Tynemouth Photographic Society
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Main Group - Record of Speakers 25/26 Season
Craig Strawbridge from Cramlington; “Scales Wings and Metal Things”
23rd April 2026
As noted in the last report, we have been treated to some wonderful presentations this season and Craig Strawbridge’s show last night kept up the exceptionally high standard of both entertaining speakers and superb photography.
Craig began his talk by describing his interest in both aviation and nature photography; initially, these 2 genres seem to be diametrically opposed, however, as his presentation developed it became very clear that although the subject matter may be rather different, there are far more similarities than differences.
Craig described a life-long passion for military aviation noting that his grandfather had started his interest when he was very young by taking him to Airshows around the county. When he also became interested in photography, he naturally pointed his lens at the aircraft he was watching and has developed a wonderful eye for taking dramatic images of aircraft in flight.
Craig noted that in the UK we have 2 main low level flying areas used by the military; Low Flying Area 7 (LFA-7) in North Wales (also known as the Mach Loop) and LFA-17 in Cumbria centred in The Lake District. Both areas are used by the RAF and NATO allies, especially aircraft from the USAF and he visits both regularly capturing some amazing images of modern fast jets.
Over a number of years Craig has formed personal relationships with individual pilots, especially with the US pilots from bases such as Lakenheath, so much so that when practising low-level flying they will ‘push the limits’ of what is permitted in terms of altitude, speed and use of after-burners allowing Craig to capture the wonderfully dramatic images of fast jets such as F-35’s, Typhoons, and F-15’s. The aircrew will also look out for pre-arranged markers which Craig will lay out on the hillside, so they know where he is to ensure they ‘put on a show’ at the correct location and the crew also frequently display greetings messages on the aircraft cockpits!
He noted that the LFA’s detailed above do not have a ‘timetable’ as such, however training is not usually carried out at weekends and Bank Holidays or when poor flying conditions are expected although some of his best images have been captured just before the weather has changed resulting in training being halted.
Craig supplemented his still images with videos shot on his iPhone which he mounts on his stills camera body to provide an added dynamic to the images he showed.
He has also made numerous trips overseas and highlighted 2 Multinational Air Exercises he has attended: INIOCHOS in the North Western Peloponnese region of Greece and AXALP in Bernese Oberland, Switzerland. The former is special as the Greek Airforce still has operational F4E Phantoms which are due to be retired before too much longer and AXALP provides a superb spectacle of fast jets flying in Alpine conditions although access is rather difficult since spectators have a steep 1-2 hour from the chairlift to reach top viewing spots!
Craig finished this half of his presentation with a number of air-to-air images noting that he has been a customer of a company called COAP who arrange these photoshoots although such are very expensive. His favourite image was of the only flying B17 bomber based in the UK noting that he has fond memories of seeing this aircraft as a child with his grandfather. He has also attended air to air sessions with fast jets, and he concluded his aircraft images with a couple of stunning aerial shots of Belgian F-16’s.
As noted in the introduction, Craig is an ecologist by profession, and he is also a dedicated wildlife photographer. He has a wide range of truly wonderful bird, mammal and reptile images taken at locations all over the UK. He is keen to photograph the more common animals such as ‘city’ foxes, garden and water birds and insects which may be seen in more urban areas as well as the rarer species, notably White-Tailed Sea Eagles, Ptarmigan, Arctic Hares and Pine Martin. He also has a large number of reptile photographs including frogs, toads and Adders all in their natural habitat. The quality of some of his images is such that they have featured on main-stream television programmes such as 'Springwatch'.
He was very keen to stress that the most important aspect of wildlife photography is to ensure that the animal is not disturbed in any way and is not placed under any stress by the photographer at any time. He uses various techniques to ensure this including studying creatures from a distance to determine their routines before trying to photograph them, using hides and spending many hours motionless in one location so that the animal becomes fully familiar with him and does not feel threatened by his presence. He tries to capture his wildlife in their natural habitat and hence uses wide-angle lenses as well as long telephotos noting that because of the techniques detailed above the animal feels comfortable to come quite close to where he is photographing and is not uncomfortable with him being there. Sadly, this is not always the case with all wildlife photographers, and he has seen some really appalling behaviour out in the field; we can all agree that there is no place whatsoever for this and the primary concern must always be the welfare of the animal.
Some of the most compelling images of the evening were of Adders taken in their nature habitat. Craig noted that his images always showed the snakes lying calmly with their heads close to the body; he noted that any image of an Adder with its head raised is a sign of the reptile being uneasy with the presence of the photographer. Once again, he reiterated the importance of being aware of animal behaviour and to always ensure that any animal is not placed in a stressful situation whilst being photographed.
Craig’s final comments were to request records to be kept of sightings of wildlife in order to monitor populations of animals and birds. Photographers can provide valuable data on the distribution and population status, and he suggested that the following apps may be used to provide such data:
iNaturalist
iRecord
Very many thanks to Craig for a wonderful presentation which rounded off our season on a real high.
Andy Louch
23rd April 2026
As noted in the last report, we have been treated to some wonderful presentations this season and Craig Strawbridge’s show last night kept up the exceptionally high standard of both entertaining speakers and superb photography.
Craig began his talk by describing his interest in both aviation and nature photography; initially, these 2 genres seem to be diametrically opposed, however, as his presentation developed it became very clear that although the subject matter may be rather different, there are far more similarities than differences.
Craig described a life-long passion for military aviation noting that his grandfather had started his interest when he was very young by taking him to Airshows around the county. When he also became interested in photography, he naturally pointed his lens at the aircraft he was watching and has developed a wonderful eye for taking dramatic images of aircraft in flight.
Craig noted that in the UK we have 2 main low level flying areas used by the military; Low Flying Area 7 (LFA-7) in North Wales (also known as the Mach Loop) and LFA-17 in Cumbria centred in The Lake District. Both areas are used by the RAF and NATO allies, especially aircraft from the USAF and he visits both regularly capturing some amazing images of modern fast jets.
Over a number of years Craig has formed personal relationships with individual pilots, especially with the US pilots from bases such as Lakenheath, so much so that when practising low-level flying they will ‘push the limits’ of what is permitted in terms of altitude, speed and use of after-burners allowing Craig to capture the wonderfully dramatic images of fast jets such as F-35’s, Typhoons, and F-15’s. The aircrew will also look out for pre-arranged markers which Craig will lay out on the hillside, so they know where he is to ensure they ‘put on a show’ at the correct location and the crew also frequently display greetings messages on the aircraft cockpits!
He noted that the LFA’s detailed above do not have a ‘timetable’ as such, however training is not usually carried out at weekends and Bank Holidays or when poor flying conditions are expected although some of his best images have been captured just before the weather has changed resulting in training being halted.
Craig supplemented his still images with videos shot on his iPhone which he mounts on his stills camera body to provide an added dynamic to the images he showed.
He has also made numerous trips overseas and highlighted 2 Multinational Air Exercises he has attended: INIOCHOS in the North Western Peloponnese region of Greece and AXALP in Bernese Oberland, Switzerland. The former is special as the Greek Airforce still has operational F4E Phantoms which are due to be retired before too much longer and AXALP provides a superb spectacle of fast jets flying in Alpine conditions although access is rather difficult since spectators have a steep 1-2 hour from the chairlift to reach top viewing spots!
Craig finished this half of his presentation with a number of air-to-air images noting that he has been a customer of a company called COAP who arrange these photoshoots although such are very expensive. His favourite image was of the only flying B17 bomber based in the UK noting that he has fond memories of seeing this aircraft as a child with his grandfather. He has also attended air to air sessions with fast jets, and he concluded his aircraft images with a couple of stunning aerial shots of Belgian F-16’s.
As noted in the introduction, Craig is an ecologist by profession, and he is also a dedicated wildlife photographer. He has a wide range of truly wonderful bird, mammal and reptile images taken at locations all over the UK. He is keen to photograph the more common animals such as ‘city’ foxes, garden and water birds and insects which may be seen in more urban areas as well as the rarer species, notably White-Tailed Sea Eagles, Ptarmigan, Arctic Hares and Pine Martin. He also has a large number of reptile photographs including frogs, toads and Adders all in their natural habitat. The quality of some of his images is such that they have featured on main-stream television programmes such as 'Springwatch'.
