Woolf Photography

I have a love affair with New Zealand’s West Coast. Our South Island is generally spectacular, however the West Coast, it’s people, the landscape, and its rich history make it a real gem.

I travelled to Greymouth to both present, and also be The Master of Ceremonies for The Photographic Society of NZ’s 50th Anniversary Southern Regional Convention. It was a real honour to participate. The Coasters know how to throw a party. This was no exception. Generally they are great, and enthusiastic organisers. Most are straight shooters too, and fun is a prerequisite.

It wasn’t all party though, and the presenting talent was impressive. Myself aside, three of NZ’s best photographers were sharing their skills, anecdotes, and photography. Andris Apse must be one of our great Landscape Photographers, and he kicked off the show with some remarkable imagery. Digital guru John Doogan was just awesome. He again is a Kiwi Photographer who is multitalented, and is a great educator, while the surprise package was Dr Kevin Tyree, from Southland, who for me was the absoute highlight. His presentation was awe inspiring, and his portfolio of images, and particularly Natural History was just so compelling. The way that Kevin used AV technology, with his own brand of unique humour was standard setting. We also had the added bonus of having Westcoast’s Tin man, who gave the audience a treasure trove of local history, and especially in respect of mining of gold and coal. It was a wonderful illustrated talk, which gave us all a greater understanding of why The West Coast is so special.

This was a special event. It had all the key ingredients, and all involved should have come away happy and satisfied. Even the weather was variable enough that photography was to the fore, and I even managed a few cool images which I am proud of.

Now for those of you who would enjoy a neat weekend seminar workshop experience you have not missed out totally, as The Photographic Society of New Zealand is hosting an event on the first weekend in November at The Silverstream Retreat. The PSNZ Epson Central Regional Convention has a host of great presenters, activities and events. This is not just a member thing. Photo enthusiastsof any age, shape or type are welcome to register. Go to www.photography.org.nz for more info.

Finally to Murry and Sue Cave, and his Greymouth team, and Andy Rae, and his team from Buller, you guys rock. Thank you all so much. What an amazing few days. On behalf of of all who attended a big congrats, and bring on the next West Coast event.
Oh, and above are some images I shot while down south. The first two shots are of a South Island Weka. These birds are cheeky, thieving, and damn quick! They also have a definite attitude!
The third photo is a typical rugged WestCoast scene, while the fourth just proves you can photograph through a very wet bus window successfully. It was torrential outside, and it can rain on “The Coast!”
There will be more added to this post in the next day or two, when I recover!!!

It took more than a few days to recover. Pick the mug lying in torrential rain photographing the woman in red? Thanks to Carolyn Green for the pic of me clowning around getting wet!!!