PRISMA Issue 4

by:AlexandraGodfrey

INSIDE FEATURES

INSIDE THIS ISSUE OF PRISMA

PhotographyEditor: Lucile Belorgey

Top Five Fife: With over 40 years of photographic experience, John Pow shares his knowledge of Fife, and his favourite locations to photograph. These include sites such as the Forth Bridge and Dysart Harbour.

Floodlight Neighbours: Canata aims to capture the lived reality of life in Boston during its pandemic recovery Her black and white geometries highlight how beauty can be found within everyday settings.

Theatre Photography: Anderbjörk discusses her experience within theatre photography, and its nature as a dynamic working environment She highlights the gift of photographs as souvenirs for cast and crew.

Florida Keys: Vibrant natural and urban scenes are explored by Harry Sparke in his series of sunset photographs. Through them, he aims to highlight the impact of climate change on the archipelago

HighlandFusion: Colquhoun praises the creativity of the Highland Fusion Dance Team, and their photoshoot at Castle Sands. He discusses the challenges of photographing in such unpredictable locations

In Frank's Footsteps: Inspired by Robert Frank’s The Americans, Harry Ledgewood presents a series of photos of his travels in America They aim to capture the beauty and brevity of everyday moments.

TheEditorialTeam

Editor-in-Chief-LouiseAnderbjörk

DeputyEditor-in-Chief-EleanorReid

PhotographyEditor-LucileBelorgey

EditorialEditor-AlexandraGodfrey

PhotographyEditor-CharlotteDavies

CopyEditor-RosieLeeson

MediaManager-MaggieZhu

editor@prismamagazine.co.uk

Photo:JohnPow

Photo:LouiseAnderbjörk

Photo:HarrySparke

Photo:MatthewColquhoun

Photo:HarryLedgewood

Photo:CarolineCanata

Photo: Louise Anderbjörk

BLOGGING TRAVEL PHOTOS

EditorialEditor:Alexandra Godfrey

ALEXANDRA GODFREY

Interested in becoming a travel blogger, or taking your travel photos to the next level with a photo story? In this month’s editorial I’m going to write about how to get started with blogging, thanks to the input of our very own St Andrews blogger, Jaden Jones! If you enjoy travelling, travel blogging can help you keep track of your adventures abroad, whilst sharing facts and moments with your family and friends Whether you are off on a full-week family vacation during reading week, a quick-trip Ryanair weekend away, or an interrailing journey throughout the summer months, photography is bound to sit at the core of your travel experience, both during and after the trip What else would you have to show your aunts when discussing your visit to Southern Italy at the Thanksgiving table this autumn? Blogging, much like photography, offers you the chance to record the small moments that might otherwise be forgotten. Who would otherwise think to record the times spent laughing on the floor of your cramped and dingy hostel, for example? Jaden Jones, a 2nd year student studying at the University of St Andrews, told us that her blog allowed her to “write creatively (something I don’t get to do much in a STEM pathway) and share experiences with others” It is also closely linked to social media, as you share your new experiences, and build a platform of followers who are interested in your “do’s” and “don'ts” of where you go. Jaden also states her diagnosis of coeliac disease 2 years ago has created the “unique and challenging experience” of travelling with a food restriction, the tips and tricks of which she has been able to share in her blog Much like cultural photography, travel blogging offers the opportunity to engage with different cultures and ways of life. Though travel photography and cultural photography can go hand-inhand, the majority of today’s travel bloggers / photographers tend to focus on the local ‘hidden-gems’ of a particular city, whether that be labelled as ‘good eats’ or ‘picturesque instagramable streets’ Aesthetic locations, such as a cute cafe, artsy exhibitions, or lively nightclubs, not only provide the perfect content for blogs, but in visiting them you quickly fill up your travel schedule! When asking Jaden about photography, she told us she “really relies on the photos taken to help remember what is important”. Whilst her photography style might not be “polished or professional” she finds it to be “very personal and relaxed” and therefore “something anyone could connect to” No matter your level of photography, when exploring a new place you are opened up to a world of opportunity.

Whether you have a professional camera or not, your content is therefore always appreciated by readers! Some people may argue blogging is pointless without a huge social media presence, but I would argue it can be used as simply a form of self reflection and relaxation. By sharing your movements throughout the day it might inspire someone to follow in your footsteps and explore a new place This is something you can accomplish without a strong media following. Blogging and travel photography are also both forms of cultural appreciation and promotion, and your knowledge of the world around you will improve Though everyone is bound to have different experiences when they travel, your blog may influence their way of viewing certain areas of the world. Finally, I asked Jaden what she would suggest to someone who is interested in starting a travel blog She told me “this sounds cliche but, just go for it! Nothing needs to be polished or professional ” She also suggested that if you are too nervous about blogging your first few trips, at least “get into a habit of writing them” and consider posting after you’ve had a couple practice rounds So, get out there, photograph your travels, and then WRITE!

