Morning All

Last minute.com
Well, if there was an award for dramatic timing, Wednesday night would’ve taken gold.
We had everything lined up perfectly: Paul Dunmall booked to judge our grand “Anything Goes” final internal competition. What could possibly go wrong? Enter: reality.
Cue a phone call from Paul to the Arts Centre, sounding like a man who’d just remembered he left the oven on… three days ago. Between profuse apologies and general chaos at home, he’d completely forgotten he was supposed to be judging for us. Not ideal.
So, there we were — Lewis and I — doing our best impression of two headless chickens. Options were floated:
Draft in a member? Bit awkward (and possibly grounds for lifelong grudges).
Make everyone score everything with pen and paper? Cue confusion, rebellion, and probably a spreadsheet-induced meltdown.
Just as we were contemplating abandoning ship and living off-grid, Lewis had a stroke of genius. He rang Mike Tempan — local legend, former member, past chairman (1994 – 1997, believe it or not), and, crucially, someone who actually knows how to judge things.
Miraculously, Mike said yes. Even more miraculously, he turned up at the Arts Centre in about 25 minutes. I’ve had takeaways take longer!
After a very brief “you’re our hero” introduction, Mike calmly stepped in and proceeded to judge all 100 images like he’d been planning it for weeks. Absolute pro. Insightful commentary, constructive feedback, praise where it was due — he nailed it.
So, disaster averted, evening saved, and Mike gets a well-deserved 10/10. Honestly, we might “accidentally” forget to book anyone else next time…

‘Sweet’ opportunity? Something different!
I’ve been in touch recently with a man called Marc Saysell who is a Beekeeper or Apiarist and lives in Scorton. He keeps honey bees in beehives, and was wondering if any club members would like to photograph the bees?
The best time is between May and August, you could stay as long as you want – presumably within reason! – it’s free and you don’t have to get too close!
Dress code? Normal attire is ok especially if you go along with a telephoto lens! However, he will provide protective suits to prevent injuries! Obviously, he won’t except any liabilities!
I thought this may be a great opportunity to photograph bees in flight as well as possible swarming! And, even the inside of a hive buzzing with bees and their honey.
Anyway, as usual, if you want to ‘express an interest’ or are keen or perhaps slightly keen, email me or chat on Wednesday and I’ll arrange accordingly.

Notices:

Message from Frank: last chance! Join us?
Frank says: Please come and have a go and practice; all informal, experimental with a laugh or two on the way; just have a good time with no pressure – honest!

Hi All,
Hope you are looking forward to our Studio /Portrait session on Sunday 26th April, only a week away.
The venue is: Wyrebank Banqueting Suite, The Moorings, Church St, Garstang, Preston PR3 1PG
Timings: 9.00am to 3.00pm
Tea/coffee and biscuits will be provided on the day; however, you will need make your own lunch arrangements.
The objective of the day is to get some experience/practice of using studio/flash lighting, expand your skills and more importantly have some fun.
If you feel you are brave enough to be a model on the day, may be bring a couple of changes of clothes/outfits. (We have a designated changing area).
Anyone whose family or friends wish to come along on the day for a shoot, they are more than welcome, but please let Frank know, so as to avoid people having to hang about and getting bored, he will allocate time slots, but the more the merrier.
Frank’s contacted details: Email: fjharvey@btinternet.com            Mobile: 07936 663233
Sorry but the venue has a no pets policy.

Equipment suggestions:~
Camera – always good to have with you if you plan on taking some pictures!
Fully charged battery and possibly a spare or two
A selection of lenses
Empty memory card(s)
A flash if you have one, that way you can try it in a studio setting
Hotshoe adaptor, if you need one for your camera
Tripod
Note book to record your settings/set up
An open mind

Set-ups:
We will have three or four back drops set up, each with studio lights/flash.
A still life/macro set up with constant lighting.
Weather permitting, we also have access to the garden and canal basin, if you want to take some outdoor shots.
Models/subjects: Mike P’s granddaughter and some of her friends have, (been), volunteered to be our guinea pigs for the day.
Each other
If you wish you can bring an object/plant for the still life set up, then please do.

See you all on 26th. 📸 and Happy snapping!

Peter Frankish:
Reminder! However, many thanks to those members who have already sent me images for Peter to consider.
Last Chance!
Peter raises money for a local hospice.
I’m wondering if the Club would like to donate images for us to feature alongside our wide range of other product. The general rule of thumb is that our mainstream audience would want to put it on their wall at home!
Subject matter – Landscapes, particularly of the Lake District, but also locally and wildlife (garden birds especially) plus anything you may think suitable – but no portraits please. The basic ‘rule-of-thumb’ – any image that you would mount, frame and put up on your wall at home!
Please send to me (that’s Mike) any digital images that you may think would ‘fit-the-bill’ by Sunday 19th April, that’s NOW, today, Sunday.
I will then send them all to Peter who will select the ones he thinks will sell, probably any number between 8 – 15. He will select them NOT me!

Coffee duty this Wednesday:
Coffee and tea duty for this coming Wednesday is Freda and Barry – many thanks in advance!

Up and coming programme of events:

Wednesday 22nd April – Members Evening. We have 2 talks this evening;
One from Stan titled ‘Sports photography with unintended outcomes’ and the second part of the evening a talk by Lewis titled “A journey to Brazil”
Many thanks to both Stan and Lewis for putting together their respective talks!

Wednesday 29th April – A talk by Tom Lee ‘live’ at the Arts Centre. The title is ‘Infrared Photography.’
Tom says:
I’ll give a brief introduction covering:
What is Infrared, Types of IR Photography, Filters vs Camera Conversion, Subjects, Workflow and Pseudo IR conversion.
All sections will be coved by examples to show what can be expected. A short video showing my photography with infrared. After the break I will work through a few examples in front of the attendees.

Wednesday 6th May – A talk by Terry Hewitt ‘live’ at the Arts Centre. The title is ‘An imperfect Safari.’
Terry writes: A presentation about my two-week trip for a safari in South Africa. I cover all aspects of the trip and the lecture includes photographs of the whole range of birds and animals I saw.

