Morning All
Zoom talks eh! Thanks Ian!

Notices:
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 be given an award in any of our competitions, and/or they could also be prints that for some reason you haven’t entered.
I have attached, from Lewis, (thanks!), a complete list of all of the prints that were entered for our 5 internal competitions last year.
This list is a reminder for you!
In each competition the 1st, 2^nd and 3^rd along with the HC C are labelled; so, it’s the ones that are not labelled as such that can be shown.
The deadline for prints is Wednesday 19th March although you can bring them in next Wednesday, 12^th March.
The ‘hanging’ of the prints will be on Saturday 5th April and the exhibition will be open from Tuesday 8th April until Thursday 1st May.
Maurice is co-ordinating all of this and he has asked that all prints have on the back your name and a title for the print.
Many thanks to Maurice for his hard work and co-ordination.

Early Notice! Wednesday April 9^th!
Paul Dunmall is our speaker; ‘Interactive critic night’ A lecture of 2 very different parts.
Part 1 is part lecture about judging and a competitions part facilitated discussion with the audience, where you have the chance to ask the judge, a chance to air your views on the judging community to a current judge.
Part 2 is about a right to reply; with about 20 PDI’s submitted, he will “judge” them like a competition night, but after his comments, will invite the photographer to ask him about the comments made. The images can be of any type, already been in competitions with bad comments, new images that are bit edgy and not sure if to put them or even just want a comment on pictures.
So: in part 2 I will need about 20 PDI’s for Paul to judge and then giving you a right of reply!
I’m therefore inviting members to submit to me (via info@garstangcameraclub.co.uk) a maximum of 3 PDI’s for Paul to judge.
Please indicate to me the order of preference i.e. 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd.
I will endeavour to ensure that at least one PDI from each member is ‘judged.’

Anything Goes Cup – our 5^th and final internal competition:
This is a reminder that the last date for entry is Wednesday 19^th March – that is, in 10 days’ time!

Don’t forget – The Challenge!
‘Above and Below.’
This is a show-and-tell for 19th March. The idea here is an ‘open’ challenge – any subject, colour or monochrome – where you have taken the photographs NOT at eye level. So, down low or up high!
Please bring your images in on a USB ‘stick’ or alternatively, send them to me and I’ll show them on a PowerPoint slide-show.

Calendar:
Just a gentle reminder about images for the 2026 calendar. Time is ticking on!
Just to repeat:
The calendar used to be Garstang only; however, following on with conversations with Muriel she has now stated that images could not only encompass Garstang but now the surrounding areas to a radius of 5 to 10 miles, maximum; so, this means that the scope has now widened!
Please get out and about, in the fullness of time, so that we can offer her a great selection towards the end of April/ beginning of May.

Sale Photographic Society:
I have attached an advert from them about a renowned Landscape photographer, Mark Gilligan, coming to entertain them on Thursday the 20th March 2025, with his fascinating talk entitled:
“3 Legs, A Sensor and some Glass”

Very Early Reminder!
Wednesday 21^st 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 £17 per member; just £1 more than last year.
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. If you are interested, please speak to Freda who is taking reservations.

Coffee Duty:
Coffee and tea duty for this coming Wednesday 12^th, is John (G) and Elaine. Many thanks in advance!

Up and coming programme of events:
Wednesday 12th March: Humanity Cup judging by Nicki Ellis-Greenwood
Wednesday 19th March: Members Evening: A talk by Stan titled, Monochrome photography. Plus, voting on destinations for the Events Cup, the viewing of the New Zealand ‘Battle’ via their AV and member’s challenge; show & tell – ‘Above and Below.’
Wednesday 26^th March: there will be no meeting as there is a committee meeting on in the evening – sorry!
Wednesday 2^nd April: Kas Stone, via zoom; Kas Stone is a professional photographer based in Nova Scotia, Canada. Talk is titled – Making Meaningful Photographs.

That’s all folks….
Cheers

Mike

Afternoon All

Notices:
New Zealand ‘Battle.’
I have now received the New Zealand AV containing the judging, scoring and, hopefully, the result of our ‘Battle.’ This will be shown, in the Arts Centre, on Wednesday evening, 19^th March. It is only eight and half minutes long!
I haven’t watched it so the result will only be known at the finish!

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 be given an award in any of our competitions, and/or they could also be prints that for some reason you haven’t entered. Please bring in your prints ‘cos we need about 60 to fill the walls in the Arts Centre!
The deadline for prints is Wednesday 19^th March although you can bring them in on any Wednesday.
The ‘hanging’ of the prints will be on Saturday 5^th April and the exhibition will be open from Tuesday 8^th April until Thursday 1^st May.
Maurice is co-ordinating 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.

Quiz Teams:
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.

