Does size matter ? Some say it is not important how large or advanced your kit is, it’s how you use it, and being in the right place at the right time that makes the difference. After all we all know that it’s not the equipment but the person behind it who makes the magic happen. What trick(s) can your machine do? Does it fulfill your expectations, perhaps even exceed them? Any recurrent struggles? And what would you say to someone who would like to invest in the same bit of kit ? Yay or nay ?

Come share your stories, have a laugh, a drink, and educate each other on different camera makes and functions. Have a couple of pix ready to illustrate what you are talking about if you like, but please remember this is about the camera not your photo subject – we all know by now what an amazing bunch of talented lot you are, now we want to see your kit☺

To avoid unintentional subjects and intrusions, we will share a zoom password with those interested in joining by email. Please message us with your email address.

Does size matter ? Some say it is not important how large or advanced your kit is, it’s how you use it, and being in the right place at the right time that makes the difference. After all we all know that it’s not the equipment but the person behind it who makes the magic happen. What trick(s) can your machine do? Does it fulfill your expectations, perhaps even exceed them? Any recurrent struggles? And what would you say to someone who would like to invest in the same bit of kit ? Yay or nay ?

Come share your stories, have a laugh, a drink, and educate each other on different camera makes and functions. Have a couple of pix ready to illustrate what you are talking about if you like, but please remember this is about the camera not your photo subject – we all know by now what an amazing bunch of talented lot you are, now we want to see your kit☺

To avoid unintentional subjects and intrusions, we will share a zoom password with those interested in joining by email. Please message us with your email address.

We will meet at the Torburg Eigelstein at 6:30PM.

Our final stop will be Roonstraße, Köln. This is where one of the biggest events this night will happen. The Nubbelverbrennung. Be part of a great tradition and lets capture these great moments.

We will bring some drinks to warum up on our way towards the southern part of the city.

Starting at <a>Textilcafe</a> near Eigelstein Torburg, going to Hauptbahnhof and Dom, accross Appelhoplatz towards Friesenplatz and ending the Tour at Brüsslerplatz at a Cafe called <a>Hallmackenreuther</a>.

HERE you can find the complete tour. Of course this is just a suggestion, we can reschedule while walking and discovering new cool places 😉

Really looking forward to Monday! And if the weather turns out to be bad, I would be up for one or two drinks at the Textilcafe just to Meetup 🙂

Please try to be on time and tell us when you won't be able to make it.

You can reach me at

[masked]

or

[masked]

Cheers

Olli

Hi my Photography friends. This week I will organize a BBQ event in Köln Poll. It is right on the Rhein and we will be able to host about 20 people.

I organized a tent, a BBQ grill, torches, a heater in case it gets cold and 30L of beer. I thought this is the a great opportunity to get this season started. It is also great to take photos, so please bring your cameras if you like.

We will use the location of the local "Jugendzentrum" and therefore donate 5€ each to them. This way they can give something back to their community.

So bring your steaks or whatever you want to put on our BBQ grill and feel free to bring along a friend or two. It is for a good purpose and loads of fun!

Auf der Suche nach dem Frühling die Natur in Köln neu entdecken.

Vorschlag Route: Beginn am Stadtgarten und entlang des Inneren Gürtels in Richtung Süden.

Vorschlag Datum: Unter der Woche Mittags (Mittagspausen) oder Samstag 20. April, Sonntag 5. Mai

Ihr dürft gerne selbst ein Datum eintragen!

Freue mich auf euer Mitwirken.

VG

Olli

Ok Sam, just for in English 🙂

What about a small tour through MediaPark towards Eherenfeld with a nice view over the city?
The views are great on top of the hills, walking distance is nit more than 2km roundtrip from Hansaring and the weather seems to be great for sunset/dawn shots.
http://goo.gl/5VRgY

It is great to test some new techniques like HDR, Panorama and low light shots.

Sunset will be 8:39PM

After that some drinks and maybe BBQ at my place. Right at MediaPark, have a projector installed in case some folks want to watch the Köln soccer game tonight.
I will record the game, so we will not miss anything 🙂

Start 7PM
Meeting at UBahn Hansaring

Einen ganzen Tag lang gibt es fotografische Aufgaben und Rallyefragen zwischen Dom und Rheinauhafen. Anschließend eine After-Rallye-Party.

Zu gewinnen gibt es unter anderem Objektive von Tamron.

Wenn sich genug Leute finden könnten wir als Team teilnehmen, es zählen dann sowohl die Einzel-, als auch die Teamleistung.

Veranstaltet wird das ganze von Tamron und einigen Partnern, die Teilnahmegebühr beträgt 25 Euro.

Alle Infos gibt es auf http://tamron-fotorallye.de/

Wir wollen einen unterhaltsamen Sommertag im Juni zusammen verbringen und setzten uns alle ins gleiche Boot. Das Boot ist über Yelp angemeldet und besteht aus Usern der Yelp Community, der Ü30 Neu-in-Köln Facebook Gruppe und unserem Meetup!

Es ist ein Rennen das viel Spaß machen und das leckere Essen und Trinken nicht zu kurz geraten soll.

(1) Ein Team muss aus 16 - 20 Paddler, davon mindestens 6 Frauen + 1 TommlerIn bestehen.

(2) jedes Team bestreitet 4 Läufe

(3) Zeitplan
08.00 Uhr Teamkapitänbesprechung
09.00 Uhr Regattabeginn
16:00 Uhr Finalläufe
17.30 Uhr Siegerehrung

Der genaue Zeitplan wird nach Anzahl der Teammeldungen einige Tage vor dem Festival bekannt gegeben

(4) Teilnahmegebühr 20€ p.P.
Inklusive Teilnahmegebühr, Grillgut und Getränke

(5) Ich werde von Yelp versuchen ein Teamoutfit zu stellen. Vermutlich T-Shirt und Sonnenbrille o.ä.

ANMELDUNG

Bitte bis Freitag 10.5. anmelden, da die Plätze begrenzt sind.

Wir freuen uns auf fleißige Paddler die sich auf einen unterhaltsamen Samstag freuen 🙂

VG

Olli

Unsere Chance mit Langzeitbelichtung etwas Tolles zu schaffen. Wir machen es uns am Rhein gemütlich, machen ein kleines Picknick und genießen das Feuerwerk über dem Rhein bei Kölsch und Fotografie. Der genaue Ort wird vorab noch bekanntgegeben. Aber Rheinpark eignet sich dazu wohl am besten.

---UPDATE---

wir treffen uns bereits morgens ab 11Uhr an der Bastei zum Grillen und gemeinsamen Picknick. Es wird einer der beliebtesten und besten Plätze am Rheinunfer sein. Daher so früh 🙂

Ich freue mich auf eure Teilnahme!

VG

Olli

http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/4/9/5/4/event_255558772.jpegHi people,

we just got an offer to get a private Brauhaustour and visit 3 breweries in the city. As I am the Community Manager of Yelp, I will also throw a round of bers that night. Minimum 😀

As a small Thank You, we send FF Event one or two of our best of photos, that they can use to promote their Brauhaustours. Usually these tours cost around 15€, so I think it will be a fun night and it is a great deal! Looking forward meeting all the new ones in this group.

The tour will be in German, but the beer will taste as usual 🙂 The group is mixed as always.

German/English native spakers. So everyone is welcome to join!

Cheers
Olli

Diese Woche treffen wir uns weil der Dom so hübsch ist. Ja ihr habt richtig gehört. Denn er hat ein Gerüst weniger, und damit einen Grund mehr ihn von seiner schönsten Seite abzulichten.

TIPP: JEder der keine Kamera hat, aber ein neues Profilfoto möchte, hat hier wohl die beste Gelegenheit auf einen guten Fotografen zu treffen, der/die bereit ist vor schönster Kulisse das umzusetzen 😀

Beginn: Unsere Tour beginnt Ecke Maternussstraße und Claudiusstrasse.

1. Friedenspark
2. Südbrücke
3. Drehbrücke
4. Poller Seite am Ufer entlang in Richtung Deutz

Ende: KM689 auf der Schälsick

Dauer: Ca 2.5h

Jeder kann mit. Ob mit oder ohne Kamera. Ob mit Handy oder Spiegelreflex.

Ich freue mich auf euch!!

On September 21st we'd like to gather photo lovers from all over the world! To meet within their community, mix & mingle, discuss great ideas, and go on photo walks.

To attend you don't need to be a professional photographer. You just need to love photography 🙂

Really everyone is welcome, no matter if you are on 500px or not!

More info on the 500px Blog: http://500px.com/blog/760/500px-worldwide-meetup-day

---

Let's meet in front of the big statue on the Heumarkt, then walk a bit through Cologne's old town and then along the Rhine towards the Rheinauhafen.
The route should provide many interesting photo opportunities.

Wer hat Lust, die Kölner Weihnachtsmarktvielfalt fotografisch festzuhalten?
Wir treffen uns am Sonntag,[masked] um 17: 30 am Heumarkt, vor Maredo (dem Steakrestaurant) und gehen von dort aus vohin uns das Auge trägt 🙂 Natürlich werden wir dabei auch den einen oder anderne Glühwein genießen.

Who is up for taking pictures of the Christmas Market in Cologne?
We will meet on sunday at 5:30 pm at the monument with the guy, sitting on his horse. And yes, we will try some of that hot wine punch as well 🙂

looking forward to see you!

Deborah

We will celebrate with our friends from Yelp and the NiK Ü30 group (New in Köln above 30).

I am the organizer, as I work for Yelp in Köln. I would love to invite some of you to join our great party at a really cool location in Köln. It is the perfect start for 2014 to meet people who want to meet new people, are new in Köln, or simply want to party with a great crowed in a private place (will be less than 80 people).

What?All you can Drinks und Fingerfood. With two DJs and great music

Where? In an old tower (near Hansaring train station)

How? Smart Casual. Get your fancy gloths out and lets rock 🙂

We will offer three different cocktails, wine and beer. The catering will be done by a local bistro (Samido Cafe & Art). We will have a professional bartender from Haifisch Club in Köln.

Camera? Hell yeah! If you wwnat some cool shots, bring your camera. At midnight there is a great hill nearby, from where you can overlook the city.

If you want to make sure to get a ticket, sign in as soon as you can.

Here the Link to the event page on Yelp
http://goo.gl/SOJzCF

IMPORTANT:
In order to get the payment details and the ticket, sign in here and write behind your name "(meetup)"
http://goo.gl/kDtMK9

Very much looking forward to a great party with you all!!!

