Coming Up

Digital Photography Session

View photos from the Rainbow Ball here

 
The Canon A1 continues to do the rounds and we’re all looking forward to slide shows soon!!

Meeting Point: The Bridge Hotel, Wednesdays 8pm
Classes at 8pm before meetings at 9pm - all welcome.
 

Diary 2009 

January     February     March     April    May    June    July    August     September    October    November    December

I hope you were able to enter into the “spirit” of things over Halloween…… Did you dress up? Did you get any photos?

I remember a little while (?) ago Jenny and Anthony turned the clock back and became travellers back in time. Anthony even had a musket if memory serves me right.

We missed out a little on all that dressing up this year with the fun taking place at the weekend - BUT why not put on the gear again or if you’re self-conscious, put it in a bag. Bring it down and dress up for this Wednesday’s meeting. Go on, I dare you. Ok then, I’ll take the dare BUT as many as possible should dress up for fun or wear something Halloweeny. Go on, go for it. Go on, it’ll be a bit of a laugh AND a distraction from all this talk of us commiting ourselves to BILLIONs of euros for the Banks.

I mean all we do is enjoy our hobby but we’re expected to cough up a few bob when the time comes. I can’t understand it – we didn’t cause it, but it looks like we’ll pay for someone else’s greed. Aaaaaaarrrrrrrhhhhhhhh. Just as well digital came along or we’d be forking out big time for film, processing and printing.

There was a warm welcome back for Dumbledore after his clandestine trip abroad. He talked a lot about the magic tree, sorry 3, e.g. Subject, Emphasis, Meaning. Also metering, no, not reading the ESB/Gas meters, but trying to get the right exposure. True to form, he introduced a bit of palmistry – did you know you can use your camera to read your hand? E.g. for mid-tone? Then he touched on a bit of DIY with bracketing – no, not hanging shelves but setting the camera up to take 3 photographs, one underexposed, one average and one overexposed. At one stage, he had us wrapping coats and jumpers around the lens to stop reflections. You have to hand it to him, being a wizard of photography he can certainly pull a trick or two.  I dare him to dress up for Wednesday!!!

There was a great sigh of relief when the project on the Autumn of Life officially came to and end. Thanks to all who put a bit of work into the project and there was some imagination.

This brings me to our next project, another Aaaaaaarrrrrhhhhh???. No, this is the Annual TBPS Competition on landscapes. Remember up to three photographs and mounted. Date to be confirmed but will be this month, near the end.

Josh treated us to a glimpse of his work and I have to say his photographs jumped off the screen at me. He can do what he does very well! You could say he has his own unique style for what he has to do. But, like us all, he wants to develop his own individual style.

I am always amazed at the way each of us can reveal our world in a very individual way. We all have talent and photography gives us a unique and reasonably cheap way to develop. Just follow your dream photograph.

Isn’t it great to see so many new individuals joining and opening our eyes with their photographs? Well, on Wednesday, we hope to have another new member, Gillian

We'd like to extend a warm welcome to Josh who risked coming to our Wednesday night and I'm glad to say stayed, and has decided to come again.We look forward to getting to know each other better and sharing what we do best.

Do you remember the long wait on Wednesday? If you were there? Find out more below. Thanks to Eddie for making us laugh tonight especially with his funny video clips. I waited in the Bridgewater Car Park but I couldn't recreate the scene!!!  Also, for his how not to and how to photograph.  Finally, his brief introduction to MSN and Movie Maker.

As always, all are welcome to bring along any photographs and get some "hands on"/"feedback" autopsy………….from our resident coroner(s)…………..

Thanks to Michael who joined recently for walking the plank with his photos. We all loved the couple sitting under the tree looking out on the lake.  A definite winner.  Unfortunately, Wang couldn't make it and we send her our best wishes as we do to anybody who is down with the bug.

Chris is still working moving rapidly towards a successful panel - well done Chris and keep going.

Bernie, Margaret and Jenny have the licentiate in their sights and should be ready before next April. Keep at it, even if you don't feel like it!!!

Thanks to Paul, Stewart and the table photographers who took photographs of the Ball. We saw some............don't we look different when we let our hair down??? More to come, bring them on......... They can also be seen here:  http://www.flickr.com/photos/tbps/  

So, why were we waiting? Well, having listened to the theory last week all about lenses, we were avidly looking forward to the magical Dumbledore Handouts. But guess what? They never materialised. Why? Because the wizard was off with "the other lads" somewhere in the UK, where it was probably raining, and couldn't work his magic. So, a yellow card there. If there are no handouts for the next meeting you can be sure all his magical powers will be reined in!!! Of course, the wizard might redeem himself by waving his wand for drinks all round!!! [Watch what happens..........]

Thanks to Stewart, Paul and myself for baring their souls with some photographs that were probably best called “bloopers”. Paul’s didn’t need much work, but Stewart’s and mine competed for the coveted Dumbledore trick or treat such was the amount of rehabilitative work needed to make the photos presentable. Sure it was a great learning and humbling experience. Feel free to pull a few of your own out of the hat and let’s all learn how to improve.

