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welcome
Ever since I was given an Olympus Trip camera as a teenager, I’ve been a keen photographer, and over the years have invested in various pieces of kit to try and get better. I must admit, though, in more recent times my impressive – but cumbersome! – model is often left at home when I’m out and about or on holiday. Like many of us, it seems, I rely more and more on my smartphone camera to capture what’s around me, simply because it’s so convenient and more than capable of producing good-quality images. If you feel the same – but maybe aren’t sure you’re getting the most from your clever phone camera – check out our feature on page 26, where you’ll find a wealth of practical and creative tips that really can turn ho-hum scenes or images into something special. And even if you do prefer to use a more traditional camera, you’re sure to find some of the expert
suggestions on taking a great photograph useful (I did!).
Elsewhere in the issue, you’ll find coastal spots with artistic connections (great photo opportunities there too!); what to consider if you’re thinking of downsizing; how to wise up to scammers; simple ways to stay supple; and much more besides.
Finally, thank you to everyone who completed the reader survey in our Spring edition. It really helps us to know your views on the title – good and bad! – so that we can provide you with what you want in every issue. u3a Matters is your magazine, after all! We’ll report back in the next issue.
60 SUBJECT ADVISERS DIRECTORY
63 GOOD TIMES
5 CONNECTIONS
News and views from across the u3a
26 PICTURE THIS!
Take better photographs with your smartphone
31 LIVING WELL
Sharon Parsons, Editor ;
Coastal regions with artistic connections; entertainment recommendations; a member’s favourite books
Is it time to ‘right-size’ your home?; keep ahead of the latest scams; delicious strawberry recipes
41 STORIES TO SHARE
Magazine memories; an East End wartime childhood; remembering Max Wall
47 YOUR GOOD HEALTH
Easy ways to stay flexible; dealing with stress incontinence; latest health news
55 EXPERTS ON CALL
Meet Subject Advisers specialising in Scottish country dancing, magic and microscopy
71 MAILBOX
Your letters
78 A PROBLEM
SHARED... AND ANOTHER DILEMMA
– a
Your advice to a member – plus a new quandary to consider
80 PINBOARD
A lively round-up of events and celebrations
83 BRAIN GAMES
89 PUZZLE SOLUTIONS
90 COMING OF AGE
Why good grandad figures are needed more than ever
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News and views to share what’s been happening across u3a
Worth a wish!
Our bucket list adventures connections
John Twydle of Maidenhead u3a explains how members’ wishes – big and small – are being fulfilled with a bit of blue-sky thinking...
The idea for our Bucket List group really came about four years ago when a lady in our u3a said she had always fancied driving an army tank. I thought it was a great idea, so I did a bit of research, and in no time, six of us were booked on a tank-driving day in
Hampshire, which was absolutely fantastic. Not least, it meant that our fellow member’s long-held wish came true!
Afterwards, I wondered if other members would like to share their ideas for fulfilling
personal wishes, and so our Bucket List group was formed. It’s a very simple concept: once a year, a group of us get together over a few drinks and nibbles to make suggestions (although everyone is welcome to submit ideas throughout the year). Nothing is ruled out, although
h was
Chopsticks at the ready in Soho’s Chinatown
- The tank visit that started it all
CONNECTIONS NEWS
of course we do consider if things might be too expensive, impractical or possibly even dangerous!
I then put all the ideas on a spreadsheet and send this to members: they get 10 votes each and mark the suggestions from one to 10 ( 10 being the most popular). Next, I let everyone know what the winning ideas are – usually one or two to try in the year ahead – and ask who would be interested in signing up for them. Then it’s up to me and a few willing volunteers to check if these bucket list ideas are feasible and, if so, how to get them organised.
So far, we’ve enjoyed a really diverse mix of experiences. We’ve crossed the roof of the O2, had an authentic Chinese meal in Soho’s Chinatown, sailed across Weymouth Bay in a Dutch barge, and enjoyed a splendid dinner and overnight stay in a French château.
