Welcome to our website

2008-08-25T17:05:00.013+01:00

THIS SITE HAS NOW CLOSED PLEASE USE THE FOLLOWING LINK TO THE NEW WEBSITE

New Site

If this link does not work copy and paste the following into the address bar of your browser:

http://www.salephoto.org.uk/

Treasure Hunt

2008-07-27T12:10:00.001+01:00

Hi Folks
On Sunday 17th August 2008, SPS will be having a treasure hunt in the Derbyshire area. In theory the route starts in Bakewell and finishes at Chapel-en-le-Frith via 35 miles of country lanes.
On a Sunday, Bakewell is a terrible place for traffic and as none of the clues are actually in Bakewell I thought it better to start at the place of the first clue, Ashford in the Water, where the parking is a little easier.
Ashford in the Water is directly off the A6 just before you reach Bakewell coming from the direction of Buxton.As you turn off the A6 Joyce and myself will be around the corner between 12.30 p.m. and 1.30 p.m.to hand out the clues and any information we can. Please try and turn up as it can be a very nice drive with a bit of interest thrown in and even if it rains, as last time, a laugh can still be had.
Hope you can all turn up.

A Watery Week for Sale Photographic Society

2008-06-24T21:08:00.000+01:00

A Watery week for Sale Photographic Society.

Well done, Dave, for organising a group from the club to join this interesting Sunday afternoon walk along the towpath, under the streets of Manchester.

Our guide was interesting, and full of information about the building of the first canals in this area, and about the beginnings of the Industrial Revolution in Manchester. He was proud of the important part played by Manchester, and Lancashire, in the development of the canal system. As he described the process, we were made aware of the forward thinking, engineering knowledge and ingenuity of Brindley and his colleagues. (Where are they now!)

The walk along the tow path took in various aspects of the many buildings along the canal, some dating back to the late eighteenth century, through to the more modern structures, including many bars, and clubs. It seems a pity that, having done such a good job in making the area more accessible, with the landscaping, renovated towpath and interesting venues along the canal banks, no general maintenance is going on. The whole area needs a good clean up. If people will insist on leaving litter around, then the least Manchester city council can do is to have some sort of regular clean up service. What a shame that all the original good work is allowed to go to waste.

The walk along Canal Street gave us an entertaining view of a group of gay men practising their line dancing routines. The music was worth a listen, but the grim determination on the faces of the dancers did not make line dancing seem a relaxing pastime, although some of their outfits were interesting. I wonder whether anyone was bold enough to take photos in the face of this curiously scary group. I certainly wasn’t.

We were lucky to have a warm, sunny afternoon for our trip, with good light on the many potential photographic subjects. We should be seeing some interesting entries in our future competitions.

I understand that our guide also does lectures on many aspects of the history of the North West, and Lancashire in particular. He might be a good addition to the syllabus for the future.

Thanks for organising the trip, Dave. Keep up the good work.

Another watery treat was organised on Thursday evening by Cy for President’s Evening. This time it was actually on the water. Our trip on the Judith Mary, a narrow boat (certainly not a barge!) started from Whaley Bridge, and took us along very attractive sections of the Peak Forest canal. Once again, the weather was on our side, as the evening turned out sunny, giving us lovely light on the surrounding countryside, and a rainbow, too!.

There were plenty of photo opportunities. We saw many interesting wild flowers and plants along the tow path, and the ‘aahh!’ factor was provided by two families of Canada Geese with their goslings, as they settled down on the bank for the night.
The tiny galley managed to turn out a very tasty supper, which I am sure we all enjoyed. Will someone please make a desert that Liz likes sometime soon! Never mind, Dave and John were happy to consume Liz’s apple pie for her. The staff did an excellent job of preparing and serving the meal.

We were little alarmed on our return, to see the fire brigade putting out a fire, luckily it wasn’t anybody’s car.

Thanks to Cy, our President, for organising the trip. I am sure everyone enjoyed the social side, as well as the food, although it was a little difficult to circulate, as the gangway was usually full of the caterers with armfuls of food, a small price to pay for a very pleasant evening. It was great to see such a good turnout of members and their guests, obviously a popular choice for an evening out. Your efforts are much appreciated, Cy. Thanks again.

Joyce Hollows June21st 2008

Canal Walk

2008-06-13T00:02:00.001+01:00

The walk under the City Streets commences at 2.0p.m. on Sunday the 15th June 2008 not 2.30p.m. as shown earlier. Sorry about that error.

The June competition

2008-06-03T10:40:00.002+01:00

Chosen by last months winner Al,
is
"Inland Waterways"

Any member requiring help to enter then please ask.

Challenge result for May

2008-06-03T10:35:00.003+01:00

This months winner is

'Sunset at The Worm'.

Congratulations Al nice one.

Digital projector displays

2008-05-26T13:08:00.002+01:00

For anyone interested the PAGB have published a document on attempting to standadise digital displays foe clubs and competitions. This is available to view by following the L&CPU link on this site and then going to the section marked "DOWNLOADS".

Canal under the city streets.

2008-05-10T20:58:00.001+01:00

The guided walk as above has now been booked for Sunday 15th June 2008 commencing 2.30 p.m..
I shall collect the monies in a couple of weeks.

May Challenge 'SUNSETS'

2008-05-02T21:40:00.002+01:00

This is open to all members of the club. Just upload an image into flikr. then the club site.

Romiley Battle Result

2008-04-26T16:51:00.002+01:00

On Fridday 2th April 2008 SPS enetered an invitation battle at Romiley. 9 clubs took part each enetering 5 digital images for projection. A minimum of 4 members work had to be submitted.
Gordon Jenkins was the judge and was as thorough and entertaining as usual. ( He got it a bit wrong because we didn't win!!).
Oldham were the clear winners with Hyde coming second. Sale PS were joint third with4 other clubs so it was not a flop.
The images entered were:
1. Lavender field by Richard Parrish score 15.
2. Jetty sheds by John McNally score 18
3. Sawfly caterpillars by Ken Matthews score 16
4. Peewit by John Earnshaw score 19
5. Esthwaite morning by Graham Shaw score 16.

Thanks to all whoe entered work for selection and to the 6 members who turned up to support the club. Well done.

Pictures to EXE

2008-04-17T15:45:00.001+01:00

For those that are intersted Barry Beckham has an excellent tutorial at the following; http://www.ephotozine.tv/video/Creating-slideshows-with-Barry-Beckham-628
Well worth a look and a possibility of a follow up.

Sale Festival 2008 Photographic Competition

2008-04-10T17:30:00.005+01:00

As part of its celebrations for Festival Week, Sale Festival 2008 is running a Photographic Competition for keen amateur photographers on the theme of

“Leisure in the Locality”

As we all know, the locality is well known for its enthusiastic approach to leisure activities, be it Sports like Football, Rugby, Snooker, Fishing and the like or just pottering about in boats at The Water Park or on the Canal. :even just having a drink or a meal with friends. Leisure can take on an endless number of guises, and Photographers of all ages are invited to capture the essence of the theme by taking part in this Photographic Competition aimed at picturing the very best of Leisure in Sale and its surrounding area.

The photographs should reflect your favourite ideas of leisure, be it people, events, or even leisure related environmental issues which are now high on everybody’s agenda.

Amateur Photographers who would like to enter the competition should submit up to 4 prints to Sale Waterside Arts Centre to arrive no later than Monday 2^nd June.

An esteemed Judge will judge the competition during the week prior to Festival Week, and the winning prints will form part of an exhibition to be held at Sale Waterside Arts Centre during Festival Week, starting 13 June.

The winning prints and runners-up will take pride of place in the Gallery Bar.

In addition to the Senior Competition, there is also a Junior Section for Photographers up to 16, the winner of which will receive a prize of £50. The winner of the Senior competition will receive a fabulous prize of £100, which will be officially presented to them during Festival Week, with runners up prizes of £50 for second place and £25 for third place.

Competition Rules

1. The Competition Theme will be titled “Leisure in the Locality” and the focus should be on any aspect of Leisure, be it Sport, recreation activities or whatever you think represents the competition title the best.

2. There are no age restrictions on who can enter. The Junior Section is for entrants aged 16 or under on June 1^st 2008
Family and work colleagues of the Judge and the competition organisers will be ineligible to enter.
Entrants must not be professional photographers

3. All entries must be in print form and can be in monochrome or colour with a maximum print size of 15” x 10” and a minimum print size of 8” x 6” A maximum of 4 prints per author may be entered

4. The Author’s name, address, email address, phone numbers and age if 16 or under ,and entering the Junior Competition must be clearly printed on the back of the print, together with the print title and when and where it was taken

5. The closing date for entries in the competition is Monday 2^nd June 2008.

6. Prints should be posted to arrive no later than 2^nd June and addressed to “Sale Festival Photographic Competition”, C/O Rosie Scott, Sale Waterside Arts Centre, Sale Waterside, Sale, Cheshire, M33 7ZF

Entries for the competition can also be dropped off at the Box Office at the Sale Waterside Arts Centre between 10.00am and 5.00pm, Monday to Saturday, from Monday 31^st March onwards

7. An eminent judge will judge the Competition, and Winners will be notified as soon as possible after the judging.

8. There will be three Prizes for the Senior Competition:- First Prize £100 Second Prize £50 Third Prize £25
The Winner of the Junior Competition will receive a prize of £50

9. The judges decision is final and no correspondence on that decision will be entered into

10. The winning prints, runners up, and a selection of other prints will be exhibited in an Exhibition of Visual Arts during Sale Festival Week and for the following 6 weeks, at Sale Waterside Arts Centre

11. The organisers will not be held liable for any prints lost damaged or delayed in the post

12. All entries must be the original work of the author and must not have been previously published. The entrants must be the sole owner of the copyright in all photos and must have the permission of any people featured in the entries

13. By entering the competition, entrants grant the right for Sale Waterside Arts Centre and Trafford Council to publish and exhibit the photographs in print, on their respective websites or in any other media as they think fit

14. If Authors would like their prints returned after the competition, they should enclose a STAMPED self – addressed envelope (of the correct size and postage) with the entry, together with a sheet of paper indicating the titles of the prints to be returned.