Photo:AlexandraGodfrey

Jaden Jones’s Blog: middleschooldropoutblog.wordpress.com /category/europe-the-uk/

EdroIIIShipwreck, Paphos,Cyprus

Photo: Alexandra Godfrey

PHOTO STORIES

TOP FIVE FIFE LOCATIONS

PhotographyEditor:Charlotte Davies

JOHN POW

I have lived in Fife all my life, and now work as a landscape photographer after 40 years of taking photos. With so many great locations, I found it hard to pick just five to share, but starting with number five, I have to go for my home town Kirkcaldy Although an ex-mining town with a long industrial heritage, it holds some of the most photogenic sites such as Dysart Harbour and Pan Ha’. Next, there is Culross, which The National Trust for Scotland describes as “Scotland’s most complete example of a burgh of the 17th and 18th century” and, thus, a place definitely worth exploring with your camera. Thirdly, we have St Andrews It is a town with many iconic and historic scenes to photograph, although the experience is perhaps made a little less unique by the many other people also photographing these scenes. Penultimately, there is The East Neuk stretch of coastline between Crail and Earlsferry which is as beautiful as any you will find in the world. Particular highlights to look out for are the Salt Mill at St Monans, the unique architecture of crow stepped gables and pan-tiled roofs, and my favourite, the Auld Kirk Remember to take a telephoto lens for the exciting range of birds and wildlife that you will come across. Finally, as my number one place to photograph in fife, we have the World Heritage site and Scottish Icon: The Forth Bridge. I have photographed it from every conceivable angle; north, south, east and west, above, below, and on it. You will struggle to find a new composition but that does not matter, just pay attention to your verticals, keep your horizon straight, include some context, and you will have a great image

Photo:JohnPow

Photo:JohnPow

Photo:JohnPow

Photo: John Pow

PHOTO STORIES

FLOODLIGHT NEIGHBOURS

PhotographyEditor:Charlotte Davies

CAROLINE CANATA

My series “Floodlight Neighbors” is an exploration of the neighborhoods and community of Boston. I wished to emulate the simultaneous sense of connection and alienation that we feel towards the strangers we live in close proximity to Originally, my aim with this series was to document Boston’s recovery from the pandemic, and return to pre-covid normality. However, upon reflection, I realised the Boston I unearthed was not just healing, but constantly changing to adapt to the new circumstances of the past few years. Consequently, I aimed to use simple photographic techniques, to capture the practicality of this day-to-day survival Using only a Nikon 90 camera and the sharp shadows of winter, I composed my images Although I have lived in this city for 19 years, photography has allowed me to explore it on a deeper level. At the start of this series, I was extremely anxious to take photos in public, afraid of invading the personal space of others. I would over-analyze an environment and be hypersensitive to any disruption of my shots, unable to embrace the art of dynamic street photography However, with time and practice, my series taught me to leave behind my worries, and study a landscape without personal inhibitions. This experience was a catalyst for my better perception of a city's darkest elements, such as drug addiction and mob violence, as well as its bravest elements, such as its youth and art. My series, “Floodlight Neighbors,” attempts to neutrally capture these elements, using simplistic black and white geometry that structures and illuminates the core of the Boston, unembellished and true

Photo:CarolineCanata

Photo:CarolineCanata

Photo:CarolineCanata

Photo: Caroline Canata

PHOTO STORIES

THEATRE PHOTOGRAPHY

PhotographyEditor:Charlotte Davies

LOUISE ANDERBJÖRK

A year ago, in March 2022, I found a passion for theatre photography when I took on the role of publicist for a student production of Eurydice. Since then I have photographed for numerous shows, working with the most incredible people, and valuing the opportunity to give the cast and crew photos that capture their talent and hard work. My work in a production usually begins during the rehearsal process, where I get the chance to familiarise myself with the show. As live acting can be both fast-paced and unpredictable, it makes my job on stage so much easier if I know how the actors will move and interact, so as to not miss that fleeting moment of the perfect shot It is then during the dress-and-tech run, a few hours before the opening show, where I t the majority of my ‘show’ pictures. This allows me move around freely in the auditorium, but still shoo show-like conditions. If after this I still need to t some complementary photos during a live performan it becomes an interesting task to mask my presence, s as trying to time the photo with a laugh from audience, so as to cover the shutter noise Usuall average on around 1300 photos from one such dress r which I then spend the following day editing down around 200-300 photos for the cast and crew. These t serve as my photographer’s post-show congratulatio From get-in day to closing night, there is little time anything but preparations, shoots, and editing, but I every aspect of it, and feel incredibly lucky to h worked with so many wonderful productions in just year

