. Indeed, in many ways, the six images, when presented as a panel, can be seen as combining to form a seventh, overall image. Judge for the evening, Andy Smith, explained that he would be looking at how the chosen images had been selected and arranged within the panel to provide a consistent story through their cohesion and creative arrangement. In certain circumstances, it was explained that six good but largely unrelated images did not necessarily make for a good panel. Further, in some instances, an overtly strong or strident image, or one positioned incorrectly within the set, might upset the balance and symmetry of an otherwise successful panel.
With sixteen high-quality panels entered, Andy had the enjoyable if taxing task of choosing his winners.
As a returning and very popular judge, his careful and considered analysis of each, together with explanation and helpful comments, interspersed with gentle humour and a number of "Guardian worthy" puns, made for both an enjoyable and educational evening.
Andy's selected Panels for highly commended ( HC ) and placements were as follows.
1st place - There's a hum in the air - by Martin Ingle
2nd place - Carnival in Venice - by Alan Coole
3rd place - Woodland fungi - by Phil Smith
HC Bugs in bloom - by Wendy Chrismas
HC Salt and structure - by John Daly
Andy's selected Panels can be viewed on the Society's website at www.hailshamphotographicsociety.co.uk
Hailsham Photographic Society - meeting Thursday 19th February
Member's Lecturettes
This particular format, held once each season, enables individual Members to speak about their particular passions and or styles of photography.
Jonathan Close - 6 x17 transparencies and panoramas
Jonathan's presentation began with a brief technical explanation of Panoramic photograph,y where such large format positive film images ( slides ) are best known for offering exceptional detail. This approach makes them ideal for high-quality landscape photography. Prior to digital, this was a laborious technique necessitating the use of such seemingly now archaic methods of insertion of "dark slides" if lens changes were needed, finding Nodal points of your chosen lens, and with just 4 images produced per roll of film. This, in addition to remembering to wind on in between shots, and the mandatory use of tripods to take multiple images. Indeed, in response to a comment asking whether it was often dark before he was ready to take a photo, Jonathan confirmed that the method certainly was " not for action " photography!
The results achieved by this approach, however, were stunning, with Jonathan showing many of his images depicting gorgeous panoramas and sunsets of his favourite Lake District landscapes -Wastwater, Borrowdale, Castlerigg, as well as more southerly examples from the Seven Sisters and the South Downs. Concluding that the advent of Digital and associated software development had made things both a lot easier for this type of photography as well as considerably less expensive.
Andrew Burns - Pantanal and Iguassu Falls, Brazil
Andrew's "lecturette" centred upon a visit to Brazil's Pantanal - the world's largest wetland at some 70,000 square miles, and its incredible wealth of wildlife. The Pantanal is seasonally flooded by waters draining off the central plateau of South America, and for much of the year, the land is largely inaccessible. Possibly the best place in the world to see jaguar the Pantanal is, however, one of the most biodiverse habitats in the world - boasting in particular a wealth of water birds, together with a supporting cast of other wildlife. Whilst historically this wildlife has suffered from persecution, changing legislation together with changing attitudes in now seeing the benefits of ecotourism, which has meant an explosion in the numbers of Yacare Cayman as well as growing populations of two of the Pantanal's most iconic species - the gorgeous Hyacinth Macaw and the Jaguar.
Andrew's passion for his subject was apparent throughout. With so many beautiful images displayed of the birds, it is difficult to do justice to any list - Roseate Spoonbills everywhere, Striated herons, Snowy Egrets, Rufescent Tiger herons, Sun Bittern, Kingfishers, and humming birds together with a variety of raptors including Black Collared Hawk and Snail Kites and of course the unofficial emblem of the Pantanal, the impressive Jabiru Stork. Mammals too were well represented in Andrew's presentation, including the emblematic jaguar, together with other rarer species such as the giant otter and maned wolf.
All in all, a wonderful evening of beautiful images from both Jonathan and Andrew. A great tonic on a wet February evening and an encouragement to get out and about with the camera - when the weather improves.
Member's Lecturettes
This particular format, held once each season, enables individual Members to speak about their particular passions and or styles of photography.
