However before Alan opened the debate, there was a review of the previous Sunday’s outing to Andy Howey’s Birds of Prey Centre and the visit to the Blue Flames firework display on the 5th of November.
Every one present who had attended agreed that the visit to the birds of prey centre had been an unqualified success and, although high winds had prevented Andy from safely flying his birds, this had not prevented members from capturing some fantastic images both at the centre and later at Roughting Linn.
This success was thanks in no small part to the hard work and effort Andy and Juanetta who showed their understanding of the needs of photographers and worked tirelessly to ensure that everyone had the opportunity to work with the birds and get the shots they wanted.
Again, everyone who had attended the firework display gave the event big thumbs up having enjoyed the challenge that shooting pyrotechnics presented.
There followed a brief and informal presentation of the results of these visits.
On to the main subject of the night’s meeting, night photography.
This discussion was lead by Alan who introduced the subject and highlighted bullet points to stimulate discussions amongst the members.
He began with the basics, such as dressing appropriately, knowing your location (including the use of an ephemeris and knowing tide tables) , carrying a torch, protection for the camera etc, The group discussion then progressed through to subjects covering focusing in the dark, lens choice, ISO, shutter speeds, exposure.
Everyone had their own views, opinions and preferences for getting the best from a night shoot, ideas that were discussed at some length and shared with the group.
As the evening drew to a close, Alan gave a short presentation to demonstrate his skills and his passion for night- time street photography. This consisted of a montage of images captured in and around Newcastle upon Tyne including the Tyne Bridge and Quayside, light trails at the busy Swan House Roundabout and a festive collection of images enhanced by light painting.
A busy and stimulating evening that drew to an end all too soon.
Next meeting? : - "Get it right with Black & White" - members are invited to showcase and discuss some of their best monochrome images.