15. The organisers cannot be held responsible for any damage suffered by prints during their exhibition, and if they are to be returned, during their removal from their mounting boards, to which they are fixed with adhesive.

Monthly challenge

2008-03-12T22:16:00.002Z

February's winning entry 'Silver Water Spheres'
The choice of topic for March is 'BLUE'.
Good luck to all entrants with your images.

PHOTOGRAPHIC EXHIBITION

2008-02-22T22:32:00.006Z

If you would like to view a lot more of our photographs

Then go along to our exhibition at

Sale Library

Tatton Road

15^th March to the 4^th April

Where you can feast your eyes on stunning images

Produced by our members..

Banded Agrion Damselfly (Calopteryx Spendens)

Gold Ringed Dragonfly ( Cordulegaster Boltonii )

Images with kind permission of Ken Mathews.

ANNUAL EXHIBITION 2008

2008-02-19T21:51:00.007Z

SALE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY ANNUAL EXHIBITION 2008

St Mary Magdelene Church Hall

Junction

Moss Lane /Harboro Road

Sale

Thursday 13th March

Members and Guests

The Evening Events start at 8.00PM

Guest speaker
Awards presentation
Audio Visual Show
Prize raffle
Buffet

February's Monthly Challange.

2008-02-06T18:18:00.005Z

The choice of subject for February by January's winner is, 'SILVER'.
Good luck to all participants.

January challange

2008-02-06T17:37:00.001Z

Congratulations to the winning entry for the month of January. 'Concord overhead'.

Site updates

2008-01-09T20:57:00.001Z

Uploaded:-

Revised Syllabus
2007 Merits Final Results
Annual Comp Entry Forms

Site updates

2008-01-05T02:19:00.000Z

Uploaded 2008 syllabus and 2008 Comp rules.
Removed Sale festival 2007 photo competition

Monthly Challenge

2008-01-03T11:36:00.000Z

Decembers monthly challenge has come to a close the winning image was 'Quays Santa Dash'

Digital Presentation Competition at Rochdale

2007-12-12T15:45:00.001Z

On Tuesday (11th December) we took part in our first ever knock-out competition, at Rochdale. Ten other clubs were competing, and each club entered 13 digital-images for projection which were judged by Gordon Jenkins. There were three rounds: in each round clubs entered four images which were judged and awarded marks. After the first round the club with the lowest total score was knocked out; after the second round two clubs were eliminated. We successfully survived these two rounds, coming 6th in the first round and 7th in the second (we won a four-way tie by having a high individual-image score – thanks Dave). In the third round, we came 8th . As usual, we did not always agree with the marks we were awarded, which ranged from 15 to 19.5, but we were not alone in this. Our totals in each round were 69, 67 and 66, while the top club got 74.5, 76 and 72.5. Finally, the two clubs with top score in the third round showed one slide each, and the winners, Oldham, were presented with a cup and a small permanent trophy. The runners up were Blackburn. Our nearest (geographical) competitor was South Manchester, who pipped us all the way through.

Dave Hollows, Clive Robinson and Richard Parish selected our 13 slides from the 66 submitted. The problem then was to select four per round, and we tried to make a stronger selection each time. Unfortunately, Gordon did not agree with us.

It was an interesting experience, and one worth repeating. Thanks to all those who sent images, to the Brave Ten who turned out in support and especially to Dave and Clive who put in much time making (and remaking) the selections.

Richard Parish

Autumn on Ullswater

2007-12-08T17:21:00.001Z

Autumn on Ullswater

This sounded like a very imposing residence. Approached by its own footbridge, indeed! That was a first, anyway. Although the outside was imposing, our welcome was rather cool, as the owners had forgotten to put on the storage heaters the night before. Luckily, the wood-effect gas stove in the living room threw out enough heat to heat the surrounding area, and the storage heaters proved efficient, once they had been turned on.

The views from the house were breathtaking, looking out across Ullswater and the hills beyond. It would have been easy not to stray too far from the immediate area, as Martindale was only a few miles along the road, and in the amazing light of Friday afternoon the photo opportunities were endless.

The meal on Friday night was booked at the Brampton Country House Hotel, sadly the directions given to some of us were less than complete, and we spent some time racing through the countryside, looking for our destination. Thank heavens for Liz’s competent driving. Thanks also to Cy, who took the trouble to look at a map, and then followed us to let us know where we should have been. Otherwise, we may have ended up eating in Penrith, which would have been a shame, as the food provided, when we finally arrived, was of excellent quality, and very pleasantly served.

On Saturday we woke to the smell of a wood fire, which was strange, because we didn’t
have a wood fire! As Cy has no sense of smell, he’d been sitting in the living room reading since 6.a.m. whilst a raffia coaster slowly smouldered on top of the incredibly hot gas stove. We won’t go into who put it there will we, Keith? Luckily Janet quickly spotted the problem and removed the smouldering article. We did wonder where the smoke alarm was located, and why it didn’t respond to the smoke!

Saturday was a reasonable day, though the light was frustratingly patchy. There is so much to see around Ullswater itself that some of us didn’t even complete the drive to Patterdale, but there was plenty of time, and even better light on the Sunday. Ken had a an unprofitable visit to the Car Boot Sale, some people even managed to join a Remembrance service, having arrived spot on 11 a.m. For those of us who braved the Kirkstone Pass, the rewards in terms of photo opportunities were immense. However, it was so very cold, with a brisk wind, that we couldn’t hang around for long. We were a little concerned to see the gritters out on Sunday afternoon, and not a moment too soon, as the cars were well frozen up the next morning.
.

John served his usual high quality meals, no mean feat as the kitchen was somewhat under equipped. How hard is it to work out that 12 people are going to need at least 12 desert dishes, and that it needn’t necessarily involve washing out your soup bowl in between?

We were a bit horrified when, on opening up the dishwasher, which had been turned off by accident halfway through its programme, Dave revealed the hideous state of the filters, which had probably never been cleared since the machine was installed. At least John didn’t suggest making cream of leftover soup from the contents!!!!

We all enjoyed the slide show of various programmes, on Saturday night, thanks for bringing the equipment. Edward, who seems set to be a big prizewinner, showed us some of his pictures, thanks for that Edward.

John Hilton on his first trip with the club, was definitely an asset to the group, as he quickly became John’s number one kitchen boy. Janet, too seemed to do far more than her fair share of time at the sink. You did a grand job Janet, although some people still believe that the kitchen fairy came in the night and cleared up ready for morning.

We had quite a rowdy time at the table on Sunday, as we HAD to finish all the wine, not to mention Liz’s damson gin, Mike’s damson wine and various other liquid assets.

The weekend was gone all too quickly, and for once we left the Lake District on a dry bright day, which gave us all extra time to get our prizewinning shots on the way home. For Dave and me, the lure of the Lakeland shop at Windermere, proved too strong to resist, so we had a pleasant lunch, spent some money and decided we already had enough prizewinning shots for one weekend anyway.

Once again, our thanks are due to Ken, for his careful research, and for taking charge of all the booking and organisation. We all appreciate your hard work, Ken, and are looking forward to the next trip.

Joyce Hollows

Merits Standing after 4 Rounds:

2007-09-21T13:03:00.000+01:00

Colour Prints
Author Points
Edward O'Keeffe 50.5
Keith Brownlow 32
Clive Robinson 31.5
Dave Hollows 29.5
Richard Parish 28
John Earnshaw 27
Ian Ross 18
Liam O'Keeffe 15
Tom Walton 14
Pat Holmes 13.5
Graham Shaw 10
John Hunter 10
Brian Rogerson 8

Mono Prints
Author Points
Liam O'Keeffe 64.5
Clive Robinson 61
Edward O'Keeffe 40.5
Dave Hollows 40
John Earnshaw 25
David Kramrisch 15
Pat Holmes 12
Craig Stowell 12
Bob Heaton 7

Slides
Author Points
Graham Shaw 151.5
Pat Holmes 28
Ken Matthews 27
Dave Hollows 23
John Earnshaw 20
John McNally 19.5

A grand week away

2007-07-12T17:05:00.000+01:00

A grand week away June 2007

Just when we thought we’d seen everything, Ken came through with our best trip ever. Most of us had already stayed for weekends at Grey Barns, near Alnmouth, and were looking forward to spending more time in that area of the Northumbrian coast. As we knew, the house itself was impressive: roomy and comfortable. But I don’t think any of us had previously appreciated the idyllic location, until we saw it in brilliant sunshine.
There, just beyond the garden gate was a lovely bay, with sand, rocks and crashing waves.

Although that first afternoon was not so bright, we enjoyed just sitting on the rocks, watching the waves, and relaxing. Not far from us was a guillemot, which seemed quite happy to share the beach with us. Then Roland arrived, cup of tea in hand, to be followed by several others of the group. Ken was the only one with a camera, so those winning guillemot shots will be his. Or maybe not! We spent some time settling in before going off to Alnmouth for dinner, which we all enjoyed. Thanks to Ken for booking it in advance.

JohnE. worked his magic on the Sunday evening, producing an impressive meal, with loads of his special leftover soup to be enjoyed by whoever was feeling hungry over the next few days. He had also shopped for basics to be shared, making sure the enormous fridge was full, and also replenishing it over the week as things began to run out. We all appreciate John’s hard work, which helped the catering run smoothly.

During the week people did their own thing, visiting many of the local places of interest, offering lifts to anyone who was going in the same direction, and giving feedback on the places they had seen. Thanks, Pat, for your excellent map reading and direction skills. Trips to the Farne Islands were popular, though a few people got a good pecking as a penalty for taking photos. Cy liked it so much, I believe he bought Inner Farne!

The walking enthusiasts were well provided for as there are many splendid walks. Hope your feet are better now, Keith! I think we all enjoyed a visit to the gardens at Alnwick castle. The overall planning and the immaculate upkeep of this lovely garden are impressive, though the rope bridge to the tree house was a little scary for some of us, especially with Liz bouncing on it!

Lindisfarne was also well visited and seen at its best in the bright sunshine, although I preferred it in the swirling mist we found when we arrived, which gave it a mystical look. No-one was caught by the tide, although Karen tried hard to leave John there. Luckily, he had the car keys. Sometime soon I think we may all become a little too familiar with shots of Bamburgh Castle in a variety of lights, and also Dunstanburgh from many angles, not to mention seabirds in flight, on the ground, on their nests, eating, sleeping and doing what seabirds do.