Cheers
Olli

Das Wetter ist genial, die Kölner Instagram Gruppe wird ein Jahr alt, es gibt ein Fotowettbewerb unter dem #1_jahr_koelnergram an dessen Ende die <a>30 besten Foto auf einer Ausstellung gezeigt und für einen guten Zweck</a> (Lebensdurst-Ich e.V.) versteigert werden und daran können wir alle teilnehmen. 

Gibt es noch mehr Gründe dabei zu sein? Hier der Ablauf (von Jana T schön formuliert)

Wir schlendern durch die Altstadt, am Rheinufer entlang und landen dann zum Sonnenuntergang um 17.16 Uhr auf der anderen Rheinseite. (Mit oder ohne Frühlingssonne). Ob Smartphone, Kleinbildkamera oder Profi-Ausrüstung: Wer mitkommen möchte, ist herzlich eingeladen. Donnerstag, 15.30 Uhr Treff am Reiterdenkmal am Heumarkt
Dauer bis max. 19 Uhr Das Ganze wie immer kostenlos! ------

Also anmelden und mitmachen!

Wir freuen uns auf euch spontanen Fotografen!

SYOY
Olli

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Acz_PlNUDg&feature=youtu.be

---UPDATE---

The event location has been changed to the following
<a>http://www.yelp.com/biz/colonius-köln</a>;

Hi everyone,

Please find the invite below. If you need a translated version, please email me [masked]

Dieser Termin sollte dringend in euerm Kalender geblockt werden.
Was wir vorhaben? Wir wollen ein Tag erleben wie er in Australien nicht schöner sein könnte.

Kangaroo-Würstchen und Burger, Krokodilfilet Brötchen, dazu ein schönes Fosters und dabei Aussie Rules Football live schauen. Wir haben ein Team in Köln, das an diesem Tag ein Heimspiel gegen Stuttgart in Bocklemünd hat.

Zusammen mit den Jungs schwingen wir den Grill und machen einen tollen BBQ Tag. Unterstützt werden wir dabei von dem Australia Shopping Store in Köln.
http://www.yelp.de/biz/australia-shopping-world-k%C3%B6ln

VIDEO
Hier die Videogrüße aus Australien für uns!
http://goo.gl/Cn6vwl

ANFAHRT
http://www.yelp.com/biz/colonius-köln

ESSEN / GETRÄNKE
1. Menü: 1  australisches Bier, 1 Kangaroo-Wurstbrötchen + Kagaroo-Burger 2. Menü: 1  australisches Bier + 1 Krokodilfilet - Burger

voraussichtlich 9 EUR je Menü

Freue mich auf euch!

Cheers mate,
Olli
Community Manager Yelp Köln

Where would you like to go? What day suits you best? Lets get started with another tour!

Hi photographers,

this year we will celebrate even bigger. It was one of our first photo events last year, now one year later it will be even better.

We start at 10AM with BBQ, boardgames and chilling in the sun. 

We are located at one of the best spots to take photos of the fireworks. 

Bring your food and drinks - we bring some tables, benches and some sponsored drinks and snacks.

We will provide many cool things during the day, just make sure you are also signed in here and have the Yelp app ready on your phone. 

<a>http://www.yelp.de/events/köln-yelp-meets-nik-ü30-die-kölner-lichter-party-2014</a>;

Ping me if you have any questions 😀

Cheers

Olli

Oh Leute, das ist fast ein Pflichtprogramm. Warum?

Schaut selbst http://goo.gl/GA5AOj

------
Unser Sponsor bei dieser Tour "KölnTrianglePanorama"

Der schönste Blick auf Köln

Der KölnTriangle und seine 400 qm große Aussichtsplattform bieten einen einmaligen Ausblick über Köln, den Dom und die Altstadt.

Mit 103,20 m Höhe und einer Fassade aus Glas und Aluminium zieht die markante Silhouette des KölnTriangle am rechten Rheinufer Kölns den Blick jedes Betrachters automatisch an. Der Turm wurde als ein Projekt der Rheinischen Versorgungskassen in Köln-Deutz nach drei Bauphasen Ende 2005 fertig gestellt und dient seit dem vor allem als Bürogebäude.

In der 29. Etage lädt die 400 qm große Aussichtsplattform, das KölnTrianglePanorama, ein, Köln aus luftiger Perspektive zu entdecken. In vier Sekunden bringen hell und freundlich gestaltete Fahrstühle die Besucher in die 28. Etage. Dem Betrachter bietet sich ein faszinierender Rundblick über Köln: der Dom erscheint zum Greifen nah, das linke Rheinufer mit der Altstadt, der Kirche Groß St. Martin, dem Museum Ludwig und zahlreichen weiteren Sehenswürdigkeiten präsentieren sich den Besuchern aus einer ganz neuen Perspektive. Bei passender Witterung sind in der Ferne Düsseldorf sowie das Siebengebirge gut zu sehen, der Blick reicht aber auch weit bis in das Bergische Land.

Jährlich genießen über[masked] Besucher die Aussicht. Dabei ist auch in der kalten Jahreszeit bei klarer Witterung der Besucherandrang oft groß.

Hi everyone,

Coming monday I am hosting a LaserTag event as part of my Yelp Community Events. It is an exclusive event for 24 people and we still need a great photographer! 

http://cl.ly/image/3F0C2l463c0p

All the photos you take can be used wherever you like. Glowing jackets and action movements could make this a fun environment to take some action shots!

Of course you would be granted free entrance!

Please let me know if you like to join us and take some great photos!

[masked] or via the comment function.

Cheers

Olli

Hallo Leute! 

Ich suche für Samstag noch dringend einen Fotografen für ein Event. Wir fahren mit 100 Mann nach Oberhausen in 3 Freizeitparks. Wer fotografiert darf Partner und Kinder gerne auch mitbringen. Es entstehen außer der Verpflegung keine Kosten!Ich zahle auch für den Fotografen eine kleine Entschädigung für den Tag. Abfahrt 9:15 ab Köln HBF und 19Uhr wieder in Köln zurück. (Abfahrt auch ab Düsseldorf möglich)Hauptsächlich Portraitaufnahmen der Teilnehmer die sich im Freizeitpark bewegen! Ist sehr entspannt.

Wer Interesse hat, bitte an [masked] schreiben!

Vielen lieben Dank!Olli

-------

Hi people,

I need a reliable event photographer for this saturday. It is an event in 3 different amusement parks in Oberhausen. Transfer, Tickets and even Lunch is all included. Feel free to bring your partner and/or kids as well! I will also pay a little extra for the photographer. This is negotiable! 

We leave Köln HBF 9:15 AM and return 7PM. Leaving from Düsseldorf is also possible.

It will be mainly portraits of the participants at the event!

Please let me know if you want to join! It will be an amazing event!

write me at [masked]

Cheers

Olli

Night photography session in Cologne. Each one muss think and suggest 5 places and the best choices are the targets for this night. Online vote to get the best 3 pics of the night (No one can vote his own pics)

*Better with bike to go to the places.

Hi @all,

I just wanted to apologize for being gone for such a long time. My regular job keeps me really busy. But now we need some phototours again.

I am the Community Manager for Yelp Köln and organize many events for the review community. So why not share those as well. This one for example is great for action shots! Last years event was a blast.

It is the opening day of the horse racing and we reserved 13 VIP boxes. It is easter monday!

What does it mean? 13 x 4 first row seats with the best view. And you can always go right next to the track to get as close as it gets. How can you join? For this event it is necessary to sign in at the Yelp event page, since this is required by the sponsor. No big deal, but something to keep in mind.

Costs? The ticket is 10EUR (normally 15EUR)

The Ticket needs to be purchased in advance in order to manage signups. Further instructions follow, as soon as you signed in.

Btw - for all girls wearing a hat, we got a little surprise 🙂

Cheers
Olli

I would like to suggest a night-photo or sundown- photo session in Köln. This group has 501 member. However there is no event since April.

Fotos!!![masked]

Yesterday I got the opportunity to share some time with Thomas, Knario and Nicolai and we took some amazing Photos.

Nevertheless I keep asking myself... where were the remaining 10 people??? 🙂

Let's try to push it further, better photos, more colour, more feeling, more places, more people, more ideas, (more battery Kanario) und after ein beer or two coffees.

I gonna propose another meeting![masked]

Meeting point for everyone: The font behind Dom, in front of Louis Vuitton and Romisch-Germanisch museum. Click the link and you gonna see a picture with the meeting point.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B3VxoGxhw9RobVVKNUhtZ1RuUjQ/view?usp=sharing

I am: Egoitz

My number:[masked]

Let´s get lost! Here is what it is about:

How about having a trip through Cologne by getting completely lost? The idea is to randomly pick a district and take a small tour without knowing exactly where we end up. If you like this experimental approach, join in!
Meeting point is the right bank of the river. Kennedy-Ufer, at the corner of the RTL building.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B5L3b5uxw_eebUlZOHNZd0pqVmc/view

I hope it won't be raining ....

Let´s get lost in Aachen! Here is what it is about:

At this time we are heading to Aachen to take a tour in the historical center of the city and visit the Christmas Market as well. Another option is to visit the Lindt Factory Outlet. 🙂

The day ticket for North Rhine-Westphalia for one person is available for 28,50 euros. The group ticket costs 41,00 euros for up to 5 other people. (SchönerTagTicket NRW 5 Personen)

There are two trains in every hour in both directions. My suggestion would be:

Köln Hbf - Aachen Hbf / Sa,[masked] / Departure at 10:15 / Arrival at 11:07
Aachen Hbf - Köln Hbf / Sa,[masked] / Departure at 15:51 / Arrival at 16:44

Meeting point: Cologne Central Train Station (Hbf) in front of the Douglas shop at 09:45 am.

This meet up will take place in any weather conditions including snow!

Let´s get lost in Deutz! It’s Kirmeszeit …. 🙂

Here is what it is about:

How about having a trip through Cologne by getting completely lost? The idea is to randomly pick a district and take a small tour without knowing exactly where we end up. If you like this experimental approach, join in!

At this time we are heading to Deutz to make some amazing pics from the funfair. Meeting point: at the fountain next to the Dom at 07:00 pm

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B5L3b5uxw_eecm1pWnVIejkwQ0E/view?usp=sharing

Don’t forget your tripod!

Let´s get lost in Maastricht! Here is what it is about:

At this time we are heading to Maastricht to discover one of the most beautiful and romantic cities of Holland.

We have to change the train in Liege so we have the opportunity to make some photos of the new train station Gare de Liege-Guillemins as well.

Outward Journey
6. Mai 2016
Departure: Köln Hbf 07:43 – ICE 18
Arrival: Liège-Guillemins 08:44

Departure: Liège-Guillemins 09:40 – IC 5358
Arrival: Maastricht 10:13

Return
6. Mai 2016
Departure: Maastricht 17:48 – IC 5389
Arrival: Liège-Guillemins 18:20

Departure: Liège-Guillemins 19:14 – ICE 19
Arrival: Köln Hbf 20:15

Meeting point: Cologne Central Train Station (Hbf) in front of the Douglas shop at 7:25 am.