Events Cup:
I’ve attached the list of destinations for the 2025 Events Cup and some of these destinations have an explanatory note. We have 23 destinations listed so, many thanks to all those who sent in suggestions!
On Wednesday 19^th March, during the members evening, a vote will take place to determine the actual 5 destinations and during the committee meeting the following week the days and dates will be set.
Information from Ruth Lochrie, Lancaster Photographic Society:
This is part of our inter-club (i.e. GLAM) ‘effort’ to offer all club members other talks that are taking place at the clubs.
We (Lancaster Photographic Society) have an in person speaker a week on Monday from Assembly Arts, held at the St. Thomas’ Centre. The speaker is Alan Morris – Talking about photography – this is £5 each.

Lee Metcalf: A second reading!
2 tours for you to read about; Venice and Harris and Lewis.
I’ve attached both trips for you to peruse, and, if you are interested, please contact Lee direct – all information on the attached.

Coffee Duty:
Coffee and tea duty for this coming Wednesday, 26th, is Lewis and Tim. Many thanks in advance!

Up and coming programme of events:

Wednesday 5th March: Tesni Ward: Via Zoom, British Wildlife. Tesni writes: Britian is home to some of the most charismatic wildlife in the world, yet some species can be elusive, making them a challenge to any photographer. This talk covers stories from the field, essential fieldcraft and how to ensure you remain ethical whilst developing your portfolio.

Wednesday 12th March: Humanity Cup judging by Nicki Ellis-Greenwood

Wednesday 19th March: Members Evening: A talk by Stan titled, Monochrome photography. Plus, voting on destinations for the Events Cup, the viewing of the New Zealand ‘Battle’ via their AV and member’s challenge; show & tell – ‘Above and Below.’

Wednesday 26^th March: there will be no meeting as there is a committee meeting on in the evening – sorry!

That’s all folks….
Cheers

Mike

Morning All

Very sad news:
As mentioned by Stan in last Wednesday’s meeting, Chris passed away on Tuesday 18^th February at home with his family by his side; Chris was aged 78 years.
The funeral Mass will take place at St. Clare’s Church, Fulwood on Wednesday 5^th March at 11.15am, prior to committal at Preston Crematorium.
If you are attending, a touch of red in your attire would be much appreciated. Family flowers only please, donations, if desired, to the ‘British Heart Foundation.’

Notices:
Advanced announcement:
Wednesday 26^th March there will be no meeting – there is a committee meeting on in the evening – sorry!

New Zealand ‘Battle.’
Unfortunately, this ‘Battle’ has been postponed until sometime in March and I have no idea of the reason. From an email I received, and reading between the lines, the images have apparently been judged and whom ever was in charge of ‘putting together’ an AV hasn’t done it! Hey ho, the bacon butties and the fizz will still be available at the appropriate time!

Quiz Teams:
I’m sure you will all be pleased to know that the Charles Flatt intergroup quiz competing for the Charles Flatt Trophy will be held on Saturday 26^th April.
We have, currently, entered 2 teams to participate. Each team can have up to 6 people, so that’s a possible 12 members.  If you would like to be part of either team, PLEASE let me know via our website on info@garstangcameraclub.co.uk – currently we have me, Freda, Robin, Sue and Adrian.

Events Cup:
Next week I’ll attach the list for the Events Cup for 2025. We have quite a few destinations listed with a small, where necessary, explanation of each idea.
Then, on Wednesday 19^th March, during the members evening a vote will take place to determine the actual 5 destinations and during the committee meeting the following week the days and dates will be set. As I have said, we have had quite a few ideas but it’s not too late if you wish to send in more destinations.

Presentation:
Our member, Professor John Griffin, of Lancaster University, is giving a talk next Thursday, 27^th February at 2pm, titled ‘Snapshots of Britain’ 1950 to 1970.’ The venue is the library, next to Booths and the admission is £3 to include refreshments.~
This talk is the same that John gave to the members back last year. If you missed it, I can greatly recommend it! In fact, it’s worth seeing it again.

Coffee Duty:
Coffee and tea duty for this coming Wednesday, 26^th, is Dave and Barry. Many thanks in advance!

Up and coming programme of events:

Wednesday 26th February: A talk by Tim, “A Trail of Two Oceans.” – A train journey across Africa.

Wednesday 5th March: Tesni Ward: Via Zoom, British Wildlife. Tesni writes: Britian is home to some of the most charismatic wildlife in the world, yet some species can be elusive, making them a challenge to any photographer. This talk covers stories from the field, essential fieldcraft and how to ensure you remain ethical whilst developing your portfolio.

Wednesday 12th March: Humanity Cup judging by Nicki Ellis-Greenwood

Wednesday 19^th March: Members Evening: A talk by Stan titled, Monochrome photography. Plus, voting on destinations for the Events Cup and members challenge, show & tell – ‘Above and Below.’