Thanks to Colum sharing his expertise on lenses last week. He knows a lot doesn’t he?

Before you started photography, maybe you wore glasses so you had your first pair of lenses???

Anyway I may have caught a touch of “hyperfocalfocusingitis” and I found it hard to get around that one, let alone defractive optics. I was surprised to hear there is a trombone lens which moves in and out although the modern version screws in and out. Enough of that, but Colum has promised extensive handouts and we can all look forward to a bit of recap there.

So, for tonight, we can look forward to Eddie giving his all as he brings us back to basics.

I love touching base and being reminded or relearning the basic techniques.

Did Colum’s sharing help you finish your project? You haven’t forgotten have you? Wasn’t it called “The Autumn of Life” - to be in pretty soon - remember?

As always, all are welcome to bring along any photographs and get some “hands on”/“feedback” autopsy………….from our resident coroner(s)…………..

However, Eddie sent some breaking news with a prompt to look in the Wicklow People. There bold as brass were some notable members of the society imbibing or being force fed some of the black stuff at the Ball. What are we like???? At all, at all??

Did you ever try typing with your feet? Well, I’m using my fingers on a tiny keyboard on a micro computer and I’m getting cramps and maybe RSI (repetitive strain injury)! Without a full briefing I can’t confirm or deny what happened. Suffice it to say that Colum bravely took the helm. Did ye have the craic?

I expect we will have a full complement on Wednesday night so I look forward to that.

So what can we expect on Wednesday? Well, how about using some of that knowledge that we’ve acquired? Stewart and I are trying to put together a little presentation that will help all of us (!)? by putting our photographic hats on and coming up with “recommendations”/”observations”/”comment” on some hand picked photographs. These will (hopefully) be of varying “quality“………and may teach even the old hands a thing or two!!!

If you can bring along any photographs you have recently taken you can have them included in the presentation and get some “hands on”/“feedback” autopsy………….by our resident coroner(s)…………..

Thanks to Adrian who gave of his time to judge the 2 Portrait entrants on Wednesday. Didn’t he see an overall improvement in the quality of the photography? First out of the blocks, for all to see, was Julie, so congratulations on a wonderful interpretation. There were a few quirky shots and lots of extras from the film sets. In one or two cases, cropping was an issue! Remember, be sure you are entering a photograph exactly as you want it and e.g. beware of entering a shrunken slide shot!

Just to remind you to put to good use all you’ve learned to date and concentrate on the project for October - the theme is “The Autumn of Life”.

They’re loads of food for thought now that the weather scene has changed and that look of autumn is quickly changing the landscape.

Back to reality:
2 Portraits for Wednesday night, mounted. Don’t you have to be pretty discerning to get it down to 2 or even 1?

Stewart is following on from Dumbledore for Wednesday’s presentation AND do bring your camera, no matter how big or small it is. You could say he’ll be talking about the nuts and bolts of it!

The feedback on the presentations has been very positive and the handouts focus the mind later. If you know anybody who wants to join and improve their photography they're welcome to come along.

I’m sure I don’t need to remind you after all your work on the portraits to be concentrating now on your project for October - the theme is “The Autumn of Life”.

Mini-Report on Pilgrimage The TBPS stag and hen pilgrims began to make their way into the city of the cats from early afternoon. Such was the hospitality afforded the group that I was even given a free pint! Unlike the following Limerick there was nothing but fun, fun, fun and some photographs of varying degrees of significance (ha-ha). "There once were two cats of Kilkenny Each thought there was one cat too many So they fought and they hit And they scratched and they bit Till instead of two cats there weren't any!

News of the arrival of this band of merry men and women reached the far corners of the earth. We were joined by Keith and Genevieve from Australia! Over a few drinks they enjoyed Irish hospitality and wit. They got crash courses in digital photography from Willie (without any PC or handouts!). They were so delighted to be entertained and made feel welcome. The weather was glorious with accurate weather forecasting (thanks to Carlos!). They were particularly impressed by the stamina of the group, with sleepness nights and zealous photography. Unfortunately, our tour guide told us that the Diageo brewery there was to close with the unfortunate loss of 60 jobs as technological measures were being brought in to cope with the increased demand for the liquid refreshments. We certainly did our bit for the country by supporting our neighbouring county. Did you know that gold was regularly supplied from Wicklow to the monasteries in Kilkenny to make chalices and other ornaments? If anybody knows or discovers where we can get our hands on some then we could quickly sort out our finances. How about a photography trip to the mines???????? and some panning as well?

FLICKR: The Flickr website is up and running. You can browse photos, and upload pictures.Any questions - Larissa will be more than delighted to help as our flickering expert.

Dean of the Faculty of Photography:. Professor Dumbledore took over the chair as Dean of the Faculty of Photography. He kicked off the new term with a sizzling introduction to the format of the coming term. Please, make an effort to be on time @ 8.00 p.m. and any friends/acquaintances (if you have any) who wish to study at the feet of this Master.