Wednesday 13^th May – Our AGM! More information next newsletter! But not to be missed!

That’s all folks and see you Wednesday!

Mike

Morning All

Coffee Morning Chronicles – Financial Report (or: How We Became Mildly Wealthier)
At this morning’s caffeine-fuelled extravaganza, we heroically raked in and raised an impressive grand total of £148 – proof that ‘The Cake’ is indeed a powerful economic driver.
After the Arts Centre took its perfectly reasonable (but emotionally painful) 20% cut of £29.60, the Camera Club was left clutching a very respectable £118.40.
But wait, there’s more – in a dazzling display of generosity, donations added another £10, bringing the Camera Club’s mighty treasure chest to a whopping and proud £128.40.
In practical terms, this means we can now afford to fund approximately one and a half guest speakers next season! Robin is very pleased!
Huge thanks go to Rhona, Elaine, Freda, and Robin, who generously gave up their Saturday morning to keep the tea and coffee flowing and the cakes circulating – true heroes of the camera club’s hospitality world.
A big shoutout as well to everyone who baked delicious treats and temptations (we see you, secret star bakers) and to all members who popped in, said hello, and bravely sacrificed themselves in the name of cake consumption. Legends, everyone!
All in all, a splendid effort – and a fine boost to the Camera Club coffers. Until the next coffee-fuelled fundraiser, in September!

Quiz: The Charles Flatt intergroup quiz; Hosted at the Arts Centre
We, in a moment of either confidence or mild delusion, entered not one but two teams out of the 13 competing for this most prestigious of quiz-night honours.
Representing sharpness (in theory) was The Snappers: Adrian, Sue, Barry, Lewis and Anne (Lewis’s wife). Meanwhile, embracing a more… interpretive approach to knowledge, The Out Of Focus team featured Freda, Elaine, Robin, myself, and my wife Jill.
Our carefully considered objectives were as follows:
Not to finish first (as the winners have to host next year’s quiz – a responsibility we bravely dodged). ✔️ Achieved!
To come a close second – well… let’s just say we admired that position from a respectful distance.
In the end, both teams settled comfortably into mid-table territory – a perfectly respectable outcome, especially given that some of the questions appeared to have been set by people with access to encyclopaedias and far too much free time.
Top honours went to the Knit Wits with 67 points, followed by the Hanging-On with 63.
And us?
The Snappers snapped up a very decent 58 points
The Out Of Focus brought things into a comfortable soft focus with 52 points.
So, no silverware this time, but crucially, no disgrace either. We live to fight another day… or at least another quiz night.
More importantly, it was a cracking evening: plenty of chuckles, the occasional proper laugh-out-loud moment, a generous supply of snacks, especially salted peanuts, and drinks; absolutely no tears (publicly, at least), and a genuinely terrific atmosphere.
All in all, a resounding success – even if our general knowledge remains… artistically interpreted.

Notices:

Events Cup: Just to repeat! The first Events Cup ‘round’ is upon us.
The destination is Martin Mere Wetland Centre and the 2 dates to choose from are Monday 13^th April OR Saturday 18^th April.
Just to reiterate and remind everyone, you must choose only one date to visit and take photographs.
If you ‘Google’ the destination there is lots of information available and will take about an hour in the car. I would advise to book your ticket on-line ‘cos it’s cheaper!
Now, I’m going on the Monday 13^th April (tomorrow) and will park my car at Kirkland and Catterall Memorial Hall car park at 8.45am and leave at 9am.
If any other members are considering the same date we could meet there and car share where appropriate – considering the cost of fuel at the moment!
If not, I’ll see you there, probably!

Message from Frank: Possible last chance!
We (Mike P and I) have secured Wyrebank, Events Centre, The Moorings, Church St, Garstang, for a portrait and still life session on Sunday 26th April.
The cost is £25.00 per photographer for the session.
The session is 9.30am until 3.00pm, and we will be setting up a number of stations so there will be plenty of time for people to try different settings.
No formal tuition, but Dom said he would be happy to advise.
Please come and have a go and practice; all informal, experimental with a laugh or two on the way; just have a good time with no pressure – honest!
Places are limited and will be allocated on a first come first served basis by emailing me on fjharvey@btinternet.com
Many thanks to Frank and Mike.

Peter Frankish: Reminder!
However, many thanks to those members who have already sent me images for Peter to consider.
Peter raises money for a local hospice and says: “I thought you would be interested to hear that we have been invited to exhibit at the Arts Centre in July.”
I’m wondering if the Club would like to donate images for us to feature alongside our wide range of other product. The general rule of thumb is that our mainstream audience would want to put it on their wall at home! Given you are the local club we would limit other photographic content and could think of as many as say ten from yourselves.
Subject matter – Landscapes, particularly of the Lake District, but also locally and wildlife (garden birds especially) plus anything you may think suitable – but no portraits please. The basic ‘rule-of-thumb’ – any image that you would mount, frame and put up on your wall at home!
Please send to me (that’s Mike) any digital images that you may think would ‘fit-the-bill’ by Sunday 19th April, that’s next Sunday, a week today!
I will then send them all to Peter who will select the ones he thinks will sell, probably any number between 8 – 15. He will select them NOT me!

Coffee duty this Wednesday:
Coffee and tea duty for this coming Wednesday is Robin and Paul H. – many thanks in advance!

Up and coming programme of events:

Wednesday 15^th April – The judging of our final internal competition, ‘Anything Goes.’ The judge is Paul Dunmall – yes, that chap from the other week – yes, him chatting about ‘titles.’

Wednesday 22^nd April – Members Evening. We have 2 talks this evening; one from Stan titled ‘Sports photography with unintended outcomes’ and, for the second part of the evening, a talk by Lewis titled “A journey to Brazil”
Many thanks to both Stan and Lewis for putting together their respective talks!