Let´s get lost in Cologne! Here is what it is about:

At this time we are heading to the Melaten Cemetery. It is the central cemetery of the town. It is over two centuries old and it has about 55,000 graves. Many famous people are buried there like the Farina family, among which is the creator of “Eau de Cologne”

Meeting point: The entrance of the cemetry at 2:00 pm.
See attached map for directions:

https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B5L3b5uxw_eedlJHY19YdnF2bVU

There are three entrances. Meeting point is the entrance which is close to the Piusstraße and the "Lindenthal Universitätstr." tram stop.

Let´s get lost in Cologne!
Since the weather is really nice, I thought it would be great taking a walk in the downtown and making some photos in low light. Meeting point: at the fountain next to the Dom at 07:00 pm https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B5L3b5uxw_eeTEFSLUtZTFVzTFU

We will start the tour at 7:00 pm but I made a map for the latecomers.
https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B5L3b5uxw_eeOXp4UHh6NEE0RUU

Don’t forget your tripod!

- of each other, anyone wanting to model, passers-by (with permission).... with lighting, remote flashes, reflectors, and mutual learning...

An opportunity for a special meet-up. The Christmas markets around Germany are famous - and there is lots of opportunity for taking photos. We could also wander the quieter streets. In addition, we might have some visitors from Photoresk, a club in Brussels - why not have an international meet-up?

NB. Something to be aware of with street photography are the privacy laws in Germany - but there is ample opportuntiy to ask for permission.

Once that the holidays are (will be) over, how about a photo walk in Bonn? We will meet just before sunset (16.45 is sunset), meaning that we will get to try out photography during the blue hour and night. And there's a theme- let's try to take photos with a theme of 'red'. (Thanks to Sina for the suggestion!)

The idea is that each photographer takes images which fit the theme of 'red' - but how, and what it means, is of course up to you. We can share ideas, too, of course.

Let's share tips and tricks about how to use our cameras - and take some photos along the Rhein and the harbour development area. the plan is to form groups where people with Canon or Nikon or Sony, etc., can exchange tips about funny camera settings and shortcuts. If people like, perhaps you can try out each other's filters or other equipment, too. Since it will probably be cold, we will walk for about an hour and then have a nice warm cup of coffee somewhere and see what our experiments have brought us.

All are welcome. Please be sure to update your RSVP if your plans change. Looking forward to seeing you there!

Let's try out taking some portraits and themed photos in cityscapes, and enjoy the blue hour. The idea is to take portraits and street shots (of each other, or bring a friend to model if you like) during the city blue hour using flashes, umbrellas (for lights), soft boxes, tripods, etc. 

Martin (thank you!) has discovered some interesting lighting in tunnels, including one Maybachstr. between Ritterstr. and Krefelder Str - just by Saturn. We might wander a bit around, or check out other tunnels, and we will end as always in a cafe where we can share our photos.

Do bring along suitable equipment -remote triggers (cable or wireless), flashes, soft boxes, tripods, etc. you have, -- also so others can try it out.

As always, please do update your rsvp as your plans change, to allow people on the waitlist to join!

Looking forward to it.

Need a bit of fresh air and nature during Carnival? Let's explore the River Sieg at Siegburg - and take photos which reflect a theme of black-and-white.

There may be a few buds emerging and macro opportunities, or maybe shots of the rather fast-moving river to be made with a tripod and Neutral Density (grey) filter.

Come to Siegburg for something different, on the local train from Cologne past the airport towards Hennef. (Or, from Bonn, at the end of Line 66).

Bring: tripods, macro lenses and extension tubes if you have them, perhaps flashes and filters that might be useful. Also, shoes that can take some muddy corners of rivers and such.

Please check a day or two before for confirmation, as the weather forecast might affect the MeetUp! And please do change your rsvp if your plans change. Thanks.

Saturday Update:

Some suggestions on where to watch are in this article:

http://www.general-anzeiger-bonn.de/ga-english/Where-is-the-best-place-to-watch-article3511396.html

Thursday planning update:

Given that there is no central viewing site and that navigating around might be difficult we have decided that we will give you some suggestions for spots to aim at individually and try to meet after the event and compare photos etc.  The location and time posted are to meet-up after the demolition, so don't go there first, but please do drop by after.

The demolition is expected at 11:00, give yourself plenty of time to get where you want to be.  The time for the meetup is after the demolition so plan accordingly and don't miss it!.  The weather is forecast to be a bit grey and gloomy so bring some rain gear for you and your equipment.

To help you find a good spot to get some photos here are some suggestions and info on public transit to arrive there

1 - Closest will be in the area near the Heussallee/Musuemsmeile U-Bahn stop.  There are not a lot of clear sight lines but you may be able to navigate toward Reuterstr bridge area.  You can get on the U-Bahn at the Central Train Station (downstairs).  This is also near the Bundeskunsthalle  don't know if their roof is sold out but might be worth hanging around there to see if anyone has an extra ticket, or wandering a bit behind it .

2.  Another suggestion is to head to the KennedyBrucke and see from a distance.  You reach it by foot from the U-Bahn Stops on either side of the river.  See Google Maps, this is also quite central and walkable from the Central Station

3. The Marriott hotel is rumored to have space available for a fee of 12Euro on their rooftop bar - limited space but very well placed.  Give them a call to see what the options are - some have rented rooms!

To meet afterwards I suggest the Vapiano that is in the center of town.  I would suggest we plan on meeting there around 11:45 to exchange results and thoughts on what we just saw.    We should look for each other upstairs in the area where the pasta making is done.  Look for people with cameras.

Thurs 16 March 08:40 update - this morning starting at 10 am the Bundeskunsthalle will be selling 200 tickets to view this from their roof.  You have to go in person to purchase the tickets.

Some resources in English and German

http://www.general-anzeiger-bonn.de/ga-english/Detonation-of-Bonn-Center-Viewing-could-be-difficult-article3508026.html

Here is a description of the event from the Bonn city website, the map is in there too - at the end, the second PDF:

http://www.bonn.de/rat_verwaltung_buergerdienste/topthemen/18428/index.html?lang=de

Let's gather at Brühl baroque gardens and woods of Schloss Augustusburg (entrance free) and practice some macro photography. 

Many apologies for the change of location. This is due to the lack of permission to take photos inside the greenhouse at the Cologne Botanical Gardens as originally planned.

Please do keep your RSVP updated and come if you've said you will! Please also check a day or two beforehand, as weather may affect plans.

Bring macro lenses, extension tubes, tripods, external flashes and soft boxes or other useful equipment - let's look for the first signs of spring!

Sorry - for some reason the meeting point will not update for me. Here is a link to travel info to Brühl - the Schloss is near to (and visible from) the train station.

http://www.bruehl.de/tourismus/tourismus/anreise.php#a1

Update: the buds on the cherry trees are small as of[masked], so let's go try to photograph them on 9 April, 16.00. Apparently among the things to see before you die, the cherry trees in Bonner Altstadt are quite famous!

You can see some photos and regular updates on blossom development here http://www.kirschbluete-bonn.de/blog-3/

Do have a look - if you can't make the 9th of April, the trees are starting to flower as of 30.03, so you might be able to take some nice shots this week already!

I propose we meet at 4pm on the 9th and take some photos during the golden hour. We will have a coffee together and look at our pictures, and then, for people who want to stay for the 'blue hour', sunset is a bit after 8pm. (so the blue hour will be from about 8pm - sorry for those who saw my previous proposal in which I thought the blue hour would be before sunset (!)). 

https://www.bonn.de/tourismus_kultur_sport_freizeit/tourist_information_aktuell/tourismus_und_hotels/sehenswuerdigkeiten/02034/index.html?lang=de

It's a big group - everyone is welcome but please do update your RSVP if your plans change and you can not longer join us. It's helpful to know how many people to expect. Thank you!

Let's spend an afternoon in Düsseldorf on 30.04 (Sunday) - there is a lot to photograph and of course cafes for a refreshing drink afterwards. Sumanta has suggested the harbour - and more suggestions are welcome! Altstadt is another possible destination, for example.

There is an RE 10518 train which departs Bonn Hbf at 13.01 and Köln Hbf at 13.31 and arrives in Düsseldorf at 14.01. (So, we will meet a little after 14.00.) 

It seems the marathon will not have completely finished, but it could give us some unexpected subjects. (For those new to Germany, you might want to find out about privacy laws, as these affect street photography. or bring model releases along if you want to publish images in which faces are recognisable.)

All are welcome - as always, please do update your RSVP as the time gets closer, so I know how many to expect. Thanks!

Let's wander around the Bonn botanic gardens with macro lenses - see what we can find in the flowers. In addition to flowers, abstracts, the glasshouse and the garden, we might be able to take portraits and other photos.

Entrance to the botanic gardens is 3euro each on a Sunday, and the gardens are open until 17.30 on a summer Sunday. Please note the meeting point is around the corner from the garden entrance. The meeting point is at the end of the Poppelsdorfer Allee at the gates to the Schloss. From there, we will go into the gardens. More information on the botanical gardens is here: http://www.botgart.uni-bonn.de/o_visit/ueber.php

And, of course, we will gather in a local pub or cafe after our shoot, to share photos and exchange tips.

Do bring equipment if you have it, such as flashes for external lighting, softboxes or other flash modifiers, macro lenses or extension tubes, etc.

The weather forecast is for sunny spells and some cloud.

Looking forward to seeing you all on Sunday!

CHANGE of PLAN: A visit to the Balloon Festival in Bonn! Thanks to Anastasia for the suggestion. The festival is planned to take place in the Rheinaue Park. I suggest we meet on the city (upper) side of the stonework under the bridge where the 'Rheinaue' U-Bahn station (line 66) is located. Near the stairs to the station.

I have a cherry-red backpack, for those who don't know me already.

Please note also the meeting time is now at 3pm, to accomodate anyone coming from Cologne/further afield who needs to get to Rheinaue, and also because the balloons should be taking off around 18.30.

The weather is forecast to be partially cloudy, with rain later (21.00). Could make for some interesting backdrops!

It sounds very colourful and exciting, and I hope the change doesn't inconvenience anyone.

Let's see what we can find to photograph in the small city of Aachen.

We will meet up with some members of Photoresk Brussels, so this could be a great opportunity to get to know more photographers. https://www.meetup.com/Photoresk/events/240661643/

People can take a train from Cologne at 11:47 and arrive at 12:44 - and don't forget you could form groups and buy group day tickets (2-5 people). From Bonn, you could depart at 11:46, change in Cologne, and arrive a tiny bit late (13:07). (Please let me know if you will be arriving late. Or take an earlier connnection 🙂  !)