Guest lecturers: As mentioned earlier, liaisons are being made to secure some prominent guest lectures during the academic year. We have some in mind already, but if you have someone in mind, or a special area of interest, let us know.

Photo ID:Again, bring along photos for your new ID card, You have to be paid up with your membership - due April - are you blushing???

Thanks to all who continue to put forward recent examples of their work and take any suggestions, if any, on the chin. Sharing is caring.

"I made a mistake" - remember those lines from the Crean play? Have up to 2 (not 3) Portraits for September judging.. Group portrait eligible. Also sepia (?by special demand!). Have you noticed a huge increase in the number of portrait photographs being snatched lately?

Stewart and Georg to hang fresh photographs in Enterprise Centre? Are yours up?

Stewart sends his apologies now as he can't make it tonight. Another fun night with the gaffer away! Don't forget your photos of the Spirit of Kilkenny - 10 MAX. (No blackmailing)

PILGRIMAGE There will be a mass exodus on Friday as the Wasp County and Kilkenny, in particular, is infiltrated by Micko’s army. The rooms have been booked and allocated!!! If you have nothing planned I hope to entertain you with some things to do. Of course, if you want to you can just laze around. Sounds good??? By the way, privacy was respected for those members enrolling in crash fitness/toning sessions before we arrive.. Carlos must be looking on us kindly with the prospect of fine weather. Maybe its due to increasing followers……Anyway, since Kilkenny probably qualifies as a "seaside town" based on official definitions, you had better pack bikinis and shorts if you want to play in the sand……

FLICKR: Following on Larissa’s introduction to the Flickr website where you can browse photos, and upload pictures you might have had a go and get online. Any questions - Larissa will be more than delighted to help as our flickering expert.

Dean of the Faculty of Photography:. Following the recent open competition it is my pleasure, as Secretary (!) and member of the board, to announce that Professor Dumbledore will be this year’s Dean of the Faculty of Photography. He will introduce himself and an outline of the first academic term covering the workshops contained in the earlier update.

You can also look forward to a slide show of Carry on Cruising conducted by the Professor. Look out for some hard hitting shots!!! So please, make an effort to be on time @ 8.00 p.m. and any friends/acquaintances (if you have any) who wish to study under this Master.

Guest lecturers: Liaisons are being made to secure some prominent guest lectures during the academic year. If you have someone in mind let us know.

Photo ID:Bring along photos for your new ID card. Of course, you have to be paid up with your membership - due April - are you blushing???

Thanks to all who continue to put forward recent examples of their work and take any suggestions, if any, on the chin. Sharing is caring.

Remember up to 3 Portraits for September. Group eligible. Also sepia (?by special demand!)

Well, well, well, can you believe the new academic term is just upon us. The first TBPS workshop over four weeks is scheduled to begin on campus on Wednesday 9th September 2009 at 8.00 p.m. sharp. This will be followed by a further workshop tailored to meet the needs of the members. All will begin at 8.00 p.m. SHARP each Wednesday unless otherwise advised.

The €50 cost of the workshops for the year will include enrolment as members in the TBPS.

Please bring this to the attention of anybody wishing to pursue and develop a passion for photography. As you know the Wednesdays are a source of inspiration together with information plus practicals subsumed under an umbrella of craic in a friendly and welcoming environment.

These workshops are also useful for ourselves as we advance and enjoy this fulfilling interest.

Workshop I outline: 

Wednesday 9th September 2009 - Introduction & workshop outline 
Wednesday 16th September 2009 - Choosing & Using a camera 
Wednesday 23rd September 2009 - What kind of photograph do you want to take? 
Wednesday30th September 2009 - What means what?

A sneak preview of the first week of Workshop II:
Wednesday 7th October 2009 How to improve, store and retrieve your photographs.

So, be organised and remind your friends that each night begins at 8.00 p.m. sharp and will continue til about 9.00 p.m. To be fair to the lecturers it is important to be on time so that the presentation can run smoothly.

A bit of information on Kilkenny: Kilkenny is a city of about 26,000 in the 'Sunny South East' of Ireland. As Ireland's Medieval Capital, it offers the traveller a mixture of an exciting vibrant night-life, beautiful street-scapes, great shopping opportunities & a rich cultural heritage. Kilkenny (Irish: Cill Chainnigh) is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Ireland as well as a weekend getaway for the TBPS. Well regarded for its vibrant nightlife, it has become increasingly popular in recent years. The city is also famous for its many medieval buildings and is referred to as the Marble City (even though it isn't even real marble!). Despite its small population, it holds ancient city status due to having a cathedral and an old royal charter dating from 1609. The locals do not take kindly to the city being referred to as a "town". Sightseeing, partying or a spot of shopping in Kilkenny's array of excellent shops, this city is certain to have it all for everyone. Kilkenny's Royal Charter is this year celebrating its 400th birthday. The city's origins predate the medieval landmarks existing today. Saint Canice founded a monastic settlement in Kilkenny in the sixth century, unfortunately the sole remaining landmark from this settlement is the round tower positioned alongside the cathedral. Strongbow, the famous Norman Conqueror, then built a fortress in the City, Kilkenny Castle, and soon the construction of the walled city began. There will be more information as we get closer so read your newsletter! There have been some questions about when the TBPS Ball is on but it hasn’t changed since the last few newsletters and is still on the 25th September, a Friday.

