Bangor Camera Club had the pleasure of introducing Paul Mitchell this week. He is a photographer who has been working in the field for over 20 years and specializes in landscape photography, although he told us he felt most at home in the forest. Paul discussed his approach to landscape photography, and he shared some of his tips for capturing stunning images of the natural world.
Paul began his talk by discussing the importance of finding a subject that you are passionate about. He says that when you are passionate about your subject, it will show in your photographs. He also emphasizes the importance of being patient and persistent. He also shared images of artists' work, which influenced him, such as JMW Turner and his command of light.
One of the key principles that Paul teaches is the importance of composition. He said that the way you compose your photograph can make or break the image. Paul provided insights into his process of capturing the essence of woodlands through his lens and discussed the importance of composition, lighting, and patience in translating the beauty and emotion of these environments into a visual form he also spoke about the need of using light and shadow to create depth and interest in your photographs. Paul shared select examples of his photographs, showcasing their ability to evoke a sense of tranquility, mystery, and awe. His favourite time to take photos is early morning around 6am, when there is a certain amount of mist around and the sun rays shining through, and you can see why 6am works in his images. Paul took us through every season among the trees. Paul prefers to work in deciduous woods like the New Forest and delights in Autumn which he divides into three stages early, middle, and late.
Paul also discussed the importance of using the right equipment. He says that a good camera is essential, but it is not the only thing you need to take great photographs. He also emphasizes the importance of using a tripod, a good lens, and a fast shutter speed. He also has a camera that he had converted just to take infrared images only, which are amazing too. He also talks about the importance of using filters to control the amount of light that enters the camera.
In the second half of his talk Paul discussed the importance of post-processing. He said that post-processing is an essential part of the photographic process, and he encourages his students to experiment with different techniques to see what works best for them.
On behalf of Bangor camera club, I would like to thank Paul for his presentation. His talk on Woodland Ways is a valuable resource for anyone who is interested in learning more about landscape photography. He shared his insights on a variety of topics, including composition, equipment, and post-processing. His talk was also inspiring, and it would motivate you to get out there and start taking pictures, even at 6am! You can find Paul's work at www.paulmitchellphotography.co.uk/
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