On the Thursday evening we had a visit to Ashington camera club, where we were entertained by a presentation of some stunning wildlife prints by one of their members. We were made very welcome, and provided with an excellent buffet. I think we all enjoyed the evening. Especially Janet, who stayed at the house and took the opportunity to have a good soak and relax at the end of an exhausting day of photography with Liam, Keith and Edward.

Having already previewed some of the photographs taken on digital cameras, I hold out little hope for my own slides, which have now returned and are mostly blank, curiously.
So Mike and John McN. have a clear field! But watch out for Edward’s work, if he gets it printed up, he seemed to have some great shots. Maybe you could make a digital presentation to entertain us in the future Edward?

Sadly, the week was soon over, and we had the last supper at the Red Lion in Alnmouth, an excellent meal, if a little raucous. We were all up, packed and tidied, in plenty of time on Saturday morning, thinking that we’d have a sunny drive home. I’m not sure about everyone else, but our journey was through heavy rain, thunderstorms and low cloud. It was hard to believe that we had just had a week of great weather, give or take the odd grey morning. Many thanks to Ken for organising it all, and perhaps we could do it again, with the same superb weather, another year.
J.Hollows

The Last Supper

2007-07-07T21:57:00.000+01:00

Taken by Ken on the recent club trip

Panel Competition - July 19th

2007-07-03T02:41:00.000+01:00

Rules for Castlefield

1. A panel consists of 3-5 prints mounted on a single board which shall be not more than 16” x 20”.

2. Entrants may submit only one panel.

3. The prints may be of any shape or orientation, in colour or black and white, and should be of images taken on the Castlefield evening (June 7).

4. Panels will be judged by votes of the Society members present on the evening of July 19th.

5. The Winner of the competition will be awarded a free drink in the Eskdale pub on the evening of the competition or any other gift of his/her choice of equivalent value.

Pat Holmes: LRPS the EASY WAY (or was it?)

2007-06-12T19:21:00.000+01:00

Back in February, I posted the first of, what I hoped would become, a semi-regular feature for the website where club members could contribute an article or story on any photography related topic. Dave Hollows contributed the first feature, and Pat Holmes has been kind enough to contribute the second.

Unfortunately due to general lack of interest in the website this will probably be the last one, but thank you both for making the effort for this and humouring me :)

LRPS the EASY WAY (or was it?)

After many years as a happy snapper with varying degrees of satisfaction I decided that a City and Guilds course in photography might be beneficial so enrolled at Arden College, Manchester for the Part I course. Bear in mind that this was the mid-90s and the C&G course debarred the use of both digital photography and computer generated images, facts that, having access to neither and wishing only to gain experience in black and white darkroom work, did not disturb me in the least.

About twenty four of us turned up on the first night; this was something of a shock as there were only eight enlargers available for our use but as the weeks wore on it became apparent that there was a hardcore of only half-a-dozen students, of whom I was one and I quickly realised the advantage of developing my film at home so that I could spend college time making full use of the enlargers – we hard core quickly established our personal favourite work-stations and considered it something of an imposition when, on occasion, we had to share. And so, gradually, from lectures, set tasks and through swapping what information we had acquired elsewhere, we made progress in a very pleasant atmosphere of camaraderie.

At about this time there was an article in Amateur Photographer about the Bromoil Circle’s exhibition in Little Germany, Bradford. The work featured had captured my imagination so I rang for further information and was fortunate not merely to be invited to the opening of the exhibition, with wine and refreshments, but also received a warm invitation to attend the next meeting of the Yorkshire Monochrome Group. There I found an enthusiastic group of monochrome workers whose production ranged far and wide, and from whom I learnt a lot. This gave access to several workshops with eminent photographers, further advancing my knowledge if not my production, and on occasion I discovered that I was even able to teach my college tutors!

Part I called for the submission of two folios, one consisting of commercially produced colour prints on the theme of preparing a brochure advertising Manchester to the world at large, the other being a folio of our own work showing appropriate use of depth of field, close up, wide angle etc, and for both of these I gained a credit.

Part II was scheduled to take at least two years, but in the event a radical change in the syllabus at the end of our second year meant that we had to complete within the second year. This entailed the production of five folios, selected from about seventeen themes, all required to include ten or twelve photographs which could be either black and white or colour prints or slides. These must be a coherent panel and show good use of all varied camera and printing skills, and were marked on both creativity and technical competence, my strength lying more on the latter than on the former. Most of the folios also had to include a statement of intention, how we hoped to achieve that intention, why we changed our minds etc, etc, etc, (i.e. an awful lot of paperwork) and a statement of how each of the photographs was taken and processed, plus our own evaluation of them. I have to admit that my editing skills were not a strong point at first, probably still aren’t, and I found I really had to be bloody-minded to get my selection down to the required number. My chosen themes were Victorian Railway Architecture which I thoroughly enjoyed researching, and found it quite amusing having to go for a training session in health and safety before being allowed to use my camera at Piccadilly railway station, The Woodland Landscape of Alderley Edge – another delight both to photograph and to research, and the occasion of my discovering that the better half was no use as a tripod bearer usually being half a mile in front of me or somewhere far behind when needed – and for both of these I worked in monochrome. Portraits were submitted as colour slides and I ventured to break the rules here by using digital thumbnails of each portrait to head the relevant descriptive passages – very daring and called for some explaining. Next came Tourist Tat, submitted as colour prints, commercially produced, and for the fifth I opted for Close-ups,a table top selection submitted as cross processed slides, and chosen simply because time was running short and there was virtually no written work required. The titles here are my own; I forget now what the stated themes really were. The marking of all modules was moderated by external C&G examiners.

Getting finished in time was something of a rush, plus concerns that quality of output would inevitably be affected, but at the end of the three years we had the satisfaction of looking back on a lot of shared fun, outings with the daytime mixed media course students, all 16 going on 8 years of age, the frustration of discovering that the said students had contaminated the various chemicals or “adjusted” the solutions etc – well we had to blame someone – and the realisation that we had, in fact, learnt a lot. The cost of the course rocketed after our first year, but fortunately a scheme was instituted by the government which enabled us to apply for grants and which, to our amazement, we were granted. The icing on the cake was the gaining of five distinctions and an LRPS on the back of that. Since then, of course, C&G requirements have changed radically and while my own enthusiasm has not diminished I fear I taken a few slides down that slippery slope of ignoring some of what I’ve learnt, plus I’ve all but abandoned my beloved darkroom, spending my time coming to terms with the digital revolution.

Pat Holmes 05.02.07

Photosynth multi dimensional image viewer

2007-06-12T12:48:00.000+01:00

I thought some of you might be interested to watch this demonstration of some exciting and revolutionary spatial imaging software that has been developed by Microsoft Architect Blaise Aguera y Arcas . Amazing stuff.....

http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/view/id/129

Copy and post the link into your browser, as the movie won't load otherwise

L&CPU Print boxes

2007-05-21T21:29:00.000+01:00

Several members asked where they could get print boxes similar to the ones used by the L&CPU clubs. The company who supply the L&CPU is Nomad here's a link to an old price list (note the website address has changed)

http://www.lcpu.org/docs/nomad.pdf

Here's a link to their latest website

http://www.nomadplc.co.uk

If anyone contacts them for a quote, or places an order, please let the rest of us know how you get on.

Craig

May Competition

2007-05-16T13:39:00.000+01:00

For those who don't look at the Sale PS all groups board, the May Competition subject is "Altered Images"
Why not give it a go.

2007-04-12T19:43:00.000+01:00

Sale Festival 2007 Photographic Competition

As part of its celebrations for Festival Week, Sale Festival 2007 is running a Photographic Competition for keen amateur photographers on the theme of

“Life Through The Lens”

Enthusiastic amateurs who would like to enter the competition should submit up to 4 prints to Sale Waterside Arts Centre to arrive no later than Monday 4th June.
An esteemed Judge will judge the competition during the week prior to Festival Week, and the winning prints will form part of an exhibition to be held at Sale Waterside Arts Centre during Festival Week, starting 15 June. The winning prints will take pride of place in the Gallery Bar.
The winner of the competition will receive a fabulous prize of £100, which will be officially presented to them during Festival Week, with runners up prizes of £50 for second place and £25 for third place.

How to Enter and Competition Rules can be found here:-

Photo Challenge

2007-04-04T01:11:00.000+01:00

Thanks to those Members who joined in the March Photo Challenge through the Flickr Group

The subject for March was Household Patterns and the entries were as follows:-

farm1.static.flickr.com/171/428426540_68b54c571e_o.jpg
farm1.static.flickr.com/164/431577159_bcd2319280_b.jpg (winner)
farm1.static.flickr.com/186/434038125_fbd1b9b098_b.jpg
farm1.static.flickr.com/185/439927193_ca9dc595e9_o_d.jpg

The subject for April is 'Extreme Colour'

If there are any other members who would like to join in, but are not sure how to, just let me know and I can advise you on the process which is very straightforward.

Craig

Practical Evening - April 12th

2007-03-13T03:01:00.000Z

This time we are trying a Table-Top session (= still life). Three brave souls (Albert B, Dave H, Mike B) have agreed to man a table each, to demonstrate a particular set-up and let you have a go. There will be a fourth table for anyone else who wants to bring things along on the night.
So bring your cameras and flash guns, and learn all about it.

2007-03-01T21:28:00.000Z

SALE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY ANNUAL EXHIBITION 2007

Thursday 15th March

Annual Print exhibition open to the public from 6.00PM
Evening Events start at 8.00PM (Members and Guests only)

Guest speaker
Awards presentation
Audio Visual Show
Prize raffle
Buffet

St Mary Magdelene Church Hall

Harboro Road

Sale

A few things...