FLICKR: Tonight we have Larissa introducing us to the Flickr website where you can browse photos, and upload pictures with Flickr, a digital photography and media file sharing website.

Thanks to all who participated in our recent quiz. Magnus Magnuson just about managed to keep a grip on such an enthusiastic audience. As often can happen, the night went back to basics with the ould pen and paper routine….there is life after digital! It was an enjoyable night and helped us all gauge our photographic knowledge. Watch out for the digital production coming soon to a screen near you!

Reminder - Bring along your best portrait photographs that we took of our models in the band hall. Julie will put together the best ones for the girls so bring along yours on disc please and pass to Julie.

Thanks to all who continue to put forward recent examples of their photography. They can be shown on the Big Brother screen unless you have prints (or both!).it.

Portraits for September, TBPS Ball 25th September. I’m heading off to the “Eternal City” as you might have guessed from the introduction. I’ll be leaving in the wee hours of the morning and as I have to look my best my intention is to leave a bit early for my beauty sleep. So, we’ll try and conclude the “official business” before I escape! Capisce? When did you last move/press your green box? Do you know where it is? Congratulations if you know straight away. I've been unconsciously using mine and had to go look for it after a query from an eminent photographer! By the time you come tonight, I hope you'll have found yours!

We managed to make the field trip to the “Pyramid” on Wednesday night as the light was fading. We had an extensive showing of ALL the photos when we got back. Naturally these were raw, or unedited and there were a few bloopers but some interesting effects. Paul had a few “walk throughs” in the graveyard. Some members were spooked by the idea and shied away. Stewart was enraptured by the wonderful sunset as we rambled back and there were some stunning photos taken as he shared this mystical moment. 

A little reminder to bring along your best portrait photographs of our models for Wednesday. Julie is putting together the best ones for the girls. 

I will again have the points awarded for each black and white photograph judged by Adrian if you still wish to find out.  

Last week the word “quiz” appeared in the newsletter. As you guessed it was purely a reminder to join the Pyramid outing on time. Well, now, the word “quiz” is being used again, but this time as a gentle reminder that on Wednesday we’re having a quiz night.. Not a QUIZ night, but a quiz night because it will be fairly handy. No need to sweat or reach for the anti-perspirant or the tranquiliser. It should be a blast! Arrive early because places are limited. Just let the answers come naturally. 

Portraits for September, TBPS Ball 25Th September. Incidentally Keith Barry is appearing the night of our ball so if anyone fancies a bit of hypnosis let me know.

Were you ever afraid to ask a question about photography?  Well I read recently that “The dumbest question is, the one, that's never asked.” So, whatever’s on your mind, if you want to know something, ask!  If you can’t think of any questions then just sit back, relax and enjoy the quiz on Wednesday and I’m sure you’ll have most if not all the answers. 

QUIZ:
Question 1: 8.00 p.m. = ?

PILGRIMAGE 
If you are going on the Pilgrimage to Kilkenny in September are you in training? Make sure your camera and equipment are as healthy as you are. You may have to push them to the limit!

I‘m trying to put together a rough schedule of things to do there. If you have any suggestions will you write them on a bit of paper and give them to me Wednesday or else e-mail me. It should be a great opportunity to chill out and to opt in or out of whatever is going on.

Question 2: 8.15 p.m. sharp = ?

Bring along your best portrait photographs from our Wednesday night studio. Julie will put together the best ones for the girls.

Some people asked me for any specific details about the Black and White judging with Adrian. I have the points awarded for each photograph. If you can remember the number(s) of your photographs you can read off your points. There are some comments as well.

As usual, on the night, it was back to basics in practising the art of photography. Familiar words like e.g. "excellent", "good movement", "great photograph",  “flat”, “not sharp”, “no foreground”, “contrast too high”, “wrong shape” were used.

Ah well, practice makes perfect, so I’m delighted to announce a field trip to the “Pyramid” on Wednesday. This is the part where all my mouthing off catches up with me as I too am challenged to get my camera out and compose our usual perfect photographs (not), (well, sometimes!).

OK, back to the quiz. 

ANSWERS:-
The answer to Question 1: 8.00 p.m. = ? is of course the time we usually meet at!
The answer to Question 2: 8.15 p.m. sharp = ? is the time that the camel convoy will depart from the Bridge Hotel for the Pyramid.

If you got the answers right you will be able to join the 8.15 p.m. (sharp) camel ride all the way to the Pyramid.

If you got the answers wrong you will be left behind!!! (Unless with the hump you want to travel alone). Wear suitable clothing, no high heels, as the ground is ? undulating ? Clairvoyants welcome!