Jonathan Close - 6 x17 transparencies and panoramas
Jonathan's presentation began with a brief technical explanation of Panoramic photograph,y where such large format positive film images ( slides ) are best known for offering exceptional detail. This approach makes them ideal for high-quality landscape photography. Prior to digital, this was a laborious technique necessitating the use of such seemingly now archaic methods of insertion of "dark slides" if lens changes were needed, finding Nodal points of your chosen lens, and with just 4 images produced per roll of film. This, in addition to remembering to wind on in between shots, and the mandatory use of tripods to take multiple images. Indeed, in response to a comment asking whether it was often dark before he was ready to take a photo, Jonathan confirmed that the method certainly was " not for action " photography!
The results achieved by this approach, however, were stunning, with Jonathan showing many of his images depicting gorgeous panoramas and sunsets of his favourite Lake District landscapes -Wastwater, Borrowdale, Castlerigg, as well as more southerly examples from the Seven Sisters and the South Downs. Concluding that the advent of Digital and associated software development had made things both a lot easier for this type of photography as well as considerably less expensive.
Andrew Burns - Pantanal and Iguassu Falls, Brazil
Andrew's "lecturette" centred upon a visit to Brazil's Pantanal - the world's largest wetland at some 70,000 square miles, and its incredible wealth of wildlife. The Pantanal is seasonally flooded by waters draining off the central plateau of South America, and for much of the year, the land is largely inaccessible. Possibly the best place in the world to see jaguar the Pantanal is, however, one of the most biodiverse habitats in the world - boasting in particular a wealth of water birds, together with a supporting cast of other wildlife. Whilst historically this wildlife has suffered from persecution, changing legislation together with changing attitudes in now seeing the benefits of ecotourism, which has meant an explosion in the numbers of Yacare Cayman as well as growing populations of two of the Pantanal's most iconic species - the gorgeous Hyacinth Macaw and the Jaguar.
Andrew's passion for his subject was apparent throughout. With so many beautiful images displayed of the birds, it is difficult to do justice to any list - Roseate Spoonbills everywhere, Striated herons, Snowy Egrets, Rufescent Tiger herons, Sun Bittern, Kingfishers, and humming birds together with a variety of raptors including Black Collared Hawk and Snail Kites and of course the unofficial emblem of the Pantanal, the impressive Jabiru Stork. Mammals too were well represented in Andrew's presentation, including the emblematic jaguar, together with other rarer species such as the giant otter and maned wolf.
All in all, a wonderful evening of beautiful images from both Jonathan and Andrew. A great tonic on a wet February evening and an encouragement to get out and about with the camera - when the weather improves.
Hailsham Photographic Society - Meeting Thursday 12th February
Projected Digital Images ( PDI ) Competition Round 4
Judge: Tim Morland ARPS Dist.
Seemingly ever-growing in popularity with Club Members, Round 4 of the PDI Competition attracted no less than 88 entered images. Judge for the evening, Tim Morland, had a truly challenging task on his hands yet managed to complete it successfully and with aplomb. Considering the scale of the task, his careful yet unhurried assessment and critique of each image, together with advice and recommendations on most, was apparent throughout. After further thoughts on his held back images, Tim's selection for those progressing through to the PDI finals later in the year are as follows..
Development Class ( 35 images )
Restoring the past - by Chris Hall
Nicolla - by John Wood
Wave goodbye - by Richard Moon
A walk at sunrise - by James Verona
Refreshed - by Chris Hall
Half remembering - by Aaron Mc Connell
Advanced Class ( 53 images )
Nest Builder - by Bob Bell
Where water writes - by Piers Hamilton
Alexanders in polka dot vase - by Cherry Larcombe
Cascade de Rouget - by Mike Hammerton
Mind the gap - by Chris Underhill
Sri Lankan fishermen - by Bruce Broughton
Great Grey Owl - by Louise Pemberton
Urban Obstacle - by Chris Underhill
All images selected to progress through to the PDI finals later in the year can be viewed on the Society's website at www.hailshamphotographicsociety.co.uk.
Projected Digital Images ( PDI ) Competition Round 4
Judge: Tim Morland ARPS Dist.
