Solas members started the 2025 season with a month of photographic opportunities and engagement. Altogether, it was a month that blended public engagement, learning opportunities, and plenty of creativity—laying strong foundations for the busy season ahead. This year we have our biggest membership in the history of the club with 25 Advanced and 29 Non-Advanced members.
The month opened on 3 September with our Opening Night, where returning members and new faces gathered to launch the 2025/26 season. The evening provided a chance to introduce upcoming talks, workshops, competitions, and outings, and to showcase the club activities.. The welcoming atmosphere set the tone for the weeks that followed, with plenty of lively discussion about photography projects, techniques, and personal goals, and a session of club member portraits hosted by club member Cathal Bowe.
Mid-month, the club focused on a food photography workshop in the Blue Room, led by our own Marie Mc Neela. Members learned about composition, styling, and lighting techniques to make food imagery both appetising and visually striking. The session was hands-on, creative, and thoroughly enjoyed by all. Maria provided her slide deck from the evening which you can find here.
On 19th September, Culture Night, Solas presented a much-anticipated public exhibition of members’ photographs, hosted at the Marine Institute. “Moments in Light, Wild Atlantic Way” showcased the wide range of talent within the club, from moody Irish seascapes to expressive portraits and marine-based images from along the Wild Atlantic Way. Visitors engaged warmly with the work and shared glowing feedback on the diversity of styles represented.
The club also enjoyed a day trip to Achill to photograph the “Battle of the Lakes” kite and windsurfing competition. The dramatic setting, combined with colourful sails and high-energy action on the water, offered members a wealth of photographic opportunities. From fast-paced sports shots to sweeping coastal landscapes, the outing proved both exciting and creatively rewarding.
Altogether, September was a month of energy, learning, and public connection, setting the stage for another exciting year of photography at Solas.