In the late afternoon, we will gather in a cafe to share our photos and refresh ourselves.

Looking forward to seeing you there.

Let's have a walkabout in Cologne, taking street photos. Black and white can suit street photography really well, so I propose that as a second theme.

If we meet in around 3:30, we might get some nice late afternoon light. Neighbourhood? I found some nice gritty streets around Hansaring, like Gladbacher Wall. Let's wander and see what we can find!

Note to those who met at Hansaring before, this time I suggest outside the main entrance to Saturn, as that is easy to find. See you soon!

Let's take pictures of cyclists, trains, people on skateboards... there is a lot of movement in this area, so bring your ND (grau) filter, perhaps a zoom, an external flash, and let's make some creative shots of motion!

Here are some examples that might get you thinking: https://www.nyip.edu/photo-articles/photography-tutorials/three-techniques-for-capturing-motion-in-photography

We might get some nice golden hour shots if the day is nice.

Looking forward to seeing you there!

Let's see what kind of autumn nature shots we can find in the woods and garden in Bruhl.

Think about bringing equipment like macro and long lenses, off-camera flashes, tripods, polarising and ND filters. Let's see what we can find!

Please check here around the 14th or 15th, as the weather might be changeable. However, we will probably have the meet up unless it's very bad weather, as wind and rain are part of autumn!

[Update 12.09: the weather is currently forecast to be light rain - could be excellent for pictures with droplets on plants and moody skies, and it could be no problem under trees or with umbrellas (or camera coats https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/buy/Rain-Capes-Covers-Slickers/ci/3313/N/4075788778 🙂 (I'm joking a bit, as it doesn't seem that the forecast is for rain heavy enough to be worth the bother of the camera covers).... I do recommend bringing a small cloth or towel to dry your gear in case it does get damp.]

For those not familiar with how to get to Brühl, there is a train leaving Köln Hbf at 13.56 (arriving 14.12) or Bonn Hbf at 14.01 arriving also 14.12.

Please don't forget to update your RSVP if your plans change.

Looking forward to it!

Theme:
One of the rules of thumb in composing an interesting photo, is that using the diagonal can bring something more to your photo. Let's try it out - in this walkabout, we'll think about good composition, especially using the diagonal.

Here is some more information about composition and diagonals:
https://digital-photography-school.com/using-diagonal-lines-in-photography/
https://petapixel.com/2015/03/16/9-photo-composition-tips-as-seen-in-photographs-by-steve-mccurry/

Let's meet in Linz am Rhein - a pretty small town with a lot going on on the 15th. There is a handicrafts market, a shopping Sunday (so probably many people), and also, from 18.00, the buildings will be illuminated. http://www.linz.de/

From Cologne, a RE train will take you directly to Linz via Bonn Beuel: dep 13:38 arriving 14:34. From Bonn, one can take a bus or bike to Beuel train station and take a train from there.

Let's meetup and practise potraiture, thinking about lights and props, lenses, background, etc.

We will shoot outside and possibly inside - thinking about background and depth of field. It is possible to practise using structures (like bridges, walls that cast shade, etc.) to direct available light, and add more light where you want it by using reflectors and flashes with softboxes. Let's practise thinking about lighting the hair/back of the head and the type of facial lighting (see, for example, here: https://digital-photography-school.com/6-portrait-lighting-patterns-every-photographer-should-know/). What about using props like scarves or something else?

As with all Photoresk outings, the aim is to have fun, but of course we can learn from each other and experiment, too!

Link for more thinking about what you might plan and what gear you might bring: http://www.amateurphotographer.co.uk/technique/portrait_photography/how-to-shoot-outdoor-portraits-331

Hello, folks,
The Christmas market season is upon us, and there have been some suggestions that we try to photograph in several! I suggest the first one might be the Siegburg market, which has a medieval theme. If we are there in the afternoon, we should be able to catch the jugglers, the blue hour, and some of the market by candle light.

Siegburg is about 25 minutes from Cologne HBf on S12 or S19, or the Regional Express to Siegen. It is less than 25 minutes from Bonn HBf on line 66. From there, a 5-minute walk will bring you to the Zeitraum, and a few minutes more to the marketplace.

We can meet at the Zeitraum, where some of my photos will be exhibited that weekend, and then move on to the marketplace where the medieval activities will be taking place. The building is marked 'Diakonie', opposite Zeeman. There will be a 'repair cafe' going on in the space as well, but I think we'll be able to congregate, view the exhibition, and then go out into the cold at the market. Here's a link to the Siegburg Christmas market : http://www.mittelalterlicher-markt-siegburg.de/web/mittelalterlicher_markt/ (scroll down to find a link to an English-language page if you prefer).

See you then!

One more Christmas market outing - let's focus on a theme of  light and dark. This could be lights in the evening, or black-and-white, or something more.

http://www.koeln.de/tourismus/weihnachtliches_koeln/weihnachtsmaerkte/weihnachtsmarkt-in-der-altstadt_87666.html

Sunset should be 16.28, so we should be able to plan our shots to include evening and blue hour.

Consider taking your camera off automatic!

Afterward, we will gather somewhere warm for a cup of coffee and to look at photos.

Looking forward to seeing you then!

Take photos in U-Bahn stations in Cologne - in the winter months, let's take some pictures inside! Bring tripods and wide lenses, or consider whether you'd prefer pictures of motion, portraits with the station background, macros... anything is possible! We will start at Heumarkt and move on from there.

Consider coming with a transport day pass, so we can easily move on to other U-Bahn stations for more photos.

MeetUp automtically puts in an 'ending time' - we are more flexible than that! We will gather in a cafe for a hot drink and to look at each other's photos at around 16.00, depending on how we are getting on.

Let's gather to take some photos in and around the Poppelsdorf Cemetery (thanks for Dörthe for the suggestion!).

Some links to whet your appetite:
http://bonnentdecken.de/bonn-zu-fuss-poppelsdorfer-hang/
https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Poppelsdorfer_Friedhof, We could walk around and up the hill at the cemetery, and there’s a nice view up there towards Cologne (well… the refineries in Wesseling, but with luck we might also see the Cologne cathedral) and there’s also the Kreuzberg church (https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kreuzbergkirche_(Bonn)) up there. We are meeting in the morning (but not too early!) in the hope it might be misty or damp and add to the atmosphere. Consider wearing walking shoes, so we can explore a bit further. The MeetUp will take place even if it is raining - just bring some covers to protect your camera!

We will later find a place to gather for a drink or lunch and look at our pictures and chat. (Locals tell me that around Poppelsdorfer Platz and Clemens-August-Str. there are some nice restaurants.) Location: https://goo.gl/maps/M7Yze2bGK6P2 - probably best to meet at the lower entrance at the crossing of Servitenweg and Wallfahrtsweg. Should be quite easy to get to, either by public transport (bus to Poppelsdorfer Platz, or a 20 min walk from Bonn central station) or by car, or by bicycle. The cemetery is accessible all the time.

Let's explore the 'other side' of the Rhine, starting at Messe-Deutz. There are a lot of possiblities, depending on the weather. We will generally go south from the Messe-Deutz station: there is the Rhine and some old houses, new architecture, and more. We can try out street photography, urban portraits, etc. (If it rains - not currently forecast - the meetup will still take place and we will explore taking photos of rain - just bring plastic covers or plastic bags to keep your gear safe!)

The theme this time is perspective - let's see how thinking about using perspective in our compositions, does to improve our shots!

Do ignore the end time (MeetUp puts it in automatically). We will wander and photograph for a couple of hours or so, and then we will gather in a cafe to have (warm) drinks and share our photographs.

Sunset is at 17.54, so we might have some golden hour and blue hour shooting opportunities.

Looking forward to seeing you all!

Let's have a day trip in Wuppertal, especially to see what we can photograph in and around the Schwebebahn, a hanging tram which is over 100 years old (first opened in 1901) https://www.schwebebahn.de/geschichte-technik/geschichte/ . We will get on and off the tram, so we can also photograph stations, the streets of Wuppertal, and other interesting places.

While we are photographing, let's think especially about composition - here's a explainer which might get you thinking: https://petapixel.com/2016/09/14/20-composition-techniques-will-improve-photos/

We will meet at 1.15pm, to give us lots of time to explore, and then after a few hours, we will gather in a cafe to see photos and have some refreshments.  (Do ignore the end time - we are more flexible than MeetUp allows us to put in the announcement!)

Wupperthal is closer than you might think - for example, a RE leaves Cologne Hbf at 12.21 on the Sunday and arrives in Wuppertal only 35 minutes later.

It might be useful for people to group together and buy day tickets, which could then include the trips on the Schwebebahn.

There's a limit of 25 people on this trip, so please be sure to update your RSVP in good time, should your plans change.

Looking forward to it!

With thanks to Patric for the suggestion, let's meet to capture some blue hour photography at the Cologne Easter Fun Fair. https://www.koeln.de/koeln/was_ist_los/topevents/kirmes-in-deutz-fruehlingsvolksfest_458001.html

PLEASE NOTE: The Kermis is south of the bridge I've mentioned. We will still meet at the top of the steps on the NORTH side of the bridge and hope to be able to go under the bridge on the Rhine promenade. (The map pointer is slightly wrong as it is a bit too far north.)

This is a twin meetup to the fireworks meetup on 13 April. You are welcome to come to one, or both, of these twin MeetUps, as you prefer. However, if you prefer one or another activity, do amend your RSVP, as we do already have a waitlist for the fireworks.

On 5 April, we will just wander in the Kermis and take some photos during the blue hour. Sundown is at 20.13, so we should have good blue hour photos from shortly before 20.00 until close to 20.45. (For those who haven't heard the term, the blue hour is usually after sundown, when the sky is that lovely shade of indigo blue.) Although the quality of the blue hour depends on the weather, we will meet even if it is damp. (Currently, the forecast is for rain earlier in the day but stopping by evening.)

We will meet and share tips about settings to use with night photography. Bring tripods and remote triggers, if you have them, and think about what ISO and shutter speeds you can best use.

There is a competion which has a deadline of the next day, 6 April, so do submit any photos you think are very good! http://volksfest-koeln.de/fotowettbewerb-gks/

Looking forward to seeing you all there!

With thanks to Patric for the suggestion, let's meet to capture some blue hour and evening photography at the Cologne Easter Fun Fair. https://www.koeln.de/koeln/was_ist_los/topevents/kirmes-in-deutz-fruehlingsvolksfest_458001.html
The evening will include a fireworks display, so we might have lots of time to chat while jostling for space along the bridge or Rhine bank.

