Sidmouth Photographic Club once again this year offered members a programme of organised summer photo excursions, both close to home and further afield. Here we showcase three of the more prominent outings.

Sidmouth Herald: AllerfordIn June, club Chairman Brian Sherlow guided seven fellow photographers on a tour of North Somerset villages around Porlock, commencing at picture perfect Selworthy, before heading to Allerford with its photogenic packhorse bridge and Bossington, which offered a feast of thatch, rose-fringed doorways and a welcome stop for tea.

The group then headed to one of Exmoor coast’s jewels, Porlock Weir, where a low tide offered abundant harbour scenery and a pub supper for some socialising ahead of the day’s ‘main event’ … Taking a short hop to Porlock salt marsh, they set up tripods, and waited for the sun to set - it certainly didn’t disappoint, forming a multicolour backdrop to the skeleton trees dotted around the marsh. A great day was had by all.

Sidmouth Herald: Through The Bus

Next, in August, was one of Hon Secretary Mike Hawkridge’s (almost legendary!) London trips – a full day for ten urban/street photography fans. First stop was Battersea Power Station’s newly developed area and a wealth of photographic opportunities. Following lunch by the riverside, it was on to the US Embassy with its garden, moat and interesting architecture. The group’s route then led them along and over the Thames, to welcome shade, tea and cake in the Tate Britain. The final leg of the photowalk was via Whitehall to Trafalgar Square, however barricades around Nelson’s Column and fountains, plus the National Gallery under scaffolding was unexpectedly disappointing. The group had an enjoyable trip, complimented by perfect weather.

Sidmouth Herald: The Reminder

The final summer outing, in September, was led by Karen Kubran, club External Competition Secretary. Nine members joined her in Plymouth for a photographic foray through this modern and ancient city. After meeting for coffee and cake (a well-established theme for club trips!) the group perused the areas of The Box, University, Drake Circus shopping centre and indoor market, looking for interesting street/architecture subjects. After lunch they headed to the Hoe for views of the lighthouse and Lido, before ambling to the Barbican, Plymouth’s old port, for an afternoon capturing the city’s historic side. A delightful walk, with some great photo opportunities.

More information about the club’s programme of activities can be found at sidmouthphotoclub.org