This year’s winning suggestion was our most ambitious yet: a long weekend in Antwerp in Belgium. This has proved so popular that we’ve organised three separate trips in order to accommodate everyone: the first visit was in March and 12 of us all enjoyed three great days taking in the sights and indulging in
some wonderful food and drink. As I lived there for a couple of years and still have friends in the city, I found myself acting as the unofficial guide too!
Of course, not every suggestion on our bucket list happens: a ziplining adventure in Snowdonia was mooted but eventually deemed too far away and expensive for members, while a
dark sky event on the South Downs had to be abandoned because of bad weather conditions. But overall, our Bucket List group gives us all a chance to try something we may not have even considered otherwise – and with 53 of us in the group, we’re never going to be short of suggestions!
Have you got a similar bucket – or wish! – list u3a group? Or do you have a dream quest that you hope to make come true?
Email: editor@u3a.org.uk, and head your email BUCKET LIST
All aboard for a Dutch barge trip
Adventures in Antwerp
We are sailing!
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Why we ’ re walking
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Hedge hopes Community spirit
Another day, another challenge for the always active Croydon u3a. This time, members volunteered to help a local organisation, Friends of South Croydon Rec, to plant hedging around the town’s historic 8.5-acre recreation space.
“A small group of us pitched up with forks and spades to join about 25 other volunteers, and muck in – quite literally,” says chair Jenny Wilson. “We were given ‘whips’ – twig-like bare branches with sturdy roots – by the organiser of CPRE (the countryside charity), which provided the funding. These were actually a mix of hedge varieties which, we were told, is not only good for different types of wildlife, but is a sensible precaution in case one type becomes diseased.
“We were shown how to plant the mixed hedging in a sort of zig-zag line, so it will look more natural once it’s established, and given plenty of interesting tips and information. We learnt a lot, had great fun – and exercised our muscles as well!”
FROM THE CHAIR
THOUGHTS
Putting back the fun
Chair Allan Walmsley considers the key objectives of the u3a movement
With summer now here, I’ve been reflecting on all that has happened over the last 12 months or so. Introducing and winning support for the governance changes, seeking election as chair and working with a new CEO have made this quite an intense period for me, as well as for many of my colleagues and some in the wider membership. There have been numerous changes at national level, and while these have been welcomed by many, others have felt anxious and uncertain, all of which is understandable, but has created challenges at times.
Now, some nine months since the October AGM, we are past the initial stages, decisions have been made, elections have been held, and the new Board and u3a Council have started to operate in their respective areas. It’s time – for me, anyway! – to pause, take a breath, and think about what we’ve gained, and possibly what we’ve lost too.
On a personal level, I’ve had to remind myself why I joined the u3a in the first place. I didn’t become a member of my home u3a in South Birmingham to change the movement. I joined to build a social connection in my local community after many years working abroad. I signed up to various interest groups for the experience of learning from other members. I wanted to enjoy the fun of the group showcases, the Christmas party, and going out for a laugh with my Real Ale group. I believe that what we’ve done is really important for the future of our movement, but I don't want to lose sight of why I joined as a u3a member – and I know that others feel the same.
Since becoming chair, I’ve had the pleasure of visiting lots of u3as and networks in many regions and nations of the UK, and everywhere I go, I aim to make the point that while we are all here to learn, we’re also here to have fun. In my view these two facets are inseparable, and I hope all of us will remember that no matter what's going on in the movement, having fun is at least one-third of the fundamental u3a strap line of Learn, Laugh, Live. So, let’s make sure we do!
My direct email address is: allan.walmsley@u3a.org.uk
Or you can contact me via: u3a.of fice@u3a.org.uk
PHOTO: PETER ALVEY
From left, Croydon u3a members Joy Ellery, Jenny Wilson and Peter Bolingbroke
Making history
Stitches in time
Bakewell u3a members have created an embroidery timeline that showcases their town’s long history, stitch by stitch, as member Jennifer Coffey explains
Back in 2020, Bakewell u3a’s Craft group were looking for another long-term project, and member Gill Roberts, who has led and organised the group for the past 25 years, came up with the idea of an embroidered timeline to illustrate the history of Bakewell, from its prehistoric roots to the present day. Gill wanted the members to create something that the people of Bakewell and the town’s many visitors could enjoy.