That’s all folks….
Cheers

Mike

Morning All

Well, I’m still smiling, in fact I’ve gone into smug mode!
Coffee morning – quite a busy morning; we took £90.80, not sure where the .80p came from, but hey ho, every little helps!
Big thanks to, and in no particular order, Elaine, Freda, Robin, and Rhona for giving up their time to help out.
And, also a big thanks to those members who managed to produce some lovely and very tasty edible products for us to sell – despite the very short notice!
Today seems to be mostly about trips on offer:

Notices:

Trip to Black Country Living Museum, organised by Janet from Morecambe Camera Club: email below;
I stepped down from Programme Secretary as you probably know but I do try and organise events occasionally and with that in mind I wondered if your members may be interested in a coach trip to the Black Country Living Museum in Dudley?It is an idea I had along with Ruth Lochrie from Lancaster Photographic Society and in order to fill a coach we thought we would open it up to members of a number of clubs.
The dates we are looking at are Thursday 8th May, Saturday 31st May and Thursday 19th June.Thursday 19th June is looking most popular at the moment.
The cost per photographer would be approx. £50 for coach and entry to the museum.Partners can come as well if there’s space.
If you are interested, please email in to me with the date and I’ll pass on your interest to Janet and your email address – thanks.

Lee Metcalf: 2 tours for you to read about; Venice and Harris and Lewis.
I’ve attached both trips for you to peruse, and, if you are interested, please contact Lee direct – all information on the attached.

Sandra Marson, (Garstang Painting Group) organised in conjunction with Adrian – to see it any members of the Camera Club would like to join them.
Sandra writes: We are organising a trip to Saltaire this spring, either early April or mid-May, trying to avoid Bank Holidays and school holidays.
It would be on a Wednesday and will cost £25. Please let me know if you are interested so I can order the coach.
It’s a big David Hockney exhibition to celebrate Bradford City of Culture and Saltaire is a really interesting place to visit; there is also a very nice café!
If you are interested, please email Adrian on adrianwhitaker@btinternet.com thanks.

L&CPU:
The 119th AGM of the L&CPU will be held at: –
St. Marys Parish Centre, Devonshire Street, Chorley PR7 2BY
On Sunday 23rd February 2025 at 2.00pm (doors open at 1.00pm)
If anyone is interested in the above, please email me on info@garstangcameraclub.co.uk and I will send you full details.

Badgers:
I have 1 place left for Thursday 10th April, though exact details to follow. Sunset is at 8pm so I assume we will probably leave here at 6pm (ish). Cost £35 and I have a seat in my car available.
If you are interested, please email Mike on info@garstangcameraclub.co.uk
This will, if necessary, be on a first come first served basis.

Programme for 2025 – 2026
As you may be aware we are currently putting together our new programme. We have agreed to allocate a members evening nearly every month which is for various club activities, one of which will be given over to members to give a talk on any aspect of photography.
If you would like to give a talk, for any length of time, (it doesn’t have to be 45 or 60 mins), please email in or chat to me; I would be very keen to hear from you!

New Zealand ‘Battle.’
I’m still waiting to hear the final details from them but just from a logistics point of view, if you are intending to join us at 7.30am on Wednesday 26^th February, could you please let me know so that we can order the fizz and the prepare the bacon butties! – Cheers!

Don’t forget the new Challenge – ‘Above and Below.’
This is a show-and-tell for 19^th March. The idea here is an ‘open’ challenge – any subject, colour or monochrome – where you have taken the photographs NOT at eye level. So, down low or up high!

Coffee Duty:
Coffee and tea duty for this coming Wednesday is Adrian and Mike; please don’t bring in any biscuits/cakes, we have plenty! – many thanks in advance!

Up and coming programme of events:

Wednesday 19^th February: Michael Berkeley, Via Zoom, on ‘Sport Photography.’

Wednesday 26th February: NZ Battle at 7.30am; bacon butties and fizz, all via zoom and live from NZ, in theory; watch this space!

Wednesday 26^th February -in the evening: A talk by Tim, “A Trail of Two Oceans.” – A train journey across Africa.

Wednesday 5^th March: Tesni Ward: Via Zoom, British Wildlife.

Wednesday 12^th March: Humanity Cup judging by Nicki Ellis-Greenwood

That’s all folks….

Cheers

Mike

Morning All

I’m very pleased to announce that we won the ‘GLAM’ Battle last night! 
The scores are below:

	Club	Points
1st	Garstang	255
2nd	Lancaster	243
3rd	Arnside and Silverdale	240
4th	Morecambe	230

So, a huge thanks to all involved!

As important!
I forgot to mention that this Saturday coming, 15^th February, we are running the coffee morning at the Arts Centre.
I know it is very, very late but we do need, please, some edible products (cakes etc) to sell. If you can please bring along, on Saturday, by about 10 ish.

