Thanks to Alison Tetley for preparing the following report.
On Friday, 12th September, Ilkley Camera Club held its first Members’ Evening of the season. These evenings have been popular, offering members the chance to share personal projects and experiences. They can be inspiring and spark stimulating discussions. Numbers were lower than usual on this occasion.
Andree Freeman opened the evening with a selection of images from various club outings: Heptonstall, Adel Church, Airton, Lister Park and Cartwright Hall, Saltaire, and the Leeds statues.
David James followed with his own set of images, which included Heptonstall, Hewenden Viaduct, Adel Church and Cemetery, Cartwright Hall, and Saltaire. The contrast between the two was striking—despite visiting the same locations, their perspectives were vastly different, illustrating how two photographers can capture the same places in unique ways. David tended to focus on architecture and wide vistas, while Andree gravitated towards fine details and abstract compositions.
Next, Nigel Steels shared images from his journey to rediscover his photographic eye after illness. His work reflected his efforts to expand his skills in image processing, with a variety of subjects including nature, wildlife, and macro shots of plants, butterflies, and moths. He also showcased creative techniques like Intentional Camera Movement (ICM) and multiple exposures, using blend modes to construct his final images.
The second half of the evening focused largely on travel. Andrew Sutherland presented a selection of images from his extensive trip to India (both north and south), Sri Lanka, and the Maldives, which he had completed towards the end of the previous season. Rather than the typical tourist attractions, Andrew focused on town and village life, as well as rural scenes, giving a refreshing perspective on these regions.
Andy Thomas followed with his latest astrophotography, taken during his trip to Tenerife to photograph the Milky Way. As always, his images were spectacular. He also shared shots of the volcanic landscapes and the unique plant life found in the region.
Alison Tetley then shared her photographs from South Africa, featuring landscapes of the Drakensberg and the Wild Coast. Among her images, she included a few “how it was shot” pictures, showcasing the ascent of the chain ladder to reach the top of the Drakensberg. As a contrast, Alison also showed a selection of images from on-location photo shoots with models, including a ballerina, Erica Mulkern, on Ilkley Moor and at the Old Bridge.
Overall, the evening offered a remarkable variety of images and skills. It was an incredibly enjoyable and inspiring event.