2007-03-01T20:56:00.000Z

Firstly we have received an email regarding a National Open Photographic Competition for Charity. It's The Second Sharow Photographic Competition 2007 and proceeds go to Macmillan Cancer Support. I've never heard of the Comp, but it seems legit. Anyone interested can find out more at www.sharowphotocomp.co.uk. Closing date is 14th April. - Don't forget, it's for 'Charidee Mate'

Secondly, I am going to trial a monthly 'Photo Challenge' using our Group pages on Flickr. If any members are interested in participating, this is to be a relaxed, 'just for fun' comp, without lots of rules, to offer a bit of a departure from the Formal Club Comps. I'll set the theme for March which will be 'Household Patterns' to keep things easy first time out. If you want to participate, it's simple!; just upload your image to your Flickr account and add it to your SPS Group images, then post the URL of the image on the SPS Flickr Group Message Board with Message Title March Photo Challenge and your image Title. At the end of the month we'll have a democratic vote on the message board for the best pic, and the winner can choose the next month's theme.

Finally, can anyone confirm if Animal Portraits are submissable in the Portraits Category of our Club Comps - rules state Person or Persons only nothing about animals??

2007 Merit Competitions

2007-02-09T16:41:00.000Z

The Judges for the 2007 Competitions are:
Joyce Hollows 29/03/07 H2O
Ken Matthews 24/05/07 Night-time
Graham Shaw 09/08/07 Humorous & Curious
Jonathan Hart 13/09/07 Motorless Motion
Cy Newton 13/12/07 Signs

New Web Site

2007-02-09T14:53:00.000Z

I am now getting accustomed to the new look website and can’t understand why people find it hard to read. Thanks Craig for all your hard work.

Record Judging

2007-02-09T10:59:00.000Z

Last night's judge did a super job on a large and demanding entry. My small quibble, with no personal axe to grind, is with the treatment of some of the Record entries, which were penalised for being "too pictorial". This goes against the advice pubished in the latest Society rules, which say that a Record entry "need not necessarily be pictorially pleasing, but it is a bonus if it is."
Is this a view unique to our Society? Could the rule be drawn to the attention of judges before they look at the enrties? Or shuold we withdraw the advice?

Website tweaks

2007-02-09T01:14:00.000Z

After receiving feedback from various members regarding the changes I have made to the website, I have now increased the font size in order that our more myopic members can now read the text. Hopefully this will go someway to resolving the problem. I am reluctant to alter the overall design, as personally I think it works, but I am happy to adjust it in order to make it easier to read, which from the feedback I have received, suggests this is what is needed.

Please let me know if you think these changes have improved viewing of the site. If not, I can always look at producing a braille version :)
Also, if you do use the site from time to time please try and contribute something, even if it's just comments. Dave H has recently taken the time to produce the article below for members to read, so it would be nice to give him some positive feedback for his efforts.

Craig

Dave Hollows: A Short History of My Time at SPS.

2007-02-06T19:26:00.000Z

At the end of last year I asked a number of Members if they would consider putting pen to paper so to speak, and produce some content for the club website. The brief was to contribute around 1500 words or so on any topic associated with photography or the club.

My aim is to try to introduce a semi-regular feature to the site to make the site a bit more of an interesting read, and hopefully promote greater pro-active use by members.

Dave Hollows has the dubious honour of being our first 'featured writer' therefore, so I hope you enjoy his retrospective of club life as much as I did. If so please show your appreciation in the comments section, and feel free to email me with any similar written contributions you would like to submit for future features - Craig

A Short History of My Time at SPS.

I joined Sale Photographic Society in 1979. As far as club competitions were concerned I was a beginner although I had had an interest in photography since 1955 when I got my first enlarger.
When I first joined we met in the dining room at the Eskdale Hotel and it was a tight squeeze some evenings to fit us all in. It was a very sociable club then, as it still is, probably enhanced by the fact that nearly everyone had a drink before or during the meeting and at the interval. Some evenings, after the official meeting was over, it continued for some hours downstairs. It was here that a lot of information was exchanged and tips passed on.
At that time we still had merits and quarterly competitions although the merits, as I remember, were only a Set Subject, no Open section. The maximum print size allowed was 10”x8”. This was to encourage members to enter the set subjects without the expense of producing larger prints (remember that at this time almost all the prints were home processed). I don’t recall anyone entering trade processed mono prints at that time, even though SPS was quite ahead of its time in accepting trade processed colour prints, long before the L&CPU decided they were acceptable.
I think it was in 1985 that this was cleared by the L&CPU to such an uproar that several societies broke up and a few people went so far as to form new clubs that were only allowed to enter “Home Processed” images. The furore at the L&CPU AGM’s went on for a few years with attempts, by a few clubs, to change this back to the original rule. Happily, common sense prevailed with the view that what really mattered was keeping people interested in photography and that the end resulting image was what counted not how it was achieved.
Does this scenario seem familiar?
After having to leave the Eskdale and move to a Local Authority building at Atkinson Road the membership increased. I think the reasons were mainly that:
· We had a lot of room.
· We were not tied to a strict closing.
· The catering facilities were good.(we went from alcohol to tea & coffee)
· On portrait night we were easily able to accommodate two full studio sets.
· As the numbers increased, and the turnout percentage was very high, funds became more available to invite lecturers from further afield which in turn encouraged regular attendances and even more funds.

This all came to an end unfortunately when the L.A. decided to close the building and sell off the land. They did, however, offer us alternative accommodation at the Norris Road Community Centre and as we could find no other suitable room at the time we took it. It was very cheap so as far as club funds went it was a good deal. In the time we were at this Centre we lost half of our regular membership. It was due to a combination of thieves operating on the car park, a low ceiling room with little or no atmosphere and noise from the adjoining dance group. Members were having to patrol the car park in turns to try and curtail the damage and thefts.
We soon began looking for new premises and finally found our present room, although we had to wait a year whilst the new St Mary’s Centre was finished. That move has proved a great success on the whole although the rent is a lot more than LA rooms. Visitors from other clubs have often said that the warm feeling of the building makes it feel welcoming.
Here is where we come full circle in a way, with the advent of DIGITAL. This also caused concern in some clubs when it became accepted in competitions. It’s not fair, it’s cheating, you only have to press a button, it’s too expensive and only for the rich, it’s not photography. These are all things that we have heard about digital photography in the past few years, and don’t they seem very similar comments to those made when commercial printing was first allowed? At the time of commercial colour printings being allowed many clubs were in the doldrums, and the new rules increased enthusiasm and, consequently, the number of entries in competitions. The number of members also went up.
The same thing seems to have happened with the arrival of the dreaded digital, entries in print competitions have greatly increased to the extent that the L&CPU have had to reduce the limit on print entries. A similar ruling followed at our own AGM this year.
The renewed interest in monochrome work has resulted in increased entries in this field also which can only be good.
Another side interest is the increase in digital AV shows of all kinds, travelogues, technical, historical and family shows. AV in the past was an enjoyable evening’s viewing, but only a very small number of people were able to produce the work. Now, with the advent of digital projectors and the number of clubs having bought them the quantity of AV has increased as witnessed by the number and variety of entries by our members the other night. It bodes well for the future. Slide entries have suffered, though, and this is sad but is evolution in a way. It is not only in our club, but throughout the club scene, that print entries are on the increase to the detriment of slides. Slide film is even getting difficult to buy in some places and the range has certainly reduced. Some major camera manufacturers are stopping making film cameras.

To my knowledge clubs that broke away in 1985 to form home processed images only clubs are now wholly embracing digital printing and in general it appears that at least 90% of print entries are digitally printed and probably about 80% digitally acquired.
In our club, the people who took to digital processing first, were the people who actually had printed their own wet prints and now used the digital opportunities to increase the development of this, and come blinking into the daylight.
The generation of younger members have grown up with computers and are more adaptable to the use of them and hopefully this will keep them interested for a few more years to come. What then? New technology that isn’t fair, too expensive etc. Full circle again. I only hope I am alive to see it and have enough faculties left to make use of it.

Dave Hollows

Email address

2007-01-29T19:42:00.000Z

As you may have noticed, we now have an email adress set-up in order that visitors to the website can contact us, to enquire about the club for example.

Already we have received an email from a Manchester based Photographer offering studio premises for hire, with full day rates starting at £150 so if anyone is interested I have some details available.

How to use the SPS Website Part 1

2007-01-12T01:26:00.000Z

I have uploaded the first part of a user guide to help new and existing members get to grips with using the website. Part 1 covers the Blog site and part 2 will cover Flickr.

How to use the SPS Website

Latest Entry Forms

2007-01-11T22:25:00.000Z

Ken/Alan, please can you double check these are all current entry forms and are correct versions?

Annual Entry Form
Merits Entry Form
Quarterly Print Entry Form
Quarterly Slides Entry Form
Combined Quarterly Entry Form

Website problems

2007-01-07T17:22:00.000Z

Some members have reported that the site is not displaying correctly for them. The problem is that monitor resolution is different for everyone, and while the site may look fine for some it will display incorrectly for others.
If you are experiencing problems viewing the site properly, do not adjust your monitor resolution.
This problem needs to be addressed by me within the web site script. I hope to sort it out this week, so please bear with me in the meantime.

08/01/2007 Update: Some members have also advised that the site is not viewable in Firefox so I will look at this also.

09/01/2007 Update: Web site should now display correctly at all common screen resolutions. Firefox compliance is next task.

13/01/2007 Update: Web site now displays correctly in Firefox with the exception of one Flickr badge which I still need to look at.

A good start to 2007

2007-01-06T17:21:00.000Z

Well done, Bert, for an interesting start to the 2007 syllabus. Your talk was informative, impressively put together, and easy for even the still hung - over, like myself, to understand.
I hope we can look forward to some equally high quality presentations in the future, both from within the club and from outside. Many thanks to getting us off to a good beginning. joyceh

New website design.

2007-01-06T02:34:00.000Z

As you can see, I have made some cosmetic changes to the website, which I hope members will find pleasing. All the previous features have been retained, and there should be bo noticeable difference in performance.

Please let me know if you have any problems viewing the new site

Sale Photographic Society

2007-01-05T21:43:00.000Z

Second Tuesdays

At the risk of being controvertial may I re-itterate that the Second Tuesday meeting/s as announced at the club and in previous Emails, is NOT a vehicle for me to start a splinter group or a Wigan 10 style breakaway movement. The purpose in mind is simply an additional forum for appraisal / discussion of images in a non competitive situation. In a perfect world this would take place on Thursday Nights but as we are all aware there are other priorities. What I HOPE will come out of it is Threefold.
1. Some Members will be helped and encouraged to enter their images which themselves might be improved using the constructive comments received at STM's
2. The average standard and appeal of Images entered in club competitions will improve over time.
3. Our combined output for use in the L & CPU and other external competitions will also improve over time.

