New feature – Photo Friday.
THIS is a first in a series of posts published on a Friday that will look very broadly at photography subjects. Whether that is about taking or making photos, photo subjects, or looking at the technical and creative sides (science and craft), I’ll try to cover it. I will also aim to have a look at cameras, lenses and other photography gear where it’s of interest. It’s intended to be a series that invites collaboration and I will ask for help for further information and input when relevant.
Two subjects grab our attention this week:
Newton Garth.
Newton Garth is a small settlement on the road roughly midway between Hedon and Paull (see: https://w3w.co/gasp.wizard.penny). Most local people whizz by it in the car these days without really noticing the place. However, it was once considered of far more importance than Hedon, and unlike the town is actually listed in the Domesday Day book.
I would suggest that Newton Garth is a great photography subject with its large main building and surrounding trees providing a pleasing composition. In fact, in all seasons it would probably provide a scene worth painting. I did try to digitally paint the scene a few years ago.
There are two distinctive trees – an old elm or oak majestically leaning towards the house and a tall tree with a high wide canopy. If you can identify what the trees are, then do get in touch 🙂
I’ve photographed Newton Garth quite regularly over the years in different styles:
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In the field opposite Newton Garth, there is also a lone tree – and as photographers we love lone trees. I always refer to this as the Benson Tree after my friend Paul Benson who brought it to my attention after taking many photographs of it through the seasons.
Bokeh – and competition.
I love bokeh! The word originates from Japan but for photography purposes it refers to that part of an image that is characterised by artistic, creative blur. Technically it is an effect created on a lens with a wide aperture which typically will keep one part of the scene in sharp focus whilst the rest of the image disolves into blur. The effect creates shapes of light often called ‘bokeh balls’ which actually are taking on the shape of the blades as they open to form the wide aperture. As you can imagine, creative photographers explore ways to manipulate that creative effect. The desired result of bokeh is often to focus attention on the part of the image in focus, but the effect itself can be an exploration of the abstract.
If you want to learn all about bokeh and other aspects of creative photography then Hedon Viewfinders photography club is a free, fun and friendly way to do so. The club is currently organising a series of meetings leading up to a print competition at the end of the month. Find out more at Hedon Viewfinders.
