Cowal Camera Club members enjoyed a lively evening on Monday, February 23, as the club hosted its annual Portrait and Mono Competitions.
Rob Davis of Ayr Photographic Society served as judge, offering detailed and constructive feedback throughout the night. His thoughtful critique and practical advice created a supportive atmosphere, with members describing the evening as both educational and thoroughly enjoyable.
In the Mono Print category, Bernard Ormrod secured two Commended awards for Fountain Abbey Cloisters and Leaves on the Line, while George Spence was Commended for White on White. Isabella Hillhouse claimed two Highly Commended awards for The Avenue and Stac Pollaidh. Ormrod took third place with Graffiti Triptych, Hillhouse secured second with Two Tulips, and her striking image Westering Home claimed first place.
The Mono Digital section drew a strong field. Commended awards went to Lorraine Parramore (Broch of Gurness), David Lawson (Brooding Loch Leven and Winter View Glencoe), Lesley MacKay (Ruffled Feathers and Mono Fern), and David Dunlop (Still Life and Stillness in Motion). Highly Commended accolades were awarded to MacKay (Majestic Mono), David Fiddes (St Conans Choir Stall), and Dunlop (Passing Through and We Are Grass).
Parramore impressed further, taking third with Backerskaill Bay Ripples and second with Ruin With a View. Joint first place was shared between Parramore’s Seilebost at Low Tide and Dunlop’s Trees in Winter.
Overall, the Mono Trophy was awarded to Isabella Hillhouse for Westering Home, capping a highly successful evening for her.
In the Portrait Print competition, Bernard Ormrod received Commended awards for Sukhi and a Highly Commended for Lauren, while George Spence was Commended for The Man Who Brought the Punjab to Sandbank. Ormrod took second place with Ruth, but it was Spence’s Allister that claimed first prize.
The Portrait Digital section also saw strong entries.
Commended awards went to David Lawson (Killer Smile), Lesley MacKay (Temple Monkey and The Auctioneer), and Sybil Baldwin (Tiago). Highly Commended recognition was given to Adam Heath (In Her Element and Just Being Me), MacKay (Little Poser), and David Fiddes (Robbie at Old Strucreoch).
Joint third place was awarded to Baldwin for Francisco and Dunlop for Watch the Birdie. Lawson took second with Island Farmers, while first place went to Adam Heath for Facing Myself.
Heath’s success saw him named overall winner of the Portrait Trophy — an impressive achievement for the club’s newest member.
Cowal Camera Club meets regularly throughout the season at the Community Shed, Wellness Room, Unit 2, 8 Hamilton Street, Dunoon. The club welcomes photographers of all abilities, from smartphone users to experienced DSLR enthusiasts.
For details on upcoming events and membership, visit www.cowalcameraclub.co.uk.