For those who don't know my Photographic History, Sale PS was the first club I joined some 18 to 20 years ago, I have lost track. In spite of toying with dual membership at Sale & Maps for a couple of years, My membership of Sale has never lapsed.
I have for much of that time been on the committee in various posts and I trust that my Loyalty to the Society is not in question. I would like everyone to know that any decision I make or ideas I support regarding Sale PS at the AGM, In committee or at club meetings is ALWAYS based on what I beleive to be in the best interests of Sale PS and definately not My Own Self Interest. For example, regarding reducing numbers of entries in quarterlies and the annual. Lower numbers would make my life as Comp Sec. easier, however I did not support reduction of the numbers of entries because I beleive it is not a problem and I like maximum diversity.

Enough said, but thank heaven we have this outlet to try to set the record straight. Now's your chance. !!!!!!

Annual Competitions

2007-01-04T09:12:00.000Z

With the annual competitions looming I was wondering what the rules are with regards to forwarding entries to the LCPU competition. Do LCPU entries still need to be 20x16. I understood that they had relaxed the size contraints.

Fotosense.co.uk

2006-12-29T17:47:00.000Z

I just thought I'd let members know that I got good service from this vendor based in Bolton. I was after a Tamrac camera bag (RRP £50), and the cheapest I could find it online was from bristolcameras.co.uk at £35 + £5 Delivery.
Fotosense were offering it at £39.99 + £5 Delivery, but offered to price match like-for-like deals. When asked, they were happy to match the price, and I went down and picked it up from them, saving £5 postage and getting it sameday.
I had a chat with the guy that runs it and he said they are planning to do some open/demo days in the new year, to showcase supplier products, and also some practical studio sessions with models. I have signed up to their email newsletter and will post a blog entry as and when these events are confirmed.

Advice, please

2006-12-23T15:43:00.000Z

I have found some 25-year old snapshots which are very faded. Can anyone advise on their restoration, please? Levels shows that red is missing at both ends of the histogram, so restoring that and tweaking green and blue makes a vast difference. Further improvement comes from tweaking the colours in Curves. Are there any other dodges I should be using?
I shall go round with Clone later to remove little blemishes.
All suggestions welcome.
Merry Christmas!
Richard

Filters

2006-12-19T19:51:00.000Z

Hi everyone,

I'm thinking of getting some new filters and am looking to weigh up pros and cons between a square filter system (Cokin) and standard screw on (hoya etc). Has anyone got any opinions on either?
I would want to be able to swap between lenses so interchangeability is needed and as far as I can tell its would either mean step-up rings (standard circular filters) or adapters (cokin).

All comments welcome.

Thanks Bill

2006-12-14T16:31:00.000Z

Just a quickie to thank Bill Roberts for organising an excellent "Christmas Do".
It really went well, with good food and a good laugh which we all need from time to time.

New Wonder Camera

2006-12-08T17:20:00.000Z

It looks like Alan B. has now added yet another camera to his bag. This a state of the art, twin eyepiece digital camera with large monitor, SD card and onboard memory. The only problem, is it is only currently available in pink . These are in very short supply as everyone in the know has rushed out and bought them up.
OH! and the maker is that well known manafacturer FISHER PRICE!
We will now all have to save up to keep up with the latest technology.

Autumn Trip

2006-12-04T17:46:00.000Z

November in the Lake District

Once again we were lucky enough to spend our Autumn weekend break at Esk View. Members who had been there before were delighted to see the additions and improvements to what had already been a warm and inviting, well equipped house.
The journey to Eskdale on Friday 3rd November, was very promising, with bright sunshine to set off the Autumn colours. Our spirits rose, and we were in and out of the car, especially on the last lap of our journey, across Birker Fell. No doubt the other members of the group who came via the Wrynose and Hardknot passes, found the views equally breathtaking, and the road a little more hair raising.

Liz was the first to arrive and was still recovering from the rigours of the drive up when we arrived half an hour later. But, you did it, Liz!

We were less brave when the owner appeared to give us her orders. We tried to persuade her to wait for Ken, but she decided we were suitable material to be ordered about, and so that is what she did. No shoes inside the house, remember, no smoking, (as if!), all breakages to be paid for, put the rubbish out on Sunday: but an extra half hour’s grace on Monday morning. We were allowed to stay until ten, instead of 9.30., giving us a whole extra half hour to return the house to its pristine state. However, all was forgiven when we discovered the tins of buns and cake she had left for us.

When all fifteen members had arrived we were able to enjoy a leisurely drink, except for John E, who was busy unloading all the food into the brand new enormous fridge, and the freezer. We all admired the two brand new dishwashers, and the two new cookers, though John and Pat seemed to be the ones who were to spend most time with them! Some of us were even lucky enough to have new beds and super cosy quilts in our rooms. Top marks to the owner for investing in her guests’ comfort.

On the Friday evening we had a good meal at the local pub, thoughtfully booked in advance by Ken. Our way to the pub was well lit by Keith’s multi million voltage lamp, putting Liz’s puny headlamp to shame.

The weekend followed its usual course, so did the weather. Although it did not actually rain, it was very dreary, limiting the photography a little, but there are always church interiors (and coffee shops). We had a digital AV show on Saturday night, thanks to Dave for organizing that, and were very impressed with some hot off the press photos of the lakes by Edward. Hope he will put some of these in competitions and give some people a run for their money.

Sunday was also dreary, but we did get out in the fresh air. Cy even got his foot out, we were told, leaving his boot behind him in the mud more than once. The meal on Sunday evening became a little hysterical, we were all under the influence of the bubbly brought by Janet and Liam to celebrate their wedding anniversary. Congratulations, you two.

The entertainment of the evening began close to fisticuffs as there was a heated debate over TV versus a slide show. Luckily, the slide show won, and we were very interested to see Pat’s record of her travels in Peru. It seemed like a lot of walking, and mainly up crooked stairs, but the pictures were well worth the effort, thanks Pat. We also saw the upmarket Eskdale Lodge shots that Mike had taken for advertising purposes. The place was hardly recognisable without the usual grinning locals
.
We managed to be up and about in time on Monday, leaving the place tidy enough, we hope. Ken was left to deal with the visit of inspection by the owner, as we all beat a hasty retreat. And, naturally, as we progressed on our journey south, the weather improved and we were once again able to get some winning shots.

Well done, Ken, for doing the work and getting it booked, another successful trip, which we all enjoyed. And many thanks to John for the traditionally super food, not only the cooking on the premises, but also for the shopping and preparation that went on beforehand. We do appreciate your hard work, even though you say you enjoy doing it. Pat did sterling work as assistant cook, also quite a lot of the clearing up. And thanks to all the rest who helped out when and where they could. It doesn’t half take a long time just to set the table for 15, not to mention filling and emptying the dishwashers! Oh, and thanks also to Liz, our resident health advisor. She knows what I mean!

Already the winning photographs are appearing in club competitions, well done John McN. We are now all looking forward to the planned week away next June in Alnmouth. Sounds like lots of puffin shots will be appearing in next year’s competitions, along with more pictures of Bamburgh castle, from even more unusual angles, we hope. Me, I’ll just look forward to the crab sandwiches eaten overlooking the sea at Craster.

Photography Podcasts

2006-11-28T23:36:00.000Z

There are now many Photography Podcasts available online, and the Podcasts broadcast by Martin Bailey are particularly interesting.

There are over 50 Podcasts available for download at www.martinbaileyphotography.com , covering all sorts of subjects and typically lasting approx 20 mins each.

Photoshop Tutorials

2006-11-23T18:30:00.000Z

A very good website to visit is by Ian Lyons who has a really good range of PDF lessons. Well worth a look. www.computer-darkroom.com/

Jessops

2006-11-21T01:07:00.000Z

I can now confirm that Jessops in St Peters Square and in Deansgate will give the advertised 10% discount. Mind you, the guy in St Peters Square took a bit of convincing, and the one in Deansgate had to ask the Manager, but both agreed.
Thanks, Dave!

Mounting question.

2006-11-20T13:44:00.000Z

I have a question with regards to mounting for Merits.

The rules currently state the following:-

"The print must be backed with a suitable flush mounted backing board to prevent damage to other prints. The backing must have no exposed tape."

With this in mind would it be valid to submit a print, whereby the entire back of the print and mount is the back of the print itself, if the print is flush to the edges? Rather than mount the print to the board, a mountboard frame has been adhered to a print which has sufficient excess border space around the viewable image to allow it to be flush with the outside edge of the mountboard frame. It is therefore flush, with no exposed tape and would not damage other prints.

As such will it be eligible for entry?

Your Ideas Please

2006-11-18T20:32:00.000Z

Hi all

As some will know, I have already arranged a Summer Trip to "Grey Barns" 16th June 2007. Unusually this is for a full week Sat. to Sat. There are still a couple of places available.

I Am trying to arrange a trip to a place near Symmonds Yat and in sight og Goodrich Castle for the Autumn (Better for colour in the Forest of Dean etc.) However I have not as yet fixed anything for the spring.

A recent show of hands indicated there were around 12 who would go on such a trip probably in March and I have toyed with going back to Keswick in a house called Bonshaw, but nothing definate, and this house sleeps 12 max. Any Ideas members may have will be given due consideration, but now it's getting near Christmas better get on with it ASAP. I Know we would all prefer to be together so bear that in mind when making any suggestions. If we have to split into two groups its good to be close together or as probably in Autumn 07,
in the same building. Let me know your thoughts!

Ken M

Hello all at SPS

2006-11-17T22:36:00.000Z

Hi everyone, it would seem I am now a contributor to our Blog site. Thanks to Craig who kindly sent me some instructions in plain English so I could log in and get going.

Whilst I'm here may I add my thanks to all those who organised our 60th Anniversary evening. I for one was pleased to see those Ex SPS members who turned up and I join with others in the hope they will see fit to re-visit us in the near future.