Cheers

Mike

Morning All
Despite the sun shining it’s a brisk easterly here this morning in Forton; I think my camera will stay in its bag today!

Notices:
Message from a Nicola Atanassova, Audience Partnerships & Projects.
Dear Colleague
We are working with internationally acclaimed photographer Sean Conboy to bring a series of photographic sessions called Architectural Lens: A Year of Exploration to the Fylde Coast and would be delighted if you are able to share this information with your members and fellow photographers.
This exhilarating photography series will offer both enthusiasts and professionals a rare opportunity to learn from one of the best in the business. Prepare to embark on an extraordinary visual journey through the architectural gems of the North West with Architectural Lens: A Year of Exploration from January 2025 through to January 2026, led by none other than the critically acclaimed photographer Sean Conboy and hosted by the iconic Blackpool Grand Theatre.
Each of the eight workshops on offer are designed to be fully hands-on, with participants not only receiving technical advice from Sean, but also being encouraged to see these extraordinary venues in new ways giving you exclusive access to these amazing venues. Whether attending a single session or booking the entire series of eight workshops, participants will leave with more than just stunning images – they’ll gain an in-depth understanding of the relationship between architecture and photography.
Each session in this series focuses on a unique architectural theme, offering participants the chance to unlock their creativity and capture history as they master a variety of techniques.
Here’s is a full list of the sessions through the year you can book for:

Wed 26 Feb – The Imperial Hotel: (Theme: Space & Scale)
Fri 14 Mar – Blackpool Tower Ballroom: (Theme: Entertainment History & Heritage)
Thurs 15 May – Lytham Hall: (Theme: Light & Shadow)
Tues 8 July – Blackpool Promenade: (Theme: People & Places)
Tues 30 Sept – Blackpool Pleasure Beach: (Theme: Art Deco & Fascinating Structures)
Mon 24 Nov – Blackpool Town Hall: (Theme: Modern Architecture & Sustainable Design)
January 2026 – Blackpool Grand Theatre (date tbc): (Theme: Details & Patterns)

Sean Conboy’s remarkable portfolio boasts over 30 years of capturing architectural wonders for illustrious clients like The Royal Opera House and The Savoy Hotel. Known for his ability to highlight the intricate beauty of both modern and historic buildings, Conboy’s unique style marries technical brilliance with a passion for storytelling through images – making him the ideal mentor for this highly anticipated series.
Each session is priced at £125 per person, with limited participants per session. Transport to each venue and lunch are not included. BOOK NOW here as places are limited.

Nicola Atanassova
Audience Partnerships & Projects
M: 07796 994544
W: blackpoolgrand.co.uk
Please note: Work days – Tues, Wed & Thurs

If you are interested please contact directly; or you may wish to ‘buddy-up’ with other member(s)?

Calendar 2026
Just to repeat our conversation, last Wednesday, about the calendar.
The calendar used to be Garstang only; however, following on with conversations with Muriel she has now stated that images could not only encompass Garstang but now the surrounding areas to a radius of 5 to 10 miles, maximum; so, this means that the scope has now widened! Please get out and about, in the fullness of time, so that we can offer her a great selection towards the end of April/ beginning of May.

Further to the email below from Anne Marie at the Arts Centre
Please can you note the following:
The Charles Flatt Quiz and the 200 Club draw will be held on Saturday 26th April @ 7.30pm.We do hope you will support this event and put in at least one team. The suggestion is 2 teams; if you are interested, please put ‘your’ team on the ‘quiz notice’ on the door into the music room.
The AGM, of the Garstang & District Arts Society, will be held on Saturday 12th April at 2pm.Everyone is invited. If your group cannot be represented then please let me know. Sue has kindly offered to attend and represent the club – thanks Sue!
Can you also send me a report of your Group’s activities over the last year please. (Done).
If you have any issues to bring up, please let me have them in advance of the meeting. Thank you. Any issues? Email me.

Don’t forget the new Challenge!
‘Above and Below.’
This is a show-and-tell for 19^th March. The idea here is an ‘open’ challenge – any subject, colour or monochrome – where you have taken the photographs NOT at eye level. So, down low or up high!

Coffee Duty:
Coffee and tea duty for this coming Wednesday is Claire and Alan – so, many thanks in advance!

Up and coming programme of events:
Wednesday 12^th February: 4 Way ‘Battle’ competition between: Garstang Camera Club, Arnside and Silverdale Photography Club (formally known as J36), Morecambe Camera Club and Lancaster Photographic Society. This ‘Battle’ has now been christened ‘GLAM.’
The actual judging will be via Zoom to the Arts Centre. Yvonne from Arnside and Silverdale Photography Club will be hosting the event from the Arts Centre and we are expecting a few guests from the 3 clubs – so could be busy! Unofficially, we may have upwards of 15/20 guests from the other clubs.
There will be no charge for coffee/tea and biscuits but we will be running a raffle so, any donations will be very gratefully received – please bring along any time – ta!

