The Kilted Photographer
Photographic equipment and processes have frequently evolved since the medium first appeared, close to its present form, 200 years ago next year. The appearance of digital processes over recent decades was just one of a series of changes, although arguably the most significant since Henry Talbot announced the Calotype process in 1839.
We have memories of the excellent photographs by a visiting professional photographer many years ago who sent his film camera into the sky attached to a zeppelin shaped balloon ( it once broke free in Lanarkshire and was finally captured by a helpful farmer in East Lothian ) however advancements in technology during recent years have changed this aspect of photography forever.
Enter our visiting lecturer last Thursday night, Thomas, better known as The Kilted Photographer. He makes extensive use of drones, and kindly brought a few to our club. Civil Aviation Authority, and other, regulations on flying drones are precise so Thomas helpfully spent some time explaining the reasoning behind their systems. He also liaises with Air Traffic Control when required.
He works in partnership with local authorities and conservation organisations among others and like many leading photographers is keenly aware of lighting and astronomical conditions. In that respect Thomas will be at his chosen location at sunrise, sunset and adjoining times often making particular use of the phases of the moon.
Thomas only started serious photography 10 years ago introducing drones to his repertoire 2 years later. He has since been Scottish Aerial Photographer Of the Year and has featured strongly in the British Photographic Association awards among others.
Superb examples of his work are on his website but notable images included sunsets around the Wallace Monument and the Strawberry Moon alongside Barron, one of the two Kelpies, was spectacular. The Question & Answer section following Thomas’s presentation brought a myriad of questions demonstrating the massive interest in Thomas’s work.
Scotland’s Night Sky
On Thursday 25th September we welcome Andrew Allan and his stunning imagery of Scotland’s night sky. A highly experienced astronomical photographer Andrew works with organisations like the BBC, Audi and Visit Scotland among others. His knowledge of astronomy and Scotland’s landscape coupled with outstanding photographic skills results in fascinating and captivating photographs. An accomplished lecturer and tutor, Andrew delights in passing on his knowledge to others so this promises to be an unmissable evening.
Andy Goldsworthy
Like music, food, sport, and other arts there are many different genres of photography. “ Club “ photography emanating through the International Fédération de l’Art Photographique to the Photographic Alliance of Great Britain, the Scottish Photographic Federation and others is the lifeblood of our club. However, Falkirk C.C. has always been interested in the wider world of photography from the history of the medium to other genres. The current National Galleries Scotland exhibition on the work and career of acclaimed artist Andy Goldsworthy is an opportunity to be part of ( literally ) his natural sculptures, see his films and drawings and experience his use of photography. This is photography in a “ Contemporary “ sense and an insight into how the medium can be used as a means of personal expression. National Galleries Scotland, Royal Scottish Academy building, The Mound, Edinburgh. EH2 2EL. Five minutes walk from Waverley Station. Admission free to N.G.S. members, £9.50 National Art Pass, £17.50 if 65+, £19.00 Full Price with other concessions available.