We will meet, share tips about settings to use with night photography and fireworks, and see what we can find to photograph. Sunset will be at 20.12 and the fireworks will start around 21.00.

Update: Please note new date and time - as the trees are apparently developing their blossoms quickly and are expected to bloom during this week of 9 April.

In any case, there are a few early flowering trees already out!

NOTE: the date of this meetup might change, depending on the blossoms on the cherry trees. On[masked], we found one tree flowering in a small side street, but the others are still tightly wrapped up for winter.

Apparently among the things to see before you die, the cherry trees in Bonner Altstadt are quite famous!

You can see some photos and regular updates on blossom development here http://www.kirschbluete-bonn.de/

We will meet at 2.30pm on the Altstadt side of the Oxford Ring street level with Stadthaus U-bahn stop (corner Breite Str). Although it might be crowded, this gives opportunities to be creative about how to get interesting shots (without infringing on privacy rights in Germany).

If we run out of cherry blossom inspiration, we can always visit the old cemetary which is right nearby and has some old graves (including Beethoven's mother).

Looking forward to it!

Let's see what kinds of portraits (and perhaps other photos) we can capture during the golden hour (evening light). We will find a place along the Rhine where we can pratice planned portraits using the sunlight as backlight (to highlight hair and the shape of the head). Be prepared to model! And bring reflectors, any portable lights, or flashs you have as well.
MeetUp will be hosted by Patric and will start with a short introduction to some techniques, after which we will have a chance to try them out.

Let's go to the woods and see what we can find to photograph. We will meet by the Siegburg train station and then walk along the 'green way' to the forest, looking for inspiring nature subjects.
The 'green way' is about 25 minutes each way to the forest, and then add some time for a loop through the forest - so bring walking shoes. (If it is poor weather, we can explore the Michaelsberg in town.)
Equipment you might bring: macro lenses, wide and long lenses. We can try out the effect of wide angles, that distances look larger, and long lenses bringing distances closes (try for the appearance of crowded flowers or trees....).
If it is sunny, think about bring a reflector or still white paper to cast shade/control the light. If cloudy, think about bringing a flash or other light source to add a bit of 'oomph' to some photos.
No matter what kind of equipment you have, you can participate - the theme is 'rules of composition'. We will talk about the rule of thirds, perspective, diagonals in your design, and using depth of field. Here are some links to get you thinking what you'd like to try:
https://digital-photography-school.com/5-elements-of-composition-in-photography/
http://www.digital-photo-secrets.com/tip/3372/18-composition-rules-for-photos-that-shine/

Let's wander around the Bonn botanic gardens with macro lenses - see what we can find in the flowers. In addition to flowers, abstracts, the glasshouse and the garden, we might be able to take portraits and other photos.

Entrance to the botanic gardens is 3euro each on a Sunday, and the gardens are open until 18.00 on a summer Sunday. And, of course, we will gather in a local pub or cafe after our shoot, to share photos and exchange tips.

We will meet at the gates and go into the gardens, each paying their own entrance fee. More information on the botanical gardens is here: http://www.botgart.uni-bonn.de/o_visit/visit.php

There is a lot to see outside, as well as some great greenhouses. Look for animals as well as plants!!

Do bring equipment if you have it, such as flashes for external lighting, softboxes or other flash modifiers, macro lenses or extension tubes, etc.

Looking forward to seeing you all on Sunday!

Hello, folks,
This weekend is a series of street festivals, a parade, and more for gay pride (called CSD for Christopher Street Day in Germany). It provides a lot of colourful opportunities for street photography. (With thanks to Patric for suggesting the meet up).

We will meet to capture part of the parade coming across the Deutzer Bridge to Heumarkt. There's a map of the parade on page 34 in this brochure:
http://www.colognepride.de/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Programmheft-ColognePride-WEBANSICHT.pdf

Bring long lenses - or wide angles -, a sense of fun.... and also model releases if you plan to take portraits. Please consider the General Data Privacy Regulations before using or uploading photos - for example, photos of individuals should clearly fulfil the objective of 'art'.

Looking forward. Please be sure to come if you rsvp 'yes' - it will help to know how many we need to find in the crowd 😉

The Kölner Lichter fireworks is coming up! In addition to a main fireworks show, there will be a number of smaller shows. Here is a map of the locations of the various parts of the festival https://www.koelner-lichter.de/programm/koelner-lichter-programm-feuerwerke.php .

It seems the fireworks will start in Porz at around 21.50 and work up northwards. One part of the show will be directly opposite where we plan to be, so we will get a good view of some fireworks. The final show, synchronised with music, at around 23.30.

In addition to fireworks, it would be great to include some buildings or landmarks in the photo - to make an interesting composition.

We plan to meet in time to check out the crowd around Südbrücke, and see if we can show photos from there (bring long lenses, and a tripod!) If it is crowded, we will move to the Rheinhafen.

Please note, that as *lots* of people are expected to try to see the fireworks, we are not meeting in the main area.

In addition to equipment for fotos, *bring a picnic or snacks* as we will likely need to stake out a good spot and then wait for nightfall and the fireworks.

What do you need? A tripod or monopod, a long (tele) lens if possible, and a remote shutter release would all be really helpful. Here are some tips on how to creatively photograph fireworks https://www.dpreview.com/articles/7373331645/how-to-photograph-fireworks
https://digital-photography-school.com/how-to-photograph-fireworks/

Please change your rsvp well in advance beforehand if your plans work out differently so people can join from the waitlist, and so we know how many people to expect.

And thanks to Patric for all the tips and local knowledge!

Looking forward to it!

Let's explore Oberdollendorf - half-timbered houses, a vineyard, and some hills (with trees). Not to mention some (lovely) ramshackle buildings!

The theme is composition using the 'rule of thirds.' Here is a link for background https://digital-photography-school.com/rule-of-thirds/

This small settlement (suburb) can be reached by ferry from Bad Godesberg, train, or U-Bahn from Bonn.

The meet-up will entail a fair amount of walking, around the streets and alleys and then uphill through the vineyard.

Photokina is said to the THE largest imaging trade fair in the world, and it is right here in Cologne. Let's get together and see what we can find. Tickets are cheaper on the Saturday, so we will gather then. PLEASE NOTE: each participant must buy their own ticket (online and in advance is cheaper, 12euro). http://www.photokina.com/participation-and-planning/for-visitors/buy-tickets/buy-tickets-4.php

There are five 'themes' (= halls), three of which are likely of most interest (Cameras; lighting and accessories; printing and presentation.) We might separate into smaller groups or plan the itinerary in accordance with interest - please to answer the question about your top two choices when you rsvp 'yes'. It will help a lot with planning!

Not only is this about seeing new gear, but also about being able to try it out. Bring a spare SD card with you - you might be able to try out some of the cameras being exhibited. And consider bringing your own camera if it's not too heavy - there might be models and lighting set-ups available to try out.

Looking forward to it!

Let's explore Maastricht in the Netherlands! Beautiful, historic, busy, and only an hour by Arriva bus 350 from Aachen!

We will meet in the afternoon, explore a bit, and perhaps take the time for a photo exhibition in one of the museums. Sunset should be a little after 5pm, so we also have time for the Golden Hour and hopefully a bit of Blue Hour.

Although 1 November is a holiday in Germany, it is not a holiday in the Netherlands, meaning the city will be bustling as usual.

At the end of the afternoon, we can have a coffee or drink together and look at each other's pictures.

Looking forward to it!

Travel tip: for those coming by train, the Euregio ticket can be a great deal (and, if you have a job ticket, all you need!) https://avv.de/de/tickets/tickets-fuer-bus-bahn/euregioticket

PLEASE NOTE: the fireworks are on Friday 2 November, sadly, rather than 4 nov as advertised. Happily, Reinhard can host the meetup, so anyone who loves fireworks and is free tonight can join! Please change your rsvps for this meetup and also for sunday's, if your plans are altered.

First, we can wander through the Fun Fair (Kirmes) and capture some evening photography at the Cologne Autumn Fun Fair. It is an excellent opportunity to try long-exposure shots and how to creatively capture the strong contrast of lights during dusk and night. (Sunset should be at 17.00, so it will be fully dark by the time we meet.) Here is some info on the Kirmes http://volksfest-koeln.de

We will meet, share tips about settings to use with night photography and fireworks, and see what we can find to photograph. Fireworks are said to be around 9pm or 9.30pm.

Think about bringing tripods and long lenses, and wearing warm clothes (as it will be a November night).

PLEASE NOTE: the fireworks are on Friday 2 November, sadly, rather than 4 nov as advertised.
Let's meet up again to see what interesting photographs we can make of light at night.

First, we can wander through the Fun Fair (Kirmes) and capture some evening photography at the Cologne Autumn Fun Fair. It is an excellent opportunity to try long-exposure shots and how to creatively capture the strong contrast of lights during dusk and night. (Sunset should be at 17.00, so it will be fully dark by the time we meet.) Here is some info on the Kirmes http://volksfest-koeln.de

We will meet, share tips about settings to use with night photography and fireworks, and see what we can find to photograph.

Think about bringing tripods and long lenses, and wearing warm clothes (as it will be a November night).

Update: the weather is predicted to be clear so it will be a good night. But perhaps cold!

Let's get together and take some pictures of the blue hour, lights, and people setting up for the Christmas market. (The market itself is only open from 18.00 till 21.00 on that first Sunday.) https://www.aachen-tourismus.de/erleben-entdecken/eventsundveranstaltungen/aachenerweihnachtsmarkt/
Sunset is at 4.40pm, so the blue hour will be directly after.

*Joint Meetup with the Aachen Photoresk Group*

Outing to Frankfurt Christmas market
A joint outing with the Frankfurt Analog Meetup!

An excursion to Frankfurt for the Christmas market with the theme of ‘being like analog. We will met up with the Frankfurt Analog Photography group (https://www.meetup.com/AnalogPhotography/) – and also use our cameras – even if digital – with the limitations of analog cameras. Try it out – see what your creativity can make in an analog situation!

So, this means:
*Decide how many ‘rolls of 36-exposure film’ you have with you, and limit yourself to 36 or 72 shots for the day (or, if you feel very rich, you might shoot 3 'rolls of film').
*Decide in advance if you are shooting black-and-white or color ‘film’, and stick to that for 36 exposures (so, when you ‘change film’ if you choose a second roll, you could of course change film type and also ISO).
*Use only 1 ISO setting, as if you had a film in your camera. Common ISO settings for film are: 64, 100, 200, 400, and, if you really push it, 800. (If you shoot ‘black and white’ only, you could choose a ‘film ISO’ of 1600 or even 3200, providing you like a lot of grain in your images.)
*Turn off your monitor: shoot through the viewfinder, don’t review the shot after taking it, no deleting photos during the day. (When you get home, you get to see the whole 'roll of film' at once!)