Wednesday 19^th February: Michael Berkeley, Via Zoom, on ‘Sport Photography.’

Wednesday 26th February: NZ Battle at 7.30am; bacon butties and fizz, all via zoom and live from NZ, in theory; watch this space!

In the evening: A talk by Tim, “A Trail of Two Oceans.” – A train journey across Africa.

Wednesday 5^th March: Tesni Ward: Via Zoom, British Wildlife.

Wednesday 12^th March: Humanity Cup judging by Nicki Ellis-Greenwood

That’s all folks….

Cheers

Mike

Morning All
Many thanks to all members who managed to enter some images for the latest challenge – non edited images – and I’m sure we all got something from them!

Latest challenge? See below!

Notices:
Email below from Anne Marie at the Arts Centre.
Hello All,
I attach for your information a copy of the Minutes of the last Exec meeting of the Arts Centre.
Please can you note the following:
The Charles Flatt Quiz and the 200 Club draw will be held on Saturday 26th April @ 7.30pm.We do hope you will support this event and put in at least one team. Team(s) anyone?
The AGM, (agenda attached), of the Garstang & District Arts Society will be held on Saturday 12th April at 2pm.Everyone is invited.If your group cannot be represented then please let me know. Anyone interested?
Can you also send me a report of your Group’s activities over the last year please. (Mike will do).
If you have any issues to bring up, please let me have them in advance of the meeting. Thank you. Any issues? Email me.
There will be another Easter Hamper raffle and donations to fill this are needed please.
Can you ask your members if they are able to volunteer to help in the cafe with serving and washing up on Tuesdays and Thursdays.If they could see Vanessa or Maddy and leave their contact details so that Vanessa can call them when help is needed.

New Challenge!
‘Above and Below.’
This is a show-and-tell for 19^th March. The idea here is an ‘open’ challenge – any subject, colour or monochrome – where you have taken the photographs NOT at eye level. So, down low or up high!

Badgers
Here are the names of the members who have expressed an interest in photographing the badgers at Wild Haweswater:
Lewis, Robin, Freda, Mike (J), Dave, Anne, Maurice and Shelly.
If I’ve missed you off this list, please contact me ASAP! Or you are interested.
The deadline for interest will be Friday 7^th February ‘cos I’ll need to book the hide(s).
Just to remind you:
Although the hide isn’t specifically set up for photography, it has 4 camera ports in it (two horizontal for use sitting down and two vertical for use standing up), so 4 is the optimum for photographers.
All available dates up to the end of June are on our website here: https://events.rspb.org.uk/haweswater (July dates will be released in February, August dates in March and so on, through to the final month of the season being October – dates released in May).
Cost: £141 is the full non-member price, RSPB members receive a 20% discount, £113. so, 4 members it would equal £35 each.

The Events Cup Competition
As I mentioned last week, I’m inviting submissions for the 2025 Events cup which will commence in April 2025.
PLEASE email me at info@garstangcameraclub.co.uk for any destination you may think will ‘fit-the-bill.’

Humanity Cup Competition; Our 4^th internal competition:
Image description: People in all environments, activities and emotions. People or people-related connections must be the focal point. More than one person may be included.
Details are on our website but just to remind you: last date for entry is 5^th February; that’s this coming Wednesday! The judging is on Wednesday 12^th March by Nicki Ellis-Greenwood.

L&CPU – last call!
Lancashire and Cheshire Photographic Union, (L&CPU), Annual Club Print & Projected Image Competitions: 1st & 2nd March 2025
Many thanks to those members who have already submitted images to Lewis.
We must have a minimum of 5 members to participate.
We are entering ONLY the PDI NOT entering prints.
PDI’s: there are two categories in this section – Open (which includes colour and monochrome) and Nature.
I attached the rules and guidelines for you to read in last week’s newsletter
If you wish to enter any PDI’s please send them to the usual email address, info@garstangcameraclub.co.uk for the attention of Lewis. Many thanks.
Deadline for submissions is FRIDAY 7^th February.

Display
Just to remind everyone; the display currently showing in the Arts Centre is coming down next week to be replaced by a group exhibition.
From the Arts Centre committee:
This next exhibition in the Music Room is going to be the Group Exhibitions. This is a chance to showcase yourselves and advertise to potential new members.
The idea is to get as creative as possible, to hang some beautiful embroidery, paintings, performance photographs, programmes, etc.
We’ve got A3 posters for each group ready.
Hanging would be done after the take down of the Open Exhibition, which is on Saturday 8th February, so Sunday 9th, Monday 10th, Tuesday 11th you may hang your fabulous display’s.
If you have any A5 prints we could put alongside ‘our’ exhibition please bring them along on Wednesday – cheers.