Seemingly ever-growing in popularity with Club Members, Round 4 of the PDI Competition attracted no less than 88 entered images. Judge for the evening, Tim Morland, had a truly challenging task on his hands yet managed to complete it successfully and with aplomb. Considering the scale of the task, his careful yet unhurried assessment and critique of each image, together with advice and recommendations on most, was apparent throughout. After further thoughts on his held back images, Tim's selection for those progressing through to the PDI finals later in the year are as follows..
Development Class ( 35 images )
Restoring the past - by Chris Hall
Nicolla - by John Wood
Wave goodbye - by Richard Moon
A walk at sunrise - by James Verona
Refreshed - by Chris Hall
Half remembering - by Aaron Mc Connell
Advanced Class ( 53 images )
Nest Builder - by Bob Bell
Where water writes - by Piers Hamilton
Alexanders in polka dot vase - by Cherry Larcombe
Cascade de Rouget - by Mike Hammerton
Mind the gap - by Chris Underhill
Sri Lankan fishermen - by Bruce Broughton
Great Grey Owl - by Louise Pemberton
Urban Obstacle - by Chris Underhill
All images selected to progress through to the PDI finals later in the year can be viewed on the Society's website at www.hailshamphotographicsociety.co.uk.
Hailsham Photographic Society - meeting 22nd January
Southern Counties Photographic Federation ( SCPF )-Print league competition
Judge : Helen Taylor-Shaw ARPS
This SCPF print league competition involved judging a total of 48 photographic prints with eight mounted photographic prints having been entered from each of six different Photographic Clubs / Societies. Judge for the evening, Helen Taylor-Shaw, had the difficult task of awarding marks from 6 to 10 to each print - with the awarding of half marks also being allowed. Commenting on the extremely high standard of images chosen to represent their respective Societies Helen provided a detailed analysis and critique of each image, delivered with an easy-going sense of humour, before awarding her final marks.
Two Members of the SCPF were present to assist in adjudicating during the totalling of the marks for each of the six entered teams and to verify final scores.
Overall positions and scores as follows.
1st Salisbury - 67.5 points
2nd Overton - 66.5 points
3rd Fareham and Porchester - 63.0 points
4th Petersfield 62.5 points
5th Bracknell 61.0 points
6th Hailsham 59.5 points
Many thanks to each of those Camera Clubs participating, to our judge Helen, to SCPF for attending as adjudicators and last but not least to our external competitions secretary Richard Moon for arranging the event.
Southern Counties Photographic Federation ( SCPF )-Print league competition
Judge : Helen Taylor-Shaw ARPS
This SCPF print league competition involved judging a total of 48 photographic prints with eight mounted photographic prints having been entered from each of six different Photographic Clubs / Societies. Judge for the evening, Helen Taylor-Shaw, had the difficult task of awarding marks from 6 to 10 to each print - with the awarding of half marks also being allowed. Commenting on the extremely high standard of images chosen to represent their respective Societies Helen provided a detailed analysis and critique of each image, delivered with an easy-going sense of humour, before awarding her final marks.
Two Members of the SCPF were present to assist in adjudicating during the totalling of the marks for each of the six entered teams and to verify final scores.
Overall positions and scores as follows.
1st Salisbury - 67.5 points
2nd Overton - 66.5 points
3rd Fareham and Porchester - 63.0 points
4th Petersfield 62.5 points
5th Bracknell 61.0 points
6th Hailsham 59.5 points
Many thanks to each of those Camera Clubs participating, to our judge Helen, to SCPF for attending as adjudicators and last but not least to our external competitions secretary Richard Moon for arranging the event.
Hailsham Photographic Society - Meeting Thursday 11th December
Stafford Trophy for Monochrome Prints
Judge - David Smith - LRPS CPAGB
The Society's annual Stafford Trophy for judging the best Monochrome Print was certainly not an easy task for judge David Smith - indeed, in spite of the title of the competition, it proved to be far from a black and white decision. David's sincere, careful, and considered critique of each Print was evident - as indeed was his thoughtfulness for the photographer in the delivery of his various comments and advice. Showing considerable dedication to the task in hand, David held no less than 21 of the 71 Print entries for further detailed consideration before deciding upon his final placements and commendations - Highly commended ( HC ).
