News
Street Photography
John Gill, 21st October 24
Review by Phil Whiffing
John Gill joined us from Castleford on Zoom. His presentation on street photography proved to be very thought provoking.
John’s superb images were almost all in black and white showing life in former mining communities around Yorkshire. John’s pictures were more of people rather than places. His social documentary style showed what John described as a “fractured society” that no longer has a the common thread of mining to bind it together.
With very few exceptions, John’s untitled pictures were taken without the subject being aware that they were being photographed, showing real life rather than what might be seen on social media. His images often illustrated contrasts such as that between people of different ages or races.
Although John’s photographs conveyed a serious and at times depressing view of society today, his presentation was full of anecdotes and humour. He gave some tips on his technique, both in the street and in post-processing. For me, the images of faces taken in the street and then given a black background were outstanding. These form a tribute to people and communities who have lived through adverse circumstances since the end of mining and other heavy industry in the north of England.
John’s superb images were almost all in black and white showing life in former mining communities around Yorkshire. John’s pictures were more of people rather than places. His social documentary style showed what John described as a “fractured society” that no longer has a the common thread of mining to bind it together.
With very few exceptions, John’s untitled pictures were taken without the subject being aware that they were being photographed, showing real life rather than what might be seen on social media. His images often illustrated contrasts such as that between people of different ages or races.
Although John’s photographs conveyed a serious and at times depressing view of society today, his presentation was full of anecdotes and humour. He gave some tips on his technique, both in the street and in post-processing. For me, the images of faces taken in the street and then given a black background were outstanding. These form a tribute to people and communities who have lived through adverse circumstances since the end of mining and other heavy industry in the north of England.
