Comments from PhotoTrek 12.10.08

Did you enjoy the PhotoTrek?
YES
YES
Very much!
Yes, overall it was enjoyable and worth doing.
Yes - very much.
Yes

What did you find most interesting?
Riverside Walk/Rose Garden
The projects
I found it all interesting but particularly liked the format where we had tuition around specific topics then immediate hands-on activities to practice each of the elements covered.
The rose garden
Learning about the different settings on my camera - I'd read about them - but it was the DOING that's now sunk in!
Learning how to use camera functions better such as aperture

Did you find the group size okay, too big or too small?
Group size about right. Not too big that we were falling over each other or competing for Barry/Ian's attention.
Just right with both of you available for questions.

Did you enjoy the format?
Yes. Early start was good as was breakfast break, which split the photo' sessions.
Absolutely. Loved the "Listen, Do, Get Feedback" approach. Format was really relaxed. Having Barry directly mingling with the group was great as he provided guidance when required and constantly encouraged you with his enthusiasm and persuasion to look at things around you in a different light.
Was the time too long, too short or about right?
About right, the mind could have continued but the body was tired.

What did you enjoy most and why?
Most interesting was the challenge from the projects. It gets one out of the box.
Loved all of it but key things were; the relaxed atmosphere/approach, no-one made to feel stupid/inadequate regardless of experience, the hands-on tuition and on-going feedback which really made you think more about composition.
Being told how to do something, then shown and then to actually take the shot ourselves. The fact that we had Mottisfont to ourselves was great - no distractions of other visitors and no family interrupting. The humour between the two of you kept the atmosphere light and friendly.
Learning what to look for in taking a picture

What did you think of the location?
Have visited Mottisfont on lots of occasions but this experience made me appreciate more of the detail/beauty of the place. Was concerned that the foggy conditions would restrict us somewhat but this just added to the atmosphere.

Any comments to add?
I would highly recommend the PhotoTrek experience; it provides good tuition in a relaxed atmosphere allowing you to focus completely without outside world distractions. A brilliant experience. I've learned lots (I think!) and just need to practice, practice, practice - oh and maybe another few PhotTrek sessions to help the focus!
Thanks to both of you, I feel much more confident in using the camera and would happily go and play in a similar setting, building on the skills you've shown.