I hope everyone enjoyed last week’s session on lighting as much as I did. It was a bit chaotic at times but I certainly learned quite a bit about different ways to light a model and the impact that lighting decisions can make on the final image. Many thanks to Colin for organizing it and to our guest photographer John and model Kim.
Getting flash triggers to work on every different kind of camera could be a bit challenging at times, but we got through it, and I think almost everyone that wanted to have a go managed to get at least one shot to work!
A couple of things that many less experienced members seemed to struggle with were (a) how to set up shutter speed, aperture, and ISO independently using manual mode and (b) how to set up the viewfinder in a mirrorless camera to turn off exposure preview. Unfortunately these are things that vary from camera to camera, so it’s not something that is easily covered in an early session, so all I can really advise is that it’s worth taking the time to study your camera manual, and look up these two topics in particular, as there are quite a few occasions where being able to set up your camera in fully manual mode is important – the light painting session a couple of weeks ago was another, for example.
Yesterday afternoon’s Cwm Rhondda battle was an enjoyable diversion from the miserable weather outside – I hope some of you managed to tune in. There were some fantastic images on display from 22 camera clubs around the world, and some good critique from the judge. Unfortunately we were not able to repeat last year’s success, but our mid-table finish was only a few points behind the eventual winners (Bridgend Camera Club) in a very tight race. Well done to all our members whose works were chosen to represent the club.
Speaking of judges, this coming Tuesday sees our second print competition of the season, with John Haines in the hot seat. Good luck to all who have entered – should be another good night.
Also speaking of judges, has anyone else noticed that if there no person in your landscape shot, the judge usually suggests putting one in… but if there IS one, they usually suggest taking them out?
Remember that Tuesday is the last day to get your mobile phone pictures to David J for the knockout competition on December 3rd. As per the rules, the photos must be taken and edited (other than final sizing) on a mobile device (phone or tablet). Other than that, any photo is eligible, regardless of subject or when it was taken. Up to two entries per person please.
Ele and the New Year’s Party subcommittee have been doing a great job organizing everything for our annual party on January 7th – see her email for details of how to reserve your place and book your meal. It should be a fun evening as always.
Looking forward to seeing you on Tuesday evening
Richard