Watch this space cos now i'm in there will be no stopping me.
See Ya Ken M

60th Anniversary

2006-11-17T16:40:00.000Z

Just a note to say what a really great night this was. Thanks are due to our guest speaker Judge Singer and to Bill Roberts the main organiserwhose agenda was stuck to. Paul Bates did his usual excellent job with the AV show making something out of a lot old photos, memory lane wasn't in it. Everyone who brought food for the buffet and helped set it out and serve the food and drink also deserve our thanks, it really was a tremendous spread. Cy and Pat kept the evening moving along at a good rate so the finish was timed very well. The raffle was also a great success, I'm not sure how much was made for the club but judging from the ammount prizes donated and raffle tickets sold it will be substantial.
Finally, for me, one of the high points of the evening was the great attendance and seeing a lot of faces we haven't seen for a while and the opportunity to chat during the interval. I hope we see some of them return as members.

Pirelli Calender Portal

2006-11-14T13:19:00.000Z

For over 40 years the Pirelli Calender has been a cult object, particularly amongst photographers, constantly redefining the rules of glamorous photography, year after year.
With the imminent lauch of the 2007 calender, I thought members may be interested in visiting :-
http://www.pirellical.com/thecal/home.html
a portal devoted to 'The Cal' which represents 42 years of photography history.

60th Anniversary Schedule

2006-11-14T12:52:00.000Z

Chairman's address including welcome to and introduction of Judge Singer

Judge Singer

President's address

Food (about 45 minutes).

Paul Bates AV

Raffle

Chairman's closing address

Those who volunteered to come early to assist (and anyone else who didn't), please be there at 7-00pm.

It was also decided to have a display of prints. All are requested to bring a few of your prints for display on the night.

Reminder of Programme

2006-11-02T11:27:00.000Z

There have been so many recent changes that a reminder might be useful.

Nov 9: Members' Digital Presentations
Nov16: 60th Anniversary Celebration
Nov 23: L&CPU Documentary Folio - HAND in MERITS
Nov 30: Merits Comp - "Shadows" + Open - HAND in QUARTERLY

SLIDES
Dec 7: Quarterly Slide Comp - HAND in QUARTERLY PRINTS
FRIDAY Dec 8th: Christmas Social
Dec 14: Quarterly Print Comp
Dec 21: Informal social gathering at the Eskdale

Dec 28: No meeting

Sale Photographic Society

2006-10-31T17:03:00.000Z

Sale Photographic Society

Chairmans Report AGM 2006.

When just prior to the 2005 AGM, I was asked if I would agree to my name being proposed for the position of Chairman for 2006, I remember thinking, oh that sounds rather grand, I'll have a go at that. What I didn't realize was, that, apart from acting as referee at committee meetings and releasing the occasional throat from the clutches of several pairs of hands, the chairman's other main responsibility is ensuring that the club room is set up correctly for the type of meeting being held each week. So the title is really very apt, i.e. making sure that the right equipment such as print stands or projection equipment is set up and working, and, ----- wait for it,----- putting out the chairs!!!

So it's not quite as grand as at first appeared and I also have to thank our president Pat Holmes and vice chairman Bob Heaton, who are both aware that the room does not magically set itself up each week and who regularly provide extra hands to put the room in order. To them I offer my grateful thank's for their help week in and week out.

Every one of us have the opportunity to play a part in the working of the club and it's worth asking ourselves, "what can I do for the club, what talent do I have that will help move the club forward".

There are many examples of this. Ken Matthews, apart from his committee work and caustic wit at meetings, organises long weekends await for club members twice a year with excellent accommodation and very low prices. In the last three years we have been to Alnmouth in the North East, to Keswick and Eskdale in the Lakes, Brecon in South Wales and later this week to Eskdale once more.

John Earnshaw apart from being an excellent administrator in his position as club secretary is also a good cook and organises the meals at the weekens away. He also from time to time arranges club hikes for those who enjoy the open air and thus provides members with further photo opportunities.

Joyce Hollows makes sure that we have all the necessary ingredients for the tea/coffee and biscuits break each week and as a result provides a regular source of extra income for club funds.

Dave Hollows regularly uses his experience both as a keen photographer and L&CPU judge, to provide us all with valuable and incisive comments when judging club competitions, with comment that we can all use to improve our own work.

Richard Parish and David Kramrish dabble in the black art of "syllabus production" to ensure a good mix of club entertainment throughout the year.

Bill Roberts is our very own party animal, organizing this years Christmas Doo and 60th anniversary celebrations.

The club has a website which until recently was developed by Dave leeming who has recently passed this duty on to Craig Stowell.

Our now retired tax inspector, Mike Bannister has done a sterling job as treasurer of the club for many years now and has created excellent slide shows for our entertainment on the weekends away.

There are several members who have organised outings to places of interest because of their knowledge of a certain area, or who have a particular passion such as Railways, Horse events, Motorcycle and Speedboat racing, enabling them to organise a trip of special interest for the benefit of other club
members.

My contribution has been to organise regular exhibitions at the Sale library exhibition hall after each quarterly and annual competition in an effort to take the club to the public and attempt in the process, to attract new members by displaying existing members work.

In a brief summary like this it's not possible to mention everyone and if I have missed you from the list, please know that every contibution however small is much appreciated.

I believe that we have a very special club here in Sale. The membership is very friendly and their are no cliques as are often found elsewhere. If anyone needs help to improve their work in any way there is always plenty available from within the membership and if you are a new member or beginner, don't be afraid to ask for any help that you may need, everyone is approachable and will be happy to help.

On that positive note I conclude this report.

Cy Newton

Support your website!!

2006-10-31T01:39:00.000Z

Hi everyone,

As you may or may not be aware I have agreed to take over the resonsibility for maintaining and developing the SPS website, from Dave Leeming.

Going through the handover this evening, it was immediately apparent to me how under-utilised this resource actually is. A lot of effort has clearly gone into creating the site and as a combination of 'Weblog' (blog) and Photo library (Flickr) it serves a number of important purposes eg.

Promoting the existence of the Society online (a number of new members/visitors this year found out about us through the website primarily).

Providing online access to useful information (Syllabus, Competition rules etc)

A 'messageboard' for the posting of news, updates, interesting stories, articles etc

A forum for discussion, comments, expression of opinion etc

A gallery for the viewing/posting of members images

A revenue generating tool for the society (Adsense)

Much has been said about driving the club forward, and ensuring SPS is positioned to meet the needs of existing and future members, and I believe the web site is one of the key ways we can do this. In many respects the website is an extension of the club itself, and ultimately requires ongoing input from members in order to grow and develop.
With this in mind, I would like to request that you all take a fresh look at the current website and ask yourselves 'How can I contribute?' - Is there a photo in the gallery that you would like to comment on? Have you read an interesting article online that you would like to share with other members? If you are planning a trip out with your camera, maybe another member would be interested in joining you? If, because of time constraints, you were unable to get your message across on Thursday night, or even want to re-iterate what was said - please, use the site!!

If everyone could contribute something, just once a month, I am sure we would all see the benefits.

I'd like to say thanks to Dave L for the sterling job he's done with the site so far, and I will do my best to ensure the site continues to develop and hope it becomes an invaluable part of SPS.

Cheers,

Craig

Small Change of Plan

2006-10-08T21:50:00.000+01:00

All

Tony Redford is not with us for a few weeks so It's going to be a Double Dave Digital Demo.

I have been asked by quite a few of our newer members about the basics, so I will be demoing how to load pics, convert them from Raw and play with them simply in photoshop, resize and try to fend off - er.. I mean answer any questions with the help from the gang. The 35mm vs digital debate continues.....

I will also be talking about and demoing a few prints from Commercial Printers. This is bound to spark some heated discussion from the home printerers!

Then after the break, as we missed out a month or so ago, its over to Dave Hollows for "Sunny America" using Pro-Show Gold. An AV presentation well worth waiting for.

See you Thursday

Regards

David

'Knee-How'

2006-10-04T03:32:00.000+01:00

'Hello' from China. Weather been good, but very hazy. Not got lost yet and seen some amazing sights. Half way through our journey but still lots to see and do. Lots of different beers but none like Lancaster Bomber; but at 50p a pint you can't complain. Food superb; not had to resort to KFC or McDonalds once. In fact I now use chopsticks like a native. Photos in RAW so not able to load any up. More to tell but that will have to be at the Eskdale in a few weeks time.

Regards Dave & Adele.

Membership Cards

2006-09-30T11:40:00.000+01:00

I have been asked top say what the advantages of membership cards are.
Apart from a form of identity, you can get 10% discount at Jessops stores for Jessops own brand items, paper, film etc. You can also get a variable siscount at the camera shop in Altrincham by showing it and asking for a discount. It has worked Joyce and myself. If anyone knows of other places please put on the site.
Whilst on the subject, anyone who has not had the photo for the card taken can if they wish forward me a small digital file of a self portrat to may email address dhollows@ntlworld.com and I will do one for them

A Great Turnout

2006-09-29T15:19:00.000+01:00

What a good turnout last night, 28.09.06.
Not only were the numbers good but the number of entries for selection was quite a surprise also. Although some DISCUSSION took place about the selection process in the end I don't think that anyone could say it was undemocratic. Whether it was the right selection only time will tell but at least the whole club was involved.
All it needs now is a good turnout at MAPS on the 3.10.06 to supoport the entry at the battle. Good luck.
Dave

Sally Mann Profile

2006-09-19T17:11:00.000+01:00

Last night BBC4 broadcast a profile of controversial American Photographer Sally Mann - If anyone is interested in seeing it I have recorded it on VHS. The sound is very poor, but it was an interesting programme nonetheless.

Syllabus Changes

2006-09-02T19:01:00.000+01:00

Ammendments to the remaining syllabus for 2006 have been formalised. The details can be found by clicking the link below....

Updated 2006 Syllabus

Thanks to the syllabus team for resolving the conflicting dates.....

The lengths some people will go to....

2006-08-26T00:09:00.000+01:00

Some people will do anything for a great shot. Case in point:-
http://www.flickr.com/... .../216200392/in/set-72157594222213140

Read the photographers description below the shot, then look at the second picture in the sequence:-
http://www.flickr.com/... .../217713707/in/set-72157594222213140/

I wonder if Ansel Adams ever went this far?

