‘Single Image’ proved an extremely popular theme for LIP Central’s March meeting, with 30 attendees, of whom 25 presented their work. We welcomed new members Emma LeBlanc and Fred Kavalier. The high quality and wide range of subject matter, technique and approach resulted in an extremely stimulating evening, and proof – if proof were needed – that LIP nurtures a broad and diverse spectrum of photographers and photographic practices.

6 images fell within the broad category of street/documentary, and these stimulated a lively discussion on the importance of research – whether before or after taking a shot – and the extent to which accompanying text might inform or detract from the viewer’s experience of an image. Peter Luck’s monochrome image of some partially demolished glucose silos was particularly haunting.

8 conceptual and/or abstract images fed into the debate as to the necessity or otherwise of accompanying text. Their freshness and fun encouraged us all to be bolder in experimenting with found, or quotidian objects, and to play more within the vast toyshop that is Photoshop, or Lightroom. Many of these images used double exposure, or composites of up to 9 images. Particularly effective was Ingrid Newton’s double-sided composite of a 60s post card from Latvia melded into images of her mother, whose family escaped from Latvia in 1944 as the Russians were invading. It was felt that this was a poignant combination of the personal with the historic which aptly chimes with the current zeitgeist.

5 members presented personal projects, all engaging and stimulating. Sukhy Hullait and Anna Lerner both cast a very tender eye on their locality – the changing demographic on the streets of Peckham and the movement and moods of the Regent’s Canal.

Fred Kavalier shared a beautiful series of monochrome images exploring the effects of shadows, while Hady Bayoumi – a self-professed ‘painter who can’t paint’ – showed his therapeutic play with the colour curves of Lightroom on some minimalist twigs.

Everyone was enchanted with Rashida Mangera’s exploration of the artistic potential of the humble teabag, and eagerly await the next instalment! The next Zoom meeting is on 13th April on the theme of ‘Street’./Eve Milner March 2022