Wednesday 29^th April – A talk by Tom Lee ‘live’ at the Arts Centre. The title is ‘Infrared Photography.’
Tom says:
I’ll give a brief introduction covering:
What is Infrared, Types of IR Photography, Filters vs Camera Conversion, Subjects, Workflow and Pseudo IR conversion.
All sections will be coved by examples to show what can be expected. A short video showing my photography with infrared. After the break I will work through a few examples in front of the attendees.

Wednesday 6^th May – A talk by Terry Hewitt ‘live’ at the Arts Centre. The title is ‘An imperfect Safari.’
Terry writes: A presentation about my two-week trip for a safari in South Africa. I cover all aspects of the trip and the lecture includes photographs of the whole range of birds and animals I saw.

Phew! That’s all folks and see you Wednesday!

Mike

Morning All

Exhibition:
Hanging completed — no ladders or chairs were harmed (much) in the process, our print exhibition is officially OPEN!
A massive shoutout to Elaine, Freda, Maurice, Robin, and Lewis, who bravely battled drawing pins, nails, hooks, and the mysterious “extra screw” on Saturday morning. Thanks to their heroic efforts (and at least one “does this look straight to you?” moment), everything is now up and looking fabulous.
Come admire the results — our images will be on display at the Arts Centre for the next 4 weeks. Go on, pretend you know about photographic art!

Ade Gidney:
I’m fairly certain Ade’s talk last Wednesday has now been officially promoted to “one of the best I’ve ever listened to” (a fiercely competitive category, I assure you).
His tour of the Lake District, Peak District, and North Wales was packed with brilliant tips, clever tricks, and photographs so good they almost made the rest of us consider taking up knitting instead. That said, the only thing better than the images was Ade’s commentary — equal parts insight, wit, and the occasional “how does he even find these places?” moment.
The good news: Ade says he’ll be back in a couple of years with more stunning pictures. The bad news: that only gives the rest of us a couple of years to up our game… or perfect our knitting!
On Ade’s website there are 3 workshops; Valley’s, Wild Camping and Mountain.
Anyone fancy partaking? Probably ‘Valleys!’
I had a chat to Ade after his talk and if we got together a small group of say 4 – 6 he will offer us a good deal for half a day, probably 4 hours around Keswick and Derwentwater for instance.
I would say the cost would be around £50/75 each. If this is something that you are keen on, please email/chat to me; at this stage you would only ‘express an interest’ and then we could go from there.

Notices: 
A message from Bob Bonner:
Dear Garstang Camera Club
Some years ago, I used to be an enthusiastic photographer but now seem to only take easy shots of my grandchildren and some holiday snaps on my phone.
I have a Canon EOS 650 SLR 35mm film camera with several accessories – do you think this would be of interest to anyone in your club?  If so, I can provide more details.
I get the impression that using 35mm film (rather than going all digital) is coming back into fashion so thought I’d ask.
Here are all the details:

Canon EOS 650 SLR 35mm film camera with original 35-70mm lens
Original Manual
SIGMA 28-200mm Zoom lens with Hoya UV filter
Flash extension bar
Canon Remote Shutter Switch 60 T3
Canon GR20 Grip – which allows connection of the Remote Shutter Switch
5 Cokin Filters with holder and brochure – Circular Pola A; Spot incolor 2; Blue; Gradual T2; Star 8 – great for some special effects
Camera bag – large enough to take camera with zoom lens attached
Camera/Accessories bag
Travelling telescopic tripod – 27cm collapsed; 105cm extended
Canon Speedlite 300EZ flash with case (takes 4 x AA batteries, not included) – there might be problem with this as I cannot get it to work so I’ll include it for free

Many thanks, best regards, Bob Bonner
If you are interested, please contact Bob directly onbob.bonner77@gmail.com Ta. I think Bob is asking about £70 for the lot.

Events Cup:
The first Events Cup ‘round’ is upon us, what already I hear you say!
The destination is Martin Mere Wetland Centre and the 2 dates to choose from are Monday 13^th April OR Saturday 18^th April.
Just to reiterate and remind everyone, you must choose only one date to visit and take photographs.
If you ‘Google’ the destination there is lots of information available and will take about an hour in the car. I would advise to book your ticket on-line ‘cos it’s cheaper!
Now, I’m going on the Monday 13^th April and will park my car at Kirkland and Catterall Memorial Hall car park at 8.45am and leave at 9am.
If any other members are considering the same date we could meet there and car share where appropriate – considering the cost of fuel at the moment!
So, if you are thinking the same, please get in touch via email or ring/text on 07340 314408 or chat next Wednesday so that I have an idea whom to expect!
If not, I’ll see you there, probably!

Calendar:
Just a gentle reminder about images for the 2027 calendar. Time is ticking on!
Boundaries: Focused, where possible, on Garstang and immediate surroundings; however, any images considered between Lancaster in the north, Preston in the south, Blackpool in the west and Abbeystead/Bleasdale in the east. This should give us plenty of opportunity, so please start thinking and snapping!
So, this means that the scope has now widened! Please get out and about, so that we can offer a great selection to the Arts Centre committee.
All images submitted, anonymously, will be shown and voted upon on by you the members on Wednesday 13th May (our AGM evening, amongst other things going on), and the selected top 36 will be sent to the Arts Centre committee for their final selection of 12/14 for the calendar.
So, PLEASE send in your entries, as many as you wish, over the next few weeks to me on the usual email address of info@garstangcameraclub.co.uk
Images will need to be with me by the latest on MONDAY 11^th May, that’s only about 5 weeks away!

Coffee morning:
The camera club is bravely (and hungrily) hosting a coffee morning at the Arts Centre on this coming Saturday 11th April.
Cakes, biscuits, mysterious-but-delicious creations — all are welcome, as long as they’re technically edible.
Please let Mike know what culinary masterpiece (or chaos) you’re planning to bring, so we don’t end up with 47 identical Victoria sponges… or worse, none at all.
Happy baking — and may your cakes rise better than our camera club Battles!

Coffee duty this Wednesday:
Coffee and tea duty for this coming Wednesday is Shelly and Paul S. – many thanks in advance!

