Jesmond Community Orchard – a potential photography spot

The Jesmond Community Forum Photography Competition 2013 is looking to collect photographs taken by members of the local community to appear in a 2014 calendar, released by the group. Though the calendar celebrates Jesmond, the judges of this year’s competition tell JesmondLocal that the potential audience reaches further afield: previous residents who have moved away often want to be reminded of their time in the area, ordering calendars from across the country.

Since the competition began in 2008, the images have been compiled into a calendar sold to raise funds for the Jesmond Festival. In previous years, the competition has been based upon two themes: ‘Jesmond through the seasons’ and ‘A different angle on Jesmond’.

This year, however, there is a more general theme to encourage images of all types to be submitted. The competition is a great way of promoting community spirit and highlighting the local area, Councillor Catherine Pagan, one of the judges explains.

Cllr Pagan also tells JesmondLocal that this year she is hoping more under-16s submit their photographs of Jesmond; the under-16 category is often less well represented than the over-16s category. Competitors of all abilities and ages are welcome: as Pagan says, “anyone can have a go. You may just suprise yourself with how good the photograph actually is.”

The judges hope to see a variety of images, with previous competition entries focusing on popular landscape shots such as Jesmond Dene, St George’s Church, Exhibition Park and The Armstrong Bridge. Competitors are encouraged to submit images that will stand out from the rest – which may include highlighting some of Jesmond’s lesser-known areas of beauty.

The panel will include a professional photographer, who will look at the photographs with a more technical approach. Pagan is aware from previous years’ judging that the right amount of light exposure is key, as often images become problematic when enlarged for printing in the calendar. An image that stands out also has no imperfections, and has a unique twist on a popular landmark, perhaps taken at a unusual angle.

If you’re feeling snap happy then send in your best photograph of Jesmond while the sun is still shining, illuminating the area in its best light. Forms can be obtained from Oxfam Books, Jesmond Cricket Club or online at the Jesmond Community Forum website. The closing date is September 21st, so be sure to make the most of the summer to take your best shot to have the chance of winning.