He was very keen to stress that the most important aspect of wildlife photography is to ensure that the animal is not disturbed in any way and is not placed under any stress by the photographer at any time. He uses various techniques to ensure this including studying creatures from a distance to determine their routines before trying to photograph them, using hides and spending many hours motionless in one location so that the animal becomes fully familiar with him and does not feel threatened by his presence. He tries to capture his wildlife in their natural habitat and hence uses wide-angle lenses as well as long telephotos noting that because of the techniques detailed above the animal feels comfortable to come quite close to where he is photographing and is not uncomfortable with him being there. Sadly, this is not always the case with all wildlife photographers, and he has seen some really appalling behaviour out in the field; we can all agree that there is no place whatsoever for this and the primary concern must always be the welfare of the animal.
Some of the most compelling images of the evening were of Adders taken in their nature habitat. Craig noted that his images always showed the snakes lying calmly with their heads close to the body; he noted that any image of an Adder with its head raised is a sign of the reptile being uneasy with the presence of the photographer. Once again, he reiterated the importance of being aware of animal behaviour and to always ensure that any animal is not placed in a stressful situation whilst being photographed.
Craig’s final comments were to request records to be kept of sightings of wildlife in order to monitor populations of animals and birds. Photographers can provide valuable data on the distribution and population status, and he suggested that the following apps may be used to provide such data:
iNaturalist
iRecord
Very many thanks to Craig for a wonderful presentation which rounded off our season on a real high.
Andy Louch
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9th April 2026
Pete Robinson, Eye of The Tyne Photography 'Harvest From The Deep' |
We have had some absolutely brilliant speakers this season and last night’s presentation by local photographer; Pete Robinson was up there with the very best.
Pete has visited the Society on a couple of previous occasions and indeed, judged our Annual Print Competition last year and so a packed house knew that we were in for a very entertaining evening!
Some 11 years ago, Pete, a local professional photographer, realised that the pace of change in his local area was increasing, and in particular, one of the ‘mainstay’ industries; commercial fishing, was becoming far less important to the local economy. Noting that the motto of the former Borough of Tynemouth is; “Messis ab Altis” which translates from Latin to; "Our harvest is from the deep" and that the Borough crest depicts a miner, a sailor and a ship highlighting the importance of seafaring to the region it seemed very important to Pete to record the various activities around the local fishing industry.
Hence, he decided to undertake a photography project to record some of the people and activities which make North Shields Fish Quay what it is and this led to a large collection of images some of which he presented to the Society.
Pete referenced an earlier project by Midlands born photographer, Nick Hedges, who, in 1979 was commissioned by the Side Gallery, Newcastle upon Tyne to make a documentary study of the fishing industry based around North Shields Fish Quay. It is very interesting to compare and contrast Pete and Nick’s photographs which were taken over 30 years apart.
Pete’s superb images were enlivened with numerous brilliant and humorous anecdotes about the various fishermen he worked with, and the photographs really captured the tough and dangerous environments these men work in. Working on such a long-term project, Pete was able to really understand how the industry works noting that the local industry is now 100% based around catching and preparing shellfish, particularly prawns, and that any other fish caught are effectively a ‘bycatch’ of the process. He has ensured that got to know the subjects in his photographs and, following his work being displayed at an exhibition at the Lowlights Centre, he has, as far as possible, presented the photographs to the subjects in them to the widespread delight of the fishermen.
His tales described sailing on various fishing boats, sailing before dawn in all weathers and seasons and his images captured the harsh and tough conditions on the boats as the fishermen worked in the very demanding conditions, mostly soaking wet and freezing as they struggled with the gear to get the catch inboard and processed ready for landing. He noted that both himself and his photography gear took quite a pounding when he sailed on the boats and that cameras, lenses and himself were liberally covered in fish scales and entrails at the end of a day’s photography, much to the horror of his family!
He also photographed what happened when the catches were landed back at the Fish Quay, how the market works and where the fish are processed noting that the vast majority of prawns landed are exported to France and Spain since the UK palette does not seem to favour the shellfish landed!
Pete has produced a book of his work; ‘Harvest from the Deep’ which was launched to coincide with the 800th anniversary year of the founding of a fishing community at North Shields. The profits from this work are being donated to the local Fishermen’s Mission; highly recommended!
There were so many outstanding images it was impossible to pick a favourite and a look at Pete’s website; https://www.eyeofthetynephotography.co.uk/harvest-from-the-deep is highly encouraged noting that he has photographed what is fast becoming a disappearing way of life.
In his vote of thanks, Alan Forster summed up Pete’s work perfectly noting that he is a wonderful photographer of people and his images allow the humanity of his subjects to show through beautifully.
Another superb presentation which was thoroughly enjoyed by member’s present.
Andy Louch
10 April 2026
Pete has visited the Society on a couple of previous occasions and indeed, judged our Annual Print Competition last year and so a packed house knew that we were in for a very entertaining evening!
Some 11 years ago, Pete, a local professional photographer, realised that the pace of change in his local area was increasing, and in particular, one of the ‘mainstay’ industries; commercial fishing, was becoming far less important to the local economy. Noting that the motto of the former Borough of Tynemouth is; “Messis ab Altis” which translates from Latin to; "Our harvest is from the deep" and that the Borough crest depicts a miner, a sailor and a ship highlighting the importance of seafaring to the region it seemed very important to Pete to record the various activities around the local fishing industry.
Hence, he decided to undertake a photography project to record some of the people and activities which make North Shields Fish Quay what it is and this led to a large collection of images some of which he presented to the Society.
Pete referenced an earlier project by Midlands born photographer, Nick Hedges, who, in 1979 was commissioned by the Side Gallery, Newcastle upon Tyne to make a documentary study of the fishing industry based around North Shields Fish Quay. It is very interesting to compare and contrast Pete and Nick’s photographs which were taken over 30 years apart.
Pete’s superb images were enlivened with numerous brilliant and humorous anecdotes about the various fishermen he worked with, and the photographs really captured the tough and dangerous environments these men work in. Working on such a long-term project, Pete was able to really understand how the industry works noting that the local industry is now 100% based around catching and preparing shellfish, particularly prawns, and that any other fish caught are effectively a ‘bycatch’ of the process. He has ensured that got to know the subjects in his photographs and, following his work being displayed at an exhibition at the Lowlights Centre, he has, as far as possible, presented the photographs to the subjects in them to the widespread delight of the fishermen.
His tales described sailing on various fishing boats, sailing before dawn in all weathers and seasons and his images captured the harsh and tough conditions on the boats as the fishermen worked in the very demanding conditions, mostly soaking wet and freezing as they struggled with the gear to get the catch inboard and processed ready for landing. He noted that both himself and his photography gear took quite a pounding when he sailed on the boats and that cameras, lenses and himself were liberally covered in fish scales and entrails at the end of a day’s photography, much to the horror of his family!
He also photographed what happened when the catches were landed back at the Fish Quay, how the market works and where the fish are processed noting that the vast majority of prawns landed are exported to France and Spain since the UK palette does not seem to favour the shellfish landed!
Pete has produced a book of his work; ‘Harvest from the Deep’ which was launched to coincide with the 800th anniversary year of the founding of a fishing community at North Shields. The profits from this work are being donated to the local Fishermen’s Mission; highly recommended!
There were so many outstanding images it was impossible to pick a favourite and a look at Pete’s website; https://www.eyeofthetynephotography.co.uk/harvest-from-the-deep is highly encouraged noting that he has photographed what is fast becoming a disappearing way of life.
In his vote of thanks, Alan Forster summed up Pete’s work perfectly noting that he is a wonderful photographer of people and his images allow the humanity of his subjects to show through beautifully.
Another superb presentation which was thoroughly enjoyed by member’s present.
Andy Louch
10 April 2026
19th March 2026
‘Our Own’ Margaret Warren: “Something a bit Different!”