Thanks to all who participated and contributed to the impromptu raffle for the RNLI for reasons outlined.

There were some wonderful prizes very kindly donated even if winning could make you “scarlet”, "tipsy" or "framed". For next year, we’ll try and get some good money raising stunts to “Train One and Save Many” for the great service that the lifeboat crews provide. When the siren goes next year (D.V.), it will be all hands to the pumps!!!

Vincent was absolutely thrilled with our fund raising and sends his thanks on behalf of the RNLI.

I don’t see the raffle as being an annual event but it was good to show support especially when it wasn’t possible to be there in person (oops, sorry!).

Thanks to all who put forward our ritualistic showings of our slideshows and stills on Wednesday. It's only when we see all our efforts shared that we realise how much talent we have both revealed and about to bloom. So, Wednesday, is an ideal opportunity to evening shots at the Pyramid. Be ready to go at 8.15 p.m.sharp or miss it. Or, to put it another way, use it or lose it! Or again, snooze, you lose!

Portraits for September, TBPS Ball 25th September.

Finally we have to get back for Roberto who will be keeping the Bridge open for our return.

I have a new modem and PC released from "intensive care". Thanks for your feedback about missing the newsletter and sorry you were denied your bit of fun.

I had loads of fun at the Maritime Festival after I nearly had a hernia and died of pneumonia. Although I wasn’t the only one who could have been on a doctor’s cert - I won’t mention some other poor unfortunate members who genuinely couldn’t make it down. Fair dues to Roberto who battled his way down with the crowds. Also Margaret and Eddie who was like the Pied Piper.

PILGRIMAGE
Julie and myself are finalising the Pilgrimage to Kilkenny in September. Wednesday is the last night to confirm you are going and pay your deposit. After that the deal is off with the hotel so you need to commit yourself now if you’re unsure. We really did get an excellent deal for the weekend so if you can stretch to it you could get some interesting photographs as well as having a bit of craic.

ACTION required: FINAL CALL - DECIDE - TELL US WEDNESDAY.

A BIT OF RECAP:
Willie very kindly sent me on material for the electronic library which I really appreciated. Having missed his talk, since I was abroad, I found his outline very informative and easy to understand and helped me catch up! It will be available shortly.

We had a fantastic opportunity to work on our portraits when Peter gave us a little intro before we set to work with our three models in the Band Hall. They were fabulous and photos of the night should be ready soon. Peter set us up with a little studio with lights and backdrops and set us on our way with his tips.

Some of us had trouble getting our cameras to shoot as I think they got confused with the high tech equipment. Still it was an enjoyable night and thanks again to the girls who will get an appropriate gesture for their work.

When Peter has the opportunity I’m sure he will send me his notes on working with models in a studio for inclusion in the electronic library.

The library has been well and truly started and with so much talent and knowledge in the Society it should contain a very useful repository on photography.

This is a useful point to introduce our Black and White night which Adrian judged. There were a remarkable 56 photographs entered. Adrian marked them out of 20. There was one “20” belonging to Chris which was a stunning photo of zebras. Chris headed off to South Africa to work on his Black and White shoot (!) and it was certainly worth the effort. Well done Chris and a nice result after a frustrating night with the portraits.

So, what did we learn? Well, BASIC MISTAKES were made and the printing needs to be sorted.

We could probably have a detailed talk on printing apart from regularly rerunning our basic talks. Thanks to everybody who submitted photos and more details Wednesday.

The Maritime Festival took to the harbour like a duck to water. There was no festival on Monday. We had our live bait sponge throwing fun. The kids loved it. So did the adults. Robert was in his element or something else. The presence of Dumbledore was sadly missed as also were some of the long toothed wizards. I gave the proceeds to Vincent on the day and told him we would be running a RAFFLE on Wednesday night to raise a few more bob so that we could - “Train One and Save Many”.

There will be some very interesting stuff for the raffle and well worth the support for the lifeboats. Gather up your loose change and if you could put together say a fiver that would be cool - you could buy more than one ticket and increase your chance of surprising yourself with a mystery prize!

BE THERE with your €€€ for the RNLI!

Bring along some of your recent photos for Wednesday, be it Portraits, Festival, Holidays or whatever. Expect a slide show?   AND Laughs guaranteed…equivalent to two visits to the doctor!!!

Firstly, Julie and myself need to finalise our Pilgrimage to Kilkenny. We have an excellent deal, price to include 2 nights B & B plus 1 dinner plus special reduced fare on transport into town. You won't do much better, so snap it up NOW.

We need to know by Wednesday's meeting DEFINITE numbers PLUS deposit to secure your bed. As you know its taken a while to negotiate this deal so please, please, let Julie and myself know if you are coming and give us your deposit Wednesday 21^st July.

Given that the Wednesday nights are great craic and that you abandon your family for some light relief and given that the society is family orientated, you might consider bringing a friend/partner/spouse for a pick me up.....

ACTION required: DECIDE now and tell us Wednesday.