The result is 28 framed panels of linen and calico with crewel wool needlework, which are all the work of 30 members of the Bakewell u3a group. Some are experienced embroiderers, others complete beginners, but all have worked tirelessly on what has probably been their most challenging project to date. A few of the members only managed a small contribution, while others worked on two or three panels, and everyone, at some stage, wondered if they hadn’t taken on a bit too much! Nevertheless, all of them agree that the finished product is both rewarding and immensely beautiful – and to everyone’s delight, the panels were unveiled in February at the town’s tourist information centre.
Sewing the seeds
The group has been hugely supported by individuals and businesses in the larger Bakewell community, who created the design, raised or provided funds for the materials, paid for the stretching and framing of the linen panels, gave technical advice and encouragement, and then offered display space for the finished work. This unique project has excited much interest around the town and will be on show in the town hall
This unique project has excited much interest around the town
before probably becoming the subject of a Town Trail, with smaller groups of panels displayed in some of Bakewell’s tourist hotspots.
The embroideries will also be registered at the National Needlework Archive, which records needlework projects in the community.
An appreciative audience
and landscapes: this is on permanent display in the town’s community hub, the Medway Centre. If you’re in the area, or anywhere near Bakewell, we think our embroideries are well worth a visit!
The group’s other long-term project that showcases our town is the Millennium Triptych embroidery, showing some of Bakewell’s historic buildings
We’d love to know of any similar creative community projects that other u3as are involved with.
Email: editor@u3a.org.uk, and head your email CREATIVE PROJECTS
Group leader Gill Roberts with Bakewell’s mayor
The timeline panels on display
BE CURIOUS
Life lessons
WORDS OF WISDOM
Pia Helena Ormerod of Dulwich London u3a is the author of novel The Fault Line. Here, she shares her thoughts
BREAK
SOME RULES
Curiosity keeps us informed. If you find a word you haven’t seen before, look it up and you might learn something exciting. If someone mentions a country you’ve never visited, spend time googling it to discover more. If you see a recipe with new ingredients, try them and you might find new favourites.
At this age, we can break a few rules. Who said you cannot wear red and purple at the same time – wear what gives you pleasure. Why not try red wine with fish – it can be a surprising delight. Sing loud and joyfully, even if you’re out of tune. And now and then, say what you really think. Others might share your views.
SMILE AT A STRANGER
An unexpected smile creates a wonderful chain reaction. Smile at the tired girl on the check-out and wish her a happy day, and suddenly people in the queue will smile at you. Give the delivery man a cheerful grin and he will go back and smile at the van driver. A smile is more contagious than any virus – try at least five a day.
What are your Words of Wisdom? Send your three short and sweet thoughts and why to: editor@u3a.org.uk
Obituary
A shining star
With the passing of 91-year-old
Joyce Gibson of North Down & Ards u3a in December 2024, the movement has lost a truly distinguished leader and ambassador
Widely admired and respected, Joyce’s name entered the coveted u3a Roll of Honour in 2015, in recognition of her devoted service to North Down & Ards u3a, which she helped to establish in 1997. Beginning with just 35 members, today there are some 1,300, and it is one of the largest of 24 u3as in Northern Ireland, with around 100 groups.
Joyce chaired this u3a in its early days, becoming an honorary life member in 2013 and its president from June 2018. Even at the age of 90, after 25 years’ service, she
continued to advise group leaders. Modern languages were Joyce’s specialist field, and she helped to found and coordinate eight language classes in her u3a. In addition, she led exciting and dynamic groups in history, wine tasting, museum and art appreciation, and organised many superb trips in Ireland, the UK and abroad.