After a break of a couple of weeks for print and PDI competitions last night we were royally entertained by long-standing Society member Margaret Warren. Margaret demonstrated a superb talent for photography across a wide range of genres and kept a large audience of members entranced with an ‘eclectic’ collection of her images taken over the past 20+ years.
Margaret is well known for documenting her wide-ranging travels and started her presentation with images from a couple of trips to India. She showed her audience a wide range of landscapes and portraits of ‘life’ in the sub-continent noting that her preference was to visit and photograph locations away from the ‘honey-pot’ sites such as the Taj Mahal and showed a stunning collection of images depicting rural life on river islands in the north west of the country. Margaret explained that it appeared that the women of the communities who seemed to undertake the majority of the work and that the people she photographed were unstintingly friendly and keen to show the tourists how they managed their lives.
She presented a few images which depicted the massive gulf between the ‘haves’
and ‘have nots’ in Indian society which certainly were thought provoking to her
audience. The images presented also showed the difference between the hectic
lives of Indians who live in the huge cities and the rural areas of India, with Margaret
keen to stress her preference for the latter!
Our second stop on this photographic journey was Bhutan where Margarets superb
images highlighted rural life and how important the monasteries and temples are in
the country. Margaret not only demonstrated a very keen eye for a photograph but
also entertained the audience with anecdotes of her adventures whilst searching for
images and also her wide knowledge of the countries visited.
After a series of ‘land-based’ expeditions we moved offshore as Margaret presented
a series of wonderful images taken on a cruise to Svalbard in the high arctic. She
noted that her ability to attempt to wildlife of the region was somewhat hampered.
when she damaged her telephoto lens! However, the superb photographs of the huge
Walruses and arctic flora more than made up for this. Margaret was also keen to note
that the social life on board the smaller ships was excellent and noted that she far
prefers smaller ships with much fewer passengers than the giant cruise vessel with
many thousands of passengers embarked.
To complete the ‘travel’ images of this part of Margarets presentation, we visited
Jordan and saw some outstanding photographs of Petra and the inhabitants of the
country.
Margaret then presented a series of wonderful seascapes and landscapes around the UK and Ireland before moving on to describe what can only be considered as an epic adventure in the Southern Hemisphere!
In March 2020 she travelled to Argentina and after a day getting lost in Buenos Aries with its notorious security threats, she joined another small cruise ship for a trip around the southern coast of South America. She presented numerous stunning images of the wildlife and landscapes of the region. The cruise was due to end in Ushuaia, Argentina, just as the word shut down due to the COVID pandemic. This meant that the ship was not permitted to enter any Argentinian port to disembark her passengers and after a few days delay the ship steamed to the Falkland Islands to seek a way of repatriating everyone back to the UK. The vessel was not allowed into Port Stanley until the statutory period of quarantine had been completed (10 days!) and then a special flight was arranged by the ship’s owners (apparently they knew a pilot who had suitable aircraft to charter!) to carry everyone back to Gatwick. Quite the adventure!
As the world locked down, Margaret explained that she tried to shoot frozen flowers and illustrated this genre with a number of exquisite photographs. She expressed her tanks to Society stalwart Arthur Smith for his help and guidance when shotting this subject.
Margaret demonstrated our ability to explore the outdoor world again with a wonderful selection of images of people, especially street portraits. She noted that she really enjoys taking photographs of people and she was able to show us this skill with a wide and varied selection of super photographs taken of folk in various settings.
Margaret then returned to her travels with a series of images on the remarkable scenery in Namibia. She showed us a number of photographs of the iconic skeletal trees set is the red sand of the Namibian desert followed by a set of images of the sand reclaiming a former diamond mining town a shipwreck on the Skeleton Coast and a few of the wildlife which, Margaret explained is more accessible in Namibia than at reserves in other African states; a fabulous selection of images and I’m sure that I wasn’t the only member present who now wants to visit these locations!
Margaret rounded off a superb presentation with a number of images which she titled ‘Urban’. Another eclectic mix of wonderful images taken in more ‘gritty’ locations of buildings, textures, patterns and abstract photographs of rust all beautifully taken and presented.
The Society has been blessed with some exceptional presentations this season and Margarets work and descriptions of how she took such compelling images and their backstory is up there with the very best.
Thank you, Margaret.
Andy Louch
20 March 2026
‘Our Own’ Margaret Warren: “Something a bit Different!”
After a break of a couple of weeks for print and PDI competitions last night we were royally entertained by long-standing Society member Margaret Warren. Margaret demonstrated a superb talent for photography across a wide range of genres and kept a large audience of members entranced with an ‘eclectic’ collection of her images taken over the past 20+ years.
Margaret is well known for documenting her wide-ranging travels and started her presentation with images from a couple of trips to India. She showed her audience a wide range of landscapes and portraits of ‘life’ in the sub-continent noting that her preference was to visit and photograph locations away from the ‘honey-pot’ sites such as the Taj Mahal and showed a stunning collection of images depicting rural life on river islands in the north west of the country. Margaret explained that it appeared that the women of the communities who seemed to undertake the majority of the work and that the people she photographed were unstintingly friendly and keen to show the tourists how they managed their lives.
She presented a few images which depicted the massive gulf between the ‘haves’
and ‘have nots’ in Indian society which certainly were thought provoking to her
audience. The images presented also showed the difference between the hectic
lives of Indians who live in the huge cities and the rural areas of India, with Margaret
keen to stress her preference for the latter!
Our second stop on this photographic journey was Bhutan where Margarets superb
images highlighted rural life and how important the monasteries and temples are in
the country. Margaret not only demonstrated a very keen eye for a photograph but
also entertained the audience with anecdotes of her adventures whilst searching for
images and also her wide knowledge of the countries visited.
After a series of ‘land-based’ expeditions we moved offshore as Margaret presented
a series of wonderful images taken on a cruise to Svalbard in the high arctic. She
noted that her ability to attempt to wildlife of the region was somewhat hampered.
when she damaged her telephoto lens! However, the superb photographs of the huge
Walruses and arctic flora more than made up for this. Margaret was also keen to note
that the social life on board the smaller ships was excellent and noted that she far
prefers smaller ships with much fewer passengers than the giant cruise vessel with
many thousands of passengers embarked.
To complete the ‘travel’ images of this part of Margarets presentation, we visited
Jordan and saw some outstanding photographs of Petra and the inhabitants of the
country.
Margaret then presented a series of wonderful seascapes and landscapes around the UK and Ireland before moving on to describe what can only be considered as an epic adventure in the Southern Hemisphere!
In March 2020 she travelled to Argentina and after a day getting lost in Buenos Aries with its notorious security threats, she joined another small cruise ship for a trip around the southern coast of South America. She presented numerous stunning images of the wildlife and landscapes of the region. The cruise was due to end in Ushuaia, Argentina, just as the word shut down due to the COVID pandemic. This meant that the ship was not permitted to enter any Argentinian port to disembark her passengers and after a few days delay the ship steamed to the Falkland Islands to seek a way of repatriating everyone back to the UK. The vessel was not allowed into Port Stanley until the statutory period of quarantine had been completed (10 days!) and then a special flight was arranged by the ship’s owners (apparently they knew a pilot who had suitable aircraft to charter!) to carry everyone back to Gatwick. Quite the adventure!
As the world locked down, Margaret explained that she tried to shoot frozen flowers and illustrated this genre with a number of exquisite photographs. She expressed her tanks to Society stalwart Arthur Smith for his help and guidance when shotting this subject.
Margaret demonstrated our ability to explore the outdoor world again with a wonderful selection of images of people, especially street portraits. She noted that she really enjoys taking photographs of people and she was able to show us this skill with a wide and varied selection of super photographs taken of folk in various settings.
Margaret then returned to her travels with a series of images on the remarkable scenery in Namibia. She showed us a number of photographs of the iconic skeletal trees set is the red sand of the Namibian desert followed by a set of images of the sand reclaiming a former diamond mining town a shipwreck on the Skeleton Coast and a few of the wildlife which, Margaret explained is more accessible in Namibia than at reserves in other African states; a fabulous selection of images and I’m sure that I wasn’t the only member present who now wants to visit these locations!