As a sweetener, the society will probably chip in a few bob to make the weekend a little more attractive – are you hooked yet?

WORKs IN HAND:
As usual we had offerings of our toils for the Big Brother Screen. Larissa in particular had us all enthralled as she did a particularly incisive show on the life cycle of a winged creature – do you remember what it was called?

Then, many thanks to Robert for his courage in sharing his opus magnus that he wrote and spent a year researching and getting funding for. He showed his thought provoking video about the way people with a disability can be treated. Unfortunately, he didn't have his new high tech wheelie in time for the filming (!) so I think he's contemplating a remake to bring us up to date. Thanks again Robert. He had some dodgy characters in his cast from cowboys to bikers and chains..........

Next Peter kindly stepped into the breech for next Wednesday when he offered to hold our attention with a talk on a day in the life of a photographer. Well, actually, he said he'd “think of something”.

Thanks Peter. We'll be rearing to go at 9 o'clock for the portrait shoot in the band hall from 9 – 11 pm. What would we do without Julie and her contacts?

Unfortunately, I was “abroad” for Willie's far reaching presentation on digital imaging and by all accounts it was educational and entertaining from the feedback I received. Well done Willie for making this difficult subject so interesting. Not everybody asked for a handout at the time such was the amount of material to be absorbed. However, given that Willie managed to get the material across in such good way, it was considered that it would be great if Willie could “release” his talk in a “digital format” e.g. by way of a document that he could forward to me and I would distribute it with the newsletter. Willie doesn't believe in handouts so given his forte with all things digital, a short outline in electronic “digital format” will be right up his street. Thanks Willie.

VISION: LIBRARY-BASICs-PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
I had my eyes tested and when thinking about vision I was thinking about the society.

Now, I have to say that after Paul's superb handout and subsequent electronic copy, I thought it would be tremendous if we could actually build up an electronic library of lectures, presentations or talks. The members would then have immediate access to their own electronic knowledge library in their own folder on their own PC which they could dip into now and again as needed. This would be a really “green” approach, save the trees, maybe the planet and help me especially by saving me as I go looking for my hard copies.

I must also confess that I love getting down to basics and I believe that one of the secrets to being a good photographer is knowing the basics and starting there. Colum has a particular gift in handing on the torch in this area and I think it would be great if once a month we had a talk on some aspect of the basics.......whether by Colum or another gifted person, within or outside the society e.g. a guest speaker.

I can tell you that after bringing my camera to the fireworks at the Seabreeze Festival I made a pig's mickey of some of it before I kinda got into my stride. Feeling confident I went into manual mode. I got stuck in manual and the camera wouldn't respond. So, my question for Dumbledore and disciples on Wednesday is: what settings are recommended for fireworks?

As always, the members are there to encourage each other in the personal development of their photographic skills. Having reached a decent standard why not consider putting your work forward to the Irish Photographic Federation for evaluation? You can move through different stages of competency and you might just be surprised at how much you've learned (and, of course, still to learn.)

EVENTs
Stormy Stan will be out in one form or another as we do our best to support the Arklow Maritime Festival this weekend. We're looking for volunteers to get into the stocks and have some “wet sponges” thrown at them – wearing protective clothing of course. Are you up for it? Julie with her artistic bent agreed to do a picture for the “board”/stocks. If you have any ideas how best to generate a few bob for this worthy cause let me know.

The dates of the pilgrimage are: Sept - Fri 11th and Sat 12th.  Currently prices are coming in between €130 and €205 but we reckon we can pull it off for the lower price range once we have the numbers. So, come on, DECIDE NOW!!! AND reply to Julie Julie@kustomkidz.biz and myself traceygeop@yahoo.co.uk

Au revoir,
Jorge

NB: Willie will hopefully give his dynamic talk on digital imaging on Wednesday.  Thanks to Paul for his wonderful presentation and easy to read handout on how to use your tools and pull birds.

When we got back we released and shared our captures, which varied from the hundreds (thousands?), to the few, and ranged from interesting silouhettes, riverscapes, and yes, you've guessed, lots of boats, yachts and all manner of floating stuff.

Thanks to Stewart who patiently loaded and unloaded the various media. [Apologies for getting into a stew by referring to Stewart as Stuart in earlier messages. Any reference to any living persons, real or fictitious, was unintended!]

Safari:
I'm typing away here in Dublin on a MacBook. I have almost tamed it thank God. [I have one word to describe it - "beautiful", actually, two - "brilliant", with the odd ****]. I'm sitting at a breakfast bar on a high stool and I can't get my knees under - I may need a bit of chiropractor work on my back as my photographic days could be numbered! I went on this safari to the concrete jungle hoping my own PC would have recovered by the time I got back. I think it was all the newsletters that really screwed it up. I hope this newsletter is formatted ok when you read it.

Previews of entries for our project work (thanks) continue to come in. We're nearly ready for our final night of Distinction - Wednesday 1st July so its time to begin wrapping up. I decided to take advantage of being in Baile Atha Cliath and gathered some photos to choose from out of my own bundle to include in the project.

