A Virtual Photography Competition

The organisers of Ilkley U3A's Photographic Exhibition discuss how it is being done virtually this year.

The Ilkley and District U3A photography competition normally graces the walls of Ilkley’s Manor House during May, but this year, the exhibition is taking place on the U3A’s website.

Visitors to the website, including the general public, are being asked to choose their favourite photo. At the end of the exhibition a first, second and third place will be revealed from these votes.

Entry to the Exhibition was open to members of all three U3A photography groups. These range from almost complete beginners to those who have been taking photos for many years.

There are 85 entries, which are presented in galleries to make them easier to view. There is also an online catalogue which gives the number of the entry, the title and for some photos includes technical information.

Peter Robinson, the leader of the Beginners’ Photography Group, commented, “A large number of my group find submitting photographs a little frightening. Many had never used any advanced cameras before joining the group. However, three quarters of them have overcome their concerns and submitted entries.

Last year, to everyone's surprise, someone from our group won. This gave them the encouragement because you never know what will happen. The photos I've seen from our group are good so lightning may strike twice!”

Mary Podesta, who leads the other two Photography Groups, said, “It has been a privilege for me to collate the exhibition and to preview the entries. The overall standard this year has been excellent. I am excited to see what visitors to our website think of the work on show."

To see the Ilkley Photographic Exhibition and vote for your favourite image, (voting is open to anyone) visit the website at ilkleyu3a.org. The exhibition will remain on the website from 4 May until the end of the month.

(The featured image is Fluid Grass by Chris Sides and is a random pick, not the winning entry.)