1st place - Rock life - by Liz Scott
2nd place - Stillness in white - by Cherry Larcombe
3rd place - Trees in the snow - by Carole Lewis
HC Windswept tree, Dinorwic - by David Mills
HC Dance of the zebras - by Marston Hart
HC Falls at Cwmorthin - by David Mills
HC Early morning mist - by David Mills
Congratulations to everyone for entering their images in such a wonderful selection of high-quality Prints, with special mentions to those who achieved placements and commendations. Selected images can be viewed on the Society's website at www.hailshamphotographicsociety.co.uk
Hailsham Photographic Society - Meeting 27th November
Print Competition - Round 2.
Judge Malcolm Bull : Steyning Camera Club.
Visiting judge was Malcolm Bull from the Steyning Camera Club. His relaxed style and gentle humour - facilitating interaction with his audience, made for an enjoyable and interesting evening. Malcolm's carefully considered views and suggestions on each displayed Print offered both advice and support to the photographer whilst holding back many images for his further scrutiny and deliberation. His final choices of prints going forward to the finals later in the New Year were as follows.
Development Class - Keith Donald Shield ( 13 entries )
Attitude - by John Daly
Creeping thistle - by John Daly
Reflections - by Nicola Stone
Advanced Class - Founder's Cup ( 43 entries )
Where the Mountains breathe cold - by Piers Hamilton
Wren collecting moss for his nest - by Phil Lavender
Tree Impressions - by Liz Scott
The Art Critic - by Jack Taylor
Oriental whisper - by Cherry Larcombe
Go away birds - by Paul Shilliam
Rhino bond - by Marston Hart
Print Competition - Round 2.
Judge Malcolm Bull : Steyning Camera Club.
Visiting judge was Malcolm Bull from the Steyning Camera Club. His relaxed style and gentle humour - facilitating interaction with his audience, made for an enjoyable and interesting evening. Malcolm's carefully considered views and suggestions on each displayed Print offered both advice and support to the photographer whilst holding back many images for his further scrutiny and deliberation. His final choices of prints going forward to the finals later in the New Year were as follows.
Development Class - Keith Donald Shield ( 13 entries )
Attitude - by John Daly
Creeping thistle - by John Daly
Reflections - by Nicola Stone
Advanced Class - Founder's Cup ( 43 entries )
Where the Mountains breathe cold - by Piers Hamilton
Wren collecting moss for his nest - by Phil Lavender
Tree Impressions - by Liz Scott
The Art Critic - by Jack Taylor
Oriental whisper - by Cherry Larcombe
Go away birds - by Paul Shilliam
Rhino bond - by Marston Hart
Hailsham Photographic Society - Meeting 20th November
Print and PDI Battle v Seven Sisters Camera Club : Judge Ken Woods
As keenly contested as any Ashes Test, Hailsham's regular Print and Projected Digital Image " head to head " with Seven Sisters Camera Club always makes for an enjoyable and exciting evening. The competition requires each club to submit a total of 12 Prints and twelve Projected Digital Images ( PDI's ) with each image being assessed and scored out of a possible 20 marks.As the Independent judge for the night, Ken Woods easy going style and sense of humour was well received by all present albeit many were still showing their competitive edge by trying to keep a running total of all scores as the evening progressed ! Ken's comments and advice on each of the submitted entries were also well directed, holding back a number for more detailed thought prior to awarding final scores to each. Throughout the whole exercise he was of course unaware which of the two Clubs had entered any particular image.
Within the Print Section Seven Sisters scored a total of 211 to Hailsham's 208 whereas the PDI Section favoured the home team with Hailsham scoring 217 to Seven Sisters 209 thus giving a narrow overall victory to Hailsham with 425 points to Seven Sisters 420 points.
Congratulations to everyone whose images were chosen to represent their Club. Special mentions to those whose photographs achieved maximum ( 20 ) marks from the judge - David Hammond and Giles Smith from Seven Sisters; Bob Bell and Paul Shilliam from Hailsham.
