News / Photography
New group of Polish photographers set up in Bristol
A new group of mostly Polish photographers has been established in Bristol.
Made up of both amateur and professional photography enthusiasts, Bristol Photographic Encounters is also open to models and make-up artists.
Bartek Gulba, one of the co-organisers of the group, says the purpose is to meet periodically with people who share the same passion.
is needed now More than ever
He said: “We are strongly committed and we all feel co-responsible for the smooth operation of the whole team. Without active members and new ideas we would quickly cease to exist.
“We are very keen to further develop our photographic skills, to exchange experiences and, what is also very important, to develop new friendships.’’
While the group is based in Bristol, many of its members commute to meetings from as far as Weston-super-Mare and Gloucester.
A recent meet up was held at a dance studio in Easton which was turned into a professionally equipped photography studio for four hours. Make-up artists and models with suitcases full of colourful outfits were also involved.
Bristol Photographic Encounters is made up of predominately Polish photographers as well as make-up artists and models. Photo by Katarzyna Sowinska
Paula Kowalewska, a model from Swindon, commented: “I am delighted to attend along with my husband, who recently ventured out on his own and became a photo model at one of the meetings. This confirms for me what a wonderful atmosphere there is at the Bristol shoots.
“We meet people who are doing something they love and do it with great commitment. It is also an exchange of valuable experience between photographers and models.”
Despite the group mainly comprising of Poles, the organisers are also open to photographers of different nationalities joining.
Rafał Burda, a photographer from Southampton, explained: “Photography is a universal language. It’s an emotional message – you don’t need to know a specific language.
“All you need is a camera, even one in your mobile phone, and you can observe and immortalise the surrounding reality. Everything is based on individual perception and creative invention.”
The group’s next meet up is on January 23 at 6 Church Road, Abbots Leigh, Bristol, BS8 3QP. They are also happy to photograph people in the meantime by appointment.
More information about the operation and future events can be found by visiting: www.facebook.com/groups/bristolfotospotkania.
Katarzyna Sowinska reporting on the Polish community as part of Bristol24/7’s community reporter scheme, a pilot project which aims to tell stories from areas of Bristol traditionally under-served by the mainstream media
Main photo by Aleksandra Wysoczanska
Read a Polish translation of this story
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