Coffee Duty:
Coffee and tea duty for this coming Wednesday is Mervyn and Freda – so, many thanks in advance!

Up and coming programme of events:
Wednesday 5^th February: Boyd Harris: ‘Live’ with a talk titled A Photographic Journey through History.

Wednesday 12^th February: 4 Way ‘Battle’ competition between: Garstang Camera Club, Arnside and Silverdale Photography Club (formally known as J36), Morecambe Camera Club and Lancaster Photographic Society. This ‘Battle’ has now been christened ‘GLAM’ I’ll leave you to work it out – any complaints to be directed to Stan!
The actual judging will be via Zoom to the Arts Centre. Yvonne from Arnside and Silverdale Photography Club will be hosting the event from the Arts Centre and we are expecting a few guests from the 3 clubs – so could be busy!
There will be no charge for coffee/tea and biscuits but we will be running a raffle so, any donations will be very gratefully received – please bring along any time – ta!

Wednesday 19^th February: Michael Berkeley, Via Zoom on ‘Sport Photography.’

Wednesday 26th February: NZ Battle at 7.30am; bacon butties and fizz, all via zoom and live from NZ, in theory; watch this space!

In the evening: A talk by Tim, “A Trail of Two Oceans.” – A train journey across Africa.

That’s all folks….

Cheers

Mike

Morning All
I thought Gordon Watson did a great job of judging our Creatures and Plants of the World Cup competition last Wednesday; he was very fair and gave his interpretation of each image, the positives and where each image could be improved.
So, thanks to all members who sent in images and I hope you got the feedback you needed!
And, finally, congratulations to John for being awarded the best image of the evening for the Wren in Flight print; beautifully captured.

Notices:
Lancashire and Cheshire Photographic Union
Annual Club Print & Projected Image Competitions: 1st & 2nd March 2025
As Lewis mentioned on Wednesday, we are entering the above competition as long as we have enough members interested.  
As Lewis said:

• We must have a minimum of 5 members to participate.
• We are entering ONLY the PDI NOT prints.
• PDI’s: there are two categories in this section – Open (which includes colour and monochrome) and Nature.

I have attached the rules and Guidelines for you to read through carefully and digest! We will answer any questions during our next meeting – this coming Wednesday, 29^th January.
If you wish to enter any PDI’s please send them to the usual email address, info@garstangcameraclub.co.uk  for the attention of Lewis. Many thanks.

Badgers, thanks here to Dave:
Hi Mike
Seeing badger picture last night reminded me of an evening badger viewing opportunity.
I sent info on last year which is running again this year starting from April.
Cost is £141 for exclusive use of hide for up to 8 people but cheaper if anyone is RSPB member. It is at the RSPB Badger Hide at Wild Haweswater.
If we can find 8 people wanting to go (all on the same evening could be difficult!!) it would be just under £18 each. The issue will be trying to agree on a date. So, if we knock out Wednesdays the following dates are available in April currently: April 1st, 3rd, 15th, 17th, 22nd, 24th and 29th.
However, when looking at dates last year they tend to get booked up, so any dates may have vanished before we can get a date agreed. All a bit difficult!
https://events.rspb.org.uk/events/97006#about
This is a link to Badger viewing: best to look at all frequently asked questions to understand the evening and how it works.
I’m in the process of inquiring about the above idea and will report back this Wednesday evening. In the meantime, if you are interested, please have a read.

The Events Cup Competition
As I mentioned last week, I’m inviting submissions for the 2025 Events cup which will commence in April 2025.
PLEASE email me at info@garstangcameraclub.co.uk for any destination you may think will ‘fit-the-bill.’
I have attached a list of the destinations that have been suggested so far, so thanks to everyone for their thoughts!
When I have these destinations, I will send them out to all members to vote on their favourites and the top 5 will be those chosen for 2025. Ta!
If there are any questions just email me or speak to me at the next meeting.
Just to remind everyone, images submitted for this cup competition are taken on the clubs 5 outings; 1 outing in each of the months of April, May, June, July and August.
As last year there will be 2 dates for each destination; one during the week and one at the weekend.

For this coming Members Evening on January 29^th.
Don’t forget the challenge!
The idea here is to take and show photographs; that is, an open category, colour or monochrome, of your choice.
However, you are NOT ALLOWED to edit your images in any editing suit. For example, no cropping.
You can show as many images as you like, within reason, of course!
Also, on this members evening, Stan will be showing, the 15 images we are submitting for the 4 way Battle on Wednesday 12^th February and the 30 images we are submitting for the New Zealand ‘Battle’.

