Renowned travel photographer, Julian Elliott, returned with stunning images from Italy and a wealth of advice and inspiration that will give us food for thought as we drift into summer sunshine, writes Jenny Short.

Julian gave us the benefit of his personal experience in planning effectively before embarking on photographic trips using modern aids such as Ephemeris and Photo Pils.

A seasoned Canon user, Julian explained his choice of gear from lenses to camera bags and made a strong case for the use of tilt shift lenses over the normal wide angled that most use for landscapes, architecture or interiors, managing to convince a few of us despite the expense!

Julian’s images took us to the fields of Tuscany and the associated iconic churches and farmhouses but presented these from unusual viewpoints or captured them at alternative times of day.

Equally the cityscapes of Sienna and Florence took on different hues as he sought the amazing frescoes in unassuming churches nestling within the familiar tourist spots, skilfully zooming in on the street processions and colourful festivals that abound.

Encouraged to always look up, to search for frames within frames, leading lines and reflections, we were urged to look at our images critically from every angle to appreciate the best compositions and led to a better understanding of the use of the ubiquitous rule of thirds.

The mists captured descending on the Dolomites were often long awaited but clearly worth the effort, as were the glows of sunset or sunrise over the towering peaks that are his trademark.

I, for one, will never again be able to look at converging lines in the same way but will long remember the simplicity of the poppies in the fields and the details in the Tuscany doorways.

Our final evening of the current season will be led by members Louise Bailey and Tony Nineham.