Life through a lens in a time of change

The newly formed South West Photography Group is showcasing and sharing beautiful moments during the coronavirus lockdown.

The group of 16 only met for the first time in January. They were planning to get together and socialise once a month on photography day trips but have had to adapt, and instead are showcasing their photographic creativity under government lockdown rules.

“A lot of our Members live on their own and have nothing to do, so I thought a competition would cheer them up and give them a new focus each week,” said Royal Navy Veteran Darran, who recently gained a photography diploma and hopes to qualify for the Royal Photographic Society.

“I get great enjoyment from collating all the photos and checking that everyone in the group is ok. I also hold a photography tutorial on Zoom every Thursday for anyone from the South West who wants to join.”

Giving a glimpse into the lives of the Members during lockdown, photographs have included wildlife, plants, countryside settings and deserted seaside towns. The competition winner is decided by South West Outreach Officer Sarah Payne, who receives the anonymous photographs from Darran. So far, Peter Siddons has been the hot-shot snapper, scooping first place in the competition every week since it began.