Print and PDI Battle v Seven Sisters Camera Club : Judge Ken Woods
As keenly contested as any Ashes Test, Hailsham's regular Print and Projected Digital Image " head to head " with Seven Sisters Camera Club always makes for an enjoyable and exciting evening. The competition requires each club to submit a total of 12 Prints and twelve Projected Digital Images ( PDI's ) with each image being assessed and scored out of a possible 20 marks.As the Independent judge for the night, Ken Woods easy going style and sense of humour was well received by all present albeit many were still showing their competitive edge by trying to keep a running total of all scores as the evening progressed ! Ken's comments and advice on each of the submitted entries were also well directed, holding back a number for more detailed thought prior to awarding final scores to each. Throughout the whole exercise he was of course unaware which of the two Clubs had entered any particular image.
Within the Print Section Seven Sisters scored a total of 211 to Hailsham's 208 whereas the PDI Section favoured the home team with Hailsham scoring 217 to Seven Sisters 209 thus giving a narrow overall victory to Hailsham with 425 points to Seven Sisters 420 points.
Congratulations to everyone whose images were chosen to represent their Club. Special mentions to those whose photographs achieved maximum ( 20 ) marks from the judge - David Hammond and Giles Smith from Seven Sisters; Bob Bell and Paul Shilliam from Hailsham.
Hailsham Photographic Society - Meeting Thursday 13th November
Projected Digital Images ( PDI ) Competition Round 2
Judge - Lawrence Holmwood EFIAP BPE2 CPAGB
As a regular visitor to the Society and an extremely experienced judge Lawrence had the monumental task of critiquing almost 100 entries - 33 in the Development Class and 60 in the Advanced Class.His enthusiasm for,and application to assessing every image and offering advice, recommendations and suggestions on each was evident throughout. Emphasising the very high quality of entries in both classes and holding a number back prior to making his final selection Lawrence was especially pleased to see a wide range of genres featured in his choices of those going through to the PDI finals.
Sussex Shield ( Development Class ) 33 entries
Ships on the horizon - by Chris Hall
The Undertaker - by Steve Grace
The Passion in glass - by James Verona
Health and Safety - by Richard Moon
Lets dance - by Paul Dryer
Lest we forget - by James Verona
Albert Hillman Cup ( Advanced Class ) 60 entries
Rutting season - by Richard Goldsmith
Porecelain fungus - by Ray Beckwith
Preparing to dive - by Alan Coole
Fuschia - by Louise Pemberton
Kyle of Durness, Scotland - by Dave Brooker
From life we take - by Piers Hamilton
A proper mouthful - by Bob Bell
Decanter - by Wendy Chrismas
Congratulations to everyone who entered their images to make for a thoroughly interesting and entertaining evening.
Hailsham Photographic Society - Meeting 30th October.
Landscape Competition - Judge Caroline Preece LRPS
An ever popular subject, the Society's Landscape Competition attracted some 23 entries as prints and an impressive 38 as Projected Digital Images ( PDI's ). As judge for the evening Caroline emphasised the role of photography as a means of " communication without words" and explained her approach to judging in terms of how seeing how successsfully an image could convey not merely what something looked like but how it felt - through it's portrayal of mood, atmosphere and emotion. Providing an informative and detailed analysis of each image Caroline held a number of images back for further consideration before making her final selections.
Print Competition results
HC Wanderers in the Wildwood : by Cherry Larcombe
HC Mist rising over barley fields : by Cherry Larcombe
3rd Quiet Dusk - Lake Iseo : by Piers Hamilton
2nd Tree at Mammoth Springs : by John Lewis
1st The last Forest : by Piers Hamilton
PDI Competition results
HC Sheep may graze safely : by Wendy Chrismas
HC Cattle in the morning mist : by Phil Lancaster
HC Old barn - Dumfries and Galloway : by Dave Brooker
3rd Reflections on Elterwater : by Peter Nest
2nd Approaching storm : by Jonathan Close
1st Moisture and rocks : by Richard Moon
Congratulations to everyone who entered images and especially to those who gained placements or commendations.
Landscape Competition - Judge Caroline Preece LRPS
An ever popular subject, the Society's Landscape Competition attracted some 23 entries as prints and an impressive 38 as Projected Digital Images ( PDI's ). As judge for the evening Caroline emphasised the role of photography as a means of " communication without words" and explained her approach to judging in terms of how seeing how successsfully an image could convey not merely what something looked like but how it felt - through it's portrayal of mood, atmosphere and emotion. Providing an informative and detailed analysis of each image Caroline held a number of images back for further consideration before making her final selections.
