York Photographic Society’s Annual Exhibition in Poppleton

THIS weekend sees the return of York Photographic Society’s annual exhibition.

The society’s president, Peter Brett, tells us more about the organisation and explains what visitors can expect at its upcoming exhibition, which is free to enter and will feature more than 120 prints from members’ recent work, including prints awarded by the Yorkshire Photographic Union.

We are featuring five of the images in the exhibition here, with an explanation about them from their photographer.

Over to Peter…

In a world of online photographic videos, forums and discussion groups, what does York Photographic Society (YPS) offer that’s sets it apart?

The society offers amateur hobbyists in person, “face to face” opportunities. That is through sharing their experiences, hearing inspirational presentations, participating in projects to try out new techniques, entering competitions to challenge us and to have an opportunity to exhibit in a gallery setting.

How many members does YPS have and how often do they meet?

We have over 40 members. We meet on Wednesday evenings from September to April at the Poppleton Centre from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. We also organise photography trips to locations or events throughout the year.

New romantic goth – by Paul Brelsford

Paul says:’ I do not normally participate in street photography, with one exception – Whitby Goth Weekend. The people and the costumes are absolutely amazing and the variety increases every year. Last year, there was Spiderman, Bumblebee, The Thing, too many vampires to count and even a Pokemon. For me, though, the outstanding Goth for colour and make up was the “New Romantic Goth”. The artwork on the face was superb.’

What makes up your yearly programme?

Our programme includes several elements. We have over a dozen invited speakers across the year, who present on their recent photographic projects or techniques. Being presentations “in person”, members can ask questions and discuss the content together. Project Nights, offer members the opportunity to submit images to a brief and say a few words about their approach. Competition nights allow members’ images to be judged and receive feedback on entries. And finally practical nights allow members to try out equipment or techniques.

Steller’s sea eagles – by Morris Gregory

Morris says: ‘My wife, Sally, and I went to Japan during winter on a wildlife watching trip. Steller’s sea eagles were one of the species we were particularly keen to see and photograph. We took a boat trip out of Rausu harbour in freezing cold conditions and took photos of them catching fish. On our return, with my hands numb from the -10c temperature, I was lucky to see this pair of eagles fighting over some scraps of fish and took a quick burst of shots. I was very pleased to see the eagle were in sharp focus and creating a dynamic composition.’

What benefits do members enjoy?

The society is both social, where friendships develop, and an environment to learn. Our members often describe how their skills have improved and their photographic horizons have widened. We also organise photographic safaris to various locations in Yorkshire and further afield. The society is a member of the Yorkshire Photographic Union. This opens up the opportunity to enter Yorkshire-wide competitions and to apply for national awards of photographic merit.

Stuttgart City Library – by Sue Leach

Sue says: ‘I was visiting a friend in Stuttgart for my birthday last year and she very kindly organized a photo tour of the city. I was thrilled to be able to visit the city library and keen to capture an image that echoed the peace and serentity its architectural style conveyed. Every level was quickly assessed for the best composition and it was then just a case of waiting for the ‘right moment’. With both my OM-5 and my Google Pixel 7 Pro in hand I fired off some shots. Surprisingly it was the mobile phone capture that won the day requiring only limited post-processing.’

How do members benefit from your annual exhibition?

Over the year, members will take many photographs. Rather than remaining on a computer drive, members have any opportunity to print their best work and have these images on public display in a quality exhibition setting. That gives a real sense of achievement.

Wildflower meadows – by Martin Holyoak

Martin says: ‘Swaledale’s wildflower meadows are in full bloom between May and June. This picture shows the beautiful hay meadows on the outskirts of the village of Muker. Grazing and harvesting is normally delayed until mid July to allow these meadows to flourish. Muker meadows are designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).’

What benefits will visitors enjoy by visiting the exhibition?

We hope visitors will be inspired by the images. The exhibition offers a weekend visit, which is easy to get to, free to enter and not dependent on good weather. Some people may be prompted to try out our taster evening on September 3. That is also free. Examples of exhibited images are shown on the rest of this page. For more information, visit our website at yorkphotosoc.org

The Guitarist by Mary Chatburn

Mary says: ‘We were watching a Flamenco show in Spain, when my attention was drawn to the guitarist.’

Fact file

Exhibition dates: Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 July, 10am to 5pm

Location: Poppleton Tithe Barn, Church Lane, Nether Poppleton, York YO26 6LF

Free parking and free entry.

The venue is accessible to wheelchairs and has toilets.

Refreshments will be on sale.