In April 2016 we were thrilled to have photographer Nick Rains host a 3 day Retreat for us at Blackall. We had 9 participants from various parts of Queensland converge on the Living Arts Centre. One of our participants arrived 2 days prior to the commencement of the retreat to take advantage of local photographic opportunities that couldn’t be included in the time frame.
Day 1
After enjoying an amazing Welcome Dinner cooked by the Marmaladies on Tuesday night, we were all ready and eager to start Wednesday morning. After setting up computers and an introduction by Nick we were off down the street to see what we could find to photograph. First stop was the Jackie Howe statue. Nick assisted with settings, lighting and composition.
Some images taken by participants during our first outing.
Duncan at Scobie Saddlery was an obliging model for the 9 cameras that were clicking away.
Thanks Duncan – we will be back!
A wonderful collection of history at Ram Park just ready to be photographed – especially for those who love images with close up details.
Participants Images:
We then headed back to the Living Arts Centre for an amazing lunch prepared by the local catering queens, the Marmaladies, after which we spent some of the time in the workroom learning the ins and outs of Lightroom.
The cattle at the Blackall Saleyards were the next willing subjects.
Participants Images:
Photographing the sunset at the Roly Poly.
Participant images:
Day 2
Yaraka – here we come!
We commenced our day trip to Yaraka with our driver, Birdie, arriving at our door with our transport for the day – the Council bus. How nice it was to just to sit back, enjoy the view and focus on what we were there for. First stop before Yaraka was to make the journey up Mt Slocombe and enjoy the breathtaking views.
Participants Images:
Next we headed into the township of Yaraka to enjoy the company of Chris and Gerry of the Yaraka Hotel, where we also had lunch.
Participants Images:
Some shots taken around Yaraka by participants.
Goodbye Yaraka!
On our way home we had a stop at the former railway siding of Emmet. The sky was putting on an amazing display with a storm brewing on the horizon, even giving us a rainbow.
Participants Images:
Day 3
Some more time was spent in the workroom expanding our knowledge in editing and general tips regarding Lightroom. To have a break from this we headed out to the Blackall Woolscour where the light and lines in the old building are truly a photographers delight.
Participants Images:
Last but not least was the Farewell Dinner at the Living Arts Centre provided yet again by the fabulous Marmaladies.
I always love looking at images that participants take, everyone has a different style and how one thing can be captured in so many different ways when seen through different eyes. The subtle joys of photography!