Print Competition results
HC Wanderers in the Wildwood : by Cherry Larcombe
HC Mist rising over barley fields : by Cherry Larcombe
3rd Quiet Dusk - Lake Iseo : by Piers Hamilton
2nd Tree at Mammoth Springs : by John Lewis
1st The last Forest : by Piers Hamilton
PDI Competition results
HC Sheep may graze safely : by Wendy Chrismas
HC Cattle in the morning mist : by Phil Lancaster
HC Old barn - Dumfries and Galloway : by Dave Brooker
3rd Reflections on Elterwater : by Peter Nest
2nd Approaching storm : by Jonathan Close
1st Moisture and rocks : by Richard Moon
Congratulations to everyone who entered images and especially to those who gained placements or commendations.
Hailsham Photographic Society - Meeting 25th September
"The Wonder of Woodland- bringing order to the chaos" - presenter Jamie Fielding
Jamie began his presentation by confirming that he was self-taught and certainly not, in his own words any self confessed "camera geek".However, particularly during the pandemic he had determined to develop his photography to high standard.His images have won prizes and commendations in many competitions including UK landscape photo of the year, in Astro photography, with the Sussex Wildlife Trust and with the South Downs National Park ( people's choice winner ). The first part of Jamie's presentation was by way of a portfolio of his work, delighting his audience with many stunning photographs showcasing his favourite locations. Based in Angmering, West Sussex many of his eyecatching and award winning images were from places as familiar as Cissbury and Chanctonbury Ring, Corfe Castle,and Durdle Door.
Within part two Jamie's focus was determinedly on the title of his presentation. Using yet more beautiful images to provide advice, tips and encouragement to get the very best from woodland photography throughout the four seasons. Particular emphasis was given to pre planning, location selection,composition and especially the use of fog and mist to convey mood - and to the use of "Komorebi" ( filtered sunlight through trees) to deliver best results. Exhorting all to occasionally make those very early starts to make the best of the light Jamie's images more than proved that particular point.His enthusiasm for the natural world and its undoubted benefits to our wellbeing shone throughout - as did his love of foggy and misty conditions to deliver feeling, emotion and mystery to his images.. A wonderful evening and an encoragement to everyone to get out in the woods. More info.at https://www.jamiefieldingphotography.com/
"The Wonder of Woodland- bringing order to the chaos" - presenter Jamie Fielding
Jamie began his presentation by confirming that he was self-taught and certainly not, in his own words any self confessed "camera geek".However, particularly during the pandemic he had determined to develop his photography to high standard.His images have won prizes and commendations in many competitions including UK landscape photo of the year, in Astro photography, with the Sussex Wildlife Trust and with the South Downs National Park ( people's choice winner ). The first part of Jamie's presentation was by way of a portfolio of his work, delighting his audience with many stunning photographs showcasing his favourite locations. Based in Angmering, West Sussex many of his eyecatching and award winning images were from places as familiar as Cissbury and Chanctonbury Ring, Corfe Castle,and Durdle Door.
Within part two Jamie's focus was determinedly on the title of his presentation. Using yet more beautiful images to provide advice, tips and encouragement to get the very best from woodland photography throughout the four seasons. Particular emphasis was given to pre planning, location selection,composition and especially the use of fog and mist to convey mood - and to the use of "Komorebi" ( filtered sunlight through trees) to deliver best results. Exhorting all to occasionally make those very early starts to make the best of the light Jamie's images more than proved that particular point.His enthusiasm for the natural world and its undoubted benefits to our wellbeing shone throughout - as did his love of foggy and misty conditions to deliver feeling, emotion and mystery to his images.. A wonderful evening and an encoragement to everyone to get out in the woods. More info.at https://www.jamiefieldingphotography.com/
Hailsham Photographic Society - Meeting 18th September
Projected Digital Images ( PDI ) Competition Round 1
Judge : Paul Parkinson ARPS CPAGB BPE3
With an impressive number of entries to judge Paul's task was never going to be easy.However his dry sense of humour and easy-going nature ( plus the occasional self deprecating comments about judges in general ) made for a very enjoyable evening. Showing himself to be as supportive of a large "crop" as many farmers, his comments, advice and suggestions on each image were both concise and extremely helpful.Paul's final selection of images to go through to the PDI Finals were ...