If you want to take the concept of limiting your options and concentrating on the shot, you could also decide to bring only one prime lens (of course, analog cameras also had zoom lenses, so this is an additional limitation just for fun 😉 ).

(Complying with the suggestions is, of course, *completely optional* – the main thing is to have fun and get to know some other photographers!)

We will meet at 14.30 (2.30 pm) outside Frankfurt am Main Hauptbahnhof.
Sunset is at 16.24, so hopefuly there might be some blue hour shots.
We might enjoy some coffee or gluhwein in the Christmas market to warm up between shots! And for those who can stay a bit longer, there may be an opportunity at 19.00 to get onto a roof of a church for some shots from a different vantage point.

It is recommended to book in advance for the ICE trains as the fastest way to get to Frankfurt (about an hour from Cologne Hauptbahnhof) and can be very affordable when booked as long as possible in advance.

Like to improve your skills at taking nice portraits outdoors, especially in evening light? How can you capture good bokeh? And what about when the artificial lights cause funny colours? This MeetUp is an opportunity to practice using flash to light a portrait with nice city lights in the background, and to set your white balance to create interesting portraits.

The bridge near the Saturn has wonderful deep green lights at night, which will make a creative challenge for you! (And, if it is raining, we can still meet....).

Sunset is at 16.40, and the blue hour should be soon after. (The green lights under the bridge should come on only after it is fully dark.)

What to bring:
1 or 2 prime portrait lenses (consider 50mm - 105mm full-frame equivalent) and preferably a flash you can use off-camera.
A tripod, reflectors, flash umbrellas, soft box, and flash stands or remote cables can also be useful.

Check your manual for how to set manual white balance before you come, and we can practice doing this. Here are some photos from our last shooting session under this bridge: https://www.meetup.com/photoreskcologne/events/237450166/

We will hope to gather for a coffee and sharing pictures after the shooting.

All welcome! No previous experience needed, but interest in the theme is required ! 😉
Please note: there is a limit on the number of attendees, so anyone who signs up and then is not able to join, is asked to change your rsvp as soon as you know. Thank you!!

This was so much fun last year for atmosphere-rich photos! So, we will once again explore Poppelsdorf Cemetery in Bonn (thanks for Dörthe for the suggestion!). Here are some photos from last time: https://www.meetup.com/photoreskcologne/events/246069563/

The theme for this MeetUp is composition and mood. Design the photos you are taking, to fit a mood you want to create in the viewer.

Some links to whet your appetite:
http://bonnentdecken.de/bonn-zu-fuss-poppelsdorfer-hang/
https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Poppelsdorfer_Friedhof, We could walk around and up the hill at the cemetery, and there’s a nice view up there towards Cologne (well… the refineries in Wesseling, but with luck we might also see the Cologne cathedral) and there’s also the Kreuzberg church (https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kreuzbergkirche_(Bonn)) up there. We are meeting in the morning (but not too early!) in the hope it might be misty or damp and add to the atmosphere. Consider wearing walking shoes, so we can explore a bit further. The MeetUp will take place even if it is raining - just bring some covers to protect your camera!

As always, at the end of the MeetUP, we will gather for a coffee or lunch and look at our pictures and chat. (Locals tell me that around Poppelsdorfer Platz and Clemens-August-Str. there are some nice restaurants.) Location: https://goo.gl/maps/M7Yze2bGK6P2 - probably best to meet at the lower entrance at the crossing of Servitenweg and Wallfahrtsweg. Should be quite easy to get to, either by public transport (bus to Poppelsdorfer Platz, or a 20 min walk from Bonn central station) or by car, or by bicycle. The cemetery is accessible all the time.

Don't let anyone think we *only* visit cemeteries, but they can be excellent locations to practice composition, macros, creating a mood.... This second February cemetery outing is with the Düsseldorf Street Photography MeetUp https://www.meetup.com/Dusseldorf-Street-Photography-Meetup/events/258460816/

After a couple hours of exploring and photographing, we hope to gather for a coffee and to share photos.

Here is some information about the cemetery:
https://www.stadt-koeln.de/artikel/06152/index.html

PS. Those who are members of both groups, need only RSVP to one of the groups' MeetUps. The group numbers are limited for this event, so please be sure to take only one spot 😉 and of course to change your rsvp as soon as you know you can't make it.

Let's capture some gritty street shots in Cologne Mülheim. We will start at a Stadtbahn station and wander through some residential streets to the Rhine. Depending what we find in Mülheim, we might then head south along the river towards Deutz. It could be a bit of walking so do bring sturdy shoes.

The weather is predicted to be somewhat cloudy - if it rains, we can capture some nice gritty U-Bahn stations instead!

The themes are: black-and-white, and using perspective in composition.

As perspective is more obvious with wide angle lenses, think about bringing a wide angle.

Looking forward to it!

The wild cherry trees are flowering, and the willows are showing their catkins. AND it's meant to be sunny on Sunday afternoon! Let's explore the trees and the riverside at Siegburg.

We should be able to capture the sunset on the far side of the river, the fast flow, and some riverside trees and other plants. Bring macro or long lenses, tripods....

Sunset is about 6.40pm, so we might be able to catch some blue hour shots before we stop for a coffee.

Looking forward to it!

Drivers can park at the small car park of the Siegstrasse right on the Siegburg side of the Bonner strasse bridge or on this side of the train station. (the city side is pedestrianised.)

People coming by train from Cologne or Line 66 from Bonn (both under 30 minutes to Siegburg) should walk up to Platform 6 (ICE) and then down to the street and turn left to the roundabout.

Exact meeting: outside the waterbed shop, 25 Bonner Strasse, Siegburg. This is right at the roundabout opposite the Aral petrol station.

Apparently among the things to see before you die, the cherry trees in the Bonner Altstadt are quite famous!

You can see some photos and regular updates on blossom development here http://www.kirschbluete-bonn.de/

Let's see what innovative compositions we can come up with, to capture this famous happening in a different way than usual!

The theme of this meet-up is 'composition'. Here are some tips on improving your photographic composition: https://www.photographymad.com/pages/view/10-top-photography-composition-rules
Think about bringing wide angle lenses, and about taking your pictures from a different point of view.

We will meet at 10.00am around the corner from the Oxford Ring, level with Stadthaus U-bahn stop and opposite the large 'altstadt' sign at the start of Breite Str. Although it might be crowded, this gives opportunities to be creative about how to get interesting shots (without infringing on privacy rights in Germany).

Looking forward to it!

Let's explore the botanical garden in Cologne, the Flora (thanks to Martin for the suggestion and background information!)

There is lots to see, from desert plants to plants on the grounds outside. It's a great place to explore, especially to take macros and landscapes. And to practise composition to make your photographs zing!

Here is some information about what you can find in the Flora http://freundeskreis-flora-koeln.de/index.php/kontakt/pflanzen-in-der-flora

Think about bringing macro lenses and long lenses. (There probably won't be room for tripods.) We will gather at the end for a coffee as usual.

This meetup will be updated as the time nears. Looking forward to it!

Directions: http://freundeskreis-flora-koeln.de/index.php/kontakt/anfahrt-und-parken

Let's gather at Brühl baroque gardens and woods of Schloss Augustusburg (entrance free) and practice some macro photography - from a low vantage point. Photographs can often capture a new vantage point just by the photographer changing his or her viewpoint. Let's get down - and see what interesting images we can find!

Here is a link to travel info to Brühl - the Schloss is near to (and visible from) the train station.

http://www.bruehl.de/tourismus/tourismus/anreise.php#a1

Let's discover the media park (https://www.mediapark.de/en/) on the public holiday.

With its modern buildings it invites us to practice architecture photography. The patterns of the facades may offer a great opportunity to try out composition by using leading lines (https://www.photographymad.com/pages/view/leading-lines). Lines in photos may guide the viewer to the interesting parts of your picture.

We will meet at the end of the viaduct. From there we will stroll between the buildings, visiting the park and the area around to take photos of the whole ensemble. As usual, after one and a half hours we get together in a café to share our experiences.

Thanks a lot to Lori having suggested this meetup!

I am looking forward to seeing you!

Calling analogue and digital photographers who would like to shoot in black-and-white! Let's get together and share tips about what makes a black-and-white image work. We can try our ideas out on the streets and also in the U-Bahn stations (especially if it gets too hot weather forecast is 29C and sunny).

Note that public transport tickets are free on the 23rd, so we will be able to hop from one station to another and photograph in different stations. (See https://www.mittelrheinbahn.de/de/tickets/ticketfreier-tag-im-vrs-gebiet-am-23-juni-2019)

At the end, we will gather for a coffee and have a chance to chat and look at photos.

Looking forward to it!

Let's discover the free state of Odonien https://www.odonien.de/start/.

Founded by the artist Odo Rumpf this special location has an atmosphere you will not find anywhere else. Metal sculptures like metal dinosaurs, the solar bird or others wait to be explored. After our discovery tour of an hour the beer garden opens (17:00) and we can enjoy a summer afternoon in this special location.

For non-commercial use there is no entrance fee, but the artists would be happy if you left 1 or 2 euros in their thank-you box.

Thanks a lot to Lori having suggested this meetup!

I am looking forward to seeing you!

Let's enjoy Cologne from its famous perspective. In this informal meetup, everyone who likes photography is welcome independent what camera you use or what level of experience you have got!

The tower Köln triangle offers from its panorama platform a great view over the city. From the Deutzer river bank, we have a great view on the Hohenzollern bridge, Great St. Martin's church and, of course, the cathedral.

We meet at 16:00 in front of the entrance of the Köln triangle (http://www.koelntriangle.de/de/aussichtsplattform/). Note, entrance fee is 2,50 EUR / person (3 EUR if there are less than 5 persons). We will stay there for about 20 minutes.
Those of you that are not interested in the panorama or do not want to spend the 2,50 EUR will join us at 16:30 on the corner Hohenzollern bridge and Deutzer river bank, just below emperor Wilhelm I. From there you have the famous view on the cathedral and bridge. We stroll along the river bank enjoying the view on Cologne's not so old town until the Deutzer bridge. Either there or taking the Hohenzollern bridge we cross the Rhine where we get together in a pub.

Hint: If you have a polarizing filter, you may bring it along, because you have to take photos through glass at the panorama terrace.
Hint: Once we will have decided during that meetup, which pub/café we choose, we leave a note in this meetup's comment section, in case you have lost the group out of sight.

I am looking forward to seeing you!