Julie is finalising the Band Hall for our Portrait shoot. 
Black & White Photographs by end July. 
Portraits for September. 
Finalise the "Stormy Stan" or equivalent activity.

Updates will be made on Wednesday night.

Of course, remember, keep your body fit for the TBPS Ball on Friday 25th September 2009.

As aired on Wednesday again,the TBPS Pilgrimage is back on the drawing board. After another season of theory and practice we decided that we would research the best all round way of enjoying a penitential break of "severe hardship" to detox ourselves. Value for money, convenience, location were all considered BUT each person was to input their own suggestions for next Wednesday - so do your research now. Have prices, facilities, mode of travel worked in. You can email to me - "TBPS Pilgrimage" to help speed up a decision on Wedneady night. (Thanks).

If you have spent your membership fee, Julie can take it off you by instalment if needed. [Discuss with Julie]

If you have been away for a while, know that you are always welcome back, but you may have to bring your own seat or get here early before we put up the FULL sign such is the level of interest at the moment.

Update
Thanks to Colum who continued his back to basics talk and continued to open up the hidden secrets of world of photography. He showed us his "Black Box" and what it can do. Last week he suggested bringing a tripod for Landscapes. I took his advice and disappeared off with Stuarts (thanks). He has a nice little "Slick" but there were so many things to be moved and screwed that sometimes I ended up viewing the world upside down. Luckily I brought a camera as well and I was impressed with the sharpness. I'd recommend a tripod but I looked like a huge tarantula winding my way around. I think I was even photographed.Don't get one too heavy unless you are into heavy weights in the gym.

There were some early entry for our project work (thanks) but time is running out to finish (or start) yours (mine?) - only two Wednesdays left!

Good luck to all those teens sitting for their Leaving and Junior Certs today. Keep them in your thoughts over the next week or so.

Don't forget to exercise your fingers on Friday by using your well fought for VOTE. Then go and do the Euromillions.

Speaking of difficulty I'm sitting here in the Internet Café as my PC is either suffering still from heat stroke or else needs a bit of heart surgery. I tried using the USB port in one of Julie's buggies but I couldn't connect.

Updates
BRING YOU CAMERA WITH YOU WEDNESDAY NIGHT

After our very adventurous visit to the Saltees we were treated to some magnificent shots of the life on the island. Some want to go again! Alas, the Puffins were in short supply, probably hiding in the Faroes. There was also a short slide presentation.

Such was the quality of some of the photographs that Colum treated us to a very enlightening talk on "How to use the camera", as promised.

Yes, back to basics. He pulled off one of his favourite tricks by handing out some magic handouts. These ranged over the size of the lens opening (aperture) - contrary to popular belief bigger is smaller and smaller is bigger; ( Dumbledore speak), aperture/shutter combinations; depth of field to name but a few. He had us all effing before the night was over. Do you now know what your F stop is? ISO?  So, on Wednesday night, bring along your camera for some real hands on action.

Many thanks to Colum as he continued his series of talks on photography. He ranged over a wide number of topics including Rule of Thirds, Tension, Depth, Viewpoint to name but a few. He also told us to be simple. In case you get the wrong idea what he was talking about was the simplicitiy in a photograph without too many distractions.  

As you all know, slavery was abolished by Act of Parliament in 1833. Not one to be beaten, next Wednesday Colum bravely deals with the topic of slavery.  He will manage to get his SLAVE out of the lamp which is a good formula for photography.

HOMEWORK:
There were quite a few USBs handed in on the theme "My Street".  While some were direct and to the point, others were more obtuse......

We are moving on from homework now to PROJECT work. I suppose being called a THICK is worse than being called simple, but to be called a TRIPTYCH could be very insulting.  So, instead of doing a project on triptychs, we decided a project which told a story would be more challenging. Robert was really up for it with his new lens. The story can be told over 5 to 9 photographs. Now, just to keep you motivated, you must bring your "project in progress" down each week, for positive feedback, of course, before you enter your final composition for Wednesday 29th July 2009. You never know you might even qualify for a DISTINCTION, so come next Wednesday for elaboration.

IMMINENT EVENTS:
Weather permitting, over the next few weeks we hoped to descend on Mount Usher Gardens and the Saltees.

The forecast for this Sunday is not great so we may have to postphone our visit to Mount Usher until the weather gets a bit more balmy. Instead of meeting on Sunday at 10:00 at The Bridge as suggested, you could have a DUVET morning/day instead!

The Saltees could take place on another Sunday and its about €20 to be taken out, and back of course, by boat. As there is no Café there, a packed lunch is recommended.

Paul proposes to make a presentation on compositing when he next shares his expertise.

Now that the coup is over expect to see Stewart back on Wednesday.

