My first memory of my Dad being pleased with me was after I got some good
results, as an 8 year old with his 35mm Voitlander, he being an engineer had to
work everything out whereas I followed the simple guidelines offered with the
Kodak Film, it was enough for him to give me the camera and it started me on the
path that brings me to this blog.
For some time after that I took small
photographs in small numbers (it was expensive to buy film and have them printed
at the local chemist). As I recall we would go on frequent camping weekends
which provided plenty of opportunity to capture my mum dad and brother sitting
outside the tent or on the beaches of Devon and Cornwall. When I had my own
family they too were photographed along with all the places we visited and our
shelves became crammed with Photo Albums full of 6" x 4" prints each documenting
an family holiday or special occasion. I also remember the excitement of hearing
that Bonus Print were introducing a whopping 7" x 5" print.
It was not until comparatively recently that I joined Hoylake Photographic
Society that I learned about the art of going out with the express purpose of
capturing an image, indeed sometimes to capture a very specific scene. Thus
began a new chapter in my 'Photographic Career'. With help and guidance from
numerous and very generous* HPS members, I learned about the benefits of
printing your own, of mounting, using good equipment and software and of course
of thouroughly researching your subject and the weather and light.
 |
| New Brighton Lighthouse - Wirral |
Some time back in the 70s I chose a Canon and from then on its being Canon
equipment all the way, although one of the things that has pleased me most about
HPS Membership is about how little conversation there is about equipment.
When asked what images I most prefer to capture I say without hesitation
Landscapes but I do have to admit to being quite competitive and so I also like
very much capturing images that suit the 'next competition'.
I recently applied for and was awarded CPAGB, a nerve racking but most
rewarding experience and I do enjoy knowing that an august panel of judges
scored my 10 images sufficiently highly to gain the award.
If it was my Dad that got me started then I have to say its my wife Alison
who keeps me motivated, her constant support and encouragement is invaluable and
her critique and encomium are invaluable to me.
I enjoy being a member of the Photographic Society of America, a most
friendly and helpful and supportive organisation. I have enough Acceptance in
PSA sponsored competitions to earn places on their Star Rating System and one
day I will get round to applying for them, but in the meantime there is a
landscape out there with my name on it waiting for me to capture it. I have an
urge to go and find it.