Margaret rounded off a superb presentation with a number of images which she titled ‘Urban’. Another eclectic mix of wonderful images taken in more ‘gritty’ locations of buildings, textures, patterns and abstract photographs of rust all beautifully taken and presented.
The Society has been blessed with some exceptional presentations this season and Margarets work and descriptions of how she took such compelling images and their backstory is up there with the very best.
Thank you, Margaret.
Andy Louch
20 March 2026
19th February 2026
Michael Watson, Durham PS: “My Best Wildlife 2010 - 2021”
After last weeks ‘long-range’ Zoom presentation from the USA tonight’s speaker had made the long journey up the A19 from Durham to show us a small portfolio of his wildlife images and wow, was the audience of 30 plus members entertained with some stunning wildlife photography!
Michael introduced himself and noted that he is relatively new to presenting his images having only started talking to audiences 3 years ago; he must be doing something right as he has been asked to do 23 talks this year, and given the quality of his work and his interesting presentation style it was easy to see why he is so popular.
Mick began his presentation with a few stunning motorsport images noting that his photography journey had begun with taking images of racing bikes in action. He noted that once he decided that he could not develop his skill set in this type of photography any further, and that the skills and indeed equipment required capturing fast paced racing images would transition nicely across to attempt taking wildlife photographs which have impact.
Mick advised that he is primarily a Canon ‘shooter’ and that he uses long and fast lenses to get up close to his subjects.
Whilst travelling, Michael noted that he also developed a keen interest in taking landscape photographs and illustrated this with some superb images taken both home and abroad. He was keen to advise that ‘local’ landscape images seem to be more appreciated when shown away from the local area; for example, his photographs of the Northumberland coast fare far better if entered into competitions in, for example, the USA, than they do locally and vice-versa.
In order to develop his wildlife photography skills, Michael told us that he had started off by taking photographs of animals and birds from purpose-built hides. Such hides provide excellent locations to get as close to wildlife as possible and, although a photographer remains at the mercy of the behaviour of the subject, will usually provide good opportunities for photography. However, the latter is by no means a given since the photographer needs to remain alert to these opportunities, have the camera ready at the optimum settings, seek out where the best light angles are and ensure any background does not have any distractions which will have an impact on the final image.
Mick illustrated his expertise in capturing stunning images with numerous photographs of birds and mammals from the UK and Europe. How he managed to take some of his images were described with great humour and were not without jeopardy such as his photographs of Brown Bears and a Grey Wolf! To get such stunning images of top predators not only takes exceptional skill but an in-depth knowledge of the behaviour of the animals so that suitable precautions can be taken to remain safe. At times, his anecdotes were rather scary; an example being an amazing image of a fully grown male Bear in the Finnish snow which noted, came perilously close to the flimsy wooden hide he was occupying and when he noted that he was only separated by 2 flimsy door bolts from this 500Kg apex predator also describing he was alone without and mobile signal….! The audience had mixed views as to whether the superb photographs taken were worth the risk!
After travelling widely utilising specialist wildlife photography travel companies, Mick noted that he now felt confident to travel alone and find his own locations to photograph both in the UK and overseas. In the UK, he has visited numerous locations and now has an in depth knowledge of where good images might be possible assuming the animals ‘play ball’ (never a given!) and he had built up a wide network of local guides and using his own experience of locations particularly in Scandinavia, now has an in depth knowledge of places from where it might be possible to photograph the wildlife. However, the skills required to get a shot and the privations which must be endured such as the cold, wet and lack of any amenities for hours at a time would send most hobby photographers (yours truly included!) away looking for a cup of coffee and a ‘comfort break’ long before any decent images were taken!
Michaels final set of images were a superb portfolio of seal photographs taken around the UK coast. He advised that after photographing a wide range of wildlife subjects he was now keen to concentrate on a single species. He has developed an in-depth knowledge of Grey and Common Seal behaviour and life cycle and illustrated his descriptions with more outstanding images of these aquatic mammals around the UK coast. His photographs ranged from portraits of what can only be described as cuddly and cute newly born seal pups in their dense, soft silky white fur to huge 2.5m, 300Kg ‘Beachmaster’ males which need to be given a ‘wide berth especially when they are near females.
Mick was very keen to describe the impact of interference from humans whether when fishing activities lead to seals becoming trapped by nets or other fishing gear or if ‘chased’ by people who want to get a close-up image of a cute seal pup. Both this and other interference may lead to a seal dying or, in the case of a young pup, being abandoned by its mother.
The impact of human activity was superbly illustrated by Mikes image; "A distressing matter", a hugely poignant photograph of a seal wrapped up in discarded rope which was chosen from over 50,000 worldwide entries in the 2020/21 Wildlife Photographer of The Year Awards at The Natural History Museum. The image was printed in the 2021 Yearbook, and it should be noted that this is a very prestigious global award for the ‘best of the best’.
Another superb presentation showing wildlife photography which would stand equally with some of the best of the mainstream media on TV and shows what can be achieved with dedication, knowledge and perseverance.
Michael’s website can be found at: https://www.mickwatsonphotography.com/
Andy Louch
20 February 2026
Michael Watson, Durham PS: “My Best Wildlife 2010 - 2021”
After last weeks ‘long-range’ Zoom presentation from the USA tonight’s speaker had made the long journey up the A19 from Durham to show us a small portfolio of his wildlife images and wow, was the audience of 30 plus members entertained with some stunning wildlife photography!
Michael introduced himself and noted that he is relatively new to presenting his images having only started talking to audiences 3 years ago; he must be doing something right as he has been asked to do 23 talks this year, and given the quality of his work and his interesting presentation style it was easy to see why he is so popular.
Mick began his presentation with a few stunning motorsport images noting that his photography journey had begun with taking images of racing bikes in action. He noted that once he decided that he could not develop his skill set in this type of photography any further, and that the skills and indeed equipment required capturing fast paced racing images would transition nicely across to attempt taking wildlife photographs which have impact.
Mick advised that he is primarily a Canon ‘shooter’ and that he uses long and fast lenses to get up close to his subjects.
Whilst travelling, Michael noted that he also developed a keen interest in taking landscape photographs and illustrated this with some superb images taken both home and abroad. He was keen to advise that ‘local’ landscape images seem to be more appreciated when shown away from the local area; for example, his photographs of the Northumberland coast fare far better if entered into competitions in, for example, the USA, than they do locally and vice-versa.
In order to develop his wildlife photography skills, Michael told us that he had started off by taking photographs of animals and birds from purpose-built hides. Such hides provide excellent locations to get as close to wildlife as possible and, although a photographer remains at the mercy of the behaviour of the subject, will usually provide good opportunities for photography. However, the latter is by no means a given since the photographer needs to remain alert to these opportunities, have the camera ready at the optimum settings, seek out where the best light angles are and ensure any background does not have any distractions which will have an impact on the final image.
Mick illustrated his expertise in capturing stunning images with numerous photographs of birds and mammals from the UK and Europe. How he managed to take some of his images were described with great humour and were not without jeopardy such as his photographs of Brown Bears and a Grey Wolf! To get such stunning images of top predators not only takes exceptional skill but an in-depth knowledge of the behaviour of the animals so that suitable precautions can be taken to remain safe. At times, his anecdotes were rather scary; an example being an amazing image of a fully grown male Bear in the Finnish snow which noted, came perilously close to the flimsy wooden hide he was occupying and when he noted that he was only separated by 2 flimsy door bolts from this 500Kg apex predator also describing he was alone without and mobile signal….! The audience had mixed views as to whether the superb photographs taken were worth the risk!
After travelling widely utilising specialist wildlife photography travel companies, Mick noted that he now felt confident to travel alone and find his own locations to photograph both in the UK and overseas. In the UK, he has visited numerous locations and now has an in depth knowledge of where good images might be possible assuming the animals ‘play ball’ (never a given!) and he had built up a wide network of local guides and using his own experience of locations particularly in Scandinavia, now has an in depth knowledge of places from where it might be possible to photograph the wildlife. However, the skills required to get a shot and the privations which must be endured such as the cold, wet and lack of any amenities for hours at a time would send most hobby photographers (yours truly included!) away looking for a cup of coffee and a ‘comfort break’ long before any decent images were taken!