Photo:LouiseAnderbjörk

Photo:LouiseAnderbjörk

Photo:LouiseAnderbjörk

PresentLaughter, TheByreTheatre

Photo: Louise Anderbjörk

PHOTO STORIES

A VISIT TO FLORIDA KEYS

PhotographyEditor:Charlotte Davies

HARRY SPARKE

Recently, my girlfriend and I visited the Florida Keys, an archipelago stretching west from the southern tip of Florida, and finishing 90 miles north of Cuba. These islands, locally known as the Keys, are home to an abundance of land and ocean wildlife The marine ecosystem includes sharks, turtles and the well-known mascot of the Keys, the manatee. By contrast, the land is home to alligators, iguanas, pelicans, and Key deer; all of which have to co-exist and share the limited space with the 80,000 people who call the Keys home. Photography quickly became a major part of our travels, and the images which you can see were taken one evening after driving back from dinner on Marathon Key This bright moon was low on the horizon and glowed a blood red We stopped our drive to take photos of this unique and colourful sunset. As the sun began to set, the colours in the sky deepened and a unique photo opportunity presented itself. These spontaneous photos display the Keys’ natural beauty and the overlap between nature and urban life An interesting connection one can make between these photos is the extremely damaging effect climate change has had on the islands The vibrant coral reefs, which for decades have teemed with wildlife, are recently experiencing a lack of life. The effects of coral bleaching have impacted the sea anemones and corals, just as plastic pollution has harmed hundreds of sea turtles each year. The colourful sunsets remain strong and engaging, but the life under the sea faces struggles to remain vibrant for future divers and visitors

Photo:AlexandraGodfrey

Photo:HarrySparke

Photo:AlexandraGodfrey

FloridaKeys Sunset

Photo: Harry Sparke

PHOTO STORIES

HIGHLAND FUSION PHOTOSHOOT

PhotographyEditor:Charlotte Davies

MATTHEW COLQUHOUN

Ever since arriving at St. Andrews, the Dance Club has been an ever present and wonderful part of my time at university. This year I’ve had the privilege to lead photoshoots for the dance committee and teams My favourite experience within this has undoubtedly been working with the Highland Fusion Team! Highland Fusion focuses on blending traditional Highland moves with contemporary music, resulting in a funky take on a typically highly regulated style. This year we decided to put a twist on the annual show A Touch of Tartan by theming it. The chosen theme was “Uisce” (meaning water in Gaelic), named after the team’s g winning competition dance “Seonaidh the Wa After some debate on how to safely combine dancing in photos, our Captain decided tha into the sea at Castle Sands was the best opti to time various poses with the ebb and flow (while running away from them myself) ha most insane but fun photoshoot I’ve ev contrasted heavily with the first group photo the team, which was more focused on headsh group poses It was really interesting to focu the strength and poses of the dance style in shoot, and have the chance to play with the w editing show logos and information. This s fantastic chance to create interestin opportunities out of the classic St. Andrews am already excited to see what theme is pi Touch of Tartan next year!

Photo:MatthewColquhoun

Photo:MatthewColquhoun

Photo:MatthewColquhoun

Photo: Matthew Colquhoun

PHOTO STORIES

IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF FRANK

PhotographyEditor:Charlotte Davies

HARRY LEDGEWOOD

At seventeen I came across a copy of Robert Frank’s The Americans. Photographs of cafes, bars, gamblers, cowboys, bikers and the entire host of the American milieu of the ‘50s, ran roughshod across the book’s pages. Comprising two years of road trips across America, Frank's book was both innovative and rooted in the tradition of the American frontier myth These were pioneering photographs taken along the frontier trail of modern America. Before, my idea of photography was rooted in an understanding of the Ansel Adams school; grand, painting-like landscapes that seemed to exist adinfinitum, regardless of the presence of the photographer Frank’s photos were fast and messy Whilst some reveal his sharp eye for composition, others reveal his outlaw, vagabond nature – taking quick photos of unwitting subjects before they had a chance to break the reality of the moment. He captured the moments of everyday life that would otherwise pass in a flash. Travelling to America with my family years later, these photographs remained firmly in my mind Taking everyday pictures of people, specifically strangers, is a much more intimidating task than the likes of Frank make it seem Reproducing these moments involves a swift process of flashing a camera without intimidating or threatening your subjects. Photographing such everyday moments of existence means the preservation of a moment only intended to last once. These pictures are not quite Frank’s, but they are my attempt to capture that rough beauty of real-life

Photo:HarryLedgewood

Photo:HarryLedgewood

Photo:HarryLedgewood

Inthefootsteps ofFrank

Photo: Harry Ledgewood

PRISMA PHOTO COMPETITION

It is our pleasure to congratulate the winner of PRISMA's January Photo Competition: JackHarrison

"London is full of wildlife, if only you know where to look. Here are two fallow deer hiding in the ferns of Richmond Park - a beautiful refugeforwildliferightintheheartofLondon."

To enter for your chance to be featured in our upcoming issue, submit a photo through the link on our social media!

PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION SHOWCASE

Photo: John Pow