We held a number of really interesting presentations, judging session and field trip in March, as members kept up a steady run of activity as we enter the final term of the club season.
The Wild Atlantic Way Judging
The Wild Atlantic Way Print Competition was an early highlight, judged by Seamus Costello FIPF who came up from Kilkenny for the night. The overall standard was high, with a wide range of styles and interpretations on display. Seamus offered thoughtful and grounded feedback, pointing out what worked well while also encouraging members to look more closely at detail, composition, and storytelling in their prints. He also showed a broad range of his own printed work, from wedding and glamour photography to fine art and some highly imaginative pieces. He was generous in sharing his knowledge, particularly when it came to lighting and the importance of getting things right in-camera.
Nature Photography with Jimmy McDonnell
In mid March, we welcomed Jimmy McDonnell FIPF from Greystones Camera Club for a talk on his nature photography, including wildlife, landscapes, seascapes and macro. He spoke about the realities of working in the field, from patience and timing to understanding your subject and making the most of challenging environments. He showed us his Fellowship panel, entitled ‘Life in a Native Irish Woodland’ and explained the background and development of the panel. It was an engaging and enthusiastic session, with plenty for members to take away and apply to their own work.
Dublin Zoo Club Outing
Later in the month, a club trip to the zoo in Dublin provided a chance to put some of that into practice. It was a relaxed and enjoyable day in fine spring sunshine, with members experimenting with different techniques and approaches to animal photography, while also taking the opportunity to share ideas and enjoy the social side of the club.
All in all, March set things up nicely for the closing months, ahead of our summer break, with plenty of ideas, energy and momentum coming out of the competitions, talks and outings.