Committee
Chair - Matthew Canning AIPF CPAGB BPE3*
email chairbpic@gmail.com
Art and the ability to create images has been in my blood since childhood, when paper was my film and a pencil my camera. In 1987 photography for me became real when my mum bought me a 110 film camera for Christmas. I could never recall asking for a camera but my mum just knew I needed one. With only 24 frames and a price tag to match for film development I learnt to focus on photo composition and subject matter whilst photographing family, floods and countryside landscapes. With the 'long exposure' of time and a desire to learn, grow and develop as a photographer I joined BPIC in the Autumn of 2015. BPIC have provided me with more knowledge than I could have ever garnished on my own, with access to quality guest speakers, practical studio, outdoor and post processing events and not forgetting the experience and knowledge of our members in all things photography.
Vice Chair - Stephen Weatherall
email vicechairbpic@gmail.com
I’ve been interested in photography for many years beginning with black and white, home processed film and wet prints from a makeshift darkroom. I finally converted to digital in 2009 and joined a camera club in 2012.
I soon discovered the ‘joys’ of inter-club competition and through myself into trying to get up to the standard required.
Photographically, I’m a generalist although if pushed to choose a genre, I would gravitate towards landscape and travel. I achieved my Licentiate (LRPS) with the Royal Photographic Society in 2015.
When I moved to Belfast I cast around for a new club and settled on BPIC because of the friendly and welcoming atmosphere and fantastic programme of inspiring speakers, in-club practical nights and, needless to say, BPIC’s reputation as one of the top NIPA competition clubs.
Treasurer - Michael Byrne LIPF BPE2*
email bpictreasurer@gmail.com
I joined BPIC in September 2012 and took on the role of treasurer shortly thereafter.
Starting very much as novice photographer, I have gone on to achieve my Licentiateship (LIPF) – with the Irish Photographic Federation. I have also gained a keen interest in entering exhibitions as organised by the British Photographic Exhibitions (BPE) and have received a BPE2* Crown Award. As recognition of having 50 images selected to be exhibited.
Secretary – Stephen Weatherall
email clubecretarybpic@gmail.com
I’ve been interested in photography for many years beginning with black and white, home processed film and wet prints from a makeshift darkroom. I finally converted to digital in 2009 and joined a camera club in 2012.
I soon discovered the ‘joys’ of inter-club competition and through myself into trying to get up to the standard required.
Photographically, I’m a generalist although if pushed to choose a genre, I would gravitate towards landscape and travel. I achieved my Licentiate (LRPS) with the Royal Photographic Society in 2015.
When I moved to Belfast I cast around for a new club and settled on BPIC because of the friendly and welcoming atmosphere and fantastic programme of inspiring speakers, in-club practical nights and, needless to say, BPIC’s reputation as one of the top NIPA competition clubs.
NIPA Representative - Matthew Canning AIPF CPAGB BPE3*
email niparepbpic@gmail.com
Art and the ability to create images has been in my blood since childhood, when paper was my film and a pencil my camera. In 1987 photography for me became real when my mum bought me a 110 film camera for Christmas. I could never recall asking for a camera but my mum just knew I needed one. With only 24 frames and a price tag to match for film development I learnt to focus on photo composition and subject matter whilst photographing family, floods and countryside landscapes. With the 'long exposure' of time and a desire to learn, grow and develop as a photographer I joined BPIC in the Autumn of 2015. BPIC have provided me with more knowledge than I could have ever garnished on my own, with access to quality guest speakers, practical studio, outdoor and post processing events and not forgetting the experience and knowledge of our members in all things photography.
Committee Member - Bernie Deighan
I have been a member of BPIC for the last 6 years and have enjoyed every minute of the Thursday night meetings where I have listened to guest speakers, enjoyed practical evenings and participated in club competitions. Being a club member has allowed me to grow out of my comfort zone and take on new challenges in the world of photography. My initial interests were mostly around sports and people but I am now embracing other aspects of photography such as wildlife, landscapes and street. I was delighted in 2019 to receive a PAGB ribbon for one of my images and 3 other acceptances in the NIPA end of year exhibition. I am hoping to improve my skills enough this year to go for accreditations. I am delighted to sit on the committee of a fantastic club which has many talented female and male photographers and is also very welcoming to those who are new and want to learn.
Competitions Secretary - Adrian Wheeler LIPF
Committee Member - Ian Clarke
My first camera was a Box Brownie. Then I progressed, like so many others, to a Zenit EM. I guess I have always taken photographs and while at family functions people often told me to 'put the camera away', they were always grateful to see the prints later. I first used a Fuji digital camera way back in 2002 and was impressed with it. That led to me getting a few basic ones over the years and eventually to acquiring my first DSLR about 4 years ago. My photographs lacked something so I thought it would be a good idea to join a club. BPIC, from the start, was very welcoming. This is the start of my fourth year with them and I have discovered so much about photography. The members have always been ready to help and give tips and advice. It is seriously good value given the speakers, the outings and the craic.
