20th October 2026
Our latest camera club meeting on the 16th of October saw the first round of this season’s Club Challenge, with members putting their photographic skills to the test in two categories: a themed competition on motion and a second, open category offering the freedom to submit an image on any subject. Our judge for the evening was Paul Mason from Ealing and Hampshire House PS who had the task of judging the 50 images entered across the two categories.
The Motion theme provided plenty of scope for creative interpretation, from capturing fast-moving action to conveying the energy and movement of a subject through careful timing and composition. It was a good opportunity to see the different ways photographers approach the same challenge.
Themed Category: Motion
The standard was high, with several images attracting attention from the judge who held back eight images. After further consideration of the held back images the judge awarded scores and a judges choice award. The top-scoring were:
- Kes Ward – Orbit of the Eye – Judge’s choice
- Barry Coxon – Game Set and Match
- Christine d’Netto – Windblow mane in gallop
Three other images from Paul Benham, Damon Mitchell and Brian Worley were awarded 19 points by the judge.
These images demonstrated the variety of possibilities offered by the theme, with movement providing the central thread linking the entries.
The Open Category
The open category provided a contrast to the themed section, allowing members to explore their own photographic interests without the restrictions of a set subject. This is often where the breadth of talent within a club becomes particularly apparent, as images can range across genres, techniques and styles. After an initial
- Paul Mee – I Always Looked For You – Judge’s choice
- Barry Coxon – Fly on Leaf
- Stuart Craig – Wrecks on Mull
- Brian Worley – Fierce competition for the lead
Three other images from Steve Beckett, Peter Carter and Mike Ward were awarded 19 points.
Many congratulations to Barry Coxon for earning the top score in both sections of this initial round of the Club Challenge, and to everyone whose work was recognised. Thanks to all members who took part in this first round.
Looking Ahead
The first round has set the Club Challenge in motion, with further rounds giving members the opportunity to experiment, develop their skills and learn from one another’s work. Whether responding to a specific theme or choosing a subject freely, the challenge is a useful reminder that photography is as much about interpretation and creativity as it is about technical ability.
Congratulations again to the successful photographers, and thank you to everyone who contributed to an enjoyable evening. Many thanks to the judge for his critique and comments.
Top scoring images
The images below scored 19 or 20 points in this competition.
The results from this round have been entered in the Club Challenge league table which can be found on the results page.
Blog written by Martin Hommel