Joyce was also the National Subject Adviser for Modern Languages (2003-08) and produced a newsletter offering advice and support to UK language group leaders.
sh c m e le o n in N B
As the region’s shared learning coordinator for many years, she encouraged shared learning projects in other u3as and led a number of these, including one with Newry u3a, at Bagenal’s Castle Museum in Newry, which resulted in a popular education pack for 12to 13-year-olds.
Joyce was a committee member on u3a’s National Executive (200003) and a member of its education subcommittee (2000-03). Her achievements and experience were valued and appreciated at this national level.
Joyce, in action, was the epitome of ‘Learn, Laugh, Live’ – a star of the u3a movement who will be greatly missed.
Adrianne Brown, chair, NI Regional Executive Committee of u3as (NIREC)
Look and learn Industrial edge
John Alexander of Warley u3a tells us about a fascinating group he has engineered that explores our industrial heritage
When I retired a couple of years ago, my wife encouraged me to join our local u3a and I started to attend the monthly meetings.
Having spent over 40 years as an engineer in the rail industry, I was keen to remain active, and particularly to be mentally stimulated.
What I really wanted was something which was technical, included something about engineering and industry, and could take me to interesting places to learn about the past (and a bit of the present). Having asked a few of my new friends at the u3a monthly meetings, I found there were others with similar interests.
Our committee is very open to new groups, so I took the plunge and started our Industrial Heritage group. I had a lot of interest in the idea straight away, with several members suggesting potential places to visit, and since the group was established, we’ve been pleased to welcome members of the other two u3as in our town to join us on some of the trips.
Our definition of industrial heritage is very broad. Basically, it’s anything that is industrial, has technical or engineering merits, and/or is regarded as heritage or historical (and with the pace of technology today, things don’t need to be that old).
Typically, about 20 to 25 of us go on our excursions, which take place about once a month and are carefully planned to ensure there is a good mix of destinations that can be reached by public transport (or car sharing).
I don’t think we have ever failed to be surprised by what we have learnt
We all go along on our excursions with an open mind – sometimes we’re not sure that a visit even really appeals – but I don’t think we have ever failed to be surprised by what we have learnt, and of course, we have a great time in each other’s company.
Some highlights have been a trip to Canvey Island in Essex to tour the island’s museums, including the island’s transport museum (made even more special as we went there in a member’s vintage bus!). We have been on visits to three mills in Essex and east London (two wind-powered and one tidal), discovered the first independent materials testing machine – by Kirkaldy – in Southwark in London, visited a dance and theatre organ museum in St Albans, and learnt the history of gunpowder in Waltham Abbey, Woolwich and Purfleet. We also located the British Optical Association Museum behind Charing Cross station, which was so good that we’ve been twice. There are so many places to discover!
If you can’t find an existing interest group that appeals to you, think what you would like, discuss it with a few other members and then start your own! You will make new friends, learn new things, laugh a lot – and enjoy living.
The Kirkaldy Testing Works in Southwark, London
The Old Operating Theatre Museum in Southwark
The postal museum in Farringdon, London
Here for you
Meet your new Council
The new u3a Council, which gathered for the first time in April, has been established to act as a conduit between u3a members and the Trust. They will feed your thoughts, ideas and concerns into the ongoing development of the u3a movement.
“I am honoured and excited to have been given the privilege of chairing the Council,” said Sue Russell, appointed to the role by the new Board. “The Council will be actively seeking out the ideas of members and making sure that their priorities are to the fore.”
Jean Cubbin, council representative for the North East, added: “I would like to see that the Council adds value to the organisation and that members nationally will see that it represents them. I want people to care about the Council and what we are trying to achieve.”
One step at a time
Standing: Chris Bulford, Pat Collard, Nicky Lee, Marian Luck, Ian Mathews, Barry Appleby, Colin Luker, George Cleland, John Lewis, Kathy Clegg, David Blanchflower, Sally Ingledew, Rob Rowberry, Valerie Cobain. Seated: Gillian Russell, Susan Parker, Jenny Wilson, Sue Russell, Jean Cubbin, Jean Jackson
With many of the former regional trustees moving across to the Council, they are joined by a new cohort of elected representatives. George Cleland put himself forward for election in Scotland, having found huge satisfaction as chair of Edinburgh u3a.