Change of Programme - August 31st

2006-08-25T01:57:00.000+01:00

Alan Ross is not available so Steve Lewis will entertain us with
Private Views of Snowdonia - prints connected with his new
book. I believe that Steve's previous visits have been much enjoyed.

BBC Competition - ends soon!

2006-08-21T14:08:00.000+01:00

BBC1's 'The One Show' (weeknights 6.55pm) has been running a wildlife photography competition with photo's being displayed on BBCi (press red button on your digital remote) between 7pm-8pm daily.

There is a prize for the winning photo of a "top of the range camera" (presumably digital), and the closing date is Monday 4th September. Submissions can be uploaded to a specific Flickr Group or emailed directly to the Beeb.

For more details and submission info see http://www.bbc.co.uk/theoneshow/photocomp

Airport Panel and Graham Shaw

2006-08-19T16:30:00.000+01:00

Just a line to say that I think that sufficient people entered the panel competition to make it a worthwhile first part to the evening. The standard of the entry was very good and the winners well deserved and the marks for the first three were extremely close.
I think Graham is to be congratulated on his succinct and positive comments on the panels.

The second half of the evening belonged to Graham alone with a show of very high quality images of the Gower region. As someone who has never been there I was amazed at the beauty of the area and how peaceful it was in April. It now has made Joyce and myself want to add it to the list of places we still have to visit. Thanks again Graham

Panel competition followed by a 35mm slide presentation by Graham Shaw

2006-08-13T12:02:00.000+01:00

Hello All

After a fantastic evening with Christine Widdall last Thursday who showed us some superb mono prints and then gave us a digital slide presentation & informative tutorial, this Thursday is going to be another split between Prints & Slides.

Part 1 - Prints:

Referring to the 2006 Syllabus, the judge for yourself panel competition is for 5 prints.
As confirmed from Thursday, the prints can be any size but need to be mounted on a 20" by 16" board. Though I do remember only entering 4 prints on a 20" by 16" board last year……

Coffee / Tea Break

Part 2 - 35mm Slides:

Graham Shaw has very kindly offered a slide presentation that is entitled
"The Gower, its Cliffs & Castles" from the beautiful area west of Swansea.
Graham has presented before and we always look forward to seeing his pictures.

Graham is also preparing a "Photo Hikes" presentation evening in association with Roland Asquith for sometime in 2007 and we look forward to that as Roland has also presented previously.

Look forward to seeing you all on Thursday.
Best regards
DavidK.

PS - If anyone else would like to prepare and show a picture presentation (any format is OK) in 2007 please let Richard Parish or myself know as we will endeavour to make available slots in the 2007 syllabus.

21st century monochrome

2006-08-07T22:31:00.000+01:00

Hello All Again !

Just to confirm that Christine Widdall is with us this Thursday evening.

Christine will be enlightening us all on monochrome in the 21st century.

The first half will be prints with the second half using Adobe Photoshop CS2 on our laptop and the digital projector.

Christine is a member of one of the oldest photographic societies in the UK, Oldham Photographic Society, which was founded in 1867 when photography was in its infancy. She has held most offices there over the years, with her third term as President in 2004-5.

Photography has now become a major part of her life, as an exhibitor locally, nationally and internationally and also as a lecturer and judge in the Lancashire and Cheshire Photographic Union, where she also serves as Hon. General Secretary.

The evening should be most entertaining.

Please also have a look at her website www.widdall.dsl.pipex.com/artemis

Non-members welcome - £1-50

Best Regards and see you on Thursday.

David Kramrisch

Merits Update

2006-08-05T12:31:00.000+01:00

Following the merits competition last Thursday, Open & Modern Architecture; judged by Cy, the current overall standings in the competition can be viewed in the pdf document located in the sidebar.

Sale Photographic Society

2006-07-24T22:53:00.000+01:00

Hello All

It’s Digital evening time again.
In a fun packed programme for Thursday we have various activities in response to questions and queries from some members:

Part 1:
A 30 min Digital Presentation of Joyce & Dave’s Holiday (sunny part) in the USA.
A quick few notes about Pro Show Gold vs Photo To Exe for Digital Presentations.
A quickie reminder about how to resize photos for emailing purposes or inserting onto the blog website.

- Coffee / Tea Break - Ken has promised to bring some "special" biscuits.

Part 2:
Digital Downloaders / Portable Viewing Devices. – Please can everyone who has one bring them along so that we can compare & contrast. Eg usefulness, cost etc.

Look forward to seeing you all on Thursday.

Remember that you need to click here to download the Merits form and complete it to enter your prints on Thursday for the merits competition next week……………..

Best Regards

David Kramrisch

Autumn Weekend Away

2006-07-14T19:31:00.000+01:00

Unfortunately Ken’s illness prevented his attendance at last night’s competition but I understand that preparations for his next weekend away are at an advanced stage. His secret was given away by the sign-writers recently been spotted in Whitby.
I am sure that Ken will reveal full details on his return to good health.

Page Changes

2006-07-14T11:04:00.000+01:00

The more observant of you may have noticed the addition of a search function in the side bar. This is Google search and will return a list of search matches in a new web page. If you click through any of the search results we get some dosh in our adsense account. I do not know what level of income this will provide, it depends on how much it is used!!!!

Also at the bottom of the side bar you will find a button that links to a Firefox download. Each time a download is effected, to a different PC/user, we get more money. So if you have any family members or friends looking to replace their dodgy Internet Explorer get them to use the button and earn us some cash.

Internal Competition Entry Forms

2006-07-08T10:46:00.000+01:00

Followng a recent committee decision all internal competition entries are to be accompanied by a completed entry form. The forms will be available from the information table at club meetings and can be downloaded here using the links below.

Merit Competition Entry Form
Quarterly Print Competition Entry Form
Quarterly Slide Competition Entry Form

Lecture by Andrew Brochwicz-Lewinski ARPS

2006-07-06T16:38:00.000+01:00

Andrew Brochwicz-Lewinski's talk on his three year stay in Moscow held the attention of his audience, in spite of the hot weather. Illustrated by his photographs, the lecture was full of interesting information and anecdotes, giving us an insight into life in Moscow in the mid -1990s.
He took us through the rigours of a Russian winter, the re-emergence of churches, and the remarkable return of long hidden icons. We saw photographs taken of the wedding of his Lada -driving chauffeur, at which vast quantities of vodka were consumed, and which seemed a lavish affair, particularly in view of the low pay, and shortages of commodities.
There was a contrast in the buildings, from the refurbished traditional style buildings, the newly re-emerged churches, whose icons had been reinstated after lying hidden for seventy years or more, to the huge buildings known as Stalin's Teeth. We also saw the apartment buildings where the workers lived, many of them in very poor conditions.
We were shown pictures of the shops within containers, where no-one could ever be sure what would be available from one day to the next, maybe razor blades, maybe Hellmann's mayonnaise.We also saw the inside of the galleries of the huge GUM store, and the queue for McDonald's, with a three hour wait for fast food!
Andrew gave us an overview of the political situation during the period he was there, and the developments since that time.
The overall impression was one of contrast, change and development within Moscow and the wider Russian society. We were given the benefit of Andrew's great knowledge and understanding of his subject, lightened with his dry asides. It is a long time since I have heard such an interesting speaker and I am sure that we all agreed with Cy's comments at the end. If only we could have more lecturers of this calibre!

President's Evening 2006

2006-06-25T20:08:00.000+01:00

Another inspired venue! Thanks to Pat's organisation we visited the fascinating Staircase House in the centre of Stockport. I had no idea that so much history lay behind the prosaic exterior. Altogether, a very relaxed visit, with plenty of information from our guides, who encouraged us to look, touch and listen to the displays. We had an interesting insight into the history of one of Stockport's oldest buildings. This was followed by dinner at the Old Rectory, excellent value for money at two meals for the price of one.Once again President's evening was interesting and satisfying, a good social occasion. What a shame that more of our members were not able to join us for this excellent outing. Many thanks to our President, Pat, for arranging the event.

Presidents Night 2006

2006-06-23T13:50:00.000+01:00

presidents night 5,
originally uploaded by Dahol.

Some pictures from the Presidents night are on my Flickr site. Click on the image to view them all. I don't think they will do much to attract new members unless they think its a withcraft seminar?

Thank you, Brian.

2006-06-14T17:46:00.000+01:00

Brian, Many thanks for your interesting talk/demo last week. It is reassuring to know that there is more than one way to do use digital techniques, and that trial and error is a good way to learn. I shall approach Photoshop with more confidence from now on. Joyce Hollows

Jags Don't Do Country

2006-05-29T12:29:00.000+01:00

Another exciting trip by some intrepid explorers from the society. This time the venue was a steam rally at Chipping, near Preston. Due to the poor weather and soft ground there were not many steam engines present and the highlight of the afternoon was the extraction of the Jag from where it had sunk. This is a 'jag' in a field picture rather than 'cow'.

Forget The Rain - Send Out Suncream

2006-05-23T01:45:00.000+01:00

Hi, the last two days have been warm and sunny and we have seen some great scenes around Mystic and Newport. Looking forward to Cape Cod next. See you all next week.

Joyce and Dave

Send boats and wellies

2006-05-19T01:00:00.000+01:00

Hi from Vermont and New England. Today we saw the sun for the first time in 10 days.
We had 6 inches of rain in Boston followed by a total of 12 inches in Portland, Maine.
There were flooded side roads before we moved on to New Hampshire and then into Vermont. The coast had a total of 15 inches of rain, burst rivers, broken dams and the main coastal highway closed. So no photos. Do you think this is the rainy season? The weather forecast keeps saying it will clear in 2 days but they are as accurate as at home.
Otherwise lots of covered bridges and white churches. See you soon with a slightly rusty look.
Cheers
Joyce and Dave.

May 25th & June 1st

2006-05-14T11:16:00.000+01:00

The meeting on June 1st (listed as a Members' Evening) will now be "Out and About in Sale" - an opportunity to go into Sale and take images suitable for entry in the Festival Competition.
There should be enough light to allow photography until about 8.45. Those wishing to hunt in a pack might assemble in the Waterside plaza at 7.45, others may proceed independently.

Please note that Gordon Batley is not now available for May 25th as advertised. A revised programme will, we hope, be circulated ASAP. If you know of any visiting speakers who would come at this short notice then please email or phone.