Let's join the Düsseldorf Street Photography Meetup group (https://www.meetup.com/Dusseldorf-Street-Photography-Meetup/events/264154439/) for a joined meetup in Cologne! We meet in the heart of Cologne in front of the cathedral. It is a great opportunity to exchange with the fellow photographers from Düsseldorf.

We meet at the side portal of the Roman north gate of CCAA that is just in front of the cathedral. From there we stroll to Hansaring, discovering graffiti, lit up tunnels or whatever else the street has to offer us. After about two hours we will get together at a café near Hansaring (e.g. http://www.cafeschmitz.de/).

Register in just one of the groups if you are member in both.

Possible path:
- cathedral - optionally: picture of the front of the cathedral from Finanzgericht below trees - optionally: flying car on Zeughaus -
- Marzellanstraße - St. Mariä Himmelfahrt - streetart with the big banana - green lit up tunnel - Ritterstraße - S-Bahn Hansaring street art - café

Looking forward to seeing you all!

Let's explore the market and the stage show of the Chinese Festival during the blue hour - right next to the Dom. Stop off on your way home from work for a short time! See the program here: https://koeln.business/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/KB_Chinafest_Broschüre_100x210_[masked]_v5.pdf Thanks for Siea for the suggestion!

Let's explore the market and the stage show of the Chinese Festival - right next to the Dom. Hosted by Siea, who spotted the event. Check out the program here: https://koeln.business/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/KB_Chinafest_Broschüre_100x210_[masked]_v5.pdf Things to photograph include a KungFu show....

Let's discover the Naumannsiedlung in Cologne Riehl on the public holiday.

This year we celebrate 100 years Bauhaus (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bauhaus). Neues Bauen has been a contrast to the traditional orientation in architecture like the historism at the beginning of the 20th century. Buildings in Bauhaus style give you the impression they were recently built even though they are nearly 100 years old. Also in Cologne we can find such buildings. Let's try to freeze impressions of this style using photography by discovering together the Naumannsiedlung in Cologne Riehl, the most prominent ensemble in this style in Cologne.

We meet at 15:00 at the tramway station Cologne Boltensternstraße.
From there it is some walking to St. Engelbert (https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/St._Engelbert_(Köln)). The lemon squeezer has been build in Bauhaus style, too. From there we stroll to the Neumannsiedlung (https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naumannsiedlung) for the quest for interesting shots of this ensemble of buildings. After roughly an hour we get together at a café (e.g. Café ViLena) to exchange about what we have discovered.

Looking forward to seeing you!

A great MeetUp hosted by Ben!

Hi everyone, I would like to make a meet-up for "photo-talk" in Aachen. It will be announced in both the Aachen and Cologne Photoresk groups, so please RSVP 'yes' in only one group.

The event is to show our work to others and share our ideas and thoughts. I am sure it will be very interesting to see and share our work with our meet up members. Indeed until this very day, we have been working very hard to take photos. Now it's time to show our great pieces.

1. Aim
- Appreciating the works of various people
- Learn the thoughts, perspectives, and considerations about others' photos
- Check other people's review on your photos
- Learn the photo skills, techniques, features and environments used in photography
- Socializing

2. Preparation
- Cost for drinks (This is a room rent requirement. There are also tea and non-alcohol drinks.)
- If you want to participate in the presentation, please prepare 2 ~ 4 pieces of your work in advance and send me a message or email ([masked]) on the day or the day before the presentation. (It does not have to be the original or a big sized file, but it must be *your* work.)
- If you don't have such a work to present, do think about taking some before the meetup! 😉 Submitting photos is not a requirement to participate. In fact, the bigger the audience, the better. If you have no photos to show, you can just come to engage in the discussion about what makes a good photo.

3. Meeting point
On 12. Oct (Saturday) 6: 30-8: 30 pm at the Cafe Zuhause (Sandkaulstraße 109/111, 52062 Aachen)

4. Program
- 6:30-7:00 Greetings and introductions
- 7:00-8:00 Photo-talk (presentation)
After a brief look at randomly arranged photos, the owners briefly introduce their photos to the others (e.g. why you want to show them, how you evaluate them, what stories can be told, etc.)
The number of presentations will be adjusted according to the number of people gathered for proper time distribution. (around 30 pieces will be introduced).
- 8:00-8:30 Q&A on each of the pictures that impressed you, giving a review, exchange opinions on the work

5. Transportation
A bus stop to the Hbf is about 5 minutes away from the pub. it takes 10 mins to the train station by bus. The direct trains to Cologne comes at 20:51, 21:51, 22:51 and 23:51, 00:51.

Please note!
As the number of people who can show their photos is limited, and as we have to buy drinks to encourage the cafe to rent to us again, please be sure to only RSVP if you are able to join (and update your RSVP if your plans change).
If you simply don't show up, it may affect your ability to participate in future limited-seat events.

A 'beamer' projector will be used to show the photos, but do be aware that light may enter through the window during the presentation, and the screen may not of the best quality. It's all for fun, and what an opportunity!

Let's see what we can find for autumn colors and mood in the OId Cemetery in Bonn (https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alter_Friedhof_Bonn; https://www.bonn-region.de/sightseeing-and-culture/old-cemetery.html), very near the Stadthaus U-Bahn stop.

There are some interesting graves, and lots of opportunity for moody autumnal pictures. NOTE: the weather is meant to be cloudy and perhaps damp - perfect for mood. Too much rain forecast by Saturday will mean this meetup is likely to be cancelled, so keep an eye out for the plans.

Sunset should be about 18.45, so we might have some nice golden hour or blue hour shots.

Think about bringing an external flash you can dial down to very low power, to add a bit of pizzazz to a moody shot. And consider bringing a tripod for long exposures. And your creativity!

Looking forward to seeing you soon!

A chance to try the challenging scene of artificial lights in the dark of evening! At dusk on 26.10, the town of Linz will glow with coloured lights. This is an event that many won't want to miss! https://www.facebook.com/events/382956379316776/

The town of Linz on the Rhine is a short train ride from Bonn-Beuel or Cologne. It is packed full of half-timber houses and some interesting fountains. Come and see what you can capture on the night that Linz will be glowing with coloured lights!

Your event host lives in the area and can show you some of the most interesting spots.

Expect a lot of people, so tripods may not be useful despite the dark conditions. A monopod could be useful, and image stabilization. See what you can do in these challenging conditions!

Hi all - with the short notice we did not get a lot of uptake so will postpone for now and try again at a later date.

Let's look at each other's photos and discuss our photography! This is a great way to learn some new ideas and get some feedback on your work.

This sharing event is in Bonn Südstadt in the home of one of our members - easy to get to by public transit or other (parking can be difficult). Everyone is welcome - and those who have not yet been to a photo-sharing MeetUp with us are most especially welcome. (That was meant to be a subtle reminder to give other people a chance to sign up, if you were at the recent Aachen photo-sharing event.)

So pick out three or four of your best work, or ones you'd like to discuss with others, and pop them on a USB stick for sharing. Your host will provide some afternoon refreshments - maybe bring a few euros for the 'pot' to replenish the supplies, or some biscuits to go with the coffee.

We have an hour to take photos around Siegburg and then let's check out the medieval Christmas market. We should be able to catch the jugglers, the blue hour, and some of the market by candle light. There is a blacksmith and a basket maker, and lots more. Here's a link to the Siegburg Christmas market : http://www.mittelalterlicher-markt-siegburg.de/web/mittelalterlicher_markt/ (scroll down to find a link to an English-language page if you prefer).

It is Totensonntag so the market will be only open from 6pm until 8pm - meaning there might be few crowds and lots of good opportunities for shots.

Siegburg is about 25 minutes from Cologne HBf on S12 or S19, or the Regional Express to Siegen. It is less than 25 minutes from Bonn HBf on line 66. From there, a 5-minute walk will bring you to the Zeitraum, and a few minutes more to the marketplace.

Come a half hour early to see my exhibition 😉 http://bosbeerphotos.com/wohnen-im-herz-at-the-heart-of-living/
We can meet at the Zeitraum, where some of my photos will be exhibited that weekend, and then move on to the center of town with the old church and then to the marketplace where the medieval activities will be taking place. The building is marked 'Diakonie', opposite Zeeman.

The meeting point is about five minutes' walk from the station (line 66 from Bonn or various trains from Cologne), and the market a few hundred meters further on.

See you then!

While dawn is still relatively late (8.30am on 12.01), let's try out some nature shots during this special time of day! Depending on the weather, we may be able to catch frost, dew, and/or mist, along with the blue hour and sunrise.

Note that the meeting point is about 20 minutes' walk from the train station / S66 in Siegburg. (Someone on the the S66 could also get out at Sankt Augustin Mülldorf, but it is not a shorter walk.) There is a small carpark at the meeting point, and another on the Siegburg side of the bridge.

Bring: warm clothes, a tripod, and a flash with manual controls, if you have them. A macro lens may be also useful. Looking forward to seeing you there!

PS. Please note, if heavy rain is forecast, the MeetUp will be cancelled. However, light rain might make for some interesting shots, too!

CANCELLED

Dear all, due to a bad cold, that I can´t get rid off I have to cancel tonights meetup. Sorry for any unconvinience. It was better yersterday, but unfortunally it is not over yet and I´d be a terrible host.

I will try to repeat this event soon and hope to see you all again!

Patric

In this meetup, we will take a look at each others pictures. Due to the limited time, space and my experience with meetings like this, I have to put up some extra "rules", I hope that you´ll understand my intention.
The plan for this meeting is to look and give feedback (constructive criticism) on each others' pictures, so that we all can learn.

So, here the "special rules"
1. Each participent can show 3 to 5 pics (we´ll have to see how quick we get through). We will watch the pics on a big TV-screen in our studio.

2. Please sent your best 2019 pics (jpeg in good resolution,my macbook can show up to 1.440 x 900 on the tv-screen) named 1 to 5 (1 is your best etc.) to:

[masked].

And, if possible, also sent the EXIF-Data, so that we can see what you have done.

3. There is no topic or restriction for your pics. Street, landscape, Art, People, Sport etc., just show us your best shots.

4. To make sure that we have enough time for each pic, the limit for this event is 10. So please only enlist, if you REALLY want to come. AND if you have a place and then discover you cannot come, for any reason, please cancel and leave your space for the people on the waiting list.

5. If you want, we have some softdrinks in our studio fridge, they go for 1-1,5€. So if you like some refreshment, it would be nice if you´d bring some coins, because I probably won´t have enough change.

So, this is the first try, let´s see what happens.

I am looking forward to see you!

