Photography News 11

Camera clubs

MAL OGDEN

“When Birmingham Jewellery Quarter was first mentioned as a venue for our newly formed Practical Group I immediately thought of using the feeling of deprivation as my subject matter. The vision that I had for my pictures was made possible thanks to fellow member Roger who was willing to pose as a model. “It gave me the opportunity to practise high-speed syncing using a Speedlite 580EX II flashgun with E-TTL flash triggers. These were attached to a Canon EOS 5D Mark III camera in an attempt to produce images that would enforce the redevelopment aspect of the area such as the decaying buildings, brickwork and anything else associated with urban decay.” the

I think the Practical Group has added another dimension to the club and it would be nice to seemore joining us, especiallywomen. I was the only female on both of these outings but I have to say everyone was very kind and I didnot feel leftout

JILL HOWE “I decided to join the Practical Group mainly because I enjoy taking photos with other keen photographers. It is relaxing and fun to be with other like-minded people who give inspiration and ideas – and they don’t moan when I keep stopping to take pictures like my poor long-suffering husband. “As I work pretty much full-time, going out on a Sunday is very convenient for me and easier than going on an evening which can be a rush. The idea is for the outings to be free and not too far away which is what most people seem to want. I find being with more experienced photographers a great help as they give advice and tips and lend equipment to each other etc. so it’s a great way to learn new skills without any pressure. “My second outing with the Practical Group was to Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter. We were looking for old grotty buildings and doorways to use as backdrops and we used each other as models. This was a new idea that we had not tried before but it worked out really well. So not only

did I get some great pictures and learn about reflectors and the use of props but I learned how to be a model too. It was nerve-wracking but a good experience and we had great fun. At one point Roger was thrown in a skip with much hilarity and then I was posing with brightly coloured umbrellas in a graveyard. “I think the Practical Group has added another dimension to the club and it would be nice to see more joining us, especially women. I was the only female on both of these outings but I have to say everyone was very kind and I did not feel left out. I would recommend this group to anyone; come along and have some new experiences, learn new skills and make friends. We have more outings planned and I hope to join in as often as I can. Many thanks to Roger for doing the planning.”

π To find out more about Bromsgrove Photographic Society’s Practical Group, go to www.bromsgroveps.co.uk.

Photography News | Issue 11