Tuesday, 27 January 2026
On Tuesday we enjoyed a practical and inspiring workshop on Still Life Photography, led by Barry Chidlow and Nick Beardmore. Timed perfectly for the darker winter months, the session showed how creative photography doesn’t require exotic locations or expensive studio kit. Just imagination, patience and a willingness to experiment.
Barry and Nick focused on making the most of simple, single, readily available lighting. They demonstrated how light can be shaped and softened using everyday materials such as curtains, tracing paper and white card, as well as how small LED lights, torches and table lamps can be used safely and effectively. The emphasis throughout was on improvisation and learning through play.
The workshop also covered key camera settings for Still Life work, encouraging members to move away from automatic modes and explore manual control. Topics included managing depth of field with aperture, keeping ISO low by using longer shutter speeds (with the camera fixed on a tripod), the benefits of manual focus, and the importance of customising white balance settings in-camera.
There was a lot of practical advice on equipment; from tripods and remote releases to backgrounds, reflectors and clamps. This helped to demystify the process and made Still Life photography feel accessible to everyone.
Above all, the evening reinforced a simple message: slow down, experiment, and have fun creating images from the everyday objects around you.