Michaels final set of images were a superb portfolio of seal photographs taken around the UK coast. He advised that after photographing a wide range of wildlife subjects he was now keen to concentrate on a single species. He has developed an in-depth knowledge of Grey and Common Seal behaviour and life cycle and illustrated his descriptions with more outstanding images of these aquatic mammals around the UK coast. His photographs ranged from portraits of what can only be described as cuddly and cute newly born seal pups in their dense, soft silky white fur to huge 2.5m, 300Kg ‘Beachmaster’ males which need to be given a ‘wide berth especially when they are near females.
Mick was very keen to describe the impact of interference from humans whether when fishing activities lead to seals becoming trapped by nets or other fishing gear or if ‘chased’ by people who want to get a close-up image of a cute seal pup. Both this and other interference may lead to a seal dying or, in the case of a young pup, being abandoned by its mother.
The impact of human activity was superbly illustrated by Mikes image; "A distressing matter", a hugely poignant photograph of a seal wrapped up in discarded rope which was chosen from over 50,000 worldwide entries in the 2020/21 Wildlife Photographer of The Year Awards at The Natural History Museum. The image was printed in the 2021 Yearbook, and it should be noted that this is a very prestigious global award for the ‘best of the best’.
Another superb presentation showing wildlife photography which would stand equally with some of the best of the mainstream media on TV and shows what can be achieved with dedication, knowledge and perseverance.
Michael’s website can be found at: https://www.mickwatsonphotography.com/
Andy Louch
20 February 2026
12th February 2026
Stephanie Johnson: “The Abstract World of ICM, Multiple and Creative Exposure” – ; “My Journey to a more Creative Approach to Photography through ICM”
Tonight’s speaker was Stephanie Johnson of Iowa; USA and we were joined by several members of Whitley Bay Camera Club for a superb Zoom presentation by Stephanie.
Stephanie started by describing her photographic journey shooting mainly ‘traditional’ landscapes began nearly 30 years ago when she started travelling with her camera visiting a large number of well-known locations across the world capturing high quality images similar to those we see on various social image platforms and in what might be seen as ‘traditional’ publications. However, after some time working in this way, she felt that this type of photography did not fulfil her creative desire, especially when she returned to Iowa in the US Midwest, which, she noted; is not blessed with inspirational locations such as those which may be found on the West Coast of Ireland, Iceland, the Scottish Highlands, etc.
After discovering ICM which she described as being a rather ‘fringe’ technique at that time, she found that the use of intentional camera movement re-kindled her creative desires even when photographing the more mundane natural and urban locations. She noted that some 80% of her images since 2017 are taken within a 30 mile radius of her Iowa home although she does still travel widely to present workshops, deliver presentations and take her own photographs. Since using ICM she has amassed a catalogue of over 300,000 images and noted that she frequently will take 100’s of images and then decide which she likes best.
Stephanie used a short video and used her camera on screen to show some of her techniques and provided a large selection of images to illustrate the results from the techniques demonstrated and she was keen to stress that ICM is a creative process and form of artistic expression rather than simply a technique. She noted that using ICM should encourage photographers to ‘let go’ of pre-conceived ideas and that there is no right or wrong way of producing images in this manner. A number of the audience were intrigued to see that some of her images were produced using large and exaggerated movements which produced spectacular ‘swoops’ and ‘swirls’ on the final images.
She noted that she always shoots ‘hand-held’ rather than use a tripod and when shooting suggests that the following ideas should be considered:
Stephanie moved on to discuss her other passion which is taking images using multiple exposures. She noted that this technique is a bit more complex than producing ICM images and she had started with producing multiple exposures ‘in camera’ although has moved on to using post processing to produce more complex photographs. She noted that not all camera manufacturers use the same systems to produce this type of image and if a photographer is keen to try this, it is worth studying manufacturers instructions and social media tutorials for each specific make of hardware to determine how multiple-exposures can be created.
Stephanie explained in detail the various ‘blending modes’; for Canon these are; average, bright and dark mode and she provided wonderful images which demonstrated what is possible using each of the modes.
As with ICM, she takes a vast amount of images using multiple-exposure and stressed that the ones that don’t work out should not be considered as a failure, more a step towards producing a picture which the photographer likes.
She explained that one technique which can be really effective is to set up the number of exposures to the number desired, place a small subject such as a flower on intersecting gridlines on the viewfinder noting that the key is to keep the centre of the flower in the same location on all images. Then take the first image, keep the centre of the flower in the same location and turn the camera to the left or right and take a second exposure repeating depending upon how many images are to be blended.
It should be noted that after your first exposure is taken, if no operations are performed within the next 30 seconds, the camera will automatically end the multiple exposure mode. The images shown by Stephanie using this technique were wonderful!
Stephanie then demonstrated how multiple-exposures can be taken using mobile ‘phones noting that the apps used by Android and iPhones differs and it is worth doing some research to determine how these images can be taken on your own device. She noted that, unlike traditional cameras, mobiles simulate taking long exposures by using ‘rapid fire’ rather than leaving the shutter ‘open’.
Again, her examples using ‘phones were spectacularly eye-catching!
Before summing up, Stephanie showed a number of spectacular ICM and multiple-exposure images which she has produced using post-processing software such as Lightroom and Photoshop. Photoshop software in particular can be used for layering and blending to produce creative images and again, there are numerous examples and techniques available to see how really interesting images and that it is worth having a go to see what can be created.
Stephanie summarised ICM and multiple-exposure photography as follows:
I think it is say to say that all viewers were enthralled by Stephanie's presentation and she provided wide-ranging ideas and examples for us to have a go at these techniques.
Huge thanks are due to Howard Wilson for inviting Stephanie and Alan Forster for facilitating the Zoom technology.
Stephanie's website can be found at: https://stephjohnphoto.com
Andy Louch
13 February 2026
Stephanie Johnson: “The Abstract World of ICM, Multiple and Creative Exposure” – ; “My Journey to a more Creative Approach to Photography through ICM”
Tonight’s speaker was Stephanie Johnson of Iowa; USA and we were joined by several members of Whitley Bay Camera Club for a superb Zoom presentation by Stephanie.
Stephanie started by describing her photographic journey shooting mainly ‘traditional’ landscapes began nearly 30 years ago when she started travelling with her camera visiting a large number of well-known locations across the world capturing high quality images similar to those we see on various social image platforms and in what might be seen as ‘traditional’ publications. However, after some time working in this way, she felt that this type of photography did not fulfil her creative desire, especially when she returned to Iowa in the US Midwest, which, she noted; is not blessed with inspirational locations such as those which may be found on the West Coast of Ireland, Iceland, the Scottish Highlands, etc.
After discovering ICM which she described as being a rather ‘fringe’ technique at that time, she found that the use of intentional camera movement re-kindled her creative desires even when photographing the more mundane natural and urban locations. She noted that some 80% of her images since 2017 are taken within a 30 mile radius of her Iowa home although she does still travel widely to present workshops, deliver presentations and take her own photographs. Since using ICM she has amassed a catalogue of over 300,000 images and noted that she frequently will take 100’s of images and then decide which she likes best.
Stephanie used a short video and used her camera on screen to show some of her techniques and provided a large selection of images to illustrate the results from the techniques demonstrated and she was keen to stress that ICM is a creative process and form of artistic expression rather than simply a technique. She noted that using ICM should encourage photographers to ‘let go’ of pre-conceived ideas and that there is no right or wrong way of producing images in this manner. A number of the audience were intrigued to see that some of her images were produced using large and exaggerated movements which produced spectacular ‘swoops’ and ‘swirls’ on the final images.
She noted that she always shoots ‘hand-held’ rather than use a tripod and when shooting suggests that the following ideas should be considered:
- Control of shutter speed is more important than aperture
- Experiment with different focal lengths; different results can be had of the same subject when focal length is varied
- Experiment with different degrees and types of movement; examples being; horizontal panning, vertical tilting, circular movement, diagonal movement, zoom burst, shaking
- Don’t wait for perfect conditions
- Always remember that there is not right or wrong way to take images!
