Into 2012

23/01/12

As we move into 2012 and the winter has dared to drop in 'occassionally' without 'fully' arriving on our doorstep, (grateful in so many ways with particular referrence to driving!) it gives 'us', as photographers time to take stock and look at those shots we deemed as second or third in the pecking order when originally taken and sorted. Doesn't mean they aren't good, just that sometimes others really do leap out of the screen at you. Actually, you tend to know which ones you are going to select as you press 'click' and capture the image originally. In my own circumstances, I tend to take a considerable number that are for articles. They will illustrate the piece I am to write and so the prescriptive nature means I really do look hard and fast before the 'click' is made. My good friend Dave Powell Thompson will tell you that as we walk with a particular purpose, I'll see something and say to him, "just a minute Dave. This ones for the mag but these I'm now doing are for me!" By that I know that some editors prefer landscape format but covers are obviously portrait. Its amazing the difference that that can make to the shot. Its effect. Irrespective of that, its nice to revist shots that we have taken. In my own case, I can become unitentionally 'blinded' and that sometimes means I'll mark them as 'possibles' and they become forgotton. Yet time and demands mean I simply dont manage to get back to them. Its nice to do that. It often puts a smile on your face. That walk, that day, that time? Its nice to recall the situation that made you take it in the first place. Now this doesnt just refer to landscape pictures. Afterall, isnt that what a camera is for? To capture moments that meant something to us? Thats the essence of photography. That image that we look at, it makes you smile or laugh or think. So, as the spring rushes towards us (you can bet your bottom dollar that the snow will deluge now ha ha!) and we are still in the dark nights, go sit down and take a look at all of those piccies on the hard drive and see if something jumps out at you. Failing that, its also a good time to look at those you have marked as your best and try and deliver them in a different way. Black and white is a fabulously moody medium. Some packages give you a simple 'auto' button to create them and that can be a good way by seeing the same scene in a different light. If your skilled with software such as 'Lightroom' or 'Adobe CS' then to properly contrast each colour in the spectrum as a 'greyscale' will present you with a high quality black and white photograph. Especially if orginally shot in the RAW format. Go and have a play!
So, its near the end of January and been pleasing to receive so many bookings for my workshops. I love delivering them and its a real pleasure to enjoy several days walking around the western fells capturing images with people who share a common love of photography and this glorious piece of England. If you have bought a new camera or had one given as a christmas present, then why not consider coming on one of the workshops? I dont 'do' groups as I prefer to undertake 'one to one' or a maximum of two people. For me its the quality of the day, rather than you feeling like your just a 'number'. A ratio of one instructor to six people is unfair on the paying customer. I watched one guy recently on Wast Water holding court with six people who had, I am told, paid good money for a four day workshop. I didnt interfere or get involved but was saddened when one of the group, who didnt know who or what I was doing, said to me 'what a joke. I paid to do a course and I bet I've had one hour dedicated to me over four days'. He was stuck with a lighting situation and asked 'do you know much about this low light stuff?' and was seeking my help as he was setting up a shot. The 'instructor' was over two hundred yards away dealing with others. I didnt want to cross a line but felt for the guy. I gave him a brief overview. Eventually when help came from the instructor the light had dropped but at least this man had achieved something. Not good. I didnt tell him who I was. I felt it unfair. Unfortunately, what I witnessed first hand is, I am told, not uncommon and very reputable instructors usely use a much smaller ratio so the quality of service is not diminished. For me its about longevity of relationship not just the one day 'hit'. Fortunately, everyone and I mean everyone who has ever attended with me over the years, has remained a friend and regularly contacts me with their 'latest great shot'! Very pleasing. I look forward to seeing you should that be the case. I know many of you reading this will be 'those people' and know exactly what I mean and how genuine I am.
On my writing front, I am currently working on several articles that have been commissioned by 'Lake District Life', 'Cumbria', 'Lancashire Life' and 'TGO' magazines. I love writing as you come across superb people who have stories worth telling. Its their 'journey' and Nicky and Jorrit at 'MILLICAN BAGS' in Keswick are one such couple. Their piece will be in the 'specia'l that will be available in April. Inspiring!
Have also got a couple of super lakes weddings to be a part of shortly. Bring it on!
Ok I am just awaiting a minor shoulder operation at present and although it will lay me low for a week or so, I look forward to seeing some of you again soon and meeting new friends too!
By the way its not unusal at this time to here of Mountain Rescue teams putting themselves on the line in the most demanding of situations.
Never forget that these superb folk are a voluntary service. They need your support. My local team are the Wasdale people. 'Folks, you have my utmost respect!'
Regards Mark