DavidK & Richard

Professional Printing

2006-05-10T20:22:00.000+01:00

The links below are to the various price lists discussed by David last week together with his presentation.

Daves Presentation
Loxley Prices
Peak Imaging Prices
Jessops Prices

Digital evening

2006-05-05T16:23:00.000+01:00

Many thanks to all concerned, including Richard and DavidK., for an enlightening evening. What a wealth of talent we have within the club! I am sure I am not the only member to learn from their input. Probably bite sized pieces like this are easier to learn from than longer sessions on one subject. For a slow learner, like me, anyway. Joyhol

Short Photoshop Tutorials

2006-05-04T17:38:00.000+01:00

Hi. I came across these the other day all bar 1 are less than5 minutes long and easy to follow.
1.http://www.prophotosecrets.com/ecourse/huesat1/huesat1.html
2.http://www.prophotosecrets.com/ecourse/huesat2/huesat2.html
3.http://www.prophotosecrets.com/ecourse/chaircol/chaircol.html
4.http://www.prophotosecrets.com/ecourse/addcolbw/addcolbw.html
5.http://www.prophotosecrets.com/ecourse/dropshad/dropshad.html
6.http://www.prophotosecrets.com/ecourse/whiteyes/whiteyes.html
7.http://www.prophotosecrets.com/ecourse/wedding/wedding.html

Well worth a visit.
Cheers

PRIORITY MESSAGE

2006-05-04T13:56:00.000+01:00

Thursday June 1st is marked as a “Members’ Evening - You Decide - Let Us Have Your Suggestions”

I suppose that David K and I are “us” and we NEED YOUR SUGGESTIONS

This is the one evening in the year when you can have just what you want !!!
Please use the COMMENT box to tell us, otherwise we’ll be in the pub by 8.10 (now there’s a thought).

Sale Festival Photographic Competition

2006-04-21T17:32:00.000+01:00

Sale Festival Committee have decided to run a photographic competition as part of this year's festival celebrations. For some reason, that I have not yet figured out, Mike Bannister and myself are organising the competition on behalf of Sale Festival. The competition is open to all members of the public but we hope that as members of Sale Photographic Society you will all feel obliged to enter. The theme of the competition is "Aspects of Sale" and the focus should be on the richness and splendour of the Borough with particular reference to its people, its architecture and its artistic & recreational culture.

A set of Rules in PDF format can be downloaded by clicking here

Digital Evening - May 4th

2006-04-21T01:18:00.000+01:00

....But Were Afraid to Ask

An evening to provide basic and more advanced information about all aspects of digital photography. A Panel of speakers will give short presentations and will then take Questions from the floor.

1. Shoot-and-Point and Beyond - Getting the Best from Your Camera - John Earnshaw
2. Digital Darkroom – Transferring images to the PC and Essential Processing - Dave Hollows
3. From PC to Paper -
Professional Printing - Dave Kramrisch
DIY Printing - Cy Newton

IT WOULD BE HELPFUL IF A FEW QUESTIONS COULD BE SUBMITTED IN ADVANCE
[either by a comment here or by email to rparish@btinternet.com]
Thanks
Richard and Dave

Sale Photographic Society

2006-04-09T17:38:00.000+01:00

Update to Story in Three Pictures Competition Rules

A potential entrant, anxious to effect economies, has asked whether three prints could be entered on a single mount.

I can see no objection to this, provided that the three are all colour OR all monochrome, and that the order in which they should be viewed is obvious.

Richard

Brecon weekend away

2006-03-31T16:17:00.000+01:00

A weekend in the Brecon Beacons with Sale Photographic Society

Our spring weekend away this year was to the Brecon area, a place where I had never been before. I was looking forward to it, as I had often heard of the outstanding beauty of that part of Wales.

The drive down took us along winding quiet roads, through gently rolling hills, and all of it lit by bright sunshine. We arrived at our accommodation, and were pleased with what we found. The only drawback was that our group of fourteen was split between two houses, within 200 yards of each other, instead of sharing one larger house. Not really a problem, except that, with only seven in each house, mealtimes were much more civilised events. And fewer people cluttering up the kitchen must have made life easier for John and Kate, who undertook the catering in their respective houses, with a little help from galley slaves as needed.

This time Ken had surpassed himself. He has taken us to many beautiful places on our weekends away, but the next day, as we looked down from a viewpoint high above the Usk valley, we both agreed that this was probably the most spectacular. Well done, Ken! He’d even got the weather right, for once. The spring-like sunshine was a bonus. Our weekends usually take place in a steady downpour interspersed with spells of heavy drizzle. Not so this weekend. We returned to our warm and comfortable accommodation, to enjoy another of John’s super meals.

We tucked into a delicious oriental first course, but our main course was somewhat delayed by a very dramatic fire in the kitchen, the details of which need not be disclosed here. Luckily, some quick thinking averted what could have been a hideous tragedy, and as we escaped outside into the freezing air, to avoid inhaling too much of the thick black smoke, we began to see the funny side.

So, having cleaned up, we continued our meal, and the party from the other cottage joined us for an evening of digital presentations shown on the club’s new equipment. Plenty of wine was consumed, and by the time we went to bed, our friends had staggered off to their accommodation through the beginnings of a snowstorm.

Imagine our delight the next morning to find that the magnificent view of the Brecon Beacons was a snow-covered wonderland. Our initial excitement was somewhat dampened by the realization that the thick layer of snow over the previous day’s ice had made the narrow, winding access lane almost impassable.

However Sale photographers are a resourceful bunch so, after a hearty breakfast, we set about making the most of the photo opportunities presented by the snow. Our next merits competition has the set subject of Minimalism, and soon the fields around us were scattered with bodies lying or kneeling in the snow, taking advantage of every clump of grass, or twigs, poking up through the snow. Catkins with icicles, footprints, tyre tracks, drifts of snow in tree roots, the intrepid Sale Photographers missed nothing. I only hope that other people’s efforts turned out better than my own!

The more energetic club members went for invigorating walks in the snow, whilst the rest of us lazed around on the sofas, reading or watching the rugby on television,
whiling away the day very easily. It was a rare opportunity for some of us to do absolutely nothing.

Late in the afternoon, Ken and John drove out to see if the road was passable, and to pick up a few extra supplies. We had mixed feelings when they returned with a thumbs-up, to tell us the road was open. Sadly, we realised that there would be no excuse not to leave as planned the following morning.

Once again, Kate fed her hungry band, John fed us, and we shared another evening’s entertainment. This time we had a slide show of Pat’s trip to Porto Rico, a far cry from the scenes we had experienced during the day. A little more drinking brought the evening to a slightly noisy conclusion.

And then it was time to clear up and set off home. Several of us took the opportunity to drive around the Elan Valley, a magnificent sight in summer, we were told. Covered in snow, it was breathtaking, if a little dangerous. As the sky became darker, more snow began to fall, and we thought it wise to drive out, slowly, as the road was slippery, due to frozen snow. There was a real danger, too, that we might accidentally run over one of the many sheep, which merged in so well with the snow that they were barely visible. It was here that we caught sight of several red kites, which thrive in that area.

The drive home was dreary and dark, quite the opposite of our drive down on the previous Friday, when we had seen the landscape at its spring-like best. We were quite glad to arrive back in snow-free Sale. But we are, as usual, thankful to Ken, the organiser, and John and Kate who fed us so well. We look forward to our next trip. Any ideas, yet, Ken?

Portland Bill - Graham Shaw

2006-02-18T21:24:00.000Z

Portland Bill - Graham Shaw,
originally uploaded by SalePhotoSociety.

The award winning images from the Annual Slide Competition can be viewed by clicking on Grahams picture shown here. This image was judged 'First' in the open section and also selected as 'Best Landscape'.

Congratulations to Graham and the other members with winning images.

Welcome to our website

Treasure Hunt

A Watery Week for Sale Photographic Society

Canal Walk

The June competition

Challenge result for May

Congratulations Al nice one.

Digital projector displays

Canal under the city streets.

May Challenge 'SUNSETS'

Romiley Battle Result

Pictures to EXE

Sale Festival 2008 Photographic Competition

As part of its celebrations for Festival Week, Sale Festival 2008 is running a Photographic Competition for keen amateur photographers on the theme of

“Leisure in the Locality”

The photographs should reflect your favourite ideas of leisure, be it people, events, or even leisure related environmental issues which are now high on everybody’s agenda.

Amateur Photographers who would like to enter the competition should submit up to 4 prints to Sale Waterside Arts Centre to arrive no later than Monday 2nd June.

Monthly challenge

PHOTOGRAPHIC EXHIBITION

ANNUAL EXHIBITION 2008

February's Monthly Challange.

January challange

Site updates

Site updates

Monthly Challenge

Digital Presentation Competition at Rochdale

Autumn on Ullswater

Merits Standing after 4 Rounds:

A grand week away

The Last Supper

Panel Competition - July 19th

Pat Holmes: LRPS the EASY WAY (or was it?)

Photosynth multi dimensional image viewer

L&CPU Print boxes

May Competition

Photo Challenge

Practical Evening - April 12th

A few things...

2007 Merit Competitions

New Web Site

Record Judging

Website tweaks

Dave Hollows: A Short History of My Time at SPS.

Email address

How to use the SPS Website Part 1

Latest Entry Forms

Website problems

A good start to 2007

New website design.

Sale Photographic Society

Annual Competitions

Fotosense.co.uk

Advice, please

Filters

Thanks Bill

New Wonder Camera

Autumn Trip

Photography Podcasts

Photoshop Tutorials

Jessops

Mounting question.

Your Ideas Please

Hello all at SPS

60th Anniversary

Pirelli Calender Portal

60th Anniversary Schedule

Reminder of Programme

Sale Photographic Society

Support your website!!

Small Change of Plan

'Knee-How'

Membership Cards

A Great Turnout

Sally Mann Profile

Syllabus Changes

The lengths some people will go to....

Change of Programme - August 31st

BBC Competition - ends soon!

Airport Panel and Graham Shaw

Panel competition followed by a 35mm slide presentation by Graham Shaw

Amateur Photographers who would like to enter the competition should submit up to 4 prints to Sale Waterside Arts Centre to arrive no later than Monday 2^nd June.