Sussex Shield ( Development Class ) - 24 entries
Farmers Gold - by James Verona
Greylag goose - by Paul Dryer
Hoi An street vendor - by Steve Grace
Beach Art - by Ben Cottingham
Albert Hillman Cup ( Advanced Class ) - 48 entries
Kid's attitude - by Carole Lewis
Through a window - by Jack Taylor
How long have you been waiting? - by Roy Broad
Tube travellers - by Chris Underhil
Short eared owl flypast - by Bob Bell
Now open wide please - by Nick Ryan
Nigella and clover in blue vase - by Cherry Larcombe
Congratulations to everyone who entered their photographs for the competition.
To view the images please head to the PDI 2025/2026 results via the button below
Projected Digital Images ( PDI ) Competition Round 1
Judge : Paul Parkinson ARPS CPAGB BPE3
With an impressive number of entries to judge Paul's task was never going to be easy.However his dry sense of humour and easy-going nature ( plus the occasional self deprecating comments about judges in general ) made for a very enjoyable evening. Showing himself to be as supportive of a large "crop" as many farmers, his comments, advice and suggestions on each image were both concise and extremely helpful.Paul's final selection of images to go through to the PDI Finals were ...
Sussex Shield ( Development Class ) - 24 entries
Farmers Gold - by James Verona
Greylag goose - by Paul Dryer
Hoi An street vendor - by Steve Grace
Beach Art - by Ben Cottingham
Albert Hillman Cup ( Advanced Class ) - 48 entries
Kid's attitude - by Carole Lewis
Through a window - by Jack Taylor
How long have you been waiting? - by Roy Broad
Tube travellers - by Chris Underhil
Short eared owl flypast - by Bob Bell
Now open wide please - by Nick Ryan
Nigella and clover in blue vase - by Cherry Larcombe
Congratulations to everyone who entered their photographs for the competition.
To view the images please head to the PDI 2025/2026 results via the button below
Hailsham Photographic Society - meeting 11th September
Through the eyes of Wildlife : capturing connection and character. Presenter Corinne Pardey
In what was a late departure from the published programme of speakers Corinne's presentation on wildlife photography was an absolute delight. Her unbridled enthusiasm and passion shone throughout as did knowledge of her subject. Illustrated with many wonderful images she regaled members with the stories behind them adding additional information about the behaviours and characteristics of her various subjects. With a degree in conservation and a background of having worked for the RSPB it was evident that she was both well placed and comfortably in her element when out taking photographs of wild creatures.
Corinne's view of the importance of wildlife photography in helping re connect people with nature and the natural environment, and the reliance that we all have on the natural world for both our physical and mental wellbeing was a message that came across strongly. As an individual it seemed she was never happier than when out in the natural world, eye level in the mud with her chosen subject. No discomfort, not even 4.30 am starts, seemed too great in her endeavours to secure her photographic goals.This was ably illustrated by images of a number of key UK wildlife sites and their inhabitants, conveying connection and character with the animals and birds the subject of her photography.
Emphasising the importance of developing key skills to enable one to be in a position to anticipate rather than merely react to a situation was a key part of her success. Now running a number of popular photography workshops based at the UK Owl and Raptor Centre Corinne concluded with her five top tips for successful wildlife photography -
1.Ensuring that the welfare of the wildlife comes first
2. Developing knowledge of your subject
3. Development of fieldcraft and field skills
4. to generally aim to shoot at eye level
5. thinking about composition.
More Information at https://www.corinnepardeyphotography.com/
Hailsham Photographic Society
Chairman's meeting - 4th September . " The Chairman entertains "
Chairman Bruce Broughton began the evening with a warm welcome to all Members and especially to those members new to the Society. The format for what was essentially an informal and social meeting to start the season consisted of presentations from three of the club's longstanding Members - Liz Scott, Dave Brooker and Paul Shilliam.