Humanity Cup Competition; Our 4^th internal competition:
Image description: People in all environments, activities and emotions. People or people-related connections must be the focal point. More than one person may be included.
Details are on our website but just to remind you: last date for entry is 5^th February that’s 10 days away! The judging is on Wednesday 12^th March by Nicki Ellis-Greenwood.

Coffee Duty:
Coffee and tea duty for this coming Wednesday is Lewis and Brenda – so, may thanks in advance!

Up and coming programme of events:
Wednesday 29^th January: The 4 way Battle images, (15), and the New Zealand ‘Battle’ images, (30), shown by Stan and ‘show-and-tell’ challenge images – see above! Plus, I have some Wildlife Photographs of the year and a selection of some closeup images, ‘Wonders of the World,’ which you may find interesting!

Wednesday 5^th February: Boyd Harris: ‘Live’ with a talk titled ‘A Photographic Journey through History.’

Wednesday 12^th February: 4 Way ‘Battle’ competition between: Garstang, Arnside and Silverdale Photography Club (formally known as J36), Morecambe Camera Club and Lancaster Photographic Society. This ‘Battle’ has now been christened ‘GLAM’ I’ll leave you to work it out – any complaints to be directed to Stan!
Final details yet to be sorted but the actual judging will be via Zoom to the Arts Centre.

Wednesday 19^th February: Michael Berkeley, Via Zoom on ‘Sport Photography.’

That’s all folks….
Cheers

Mike

Morning All
Another cold and damp week ahead but don’t forget the ‘Alphabet’ challenge, get those cameras out, you never know when an opportunity will come!

Notices:
Steve Pendrill:
Below is an email from Steve, which, I think, is self-explanatory. For those with a long memory or the name might ring a bell, he gave a talk, to the club, back on  May 6^th 2015 titled ’30 years behind the lens.’

Hi Steve Pendrill here
I’m a professional Lancaster based photographer (formerly of the Garstang Courier) who is in the process of retiring. I’m sure I have actually given a talk to your members in the past, so my name may be familiar.
I am selling off my modest selection of studio equipment and was wondering if anyone there might be interested?
Without going into too much detail at this point, we’re talking… four working studio lights and accompanying reflectors/diffusers, stands, a large wheeled case (a nice one), a free standing 6’x7′ white backdrop (for rear lighting).
Stating the obvious here, but as a full working kit it would be ideal for someone wanting to take up studio portrait work.
For slightly more serious photography I also have a 4m wide white fabric backdrop and stand, ideal for groups/event work.
Camera-wise, have rather old nowadays but still working Nikon D200 (digital) and a slightly more modern Nikon D7100. Finally, I have a product shooting table, a monopod and one or two lenses to sell.
I look forward to hearing from you if you have any interest or suggestions and thanks for your time.
All the best
Steve

Now, if anyone is interested, please email me and I will send contact details for you to chat to Steve directly.

Message from Stan about Brian Bamber:
Brian Bamber was an active member of the club many years ago. Sadly, he died suddenly from a heart attack.
I know his daughter and she would like to donate a piece of kit to the club or any member.
The kit consists of Interfit EX 150 Mk11 Home studio flash kit. It is like new and in its original box.
We have decided to accept this donation and Stan will bring the studio flash kit in on Wednesday night so that we can all have a look at it. This kit will be available, as a loan, to any member to borrow.

Thoughts are now turning to The Events Cup Competition:
Just to remind everyone, images submitted for this cup competition are taken on the clubs 5 outings; 1 outing in each of the months of April, May, June, July and August.
As last year there will be 2 dates for each destination; one in the week and one at the weekend.
Last year members sent in 14 possible destinations and around late February/early March we voted on them and the top 5 were chosen for the Events Cup 2024. These 5 were Arnside and Silverdale to include Gait Burrow, Chester Zoo, Leighton Moss, Eycott Hill Nature Reserve and finally Skipton and Settle.
So, we need now ideas/thoughts/suggestions for the coming season and I’m inviting submissions for the 2025 Events cup which will commence in April 2025.
PLEASE email me at info@garstangcameraclub.co.uk for any destination you may think will ‘fit-the-bill.’  
When I have these destinations, I will send them out to all members to vote on their favourites and the top 5 will be those chosen for 2025. Ta!
If there are any questions just email me or speak to me at the next meeting.