Up and coming programme of events:

Wednesday 8^th April – A talk by Rene, via zoom, titled ‘Blowing Hot and Cold.’
Rene says “This is a presentation and covers my nature photography travels in winter to Scandinavia and my spring and summer trips to Spain.
Scandinavia in winter is a very special place and I take you on a journey that cover bird and landscape photography along the Finnish-Russian border around Kuusamo and to the Varangerfjord.
Spain in spring, summer and autumn is a superb place to be for bird photography. I take you on a journey to some of the most special places in Spain where I photograph birds from hides and hydro hides.”

Wednesday 15^th April – The judging of our final internal competition, ‘Anything Goes.’ The judge is Paul Dunmall – yes, that chap from the other week!

Wednesday 22^nd April – Members Evening. We have 2 talks this evening; one from Stan titled ‘Sports photography with unintended outcomes’ and for the second part of the evening a talk by Lewis titled “A journey to Brazil”
Many thanks to both Stan and Lewis for putting together their respective talks!

Wednesday 29^th April – A talk by Tom Lee ‘live’ at the Arts Centre. The title is ‘Infrared Photography.’
Tom says:
I’ll give a brief introduction covering:
What is Infrared
Types of IR Photography
Filters vs Camera Conversion
Subjects
Workflow
Pseudo IR conversion
All sections will be coved by examples to show what can be expected. A short video showing my photography with infrared. After the break I will work through a few examples in front of the attendees.

That’s all folks and see you Wednesday!

Mike

Morning All

Weather eh!

Notices:

Competition Schedule for 2026 – 2027:
I’ve attached the competition schedule for our 5 internal competitions for next season, 2026/27.
So, just to remind everyone:

The first column is the competition name.
The second is the description of images allowed; please read these carefully to make sure all your entries comply with these descriptions – if in doubt ASK!
The third indicates the last date to take your prints to ‘Sharon’ for mounting if you are using Garstang Fine Arts, Church Street, Garstang.
The fourth is the last date to entry for the competitions.
The final column is the actual competition date.

If you have any questions, please email me or ring me on 07340 314408

Message from Frank:
We have secured Wyrebank, Events Centre, The Moorings, Church St, Garstang, for a portrait and still life session on Sunday 26th April.
The cost is £25.00 per photographer for the session.
The session is 9.30am until 3.00pm, and we will be setting up a number of stations so there will be plenty of time for people to try different settings.
No formal tuition, but Dom said he would be happy to advise.
Places are limited and will be allocated on a first come first served basis by emailing me on fjharvey@btinternet.com
Many thanks to Frank.

Coffee morning:
The camera club is bravely (and hungrily) hosting a coffee morning, again, at the Arts Centre on Saturday 11th April.
As tradition demands — and because we all enjoy eating far too much — we’re calling on your baking talents (or experiments) to stock the table. We’re expecting a good crowd, so it’s time to dust off those recipe books, rummage through the cupboards, question whether that flour is still in date, and fire up the oven like you’re on a baking show (minus the judgmental judges… mostly).
Cakes, biscuits, mysterious-but-delicious creations — all are welcome, as long as they’re technically edible.
Please let Mike know what culinary masterpiece (or chaos) you’re planning to bring, so we don’t end up with 47 identical Victoria sponges… or worse, none at all.
Happy baking — and may your cakes rise better than our camera club Battles!

Peter Frankish: Reminder!
Peter raises money for a local hospice and says: “I thought you would be interested to hear that we have been invited to exhibit at the Arts Centre in July.”
I’m wondering if the Club would like to donate images for us to feature alongside our wide range of other product. The general rule of thumb is that our mainstream audience would want to put it on their wall at home! Given you are the local club we would limit other photographic content and could think of as many as say ten from yourselves.
Subject matter – Landscapes, particularly of the Lake District, but also locally and wildlife (garden birds especially) plus anything you may think suitable – but no portraits please. The basic ‘rule-of-thumb’ – any image that you would mount, frame and put up on your wall at home!
Please send to me (that’s Mike) any digital images that you may think would ‘fit-the-bill’ by Sunday 19th April. I will then send them all to Peter who will select the ones he thinks will sell, probably any number between 8 – 15. He will select them NOT me!

Coffee duty this Wednesday:
Coffee and tea duty for this coming Wednesday is Ian and Dave – many thanks in advance!

Up and coming programme of events:

Wednesday 1^st April – Ade Gidney, ‘Live’ – Ade says “I think we agreed a talk about landscapes your members might be able to visit. So, it will be Landscapes of the North, Lake District, North Wales, Peak District, Yorkshire Dales and Northumberland.
I may or may not include parts of Scotland (depends how many suitable images I have covering the other areas.) As well as showing the Landscapes I will try and include some hints and tips to get better Landscape photographs.”

Wednesday 8^th April – A talk by Rene, via zoom, titled ‘Blowing Hot and Cold.’
Rene says “This is a presentation and covers my nature photography travels in winter to Scandinavia and my spring and summer trips to Spain.
Scandinavia in winter is a very special place and i take you on a journey that cover bird and landscape photography along the Finnish-Russian border around Kuusamo and to the Varangerfjord.
Spain in spring, summer and autumn is a superb place to be for bird photography. I take you on a journey to some of the most special places in Spain where I photograph birds from hides and hydro hides.”

Wednesday 15^th April – The judging of our final internal competition, ‘Anything Goes.’ The judge is Paul Dunmall – yes, that chap from the other week!

Wednesday 22^nd April – Members Evening. We have 2 talks this evening; one from Stan titled ‘Sports photography with unintended outcomes’ and for the second part of the evening a talk by Lewis titled “A journey to…….”

Many thanks to both Stan and Lewis for putting together their respective talks!

That’s all folks and see you Wednesday!

Mike

Morning All

Introducing: The Dispatch of Dubious Importance!
I’ve pondered on and thought about Paul’s discussion from last Wednesday, all about do we need titles, and given this weekly communiqué a new title! Did it need it – answers on a postcard please! 
Hey ho, back to normal!

