Winners announced for Pix From The Stix photography competition

THE winners of the annual Gloucester Arts and Cultural Council (GACCI) photography competition, “Pix From The Stix”, were announced on Saturday, 16 August.

Now in its 26th year, Pix From The Stix continues to attract both novice and experienced photographers from the Gloucester community and beyond.

This year retired professional photographer Peter Sedgewick served as the judge of 75 photographs.

With over 25 years of experience as a professional landscape photographer and teacher, Peter emphasised the importance of both head and heart when judging entries.

“Working with great subjects, beautiful light and the right aperture are key to creating a captivating image.

“However, the reaction I have when looking at a photograph is also very important.”

Adult photographers had the opportunity to submit entries in one or more of seven categories, each featuring a winner and runners-up, along with an overall winner.

There was also a separate section for younger photographers.

The overall winner, Michael O’Hara, shared with News Of The Area that his photograph, “On The Wing #2”, was achieved through a combination of chance and patience.

“Photographing wildlife is similar to hunting wildlife,” he said.

“In both cases, you need to be familiar with the habitat and habits of your subjects.

“I knew the cormorants would fly in the evening, but I didn’t know exactly when.

“The photo is the perfect blend of being in the right place, at the right time, with the right light and camera settings.”

Peter Sedgewick echoed the sentiment of patience required in photography.

“You often find a subject you want to photograph, but you may need to return repeatedly, as the light and elements don’t always align.”

Bindi Ahern explained that framing the photograph presented one of her biggest challenges.

“Determining how much to crop to create an image that tells the story you want to tell is for me, one of the hardest parts of photography.”

For Jools Samerski, establishing rapport with her subject is essential when photographing individuals.

“You want the layers of your subject’s personality to be evident in the image.”

Pix From The Stix is currently on display at the Gloucester Gallery.

If you are inspired by the exhibition and would like to develop your skills or explore new techniques the Camera Club which meets on the third Wednesday of the month at the Gloucester Creatives at 6 pm may be a place to start.