Members had been invited to submit up to two images for scrutiny my Mike. However before Mike was given the images, they were screened by the ever impartial Dave Brennan who removed all data that would identify the photographer.
In all, seventeen images were given to Mike for his examination, contemplation and deliberation.
As he began his opening remarks, members waited in anticipation for Mike’s critique of their images.
Would he like their photographs or would they be an object of ridicule and scorn?
No one needed to worry and Mike had obviously taken a good deal of time to study each image minutely before passing his verdict.
Mike explained that his approach was to assess each image in the areas of exposure, focus, depth of field, lighting, composition, crop/framing, colour/tonal range, diagonals/S curves/lead in lines and finally his overall impression of the image.
He certainly had his work cut out as the range of subjects ranged from flora and fauna, still life, land and seascapes, portraits, architecture, local landmarks and a highly detailed image of the moon taken with the aid of a telescope.
Mike gave his views on each image in a structured manner, giving his own views where appropriate on how he may have approached the subject had he been the photographer.
All concerns that anyone may have harboured were soon dispelled as Mike gave an honest and well founded appraisal of the images demonstrating his own knowledge of the art of photography and his obvious skill in that field.
Following the usual format, after giving his own critique those present were invited to offer their opinions, not only of the images but also of Mike’s own views.
All too soon the evening drew to an end and Mike could relax at last, his work done and his efforts demonstratively appreciated by everyone present.
This evening was an opportunity for Mike Blythe to test his mettle, stick his head above the parapet and take the lead for the ever popular critique evenings.