Notices:

Events Cup
Attached is the summer schedule for the Events Cup. This will be our first internal competition for the ‘new’ season; this will be judged on 14^th October 2026.
As you will see the Events Cup is over 5 months – April, May, June, July and August, all with different destinations. You can go to all the various destinations or pick the ones that appeal; you don’t have to do all 5!
So, just to remind everyone, you can only go to each destination once, that is on one of the specified dates.  
Example: April, destination is Martin Mere Wetland Centre which is 35 miles away and will take approximately 56 mins by car.
The 2 dates available are Monday April 13th OR Saturday April 18^th. You must choose one or the other – you can’t go on both days!
You can go on your own or team up with other members, it’s up to you!
Details will be given out in a newsletter nearer the date.
If you have any questions, just email or ring me on 07340 314408 – ta.

Lancashire and Cheshire Photographic Union (L&CPU):
Attached from Freda:
The Annual Individual Print & Projected Image Competition on 9th & 10th May 2026 – Rules and Guidelines
All the relevant rules etc. are there for you if you wish to enter. This competition is not guided by the club so you must make sure you follow everything to the letter! We can, hopefully, answer any questions to help but as I said the onus is on individual members.

Members Presentation Evening: Reminder!
Wednesday 20^th May – Members Presentation Evening. Presentation of certificates and trophies.
Freda now taking bookings! This did prove very successful last year so please support the club (partners of any persuasion all welcome!).
The cost this year is £20 per member, this includes a tip to the caterers.
This is our end of season social and presentation get together with catering from ‘Betty’ and her team.
Menu: two cold meats, quiches, coleslaw and salads, rolls and butter and hot new potatoes plus a choice of 3 desserts; meringue nests, fruit salad and café Renoir.
Bring your own beverages!
Please speak to Freda who is taking reservations.

Coffee duty this Wednesday:
Coffee and tea duty for this coming Wednesday is Claire and Paul S. – many thanks in advance!

Up and coming programme of events:
Wednesday 25^th March – Members evening: A talk by Tim tilted ‘- “A Journey Through Six Countries of South-East Asia”

Wednesday 1^st April – Ade Gidney, ‘Live’ – Ade says “I think we agreed a talk about landscapes your members might be able to visit. So, it will be Landscapes of the North, Lake District, North Wales, Peak District, Yorkshire Dales and Northumberland.
I may or may not include parts of Scotland (depends how many suitable images I have covering the other areas.) As well as showing the Landscapes I will try and include some hints and tips to get better Landscape photographs.”

Wednesday 8^th April – A talk by Rene, via zoom, titled ‘Blowing Hot and Cold.’
Rene says “This is a presentation and covers my nature photography travels in winter to Scandinavia and my spring and summer trips to Spain.
Scandinavia in winter is a very special place and i take you on a journey that cover bird and landscape photography along the Finnish-Russian border around Kuusamo and to the Varangerfjord.
Spain in spring, summer and autumn is a superb place to be for bird photography. I take you on a journey to some of the most special places in Spain where I photograph birds from hides and hydro hides.”

Wednesday 15^th April – The judging of our final internal competition, Anything Goes. The judge is Paul Dunmall – yes, that chap from last week!

That’s all folks and see you Wednesday!

Mike

Morning All

Humanity Cup Competition:
Many thanks to all members who managed to submit images for the above competition. I thought Daryl was a tough judge but fair which is all we can hope for! However, great commentary and positive feedback about each image which was good and I think it all proved very successful.
HUGE congratulations to Dom for his portrait image ‘Waterboy’ which Daryl named as ‘best image of the evening.’ Well done, Dom!

Notices:

L&CPU Results: Annual Club PDI Competition 2026
I’ve attached is a list of scores for the submitted images – thanks to Lewis.

Out of 39 clubs:
OPEN Section: – points awarded below: included are our Battle competitors!
1^st Southport 206 points
5 Lytham St Annes 186
9 Poulton Le Fylde 181
14 North Fylde 178
16 Lancaster 175
29 Morecambe 163
37 Garstang 152

NATURE Section:
1^st  Chorley 109
2 Poulton Le Fylde 105
10 Lytham St Annes 94
13 North Fylde 92
20 Morecambe 89
24 Lancaster 86
34 Garstang 80

OVERALL:
1^st CHORLEY 308
4 Poulton Le Fylde 286
6 Lytham St Annes 280 
14 North Fylde 270
20 Lancaster 261
27 Morecambe 252
35 Garstang 232

It’s the taking part that counts!

Message from Frank:
WW2 THEMED PHOTOSHOOT  2026
Location: Hangar 42 Spitfire Visitor Centre, Squires Gate, Blackpool FY4 2QY
Date: Friday May 29th
Morning and Afternoon sessions: 9 to 12 noon and 1 to 4pm,
£90 per session
Mike P., Paul S. and myself (Frank) are doing the above photoshoot mentioned last night.
There are 20 places and ‘four set ups’ so photographers are split into groups of five.
I thought it would be good if we could get a group of 5 GCC members together for the shoot.
Here’s the link if you’re interested. https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/spitfire-visitor-centre-blackpool-airport/ww2-themed-photoshoot-with-spitfire-aircraft-military-vehicles/e-xpegpb
If you wish to join Frank, Mike and Paul email me on info@garstangcameraclub.co.uk or ring me on 07340 314408 and I’ll organise accordingly!

Anything Goes Cup Competition: Any image on any theme.
This is our 5^th and final internal competition of the season.
Last date for entry: 18^th March – that’s this coming Wednesday!
Competition date: 15^th April

Members Presentation Evening: Early Reminder!
Wednesday 20^th May – Members Presentation Evening. Presentation of certificates and trophies.
Freda now taking bookings!This did prove very successful last year so please support the club (partners of any persuasion all welcome!).
The cost this year is £20 per member, this includes a tip to the caterers.
This is our end of season social and presentation get together with catering from ‘Betty’ and her team.
Menu: two cold meats, quiches, coleslaw and salads, rolls and butter and hot new potatoes plus a choice of 3 desserts; meringue nests, fruit salad and café Renoir. Please speak to Freda who is taking reservations.

