photo by Robert Frank
January Photo Newsletter
Photojournalism

Dear Photographers,

During strange times heroes emerge. And throughout so many strange times photographers have been part of that brave group. This month we pay tribute to the men and women who have stepped forth, in fact, run forward, to document what we need to see. In our own times we are very conscious of the vital role played by photojournalists around the world and encourage all to take a moment to consider their on-going contributions to our understanding of our times.

photo by Owen Biddle

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Lecture/Discussion:

Magnum Photographers

This month Owen will be sharing the history and role of The Magnum Agency headquartered in Paris. This group of photojournalists brought to our attention under-reported world realities, thereby playing a major role in shaping international awareness and policy. Famine, migrations, warfare and struggles for equality across the globe were some of their subjects. They were pioneers in their goals of maintaining ownership of their work, which opened the way for future generations of photojournalists to exercise and present their independent visions.

Friday, 2/18 7:00 - 8:00

photo by Marc Riboud

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Not a photo, but ...

The Spanish artist, Francisco Goya (1746 - 1828) was deeply moved by the events surrounding him and used his art to bring the horrors he witnessed to his countrymen. This is a mission photojournalists are committed to today.

Photo Field Trips

These two field trips provide opportunities to photograph people in the urban environment....

Manyunk

Manyunk, this special part of Philadelphia, is a favorite with artists with its hills, canal, cathedrals, railway trestles and power lines. We will learn how to exploit these elements in creating images, black and white and color, that both capture a unique neighborhood and at the same time make an abstract statement about line, shape, and texture

Tuesday 2/15 10:00 - 12:00

30th Street Station

This Philadelphia site is so familiar and utilitarian, it is often overlooked for its photographic possibilities. But we will explore the grand architecture, indoor markets, the tracks, wires, trains coming and going and views of the city from the platforms. Our approach will go beyond showing a "beautiful building", and aim to document the interplay between man and the environment in this transportation hub. (Also a great place to capture people going about their everyday lives.)

Sunday 2/20 10:00 - 12:00

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Announcements

The Main Line Camera Club is now welcoming new members. The club hosts professional speakers several times a year, holds friendly critiques of member photos, and sponsors Meetup events, among many activities.

The club meets once a month at the Main Line Art Center in Haverford, although current meetings are on Zoom. Dues are $50 a year.

For more information please contact Gerry Fisher, membership chair, at gerryfisher67@gmail.com

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Some thoughts from Walt Miles, one of the best photojournalists in our area:

"i would like to make a comment or two about photo journalism which i feel is a dying occupation because of the death knell that is being rung for print newspapers and magazines......some of the outstanding photos that come from newspapers will never be seen.....also the emotions and stress that must go into a photojournalist's job must be incredible...can you imagine getting the assignment to cover 12 family members who have perished in a fire, while you are surrounded by hundreds of mourners in just one image......or the emotional toll it can take on you when trying to stay unbiased covering say a civil rights protest or a anti vietnam war protest......or the ongoing right to life argument.......one of my favorite books on the subject of photo journalism is Requiem photos taking during the vietnam war by photojournalist who were killed in vietnam........

...this photo shows the photog using a very creative angle to show how photography can show the effects on all who are involved in war"

photo by Henri Huet

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DSLR Fundamentals Tutorials

Below are descriptions of the basic units of our curriculum available to students ranging from beginner to advanced. Most units are five lessons and include a set of assignments designed to give practice in targeted skills with opportunities to get feedback from the instructor so that you learn from your experiences.

Just give a call and we can set up individual sessions to keep you moving forward with your photography.

Call (610)-626-7854 for details.

(click on links for more information)

Fundamentals 1: Camera Operations is for students who are just starting out, or want a good review of the basic camera functions.

Fundamentals 2: Applications is for students who have some comfort with the camera and want to start applying their skills to expand their photographic range.

Fundamentals 3: Composition takes photography beyond the subject, and encourages you to see the artistic and compositional opportunities in everyday life. Here is a chance for your right brain to come out and play!

Fundamentals 4: Lighting Across the Genres is for students who are ready for the next critical step: lighting. Explore sophisticated means of controlling both natural and artificial light for portraits, landscape and still life to get just the mood and effects you want.

Advanced Photography - Using self-generated assignments and in-depth critiques we will help you move forward in your work.

Photo Salon

Unfortunately, we have decided to put in-person photo salons on hold for right now, until we have a better idea of the risks of gathering indoors. We really miss seeing everyone in person, and can't wait to get back to sharing our work, our inspirations, our friendships (and our cookies).

In the meantime, come to our facebook on-line salon to post and see exciting pictures and to get feedback from our wonderful community of photographers. A great way to stay motivated!

Check out this facebook link and join the group. https://www.facebook.com/groups/owenbiddlephotosalon

Our purpose is to provide an online place for our community to stay in touch, stay inspired and get out there and keep snapping. You can post pictures and get feedback, ask photo questions, make suggestions etc. What do you say???

Special thanks to Jonathan Prusky, whose technical skills have saved us more than once and made this whole endeavor possible.