Stephanie moved on to discuss her other passion which is taking images using multiple exposures. She noted that this technique is a bit more complex than producing ICM images and she had started with producing multiple exposures ‘in camera’ although has moved on to using post processing to produce more complex photographs. She noted that not all camera manufacturers use the same systems to produce this type of image and if a photographer is keen to try this, it is worth studying manufacturers instructions and social media tutorials for each specific make of hardware to determine how multiple-exposures can be created.
Stephanie explained in detail the various ‘blending modes’; for Canon these are; average, bright and dark mode and she provided wonderful images which demonstrated what is possible using each of the modes.
As with ICM, she takes a vast amount of images using multiple-exposure and stressed that the ones that don’t work out should not be considered as a failure, more a step towards producing a picture which the photographer likes.
She explained that one technique which can be really effective is to set up the number of exposures to the number desired, place a small subject such as a flower on intersecting gridlines on the viewfinder noting that the key is to keep the centre of the flower in the same location on all images. Then take the first image, keep the centre of the flower in the same location and turn the camera to the left or right and take a second exposure repeating depending upon how many images are to be blended.
It should be noted that after your first exposure is taken, if no operations are performed within the next 30 seconds, the camera will automatically end the multiple exposure mode. The images shown by Stephanie using this technique were wonderful!
Stephanie then demonstrated how multiple-exposures can be taken using mobile ‘phones noting that the apps used by Android and iPhones differs and it is worth doing some research to determine how these images can be taken on your own device. She noted that, unlike traditional cameras, mobiles simulate taking long exposures by using ‘rapid fire’ rather than leaving the shutter ‘open’.
Again, her examples using ‘phones were spectacularly eye-catching!
Before summing up, Stephanie showed a number of spectacular ICM and multiple-exposure images which she has produced using post-processing software such as Lightroom and Photoshop. Photoshop software in particular can be used for layering and blending to produce creative images and again, there are numerous examples and techniques available to see how really interesting images and that it is worth having a go to see what can be created.
Stephanie summarised ICM and multiple-exposure photography as follows:
- Don’t worry about photography rules
- There is no right or wrong way to shoot ICM and multiple-exposures
- Have fun!
- Be open to creating extraordinary scenes from ordinary locations
- ICM and multiple-exposures can be created at any time of day in any light
- Be curious!
I think it is say to say that all viewers were enthralled by Stephanie's presentation and she provided wide-ranging ideas and examples for us to have a go at these techniques.
Huge thanks are due to Howard Wilson for inviting Stephanie and Alan Forster for facilitating the Zoom technology.
Stephanie's website can be found at: https://stephjohnphoto.com
Andy Louch
13 February 2026
20th November 2025
Stuart Patterson: North-East Seascapes
Due to the ill health we had a change of speaker last night and welcomed local photographer; Stu Patterson who lives in Cullercoats. What a superb evening it was with Stu presenting some absolutely stunning images of the North East Coast ranging from the Tees to the Tweed plus some ‘bonus’ images taken further afield.
Stu introduced himself noting that although he enjoyed and was good at art from a young age, he only became really interested in photography about 20 years ago taking photographs of his then young family as they grew up. Even then, he was always keen to try to take more than simple ‘snaps’ looking for interesting backgrounds for any images and then developing a love for seascapes particularly of the local coastal areas.
Stu told us that he has a very ‘basic’ set up comprising a Canon body, a Sigma wide angled zoom (10-20mm) and a set of filters which he uses to take his characteristic long exposure seascapes as he especially enjoys the ‘atmospheric’ milky textures of water movement when taking this type of image. His favourite time of day for photography is early morning, pre-dawn and ‘blue-hour’ with occasional expeditions out to photograph sunsets although being on the NE Coast early mornings before work are his usual mode of operation!
He took us on a comprehensive photographic ‘tour’ with images of locations familiar to Club members and others which were new to the audience showing what is possible along this coastline local to us proving that we live in a wonderful part of the world for photography.
Stuart explained that although he loves taking images of really colourful skies his favourite images are those which show a dramatic sky either just before or just after a storm; this was illustrated with numerous really impactful photographs with really foreboding skies and towering spectacular cloud formations. Again, his photos illustrated these conditions wonderfully well and using long exposures added a whole new dynamic to the images.
He noted that he does a minimal amount of post processing and relies on using filters to try to get the images he is seeking, especially a ‘hard’ gradient filter to darken the skies and then expose for the fore and middle ground. Again, this technique was ably demonstrated with some superb images.
Stu also uses ‘props’ on occasion and carries a few suitable items in his van using these to add more ‘interest’ to images which might otherwise be rather bland. He is also not averse to moving stones or branches to develop a more pleasing image especially when receding waves are the subject.
Stuart ended his presentation with a collection of ICM seascapes which he described as ‘wave panning’ which he noted is somewhat addictive! He described the process of focussing on the leading edge of a wave as it moves through the scene blurring the background; the results were stunning and I’m sure a number of members will try this out!
Finally, he showed a few landscape images from locations away from the North East, featuring the Lake District, North Wales, Iceland, Dubai and New York and noted that he would love to revisit these places when time allows
An exceptional evening enjoyed by us all and special thanks should be made to Howard Wilson who made the vote of thanks and secured Stuart to show us his art at short notice. Huge thanks to both Stuart and Howard.
Andy Louch
21 November 2025
Stuart Patterson: North-East Seascapes
Due to the ill health we had a change of speaker last night and welcomed local photographer; Stu Patterson who lives in Cullercoats. What a superb evening it was with Stu presenting some absolutely stunning images of the North East Coast ranging from the Tees to the Tweed plus some ‘bonus’ images taken further afield.
Stu introduced himself noting that although he enjoyed and was good at art from a young age, he only became really interested in photography about 20 years ago taking photographs of his then young family as they grew up. Even then, he was always keen to try to take more than simple ‘snaps’ looking for interesting backgrounds for any images and then developing a love for seascapes particularly of the local coastal areas.
Stu told us that he has a very ‘basic’ set up comprising a Canon body, a Sigma wide angled zoom (10-20mm) and a set of filters which he uses to take his characteristic long exposure seascapes as he especially enjoys the ‘atmospheric’ milky textures of water movement when taking this type of image. His favourite time of day for photography is early morning, pre-dawn and ‘blue-hour’ with occasional expeditions out to photograph sunsets although being on the NE Coast early mornings before work are his usual mode of operation!
He took us on a comprehensive photographic ‘tour’ with images of locations familiar to Club members and others which were new to the audience showing what is possible along this coastline local to us proving that we live in a wonderful part of the world for photography.
Stuart explained that although he loves taking images of really colourful skies his favourite images are those which show a dramatic sky either just before or just after a storm; this was illustrated with numerous really impactful photographs with really foreboding skies and towering spectacular cloud formations. Again, his photos illustrated these conditions wonderfully well and using long exposures added a whole new dynamic to the images.
He noted that he does a minimal amount of post processing and relies on using filters to try to get the images he is seeking, especially a ‘hard’ gradient filter to darken the skies and then expose for the fore and middle ground. Again, this technique was ably demonstrated with some superb images.
Stu also uses ‘props’ on occasion and carries a few suitable items in his van using these to add more ‘interest’ to images which might otherwise be rather bland. He is also not averse to moving stones or branches to develop a more pleasing image especially when receding waves are the subject.
Stuart ended his presentation with a collection of ICM seascapes which he described as ‘wave panning’ which he noted is somewhat addictive! He described the process of focussing on the leading edge of a wave as it moves through the scene blurring the background; the results were stunning and I’m sure a number of members will try this out!
Finally, he showed a few landscape images from locations away from the North East, featuring the Lake District, North Wales, Iceland, Dubai and New York and noted that he would love to revisit these places when time allows
An exceptional evening enjoyed by us all and special thanks should be made to Howard Wilson who made the vote of thanks and secured Stuart to show us his art at short notice. Huge thanks to both Stuart and Howard.
