On Wednesday 7 December, we were delighted to welcome back to the club our former Chairman, Bernie Raffe AMPA ASWPP.
Bernie has been passionate about photography ever since his parents bought him his first camera when he was just 11 years old. He is a (now retired) portrait and wedding photographer. But he remains in demand as a speaker to beginners and keen amateurs at camera clubs and workshops and on cruises.
His entertaining and informative talks are designed to show people – without blinding them with science – how they can be better photographers, taking more creative and dramatic photos that will wow their friends and family.
This recently introduced talk was about using just a smartphone, and copying the tricks of the professionals, to make more cinematic holiday or travel documentary videos.
He explained the importance of planning what you are going to do. And he showed us how short clips, with a variety of viewpoints and approaches, can then be edited into an effective and interesting story.
The focus was predominantly on the use of mobile phones and apps. But lots of what Bernie covered is equally applicable to cameras. He also covered some additional peripherals to exploit the full potential of the phone-captured footage and soundtracks.
And he skilfully demonstrated how free or relatively inexpensive editing software can be used to put together the final video with that professional look.
Bernie is an engaging and entertaining speaker. All his ideas were brilliantly illustrated by his examples. And we recognised lots of the locations from Leighton Buzzard and other local places.
More about Bernie’s photographic courses can be found on his website at https://www.becomeabetterphotographer.co.uk/ and on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/user/bernieraffe?app=desktop
He is also on Facebook and Twitter.
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