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by Paul Wilkinson Published 16/11/2017
How do organisations such as The Societies of Photographers help?
The biggest thing with the organisations - at least to my mind - is the opportunity to develop and gain qualifications: not only do you hone your craft but the qualifications act as a very useful marketing tool setting you apart from much of the competition. Add on to that the benefits of being a part of an extended community, the magazine, the monthly competitions and your really have something a photographer shouldn’t be without.
Why is The Societies of Photographers Convention such a big deal for photographers?
I can only speak from my own experience here. For me, the biggest single benefit is to re-immerse myself in the industry and the community, catching up with latest techniques and socialising with old and new friends. There is so much going on under one roof that it can take a day or two just to get my head round it! I always feel refreshed ad energized for the year ahead!
Is it primarily about the chance to learn from the experiences of imaging icons?
That is part of it, certainly, but I think just as much can be learned over a pint or a meal. I love hearing the stories and hearing how things are, the challenges and the successes - there is ALWAYS something to learn!
Your own mentors (living or dead)?
Kevin Wilson FMPA is my mentor - a brilliant photographer and incredible guy. Numerous others have helped along the way!
Who today is leading the way in creative social photography and why?
That’s really hard to answer as there are so many: Alex Lord for her moody, fine-art-esque portraits; James Musselwhite for his gritty monochromes, David Calvert for the gentle skill he brings to portraits, Panikos Hajistilly for his stunningly beautiful and subtle lighting, Melanie East for her beautiful newborns, David and Jane Stanbury for their beautifully posed and lit wedding images - these (and so many others) are the people in the UK who inspire me day by day.
If you could pick just FIVE seminars (other than your own of course!) to attend at The Societies of Photographers Convention whose workshops would you attend?
Richard Bradbury, Panikos Hajistilly, Jenny Johnson, James Musslewhite, Dave Stanbury
What do you think will be the next big thing in the industry?
That’s impossible to answer - but whatever it is, it will be in everyone’s pockets. It won’t be big and bulky it will be small and mobile. Of that I am sure.
Would you want your own children to take up the reins of your empire (or have they)?
I’d love them to but it has to be their own choice - it’s not something I am pushing them towards. Harriet (our eldest) is currently training to be a lawyer which strikes me as an eminently sensible and lucrative career. Now, if I can just persuade her to specialize in Copyright law…
Your plans for the next five years?
Ah, that you’ll have to ask me in five year’s time to see where we’ve ended up!
There are 21 days to get ready for The Society of Photographers Convention and Trade Show at The Novotel London West, Hammersmith ...
which starts on Wednesday 15th January 2025
SWPP - Society of Wedding and Portrait Photographers
The Society of Photographers
Clwyd Chambers, Clwyd Street, Rhyl, Denbighshire, LL18 3LA, UK
Tel 00 44 (0) 1745 356935
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