February saw Snappers Camera Club holding its annual competition for the Alan Townsend Memorial Trophy. Members were invited to submit three individual prints, ideally from the previous year, each representing a different genre. The guest judge, John Whaler, was tasked with critiquing them individually before determining which member’s set demonstrated the highest level of skill.
There was a strong turnout, with most attending members bringing entries. Each image was limited to A4 size to allow participants to print their own if desired, although mounts could be of any size. While the judge was instructed not to assess the mounts, it was evident that well-presented mounts created a strong first impression. This competition emphasised the photographer’s ability to showcase versatility across three distinct genres, with no requirement for a thematic link between the prints.
A wide range of subjects was represented, including set-piece and costumed events, still lifes, architecture, the natural world, portraits, and more. Both colour and monochrome images were accepted, and this year saw the inclusion of an infrared (IR) photograph.
Each set was displayed on a print stand under lights for judging. John provided detailed feedback on every image, offering a fair and conscientious critique while adding humour to his commentary. He selected his favourite sets for further consideration and, after an initial review, set aside half of the entries to revisit. During the refreshment break, he made his final choices.
John was asked to identify a single winner of the perpetual trophy, presented in memory of the late Alan Townsend. The winner also received a smaller trophy to keep. The top photographers were:
- Fourth place: Russ Smith
- Third place: Alan Burkwood
- Second place: Steve Parish
The winning entry comprised three compelling images. The first was an unusual shot of a dancer in a tutu beginning to tie her pointe shoes, with John especially appreciating the way the ribbon ties fell.
The second was a beautifully captured autumnal reflection. The final image was a dramatic cricket scene, with the camera sharply focused on the stumps as the bowler clean-bowled the batsman. The bails were caught mid-air, while the middle stump appeared on the verge of toppling, with all participants glued to the action.
The talented photographer behind this set was revealed as Sue Cross, a first-time entrant last year – when she had also won.
Snappers welcomes guests and visitors between 1.30pm and 3.30pm on the first Friday of each month. Those able to visit Beckingham Village Hall will find a warm welcome. For more information, visit www.snappers.org.uk.