A challenge, for those willing to take it! Let's take one photo a day around the house, and then we will share and discuss them.
Some tips: spend a little time thinking first about a theme or an object. Examples are macros, or abstracts, or even a single object which you might photograph in a different way every day. (If you like, list your theme in the discussion on this Meet-Up - it might help give others ideas!)
Don't think only inside your house, you might have a view out the window or a balcony with some outside plants. (Of course, do stick with the national and international recommendations to protect yourself and others from coronavirus.)
Stick to the theme for the entire eight days, and take a photo a day starting this Saturday, 21.03. On Sunday, the 29th, we will share them online (platform tbd) and discuss what we learned and what we like about each other's photos.

Let's have an online discussion about those photographic ideas you couldn't quite get to have the pizzazz you wanted. Here is a chance to learn from failures and to gather some ideas about how to improve.

What we will do: bring an example or two of shots that didn't quite capture the inspirations you had to show the group, and let's brainstorm some ideas or tips about how to make each idea a more effective photograph.

Consider using ideas that could be tried out again later at home - macros, still lives, abstracts, or portraits of pets (!) or family members...

Looking forward to hearing your ideas!!

A challenge, for those willing to take it! Let's take one photo a day for ten days starting on Thursday, 9 April, and then we will share and discuss them.
Some tips: spend a little time thinking first about a theme or an object. Examples are macros, or abstracts, or even a single object which you might photograph in a different way every day. (If you like, list your theme in the discussion on this Meet-Up - it might help give others ideas!)

Don't think only inside your house, you might have a view out the window or a balcony with some outside plants. (Of course, do stick with the national and international recommendations to protect yourself and others from coronavirus.)

Stick to your theme for the entire ten days, and take a photo a day starting Thursday, 9 April. On Sunday, the 19th, we will share them online (platform tbd) and discuss what we learned and what we like about each other's photos.

There is certainly a lot of explore about a daily series. Let's take one photo a day - perhaps in your house still - , and then we will share and discuss them.
Consider selecting a theme, such as a new perspective (take the photos from a low or high vantage point), macro, or even a single object which you might photograph in a different way every day.
(If you like, list your theme in the discussion on this Meet-Up - it might help give others ideas!)
Don't think only inside your house, you might have a view out the window or a balcony with some outside plants. (Of course, do stick with the national and international recommendations to protect yourself and others from coronavirus.)
Stick to the theme for the entire seven days, and take a photo a day starting this Sunday, 17.05 (or Monday 18.05 for a Monday-Sunday series). On Sunday, the 24th, we will meet on Webex to discuss what we learned and what we like about each other's photos.

Let's get together online and share some of our macro photos!

If you don't have a macro lens, no worries - you can still take macro photos by reversing your lens with an affordable adapter ring or extension tubes (see, for example, https://www.howtogeek.com/152060/how-to-enjoy-macro-photography-on-the-cheap/ and http://extreme-macro.co.uk/extreme-macro-reversed-lenses/). Some Photoresk members can give tips also on using cardboard tubes or plastic bottles! (If you have a tip, do write a comment!)

(Of course, you can also share photos taken less recently if you prefer.)

Depending on how many people join in, we will each get to present at least 3 images for discussion.

Looking forward to it!

Does size matter ? Some say it is not important how large or advanced your kit is, it’s how you use it, and being in the right place at the right time that makes the difference. After all we all know that it’s not the equipment but the person behind it who makes the magic happen. What trick(s) can your machine do? Does it fulfill your expectations, perhaps even exceed them? Any recurrent struggles? And what would you say to someone who would like to invest in the same bit of kit ? Yay or nay ?

Come share your stories, have a laugh, a drink, and educate each other on different camera makes and functions. Have a couple of pix ready to illustrate what you are talking about if you like, but please remember this is about the camera not your photo subject – we all know by now what an amazing bunch of talented lot you are, now we want to see your kit☺

To avoid unintentional subjects and intrusions, we will share a zoom password with those interested in joining by email. Please message us with your email address.

This city has so much to offer beyond the "Cannes for tourists", the glam and the chic. We will have a nice stroll through the old parts of Cannes,  the parts of the local people and local life. As we go we will discover places, people, life and capture moments in the wonderful changing Mediterranean light. Of course, we also will exchange our knowledge to improve our photography skills.

Dear all,
Mougins is famous for its artists and its beautiful village.
I suggest that we visit both Photographic exhibits (Erwan Morere at the Photography museum and the Robert Doisneau exhibit at the Espace Culturel).
We could also walk around, and shoot pictures of windows, home openings to the outside.
For the most advanced Happy Shuttercounts, we could try black-and-white pictures, like Erwan Morere.

Dear all,

Mougins is famous for its artists and its beautiful village. I suggest that we visit two beautiful temporary Photographic exhibits which are ending soon:

• Erwan Morere at the Photography museum, 

• Robert Doisneau exhibit at the Espace Culturel.

We will also walk around, and shoot pictures of windows, home openings to the outside.
For the most advanced Happy Shuttercounts, we could try black-and-white pictures, like Erwan Morere.

Dear all,

Currently there is an interesting Photography festival in Nice (see website here): many small exhibits around Nice. The Festival is at its 15th edition with this year the desire to renew, not to impose a theme nor put a barrier between photographic genres.

Nice is also a beautiful city, so we'll take our camera's with us, and shoot some pictures between exhibits (indeed there will be a good walk around, and obviously one or two drinks to rest as well).

We will either meet in Cannes, and go all together to Nice with my car, or meet directly there. I'll organise this once I will know who will join (you can either post your preference on the forum of this event or private-message me).

Yasemin

Dear all,
With the winter coming, days are shorter and more wet; it is therefore more difficult to organise outdoor shootings.
However, let's have a drink (apéro), so we can meet, chat, exchange our photo experiences, develop ideas for taking pictures/visiting exhibits next year, and enjoy the evening.
See you Tuesday,
Yasemin

Photoresk Aachen(D) * Cologne(D) * Berlin(D) * Brussels(B) * Cannes(F)
A challenge, for those willing to take it! Let's take one photo a day around the house, and then we will share and discuss them.
Some tips: spend a little time thinking first about a theme or an object. Examples are macros, or abstracts, or even a single object which you might photograph in a different way every day. (If you like, list your theme in the discussion on this Meet-Up - it might help give others ideas!)
Don't think only inside your house, you might have a view out the window or a balcony with some outside plants. (Of course, do stick with the national and international recommendations to protect yourself and others from coronavirus.)
Stick to the theme for the entire eight days, and take a photo a day starting this Saturday, 21.03. On Sunday, the 29th, we will share them online (platform tbd) and discuss what we learned and what we like about each other's photos.

Did you drive through Norway just to get that wonderful shot of the Northern Lights and - the exact moment you had them framed - the sky turned cloudy? Or, did you see that bird fly too soon? Where you looking at your camera settings and missed the shot? This is a challenge for those who are not afraid of joining a big, collective laugh!

What is the purpose?

Share with us your biggest photo fail and your own, short, personal story about it - The funnier, the better!

Over the next 7 days, go back in time and think about the least successful photo you have in stock. As you share it with us, tell us why it is so and what you would have wanted to get instead.

By 'fail', you could think of any of your photos where color, framing, balance, subject was just not want you wanted it to be. You can think of any types of photo - portrait, landscape, wildlife, sports, architecture, fashion, wedding, macro, abstract, food... anything!

How we will run it?

Please upload your photo and own personal story about that shot (3 to 5 lines are sufficient) within a folder on "The Photoresk Lab" (https://lab.photoresk.com). The folder should be named after you. Please do so by Saturday 11 April. IMPORTANT: You have to register once through this link https://lab.photoresk.com/index.php/apps/registration

On Sunday 12 April, we will gather on "The Lab" and will share our 'famous' shots and stories to learn and have a laugh altogether!

Hello Everyone!

This week we will discuss some photography books and photos which you can find here:

First up is :

Smoke, by Theo Elias, you can see a preview here: https://www.theoelias.se/smoke

then what about a female autobiographic photographer, Nan Goldin

http://www.artnet.com/artists/nan-goldin/

What do these pictures say to you? What do you they evoke? Are these photographers new to you?

Let the images transport you and share your thoughts with us - sign up and we will send you instructions on how to join

Rosa and Claus

Hello Everyone!

A special treat for you this week:

a chance to meet an inspirational landscape photographer, Sean Crawford, who will join us from Wales to tell us a little bit about his photography and perhaps give us a tip or two - you can see some of Sean's photos here:

https://brecontownopenstudios.co.uk/sean-crawford-landscape-photographer/

What is your experience of landscape photography? Spill the beans and perhaps exchange your own tips...

Sign up and we will add instructions on how to join before the event

Rosa and Claus

Hello hello!

Hope you are all enjoying the sunshine as best as you can, wherever you are. After the resounding success of our last session where Sean delighted us with his breathtaking landscape shots –and taught us a thing or two about shaky lenses – this week the talented, crafty and arty Petros will tell us a little about analog conceptual photography, double exposures and bringing art and literature into photography.

Something for everyone! As Petros nicely put it: "my photographs have always a title and a little story derived from the picture and vice versa". Come join us, and prepare to be amazed by some pretty creative shots.

You can take a sneak peak here: https://www.pierremakris.com/photo-gallery or here https://www.instagram.com/pierremakris/

A link to join will be shared before the event on this site.

Happy sunshining everyone !

Rosa and Claus

Hello Everyone!

What a talented bunch you all are! We are getting used to hearing from several of you, and after chatting to Petros about everything analog last time and being treated to some mindblowing pictures (which you can see here https://www.pierremakris.com/photo-gallery or here https://www.instagram.com/pierremakris) we remain in the South of Europe and talk to Joaquim from Portugal about the switch from analog to digital. After ‘spending his first salaries to buy the best analog SLR he could afford’ Joaquim finally made the switch to digital. Using his EOS 5D mk iv camera, he now merges his passion for travel and nature with photography, focusing mainly on landscape photography.

What inspired this switch, and what continues to inspire him today? Come find out, and take this chance to ask for some tips!

The link to the event will be shared on the day. Please note that the event will be recorded and published on social media. If you don’t wish to appear in the video, please let us know.

See you on Wed!

Rosa and Claus

Hello lovelies,

We are back. Different place different topic. This week we travel to Aachen (virtually, stay put!) to meet Bang, who gets up close and personal with actors and models (how close you say? Come ask him! ☺) to take stunning portraits.

Using his trusty Nikon D750. Lens: Nikkor 50mm F1.8 And Tamron 24-70 F2.8, Bang says that meeting “different kinds of persons and creating something together” is what attracts him to portrait photography.

You can take a sneak peak here: https://www.instagram.com/bang2art/

A link to join will be shared before the event on this site. Please note that the event will be recorded and published on social media. If you don’t wish to appear in the video, please let us know.

See you on Wednesday

Rosa and Claus