Message from Paul Dunmall – ‘live’ speaker on 18^th March, next Wednesday! an interactive night, Titles Why do we have them?
So please, if poss, take part! We need your images!
Max of 15/20 images, this allows time for any statement to be read out, the image to be appraised and then a short discussion with the photographer/group if required.
Email them to me and I’ll include them on a PowerPoint.

Reminder 1 – Peter Frankish:
Peter raises money for a local hospice and says: “I thought you would be interested to hear that we have been invited to exhibit at the Arts Centre in July.”
I’m wondering if the Club would like to donate images for us to feature alongside our wide range of other product. The general rule of thumb is that our mainstream audience would want to put it on their wall at home! Given you are the local club we would limit other photographic content and could think of as many as say ten from yourselves.
Subject matter – Landscapes, particularly of the Lake District, but also locally and wildlife (garden birds especially) plus anything you may think suitable – but no portraits please. The basic ‘rule-of-thumb’ – any image that you would mount, frame and put up on your wall at home!
Please send to me (that’s Mike) any digital images that you may think would ‘fit-the-bill’ by Sunday 19th April. I will then send them all to Peter who will select the ones he thinks will sell, probably any number between 8 – 15. He will select them NOT me!

Reminder 2 – Calendar Images:
As already mentioned, we have been tasked, again, to produce images for the 2027 calendar!
Boundaries: Focused where possible on Garstang and immediate surroundings; however, any images considered between Lancaster in the north, Preston in the south, Blackpool in the west and Abbeystead/Bleasdale in the east. This should give us plenty of opportunity, so please start thinking and snapping!
So, this means that the scope has now widened! Please get out and about, in the fullness of time, so that we can offer a great selection to the Arts Centre committee. All images submitted will be shown and voted upon on Wednesday 13th May and the selected top 36 will be sent to the Arts Centre committee for their final selection of 12 to 14 images for the calendar.

Coffee duty this Wednesday:
Coffee and tea duty for this coming Wednesday is Tammii and Frank – many thanks in advance!

Up and coming programme of events:

Wednesday 18^th March – Paul Dunmall, Live:
A talk titled ‘Titles: Why do we have them.’ See above!

Wednesday 25^th March – Members evening: A talk by Tim tilted ‘- “A Journey Through Six Countries of South-East Asia”

Wednesday 1^st April – Ade Gidney, ‘Live’ – Ade says “I think we agreed a talk about landscapes your members might be able to visit. So, it will be Landscapes of the North, Lake District, North Wales, Peak District, Yorkshire Dales and Northumberland.
I may or may not include parts of Scotland (depends how many suitable images I have covering the other areas.) As well as showing the Landscapes I will try and include some hints and tips to get better Landscape photographs.”

Wednesday 8^th April – A talk by Rene, via zoom, titled ‘Blowing Hot and Cold.’
Rene says “This is a presentation and covers my nature photography travels in winter to Scandinavia and my spring and summer trips to Spain.
Scandinavia in winter is a very special place and I take you on a journey that covers bird and landscape photography along the Finnish-Russian border around Kuusamo and to the Varangerfjord.
Spain in spring, summer and autumn is a superb place to be for bird photography. I take you on a journey to some of the most special places in Spain where I photograph birds from hides and hydro hides.”
That’s all folks and see you Wednesday!

Mike

Morning All

I hope you all enjoyed the talk last Wednesday from Kevin, great commentary and fantastic images – well, I thought so!

Notices:

April Exhibition: Reminder!
Attached is a document with the prints that are needed – if poss! Please have a look!
This exhibition of prints is open to all members who wish to submit prints to be shown in the Arts Centre.  
These prints are ones that have NOT scored 16, 17, 18, 19 or 20 points in any of our competitions.
You can submit any other prints that have not been entered in any competition as well.
If you have what I call ‘postcard’ size prints please bring these in as well ‘cos we will be devoting an area on the wall to these type of prints.
The deadline for prints is Wednesday 11^th March, that’s this coming Wednesday!
Maurice is coordinating all of this and he has asked that all prints have, on the back, your name and a title.Many thanks to Maurice for his co-ordination and efforts!

Anything Goes Cup Competition: Any image on any theme
This is our 5^th and final internal competition of the season.
Last date for entry: 18^th March
Competition date: 15^th April

Members Presentation Evening: Early Reminder!
Wednesday 20^th May – Members Presentation Evening. Presentation of certificates and trophies.
Freda now taking bookings!This did prove very successful last year so please support the club (partners of any persuasion all welcome!).
The cost this year is £20 per member, this includes a tip to the caterers.
This is our end of season social and presentation get together with catering from ‘Betty’ and her team.
Menu: two cold meats, quiches, coleslaw and salads, rolls and butter and hot new potatoes plus a choice of 3 desserts; meringue nests, fruit salad and café Renoir. Please speak to Freda who is taking reservations.

Quiz Teams: Saturday 11^th April, 7pm at The Arts Centre
Still time to enter your name to join a team for the Charles Flatt intergroup quiz.
If you would like to be part of the team, PLEASE let me know via our website on  info@garstangcameraclub.co.uk or chat to me next Wednesday. Ta.

Message from Paul Dunmall – ‘live’ speaker on 18^th March; an interactive night, Titles Why do we have them?
So please, if poss, take part! We need your images!
Max of 15/20 images, this allows time for any statement to be read out, the image to be appraised and then a short discussion with the photographer/group if required.
The idea is to have more people share their work that they would not normally put into club competition because “the judge won’t get it,” or they just don’t enter because some/much of the comments are negative.
It is also to help photographers who are looking to improve their images, but not under the spotlight of a judged competition night.
This is not a competition but an interactive night of appraisal and discussion, between the appraiser (judge) and the photographer/group.
It will also allow for the images to not just have title, but could have a short statement of intent, or no title at all whichever the photographer prefers.

The Format:
1^st half: A short talk about image titles and what effect they have or not when being judged.
2^nd half: What I am looking for is some images that people feel need more than just a title – an artist statement, max of 30 words. We will need about a max of 15-20 images for the second part of the evening.