Andy Louch
21 November 2025
6th November 2025
David Brown DPAGB ARPS EFIAPb BPE2
A large audience of members and guests were treated to an excellent talk by David Brown of Gosforth CC on his ‘adventures’ during a project which involved walking the Northumberland Coastal path from Newcastle city centre to Berwick upon Tweed. David’s presentation was enlivened with some wonderful anecdotes of his adventures during the walk; for example, his introduction explained that the path is actually made up of 3 sections; Hadrian’s Wall Path, North Tyneside Coastal Path and the Northumberland Coastal Path. The starting point for the latter is actually a rather contentious issue since the path actually officially starts at Creswell much to the displeasure of the inhabitants of Newbiggin-by-the-Sea who feel that their town should be part of the Northumberland Coastal Path rather than be designated as a section of the North Tyneside Path!
His presentation was superbly illustrated not only with wonderful landscape images of the route take but also with some stunning images of local birds, particularly waders which formed part of a panel of photographs he submitted when applying for his ARPS accreditation; he noted his ambition to have more ‘letters’ after his name than letter actually in his name and as he now has; DPAGB, ARPS, EFIAP/b, BPE2* he is well on the way to achieving this goal!
David noted that his present kit whilst walking is made up of a relatively lightweight Nikon outfit with a 24-70mm zoom, however, he uses a ‘less portable’ 400mm plus tripod for wildlife photography which, at over 7Kg is not so portable for long distance walks!
David explained that for this ’project’ which he completed during the summer and autumn of 2019 he broke the walks into 10 ‘legs’ with the aim of using public transport as far as possible. Given that his pensioners bus pass is only valid from 0930 the further he went away from Gosforth, the later walk start times became and hence as the days got shorter he had to resort to using his car for the most northerly legs; indeed, a couple of the walks ended in darkness due to the onset of shorter days.
The terrain during the walks varied widely from the wind sandy expanses of tidal beach at locations such as Cresswell and Bamburgh, rocky clifftops at Dunstanburgh and Beadnell, muddy flats at Boulmer and inland detours at Fenwick as the coastal path disappears due to dangerous sinking sands across Goswick Sands. David noted that walking the coastal path requires good planning in order to maximise tidal conditions (walking on hard sandy beaches is much easier than struggling over sand dunes!), light and avoiding dog walkers who inadvertently cause any wading birds to take flight!
David detailed that the technique he uses to capture some of his stunning images of shorebirds involves waiting in a good location, remaining as motionless as possible for the tide to expose feeding areas and let the birds move towards his position until within photographic range. See above ref. dog walkers!
So, another really enjoyable talk taking in several locations well known by Club members with the added ‘twist’ of combining long distance walking with photography.
Thank you, David.
Andy Louch
7 November 2025
David Brown DPAGB ARPS EFIAPb BPE2
A large audience of members and guests were treated to an excellent talk by David Brown of Gosforth CC on his ‘adventures’ during a project which involved walking the Northumberland Coastal path from Newcastle city centre to Berwick upon Tweed. David’s presentation was enlivened with some wonderful anecdotes of his adventures during the walk; for example, his introduction explained that the path is actually made up of 3 sections; Hadrian’s Wall Path, North Tyneside Coastal Path and the Northumberland Coastal Path. The starting point for the latter is actually a rather contentious issue since the path actually officially starts at Creswell much to the displeasure of the inhabitants of Newbiggin-by-the-Sea who feel that their town should be part of the Northumberland Coastal Path rather than be designated as a section of the North Tyneside Path!
His presentation was superbly illustrated not only with wonderful landscape images of the route take but also with some stunning images of local birds, particularly waders which formed part of a panel of photographs he submitted when applying for his ARPS accreditation; he noted his ambition to have more ‘letters’ after his name than letter actually in his name and as he now has; DPAGB, ARPS, EFIAP/b, BPE2* he is well on the way to achieving this goal!
David noted that his present kit whilst walking is made up of a relatively lightweight Nikon outfit with a 24-70mm zoom, however, he uses a ‘less portable’ 400mm plus tripod for wildlife photography which, at over 7Kg is not so portable for long distance walks!
David explained that for this ’project’ which he completed during the summer and autumn of 2019 he broke the walks into 10 ‘legs’ with the aim of using public transport as far as possible. Given that his pensioners bus pass is only valid from 0930 the further he went away from Gosforth, the later walk start times became and hence as the days got shorter he had to resort to using his car for the most northerly legs; indeed, a couple of the walks ended in darkness due to the onset of shorter days.
The terrain during the walks varied widely from the wind sandy expanses of tidal beach at locations such as Cresswell and Bamburgh, rocky clifftops at Dunstanburgh and Beadnell, muddy flats at Boulmer and inland detours at Fenwick as the coastal path disappears due to dangerous sinking sands across Goswick Sands. David noted that walking the coastal path requires good planning in order to maximise tidal conditions (walking on hard sandy beaches is much easier than struggling over sand dunes!), light and avoiding dog walkers who inadvertently cause any wading birds to take flight!
David detailed that the technique he uses to capture some of his stunning images of shorebirds involves waiting in a good location, remaining as motionless as possible for the tide to expose feeding areas and let the birds move towards his position until within photographic range. See above ref. dog walkers!
So, another really enjoyable talk taking in several locations well known by Club members with the added ‘twist’ of combining long distance walking with photography.
Thank you, David.
Andy Louch
7 November 2025
23rd October 2025
Our own Joan Pearson and Brian Pearson ARPS, AFIAP, DPAGB, BPE1*, PSA.
An extra-special evening last night was enjoyed by an excellent turn out of Club members when we were entertained by long-standing members of Whitley Bay PS and now Tynemouth PS, Joan and Brian Pearson as they presented a wonderful collection of their prints taken over recent years.
Joan took to the floor first noting that she had started taking images in about 2008 using a small, basic digital camera after she decided that she might as well get involved in photography rather than hanging about whilst Brian was doing his thing!
The quality of Joan's mostly local photographs proved that high quality images can be produced using more affordable equipment and we saw over 30 prints, including locations in North Shields and Newcastle with occasional trips further afield such as Whitby and York and on holidays to Europe. Joan certainly has a wonderful eye for seeing images and is able to capture them to provide superb photographs, especially her portraits of Goths and Punks in Whitby which were really stunning and were enjoyed by everyone.
Brian then entertained us with a superbly eclectic set of prints of subjects ranging from superb portraits of local characters in Ireland, to triptychs of Household Cavalry soldiers, portraits and wonderful landscapes via stunning images of lightbulbs exploding after being shot with a .22 air rifle! (Joan noted that she had to tidy up the glass in the lounge after Brian had taken this fantastic set of images!).
Brian demonstrated his amazing creativity with a number of composite prints proving that he has brilliant printing and processing skills as well as a wonderful eye for a photograph. Some of Brian's prints were almost surreal and throughout his presentation there were a lot of gasps and ‘wow’s from the audience as he presented each image to us. It is little wonder that Brian has found success in being presented with numerous awards including one from the USA!
An exceptional evening enjoyed by us all and the vote of thanks led by Alan Forster were roundly echoed by the audience.
Andy Louch
24 October 2025
Our own Joan Pearson and Brian Pearson ARPS, AFIAP, DPAGB, BPE1*, PSA.
An extra-special evening last night was enjoyed by an excellent turn out of Club members when we were entertained by long-standing members of Whitley Bay PS and now Tynemouth PS, Joan and Brian Pearson as they presented a wonderful collection of their prints taken over recent years.
Joan took to the floor first noting that she had started taking images in about 2008 using a small, basic digital camera after she decided that she might as well get involved in photography rather than hanging about whilst Brian was doing his thing!
The quality of Joan's mostly local photographs proved that high quality images can be produced using more affordable equipment and we saw over 30 prints, including locations in North Shields and Newcastle with occasional trips further afield such as Whitby and York and on holidays to Europe. Joan certainly has a wonderful eye for seeing images and is able to capture them to provide superb photographs, especially her portraits of Goths and Punks in Whitby which were really stunning and were enjoyed by everyone.