Hopefully you had a chance to put Colum's talk on "the magic tree" into practice. Next Wednesday,  he's going to shed some light on you've guessed "Light". Colum will share his experience working with all kinds of light and illuminate our minds with the various techniques used in creating photographs with the many different kinds of light. Ever wondered what's the best light for your photograph? Come along Wednesday for a transfiguring vision from our very own Dumbledore - Colum. Remember lights go out at 8.00 p.m. sharp so arrive in good time.

HOMEWORK:
 After last weeks over 100 diverse photos on Arklow, this week's topic is right up your street! Get creative with your photographs on the theme "My Street". Remember all roads lead to Rome...............So there you go.....share your street with us........

Hopefully you have been able to make a little time working on Paul's introduction to Photoshop and Willy's demonstration on digital storage.

The Ladies Challenge, now in its fourth year, took place on Wednesday night. An all male panel of judges, "alsation chasing bike nuts", namely Andrew and Kenny tortured themselves as they used their expertise to select the winning entries. As one commentator put it "This was an absolutely marvellous competition with the highest standard yet. The tension and pressure built up to a crescendo as the winner was announced." [E]. First place went to Larissa, second place to Bernie and third place to Kriss. Well done to all. Celtic Aerospace presented a beautiful piece of glassware which was handed to Larissa without dropping it. I understand she can keep it. Wow!

Kriss's table quiz for the Lebanon was very well supported. The Begrudgers worked hard to stay in last place but were comforted when Roberto won an orange bottle of vodka. Raffle tickets were snapped up for the generous spot prizes from the sponsors.

At 8.00 SHARP on Wednesday night (5th May), his eminence Colum is going to reveal the enchanting secrets of "The Magic Tree" to us all in one of  his best illusions yet. Come with an open mind I think you will see the Dumbledore of the TBPS at his best yet. Guaranteed to have us all flying on our Quidditch!

Now is your chance to get your photo(s) up on the world wide web. A gentle reminder to bring down your photos of Arklow as seen through the eyes of a tourist.  The Bridge Hotel will select what they want for their website.

Apologies for the late despatch but I'm still recovering after the rugby match between Leinster and Munster. As you can see from attached photo I have been finding it hard to bear up under all the pressure. Thanks also to Stewart who managed to keep the roof up such was the trembling at the Ladies Challenge. See attached photo.

HAPPY DAYS

Thanks to Willy for his excellent exposé Wednesday night on storing your digital images (=photos) and how to get them back.

There was a short slideshow on the Cairde le Chéile food fair and a taste of what to expect during the week. Various groups, including TBPS gave information on their activities and their work last Sunday. Expect some great photographs Wednesday night.

The Society is considering putting forward a panel or two for the next IPF get together. Time constraints prevented it happening for last weekend's meet.

Colum put together an amazing panel to celebrate 50 years of Space Flight/Exploration which I understand will be lifting off shortly and you can join with Colum as he celebrates his voyage of discovery at the venue to be announced Wednesday. You may need to bring a telescopic lens if you want to see the stars!!!

Challenge - The Bridge Hotel is constructing a website in which Arklow will feature through photos. You guessed, your photographs could be featured on the site, so get out, when you can, now you have the weather forecast and capture Arklow in film or digital.

Yet another Challenge is to take place on Wednesday night and it is the Ladies Challenge sponsored by Celtic Aerospace. The competition will be fierce so get ringside and watch the Titanides go for gold. Watch the rush to get the entries in BEFORE 9.00 p.m.

Did somebody whisper that the homework was on transport EXCLUDING boats!?

Upcoming events will be our competitions, usually every two months on one of the following:  Nature, People, Black & White, Slides, Sport & Action, Underwater,    So as Al Ziontz says you have time to get ready and reveal some truth about yourself.

In case you missed Wednesday, make a new entry in your diary for Friday 25th September 2009, which is the revised date for the TBPS Rainbow Ball.

A gentle reminder, for the subs - if you have paid, well done. If you haven't, speak to the counsellor.

Please do make it down as often as you can. You're missed if you're not there. When you are there, you can make a difference. So come on down, you and your photos are wanted.

Hi there,
“Photography is a system of visual editing. At bottom, it is a matter of surrounding with a frame a portion of one's cone of vision, while standing in the right place at the right time. Like chess, or writing, it is a matter of choosing from among given possibilities, but in the case of photography the number of possibilities is not finite but infinite.”    John Szarkowski 

Many thanks to Paul for regularly producing our newsletter for the past while. He did a great job.  He opened up many infinite possibilities and continues to be a wonderful source of encouragement and help. I guess he could be called the Bird Man of Arklow.  I'm glad I'm not his camera as he is most demanding!

I'm just getting a grip on this mass communication so bear with me as I get up to speed on what goes on behind the scenes.

The news in brief - make sure you have the most colourful event this year in your diary - TBPS Rainbow Ball in the Arklow Bay Hotel on Saturday May 23rd. You're guaranteed to see red there! Our ticketmaster/mistress is Julie.

Other regular upcoming events will be our competitions, usually every two months on one of the following: Nature, People, Black & White, Slides, Sport & Action, Underwater, So work on your “cone of vision” now.

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