Liz provided a memorable and fitting tribute to the photography of her late husband Roger through the display of a number of his prints. Each had it's own backstory of places visited together, early sunrises, misty mornings, photographic goals and techniques. Whilst described by her perhaps principally as a landscape photographer Roger's particular sense of humour and love of the surreal in his photography provided Members ( and in Liz's own words occasionally the judges ) with an undoubted element of mischief,humour and head scratching in addition to a wide variety of excellent photographs . The " head scratching " element not only through the images themselves but also through the frequent insertion of surrealistic forms and elements and in some instances from the titles Roger gave them. A wonderful reminder of a talented photographer who was never afraid to try something different irrespective of what the judges might think.
Dave Brooker's talk took Member's on a journey around the M25 - often vilified as Europe's biggest car park.
He had logically concluded that many will have spent unhappy hours stuck in traffic on London;s orbital nightmare and as a professional cartographer considered mapping the many sites visible from the motorway itself. He had therfore designed a fold out, illustrated version with images available from key M 25 junctions. His quest was to then visit some of these distant landmarks, to explore them in more detail before inserting images and information about them into his fold out map. Fate,allegedly largely in the inappropriate timing of publicity surrounding publication of this map, unfortunately had meant that Dave did not become a millionaire overnight through sales of this somewhat niche publication although his idea and the presentation of it was indeed both novel and entertaining.
Paul Shilliam's talk was on the subject of photographic accreditations, carefully taking Members through the number of photographic bodies who award these accreditations and the various processes and means of obtaining them. In detailing his own photographic journey in acheiving these Paul encouraged Members to embark on a similar path for a number of reasons. Principally because this would make one a better photographer, not merely in the production of images but in developing their thinking about matters such as printing, mounting , locations and pre planning. In many instances aiming for a particular accreditation also helps provide a clear focus and objective to one's photography.Paul concluded by detailing the wealth of support available on the internet , through mentoring by judges or simply by experiencing how images and panels were assessed - concluding by emphasising that many of the Society's own accredited members would be more than happy to support others through the process.
David
Publicity Officer HPS
Chairman's meeting - 4th September . " The Chairman entertains "
Chairman Bruce Broughton began the evening with a warm welcome to all Members and especially to those members new to the Society. The format for what was essentially an informal and social meeting to start the season consisted of presentations from three of the club's longstanding Members - Liz Scott, Dave Brooker and Paul Shilliam.
Liz provided a memorable and fitting tribute to the photography of her late husband Roger through the display of a number of his prints. Each had it's own backstory of places visited together, early sunrises, misty mornings, photographic goals and techniques. Whilst described by her perhaps principally as a landscape photographer Roger's particular sense of humour and love of the surreal in his photography provided Members ( and in Liz's own words occasionally the judges ) with an undoubted element of mischief,humour and head scratching in addition to a wide variety of excellent photographs . The " head scratching " element not only through the images themselves but also through the frequent insertion of surrealistic forms and elements and in some instances from the titles Roger gave them. A wonderful reminder of a talented photographer who was never afraid to try something different irrespective of what the judges might think.
Dave Brooker's talk took Member's on a journey around the M25 - often vilified as Europe's biggest car park.
He had logically concluded that many will have spent unhappy hours stuck in traffic on London;s orbital nightmare and as a professional cartographer considered mapping the many sites visible from the motorway itself. He had therfore designed a fold out, illustrated version with images available from key M 25 junctions. His quest was to then visit some of these distant landmarks, to explore them in more detail before inserting images and information about them into his fold out map. Fate,allegedly largely in the inappropriate timing of publicity surrounding publication of this map, unfortunately had meant that Dave did not become a millionaire overnight through sales of this somewhat niche publication although his idea and the presentation of it was indeed both novel and entertaining.
Paul Shilliam's talk was on the subject of photographic accreditations, carefully taking Members through the number of photographic bodies who award these accreditations and the various processes and means of obtaining them. In detailing his own photographic journey in acheiving these Paul encouraged Members to embark on a similar path for a number of reasons. Principally because this would make one a better photographer, not merely in the production of images but in developing their thinking about matters such as printing, mounting , locations and pre planning. In many instances aiming for a particular accreditation also helps provide a clear focus and objective to one's photography.Paul concluded by detailing the wealth of support available on the internet , through mentoring by judges or simply by experiencing how images and panels were assessed - concluding by emphasising that many of the Society's own accredited members would be more than happy to support others through the process.
David
Publicity Officer HPS