Brian then entertained us with a superbly eclectic set of prints of subjects ranging from superb portraits of local characters in Ireland, to triptychs of Household Cavalry soldiers, portraits and wonderful landscapes via stunning images of lightbulbs exploding after being shot with a .22 air rifle! (Joan noted that she had to tidy up the glass in the lounge after Brian had taken this fantastic set of images!).
Brian demonstrated his amazing creativity with a number of composite prints proving that he has brilliant printing and processing skills as well as a wonderful eye for a photograph. Some of Brian's prints were almost surreal and throughout his presentation there were a lot of gasps and ‘wow’s from the audience as he presented each image to us. It is little wonder that Brian has found success in being presented with numerous awards including one from the USA!
An exceptional evening enjoyed by us all and the vote of thanks led by Alan Forster were roundly echoed by the audience.
Andy Louch
24 October 2025
9th October 2025 Pete Wilkinson, The Wynd Photographic
Our second visitor to the Society this season saw us royally entertained by Pete Wilkinson from Hexham. An excellent turnout of members and guests were thoroughly entertained by Pete who took us on a journey to his photography and gallery ownership via; acting, writing, filmmaking (Blind Crow Pictures), college lecturing, wedding photography and most recently gallery ownership and landscape
photography.
The talk was illustrated with some of Pete’s wonderfully atmospheric work which, he noted, had developed following a period of trying to capture images primarily for display on social media to score maximum ‘likes’ on the various platforms which has become rather a ‘rat-race’. The period of lockdowns during the pandemic forced him to slow down and shoot ‘local’ which he really enjoyed, taking pictures of areas within walking distance of his home in Hexham. He experimented with re-visiting the same locations multiple times across the various seasons and this approach resulted in a portfolio which HE enjoys and is pleased to display in his gallery.
He still does take photographic commissions to retain an income stream, but his passion is to take images which please him and if others like his work then it is a bonus; …”commerce versus contentment”…!
He noted that he either shoots; “very slow or very quick” and almost always use a tripod for his landscape work as he finds it really helpful to slow down and construct a composition. Of course, there are times when a much faster approach is needed, and both of these methods were illustrated with fabulous images. Pete noted that; ‘light is everything’ and he noted that he ‘sees’ the ‘quality’ of the light before he even considers taking an image. Again, this was illustrated with some superbly atmospheric images which led on to his views on a sense of belonging to a place or ‘heft’ as it may be referred to in Cumbria and rural Northumbria.
His final points noted that his photography is very personal to him and if others like his work or find a connection with it then that is very pleasing.
A really interesting talk illustrated with some very special images.
Thanks are due to Henry Tennant who visited Pete at his gallery in Hexham and made the initial contact for Pete’s visit to the Society.
Andy Louch
10 October 2025
Our second visitor to the Society this season saw us royally entertained by Pete Wilkinson from Hexham. An excellent turnout of members and guests were thoroughly entertained by Pete who took us on a journey to his photography and gallery ownership via; acting, writing, filmmaking (Blind Crow Pictures), college lecturing, wedding photography and most recently gallery ownership and landscape
photography.
The talk was illustrated with some of Pete’s wonderfully atmospheric work which, he noted, had developed following a period of trying to capture images primarily for display on social media to score maximum ‘likes’ on the various platforms which has become rather a ‘rat-race’. The period of lockdowns during the pandemic forced him to slow down and shoot ‘local’ which he really enjoyed, taking pictures of areas within walking distance of his home in Hexham. He experimented with re-visiting the same locations multiple times across the various seasons and this approach resulted in a portfolio which HE enjoys and is pleased to display in his gallery.
He still does take photographic commissions to retain an income stream, but his passion is to take images which please him and if others like his work then it is a bonus; …”commerce versus contentment”…!
He noted that he either shoots; “very slow or very quick” and almost always use a tripod for his landscape work as he finds it really helpful to slow down and construct a composition. Of course, there are times when a much faster approach is needed, and both of these methods were illustrated with fabulous images. Pete noted that; ‘light is everything’ and he noted that he ‘sees’ the ‘quality’ of the light before he even considers taking an image. Again, this was illustrated with some superbly atmospheric images which led on to his views on a sense of belonging to a place or ‘heft’ as it may be referred to in Cumbria and rural Northumbria.
His final points noted that his photography is very personal to him and if others like his work or find a connection with it then that is very pleasing.
A really interesting talk illustrated with some very special images.
Thanks are due to Henry Tennant who visited Pete at his gallery in Hexham and made the initial contact for Pete’s visit to the Society.
Andy Louch
10 October 2025
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25th September 2025 Presidential Evening by Linda McGregor with Adam Lang, Lang Shot Photography |
Last night at the Society we enjoyed the second evening of the new season and, for her Presidents Evening, Linda had invited Adam Lang, a photographer based in Gateshead.
An excellent turnout of members were treated to a really interesting talk illustrated with some wonderful images taken by Adam who introduced us to his distinctive style of photography capturing street and travel scenes which kept the audience entranced throughout.
Adam noted that he had only really got serious about image taking some 10 years ago when he obtained his first ‘serious camera which gave him the ability to shoot in conditions when most of us would stay inside! He took us on a journey from Newcastle city centre to Portugal and the Czech Republic taking stunning photographs of the street scene and in particular getting brilliant shots in fog, heavy rain and snow as well in more benign conditions proving that poor conditions do not need result in us staying indoors; indeed, as Adam stressed and demonstrated, heavy rain, snow and in particular fog can provide the most atmospheric of conditions for photography.
His street scenes after dark were some of his best images and his use of medium telephotos were especially stunning noting that most street scenes tend to be taken with 35mm or 50mm lenses.
His ability to capture the vibrant colours of buildings in Lisbon and Porto complemented by the iconic trams in these cities were especially noteworthy and he noted that he rarely uses a tripod instead relying on using the high ISO capabilities of modern equipment.
He noted that he is keen to create photography ‘projects’; a current idea is to capture images of barbers whilst on his travels. Food for thought there!
His final section saw us return to Newcastle with a number of spectacular images of the streets around the Tyne Bridge and Quayside and I’m sure there will be a number of members, myself included, who will be looking out for damp, misty evenings to head up to ‘The Toon’ this autumn!
Huge thanks to both Adam and Linda for a brilliant evening ending with a splendid buffet provided by our President over which we could enjoy and admire some of Adams prints and discuss our next ideas about where to point our cameras!
Andy Louch
26 September 2025
An excellent turnout of members were treated to a really interesting talk illustrated with some wonderful images taken by Adam who introduced us to his distinctive style of photography capturing street and travel scenes which kept the audience entranced throughout.
Adam noted that he had only really got serious about image taking some 10 years ago when he obtained his first ‘serious camera which gave him the ability to shoot in conditions when most of us would stay inside! He took us on a journey from Newcastle city centre to Portugal and the Czech Republic taking stunning photographs of the street scene and in particular getting brilliant shots in fog, heavy rain and snow as well in more benign conditions proving that poor conditions do not need result in us staying indoors; indeed, as Adam stressed and demonstrated, heavy rain, snow and in particular fog can provide the most atmospheric of conditions for photography.
His street scenes after dark were some of his best images and his use of medium telephotos were especially stunning noting that most street scenes tend to be taken with 35mm or 50mm lenses.
His ability to capture the vibrant colours of buildings in Lisbon and Porto complemented by the iconic trams in these cities were especially noteworthy and he noted that he rarely uses a tripod instead relying on using the high ISO capabilities of modern equipment.
He noted that he is keen to create photography ‘projects’; a current idea is to capture images of barbers whilst on his travels. Food for thought there!
His final section saw us return to Newcastle with a number of spectacular images of the streets around the Tyne Bridge and Quayside and I’m sure there will be a number of members, myself included, who will be looking out for damp, misty evenings to head up to ‘The Toon’ this autumn!
Huge thanks to both Adam and Linda for a brilliant evening ending with a splendid buffet provided by our President over which we could enjoy and admire some of Adams prints and discuss our next ideas about where to point our cameras!
Andy Louch
26 September 2025