For Members Evening January 29^th.
Don’t forget this new challenge!
The idea here is to take and show photographs; that is, an open category, colour or monochrome, of your choice.
However, you are NOT ALLOWED to edit your images in any editing suit. For example, no cropping.
You could take your photographs in JPEG format or RAW format.
I appreciate that JPEG images, straight from camera, are edited to a certain degree, however RAW images can be submitted. You could, if you wish show the same image in JPEG and RAW to show the difference but again NO editing!
You can show as many images as you like, within reason, of course!
It’s a bit of fun so, dust off that camera and PLEASE have a go now that the weather is more moderate. You can send your images to me and I’ll include them on a PowerPoint presentation so that they could be anonymous or bring them in on a USB stick so that they could be shown that way.
Also, on this members evening, Stan will be showing, with comments, the 30 images we are submitting for the New Zealand ‘Battle’.
This ‘Battle’ will, hopefully, be shown ‘live’ in the Arts Centre on February 26^th at 7.30 in the morning – Freda is threating bacon butties and I’m sure there will be something fizzy to drink! More info when we get it.

Humanity Cup Competition; Our 4^th internal competition:
Image description: People in all environments, activities and emotions. People or people-related connections must be the focal point. More than one person may be included.

Details are on our website but just to remind you: last date for entry is 5^th February that’s 17 days away! And the judging is on Wednesday 12^th March by Nicki Ellis-Greenwood.

Coffee Duty:

Coffee and tea duty for this coming Wednesday is Claire and Ian – may thanks in advance!

Up and coming programme of events:

Wednesday 22^nd January: Our 3^rd internal competition, Creatures and Plants of the World Cup, judged by Gordon Watson. We have 70 images to be judged.

Wednesday 29^th January: New Zealand ‘Battle’ images shown by Stan and ‘show-and-tell’ images – see above!

Wednesday 5^th February: Boyd Harris: ‘Live’ with a talk titled A Photographic Journey through History.

Wednesday 12^th February: 4 Way ‘Battle’ competition between: Garstang, Arnside and Silverdale Photography Club (formally known as J36), Morecambe Camera Club and Lancaster Photographic Society. Final details yet to be sorted but the actual judging will be via Zoom to the Arts Centre.

That’s all folks….

Cheers

Mike

Morning All
Well, the thaw has set in; I do like cold and frosty mornings but it got just a little too cold! Still, we now have the opportunity moan about the rain/drizzle that’s about to arrive!

Notices:
Adjustment to the 2024/25 programme.
We have had to make a few small adjustments for the second half of the programme due to various reasons and I’ve attached an up to date copy. It has also been altered on are website – big thanks here to Tim for his technical skills!

Peter Frankish.
In case you can’t remember Peter is the gentleman who does a lot of work raising money for the St Catherines Hospice and, if you recall, not so long ago, we sent 19 prints of various Lake District photographs to him for sale to raise funds.
Anyway, I have received an email below, which, I think, is self-explanatory. If anyone can help, please get in touch with me – ta.

Peter’s email: I have just received a specific request from one of my co-volunteers at Brockholes Nature Reserve for a panoramic view of the Forrest of Bowland. Is this something that you may be able to help us with? I don’t have a timeframe as yet but please just consider the possibility.

Members Evening January 29^th.
A new challenge!
The idea here is to take and show photographs; that is, an open category, colour or monochrome, of your choice.
However, you are NOT ALLOWED to edit your images in any editing suit. For example, no cropping.
You could take your photographs in JPEG format or RAW format.
I appreciate that JPEG images, straight from camera, are edited to a certain degree, however RAW images can be submitted. You could, if you wish show the same image in JPEG and RAW to show the difference but again NO editing!
You can show as many images as you like, within reason, of course!
It’s a bit of fun so, dust off that camera and PLEASE have a go now that the weather is more moderate. You can send your images to me and I’ll include them on a PowerPoint presentation so that they could be anonymous or bring them in on a USB stick so that they could be shown that way.
Also, on this members evening, Stan will be showing, with comments, the 30 images we are submitting for the New Zealand ‘Battle’.
This ‘Battle’ will, hopefully, be shown ‘live’ in the Arts Centre on February 26^th at 7.30 in the morning – Freda is threating bacon butties and I’m sure there will be something fizzy to drink! More info when we get it.

Up and coming programme of events:
Wednesday 15^th January: Via Zoom, Geoff Reader, ‘An Evening with Geoff.’
My first section is Sport and has wild water, canoeing and paragliders amongst 7 sports. My landscapes use light to show mountains, ruins, Autumn Scenes, Seascapes etc to their best advantage. A short Misc section breaks up the first half. I am not a Nature Photographer but to complete my portfolio I include some of my favourite images.
After the break I cover my varied ‘People’ shots with some amusing stories of how I got the shot or suffered the consequences!

Wednesday 22^nd January: Our 3^rd internal competition, Creatures and Plants of the World Cup, judged by Gordon Watson. We have 70 images to be judged.

Wednesday 29^th January: New Zealand ‘Battle’ images and ‘show-and-tell’ images – see above!

Wednesday 5^th February: Boyd Harris: ‘Live’ with a talk titled A Photographic Journey through History.

That’s all folks….

Cheers

Mike