Photography

Contact the adviser, Brian

About me

I am a member of Ashby u3a and a member of the ‘Digital Photography’ group there.

I was introduced to photography over 60 years ago by my father, a keen photographer, and took over his 1929 Soho Myna folding roll-film camera which was second hand when he used it. I have used a range of cameras over the years - initially using B&W roll film, sheet & then 35mm all processed at home or in a darkroom we had access to. When we moved to colour, my father insisted we used slide film to “get it right in camera”.

I acquired my first SLR in the early 70’s (a Zenith!) then eventually through several others on to a Canon in the early 90’s. I got my first DSLR in the mid 2000’s (a 5D) when the first affordable full-frame semi-pro camera arrived. After upgrading over the years, I moved to a mirrorless full-frame in 2024.

My main interests continue to be nature/landscape/& wildlife (I am a member of the Society of International Nature & Wildlife photographers) including macro, though I have also supported my wife with formal garden & plant photography. I have also been persuaded to “do” an occasional wedding.

u3a photography groups

Our photography group meets usually monthly at the home of the group leader - we currently have around 8 members at the meetings.

During the winter months we tend to each bring around a dozen photos on a theme agreed the previous month (sometimes taking a lead from the u3a Eye current or past subjects) and view/review them together.

In the summer months we try to get out to different places where we take photos together and aid each other where needed. on the inevitable wet days we usually meet up at the group leaders home to review any previous outings photos we haven't shared.
We also take the opportunity to share information gleaned from webinars/blogs/articles we may have seen and also help members with any queries they may have.
There is a wide range of cameras used from smartphones through compacts, DSLRs & mirrorless to professional. But kit is not important, the photo is and we try to help each other to improve our “keepers”.