Norwich & District Photographic Society has an active studio group. Regular shoots are organised with the opportunity to photograph a variety of models, both male and female and themes. These can be for example portraiture, fashion, and figure studies.
Currently due to Covid 19 restrictions the situation regarding Studio Shoot meetings is somewhat fluid and we shall return to using one of the local photographic studios as soon as it is safe to do so. In the meantime we shall either use an outdoor location or failing that organise a Zoom meeting on a subject closely related to studio photography.
THIS MONTH’S SHOOT will be outdoors at Benet’s Abbey where hopefully we shall be able to capture some stunning images of our model with the historic ruins acting as a backdrop.
Normally shoots take place at one of the local photographic studios regularly used by NDPS that are equipped with a selection of backdrops.on the Second Monday evening of each month starting at 7:00 PM. but full details for each shoot are also published beforehand so keep an eye out for any changes.
Currently, we normally use the Dairy Barn Studio in Beccles run by Alan Lyall who has made most welcome and is himself is an excellent studio/portrait photographer.
Lighting currently available comprises 4 x Bowens XMS750 studio lights, two 1m square softboxes, two 80cm x 60cm softboxes, 1.5m Octabox, 95cm Octabox, two 1.6m x 35cm strip boxes and a range of 6 other different reflectors/snoot/barn doors/umbrellas. If preferred there are also 4 speedlights with 2 softboxes (60cm x 60cm) together with other appropriate modifiers. The studio lights can be used in conjunction with the speedlights if desired.
Regular models Hayley Bird, Estelle Long and Cathy Wilson were joined last season by some new faces including Chrissie Lake, Andy Jennings, Ann-Marie Doggett, Emily Mathers and Maretta Vergette. Each session we try to focus on a new theme or technique which hopefully will help members to increase their knowledge and experience of studio photography. In addition we make sure we have fun…!
Cost
Because all studio sessions are self-financing the participants have to cover the additional costs to the Society such as studio hire, studio equipment and the mode’s l fee etc.. Although the actual cost of each meeting of the Studio Group varies depending on the location of the shoot and the model and their experience. there is currently a fixed charge of £20 per member for attending a Studio Group meeting.
About the Studio Group
So that everyone has the opportunity to get some good shots at each meeting the shoots are usually limited to six (6) photographers to give each member adequate time. Studio flash is normally provided so the only thing needed to participate is a camera with a hot shoe connection..
In addition, from time to time location shoots are also arranged with a model. Past locations used have been a working garage, medieval hall, derelict church, courtroom, disused factory and office buildings, city subways, a cemetery and the beaches out on the North Norfolk Coast.
For those members who want to learn more about studio photography the sessions provide the opportunity to learn about setting up and using studio lighting to achieve different styles of image, various composition styles using models, image processing and generally discussing shots.
All studio group shoots are well organised, friendly and fun. We have both male and female photographers taking part and their abilities range from advanced through to beginners.
New members are particularly welcome, and help is always on hand help anyone who needs advice.