17th November 2016

Exchange Visit with Ponteland Photographic Society,
 
This week we were treated to a variety of presentations by members of Ponteland Photographic Society. Led out by June Atkinson, who described the ethos of their club and also the role it played within the local community.
 
June then went on to her own presentation, which was a pictorial tour of her recent African Safari.  June flew to South Africa with "Enlightened Media", led by Trai Anfield.  First stop was the picturesque  Richards Bay for a spot of Whale watching, then onto the Zimanga Game Reserve for the rest of the tour. Staying in a 4 star hotel which turned out to be very appealing. Then over the course out next few days out to photograph Lions, Giraffes, a small herd of Elephants, and many local birds.  Later down into underground hides built next to reflective pools to photograph various animals and birds night and day.
 
Next up was Tony McCann, who took us on his own journey of development.  Tony's love of wild life and many birds, plants and the joy of visiting Rwanda to photograph Gorillas. Sporting images from both the commonwealth and Olympic Games.  A selection of street photography based around approaching people and asking them to pose for you. Some very interesting portraits. Some of Tony's more recent work consists of a variety of creative techniques using high shutter speeds to freeze water and the deconstruction of everyday foods such as a beef burger.
 
Last but by no means least came Peter Russell with a great selection of aircraft images most of which are taken with old lenses purchased on EBay, and shot with manual focus. Very difficult as you can imagine with the speed of the aircraft. Everything from the infamous Vulcan to the Royal Navy's Sopwith Camel bi-plane. Peter also talked about his collection of old camera's including an Agfa Solinette.  Peter's latest acquisition created a series of images you rarely see, because they are all from unusual angles and viewpoints. This is Peter's newest venture into the world of Drone photography. A selection of Northumberland views including many of Dunstanburgh Castle.

At the end of the presentation I thanked our guests on behalf of the club and the members showed their appreciation. We then gathered for informal talks and nibbles and coffee before dispersing into the cold night air.

Some of their images can be viewed here. (Ponteland Images) 
Colin Livingstone.
Secretary.
 
Received from June Atkinson today;-
 
"Peter, Tony and I would like to thank the club members for a warm welcome and kind hospitality.
We look forward to our next exchange when we can share your expertise and experiences."