On October 19th, the first monthly competition of the season was held. Record entries in both colour and monochrome sections got the society's members off to a flying start.
In the monochrome section, in which there were 20 entries, Robert O'Brien was placed first with a fine portrait, Derek Preston came second with an excellent shot taken at a pop concert. In the colour section, where there were 36 entries, Chris Walpole came first with a beautiful landscape taken in Canada, Teresa McMahon was second and Denzil Glenn came third. Because there were so many entries, the Chairman is considering the possibility of dividing the competition in future between Novices and Advanced, to give everyone, particularly new members, a fair chance.
On November 2nd, Patsy Carron FRPR, FIPP, gave an excellent talk on photography's basic skills. We all like to think how we know everything about taking photographs. We love to exchange knowledgeable chat on the latest digital gadgets – but often this is done at the expense of first principles! Patsy took us back to basics, how to hold a camera properly, how to measure exposure, how to set the camera for depth of field, how to take landscapes and portraits, the use of telephoto and macro lenses – you name it – he told us how to do it! Many thanks to Patsy for an excellent night's talk. It's great to have such an experienced member in the club.
Congratulations to Club members Terry McCartney and Derek Preston for achieving entries in the NIPA Photographic Exhibition currently on display in the Ardhowen Theatre. Terry's entry "Wakeboarders", shows superb use of digital techniques to produce a dramatic picture and achieved a PAGB Ribbon. Derek has no less that FOUR photographs in the exhibition, all superbly crafted in the darkroom using traditional techniques. Well done, Derek – great to see you back on centre stage.
The next meeting of the EPS will be on November 16th in the Ardhowen Theatre at 8pm when past member Pat Chesters will be along to show us some tip when using PhotoShop to finish our images.
CHRISTMAS DINNER ON December 14th will be at FERNDALE. An excellent menu has been laid on by chef Peter Mills. Places are limited to a maximum of 40. You must reserve a place if you would like to go, £10 deposit per person to Terry McCartney or David Robertson is required to book your place(s). You may bring a partner/friend – as we now have 46 members, early booking is advised!