Coffee duty this Wednesday:
Coffee and tea duty for this coming Wednesday is Barry and Brenda – many thanks in advance!

Up and coming programme of events:

Wednesday 11^th March – Our 4^th internal competition The Humanity Cup; judged ‘live’ by Daryl Giles. We have 81 entries so a full evening!

Wednesday 18^th March – Paul Dunmall, Live: A talk titled ‘Titles: Why do we have them.’ See above for details.

Wednesday 25^th March – Members evening: A talk by Tim tilted ‘A Journey Through Six Countries of South-East Asia.

Wednesday 1^st April –Ade Gidney, ‘Live’ –
Ade says – “It’s a talk about landscapes your members might be able to visit. So it will be Landscapes of the North, Lake District, North Wales, Peak District, Yorkshire Dales and Northumberland. I may or may not include parts of Scotland (depends how many suitable images I have covering the other areas.) As well as showing the Landscapes I will try and include some hints and tips to get better Landscape photographs.”

That’s all folks and see you Wednesday!

Mike

Morning All

For those members who couldn’t get to our meeting last Wednesday, unfortunately, our New Zealand friends, The Rangiora Photographic Society, won the ‘Battle.’ The final score was Garstang 501 Rangiora 517.
The consensus of opinion was that the judge, Ken Rowlatt, was very fair and New Zealand, on balance, just deserved to win.
So, that’s it for ‘Battles’ this season so upwards and onwards to the 3 ‘Battles’ for season 2027!

Notices:

L&CPU – Annual Club Competition 2026, Chorley:
Attached is a poster giving all the information you need if you wish to attend the competitions and view the judging. There is no charge to attend!

Jane Goodall:
If you recall Jane Goodall gave us an excellent talk, via zoom, on 18^th February titled ‘Family Photoshoots’ and she said she would send the club some information on the top 10 tips for a successful shoot.
So, attached, from Jane, is the Top 10 photography shoot hacks for the family; a good and educational and informational read!

Message from Paul Dunmall – ‘live’ speaker on 18^th March; an interactive night, so please, if poss, take part! Titles Why do we have them?
The idea is to have more people share their work that they would not normally put into club competition because “the judge won’t get it,” or they just don’t enter because some much of the comments are negative.
It is also to help photographers who are looking to improve their images, but not under the spotlight of a judged competition night.
This is not a competition but an interactive night of appraisal and discussion, between the appraiser (judge) and the photographer/group.
It will also allow for the images to not just have a title, but could have a short statement of intent, or no title at all whichever the photographer prefers.

The Format:
1^st half: A short talk about image titles and what effect they have or not when being judged.
2^nd half: What I am looking for is some images that people feel need more than just a title – an artist statement, max of 30 words. We will need about a max of 15-20 images for the second part of the evening.
This allows time for any statement to be read out, the image to be appraised and then a short discussion with the photographer/group if required. If a statement is used then max of 30 words, but can also not have a title.

Example image, (attached), and statement below.
Ice Man: I was taken by the shapes created by the ice over the rocks and where the dark patches created skulls.
So, as Paul says this is an interactive evening so, please folks, I need to submit some images – anonymously if you want, (send to me and I’ll submit them on a PowerPoint slide), with or without a title or as Paul says, a short statement of intent, in other words a little more than just a title to possibly explain the image.

April Exhibition: Reminder!
This exhibition of prints is open to all members who wish to submit prints to be shown in the Arts Centre.  
These prints are ones that have NOT scored 18, 19 or 20 points in any of our competitions. You can submit any other prints that have not been entered in any competition as well. Please bring in your prints ‘cos we need about 60 to fill the walls in the Arts Centre!
If you have what I call ‘postcard’ size prints please bring these in as well ‘cos we will be devoting an area on the wall to these type of prints.
The deadline for prints is Wednesday 11^th March although you can bring them in on any Wednesday from now on.
The ‘hanging’ of the prints will be on Saturday 4^th April and the exhibition will be open from Tuesday 7^th April until Thursday 30^th April.
Maurice is coordinating all of this and he has asked that all prints have, on the back, your name and a title.Many thanks to Maurice for his co-ordination and efforts!

Message from Peter Frankish:
Peter gave us a short talk last Wednesday night and below is a summary of the presentation and ‘how it all works.’

Peter raises money for St Catherine’s Hospice; St Catherine’s cares for patients and families across Chorley, Preston and South Ribble who are affected by life-shortening conditions like cancer, motor neurone disease and heart failure.

• Peter is fund raising by displaying works of art at the Arts Centre from 27^th June until 25^th July.
• Part of this display will show some of our photographs which, when printed, he will mount and frame and then sell to visitors, thus raising money for the hospice.
• Subject matter – Landscapes, particularly of the Lake District, but also locally and wildlife (garden birds especially) plus anything you may think suitable – but no portraits please. The basic ‘rule-of-thumb’ – any image that you would mount, frame and put up on your wall at home!
• Please send to me any digital images that you may think would ‘fit-the-bill’ by Sunday 19^th April. I will then send them all to Peter who will select the ones he thinks will sell, probably any number between 8 – 15. He will select them NOT me!
• When Peter has selected the images, he will send them back to me and I will have them printed to the size he requires. The cost of this printing will be borne by the club – it is our way of donating.
• When I receive the images back from the printer, I will pass them back to Peter and he and his team will then mount and frame them. These will then be displayed in the Arts Centre on the dates above, and hopefully be sold.
• If you already have any images already printed and mounted, I will also send them to Peter who may or may not accept them.

PHEW! I think that’s it! Any questions please email me on info@garstangcameraclub.co.uk or ring on 07340 314408. Many thanks for reading all the above!

Anything Goes Cup Competition: Any image on any theme.
This is our 5^th and final internal competition of the season.
Last date for entry: 18^th March
Competition date: 15^th April

Coffee duty this Wednesday:
Coffee and tea duty for this coming Wednesday is Maurice and Elaine – many thanks in advance!

