Tuesday 16 September 2025
This week, Lyn Phillips returned to host her lively and stimulating workshop, aimed primarily at our new members but providing a refreshing dose of inspiration for everyone. Lyn’s passion for photography shone through as she guided us on the journey from Beginner to Advanced photographer. Underscoring a powerful truth: the camera doesn’t matter; the photographer’s mindset is everything.
Lyn challenged us to break free from “habitualisation”—the creative rut of repeating the same shots—and instead, to actively “loosen up the creative juices.” She stressed the need to move beyond simply “taking” pictures and start “making” photographs, as championed by Ansel Adams. Lyn also covered what Judges look for and how it include an element of subjectivity.
While Lyn quickly reviewed essential technical skills like the exposure triangle and depth of field, she emphasised that composition is king. The most powerful compositional tool you own, she revealed, is your feet. By changing your position and viewpoint, you fundamentally transform the narrative. Basic principles like the rule of thirds and leading lines were covered, with the important caveat that rules are meant to be broken in the pursuit of a strong image.
In conclusion, Lyn championed the value of seeing your work in physical form by printing images and encouraged using competitions as a fantastic avenue for learning and feedback. She left us with the profound words of Irving Penn, reminding us that an effective photograph is one that “communicates a fact, touches the heart, and leaves the viewer a changed person.” A truly inspiring evening for all!