LONG time member, Bill Collett’s presentation evenings always offer something different, so his titles for part one, ‘The Usual’, and part two, ‘More of the Same’, belied their true nature, writes Jenny Short.

Bill’s images always reflect an “out and about” approach, often in inclement weather, and he specialises in artistically rendering shadows and reflections in the context of abstract street photography. However, he also retains a fascination for all things engineering, and takes a very mean portrait in his well-equipped, home studio- a passion he once shared with his great friend, and fellow member, the late Mike Witcombe.

Whilst subjects and locations ranged widely from the banks of Blandford Lakes to those of rivers and canals in UK cities, Bill also captured the characters from the Priston Music Festival, the details of the Docklands and all that Canary Wharf can offer. He also skilfully contrasted the stark interior of Shepton Prison with the delicacy of flowers and insects from Milton Lodge in Wells, and from the iconic Stourhead.

Bill certainly notices details that others miss, and he uses them creatively in camera as well as using his deep knowledge of all that post processing offers. We saw how he often removes all colour detail, including shades of grey to produce high contrast, binary, monos, and uses inversion and posterising filters to great effect.

It was an intriguing evening that triggered much debate and a wealth of questions that I hope will prompt some good ideas for our 2026/7programme and summer outings as we approach, all too rapidly, our AGM and annual Awards Dinner.

Bill was warmly thanked, and a good-sized slice of Louise’s home-made cake was enjoyed. It is a good group to be involved with and we welcome visitors anytime, so visit the new website nrps.org.uk