Up and coming programme of events:

Wednesday 4^th March – Kevin Pigney, via zoom: A talk titled: A passion for wildlife – updated.
Kevin writes: I share some of my favourite images but more importantly I share the story behind them including locations, camera settings, how I sent up a project, fieldcraft etc. 

Wednesday 11^th March – Our 4^th internal competition The Humanity Cup; judged ‘live’ by Daryl Giles.

Wednesday 18^th March – Paul Dunmall, Live:
A talk titled ‘Titles: Why do we have them.’ See above for details.

Wednesday 25^th March – Members evening: A talk by Tim tilted ‘A Journet through six countries of south-east Asia.

That’s all folks and see you Wednesday!

Mike

Morning All

Many thanks to Rhona and Tim who have put the winning images, on our Facebook page and on our website respectively, from the Creatures and Plants of the World Cup.

Notices:

2026 – 2027 Season: 10 – in – 10 – in – 10! Can you do it!
This is one of the challenges for next season on 11^th November 2026. Basically, I’m asking for 10 members to show 10 photographs in 10 minutes.
It can be any image, colour and/or monochrome – your choice.
You could chat about the ‘where’ the ‘when’ the ‘why’ and the ‘how.’ Perhaps show the same image cropped, to show a change or different aspect or maybe raw then edited. HOWEVER, you must show 10 different images.
I have had some ‘volunteers’ already but if you are ready to have a go chat to me on Wednesday or ring or email.

Message from Adrian: Gardening trip:

GARSTANG AND DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB: WEDNESDAY 8TH JULY
Full day coach trip, 8.30am start from opposite the library, 6.30pm return

NEWBY HALL:
Famous for its double herbaceous borders and drifts of flowering perennials; this is probably the largest collection of New World Salvias in the north together with a woodland garden and rock garden.
Included in the price is Yorkshire afternoon tea (sandwiches, homemade cakes and scones, tea or coffee).

YORKE HOUSE AND WHITE ROSE COTTAGE
A “Yellow Book” Garden this award winning 2 acre English country garden includes ornamental gardens and a pond and stream.
Tea and cake is included.

Cost per person £60
Please see Adrian if you wish to go on this trip.

April Exhibition:
This exhibition of prints is open to all members who wish to submit prints to be shown in the Arts Centre.  
These prints are ones that have NOT scored 18, 19 or 20 points in any of our competitions.
You can submit any other prints that have not been entered in any competition as well. Please bring in your prints ‘cos we need about 60 to fill the walls in the Arts Centre!
If you have what I call ‘postcard’ size prints please bring these in as well ‘cos we will be devoting an area on the wall to these type of prints.
The deadline for prints is Wednesday 11^th March although you can bring them in on any Wednesday from now on.
The ‘hanging’ of the prints will be on Saturday 4^th April and the exhibition will be open from Tuesday 7^th April until Thursday 30^th April..
Maurice is coordinating all of this and he has asked that all prints have on the back your name and a title.Many thanks to Maurice for his co-ordination and efforts!

Members Presentation Evening: Very Early Reminder!
Wednesday 20^th May – Members Presentation Evening. Presentation of certificates and trophies.This did prove very successful last year so please support the club (partners of any persuasion all welcome!); so, please speak to Freda!
The cost this year is £20 per member, this includes a tip to the caterers.
This is our end of season social and presentation get together with catering from ‘Betty’ and her team.
Menu: two cold meats, quiches, coleslaw and salads, rolls and butter and hot new potatoes plus a choice of 3 desserts; meringue nests, fruit salad and café Renoir. Please speak to Freda who is taking reservations.

Quiz Teams: Saturday 11^th April, 7pm at The Arts Centre
Still time to enter your name to join a team for the Charles Flatt intergroup quiz.
If you would like to be part of the team, PLEASE let me know via our website on info@garstangcameraclub.co.uk  or chat to me next Wednesday. Ta.

Coffee duty this Wednesday:
Coffee and tea duty for this coming Wednesday is Freda and Rhona – many thanks in advance!

Up and coming programme of events:

Wednesday 25^th February – A short talk by Peter Frankish, 10 minutes!
Peter raises money for a local hospice and says:
Thought you would be interested to hear that we have been invited to exhibit at the Arts Centre in July.
I’m wondering if the Club would like to donate images for us to feature alongside our wide range of other product. The general rule of thumb is that our mainstream audience would want to put it on their wall at home! Given you are the local club we would limit other photographic content and could think of as many as say ten from yourselves.

PLUS: Garstang Camera Club v Rangiora Photographic Society Battle. Plus: Paul (Hurley) is giving a talk on “Hot rocks and hot water”, exploring the volcanic scenery of South West Iceland and the golden triangle.

Followed by ‘Show and Tell’ challenge: Winter scenery. A busy evening!

Wednesday 4^th March – Kevin Pigney, via zoom: A talk titled: A passion for wildlife – updated.
Kevin writes: I share some of my favourite images but more importantly I share the story behind them including locations, camera settings, how I sent up a project, fieldcraft etc. 

Wednesday 11^th March – Humanity Cup competition; judged by Daryl Giles 

Wednesday 18^th March – Paul Dunmall, Live: A talk titled ‘Titles: Why do we have them.’
Paul writes: Titles Why Do We have Them? An interactive evening of appraisal and discussion.
The idea is to have more people share their work that they would not normally put into club competition because “the judge won’t get it,” or they just don’t enter because some much of the comments are negative.
It is also to help photographers who are looking to improve their images, but not under the spotlight of a judged competition night.
This is not a competition but an interactive night of appraisal and discussion, between the appraiser (judge) and the photographer/group.
It will also allow for the images to not just have title, but could have a short statement of intent, or no title at all whichever the photographer prefers.
So, as Paul says this is an interactive evening so please I need folk to submit some images – anonymously if you want, (send to me and I’ll submit them on a PowerPoint slide), with or without a title or as Paul says, a short statement of intent in other words a little more than just a title to possibly explain the image.

That’s all folks and see you Wednesday!

Mike