“I’m excited by the opportunity of working with other Council members from across the UK to help develop a shared vision and purpose for the movement,” he said. “I also look forward to working as a representative
Walking the walk
We never cease to be impressed by the incredible challenges u3a members set themselves in order to help others. Here’s just one fantastic example
At 99 years old, Phyll Babb, a member of Sarum u3a, had set herself a target of walking 100 miles for charity before her 100th birthday in July.
Walking a mile a day a few times a week around Cathedral Close in
Salisbury, she’s already achieved 159 walks – and has now increased her target to 200.
for Scotland to help our u3as come together, developing a culture of mutual support, and a feeling of belonging which goes beyond just a local group or u3a.”
If you have any ideas that you think would benefit the u3a movement, make sure you know who your representatives are and get in touch. You can find your Council representatives on the u3a website at: u3a.org.uk/u3acouncil
Member Phyllis Babb is clocking up 200 walks to raise essential funds
A former Board trustee, Phyll is taking on this inspirational challenge to raise money for the Salisbury Trust for the Homeless – and has already reached
almost £10,000. You can support Phyll’s impressive challenge on her JustGiving page (b.link/JG-Phyll-Babb).
Planting ideas Ace planning for an AI garden!
Southport u3a – renowned for its show garden success – is taking on an ambitious project this year, as chair Chris Howarth explains:
Chelsea Flower Show launched its first Artificial Intelligence Garden in May this year, which has caused lots of lively discussion and debate. Inspired by fascinating RHS articles on how AI will transform gardening in the future, Southport u3a are harnessing newly available and futuristic techniques to create a large technology show garden at the Southport Flower Show ( 14-17 August).
Above: Southport u3a have great plans for their unique Al garden
Thirty enthusiastic gardening members discussed how AI was being used for commercial horticulture, research and future garden planning. We’re already using plant identification apps, for example, so we wondered, what next? We brainstormed some rather splendid creative ideas, and as we luckily have Phil Allison on board – a retired professional garden designer who joined our u3a last year – he was able to make our design dreams a reality.
Below: Member Phil Allison with the ambitious design
The design was submitted and accepted in April, and a nine square-metre space has been reserved for us in the main show garden area. Our garden will be called ‘Retired Gardeners do AI’, and we’ve got plenty of surprises up our sleeves to make it a winner!
A valuable record
MEMORIES OF THE
BLITZ
BBC documentary producers are searching for those with first-hand memories of the Blitzday 7 September
As we approach the 85th anniversary of the end of the Blitz next year, Minnow Films, an independent BAFTA award-winning production company, are working on a premium feature documentary for the BBC about this momentous time in the history of the Second World War. They would very much like to hear from u3a members who lived through it.
A milkman delivers, despite an overnight German air raid
This is a unique opportunity to share these first-hand experiences of the Blitz, and Minnow Films would like to encourage anyone willing to share their stories – or know someone who would – to get in touch (please note that at this stage any conversations would be for research purposes only). Please contact George Grafton at george.grafton@minnowfilms.co.uk
To read about one member’s memories of the Blitz in London’s East End, turn to Stories to Share, page 41
Remembering VE Day
Many u3 a s and interest groups will have marked the 80th anniversary of VE Day in special ways this year – we’d love to know about your commemorations or activities for the next edition of u3a M atters
Remembering
Please send your account, in no more than 150 words – together with a good-quality photograph – to: editor@u3 a .org.uk
Picture this!
WTaking great photographs has never been easier, thanks to the brilliant capabilities of today’s phone cameras. Here’s how to make the most of yours
hen it comes to taking photographs, you might have a trusty compact camera that has done good service for many years or an impressive SLR model with all the kit and caboodle that comes with it. For many of us, though, it’s the camera on our smartphones that we’re increasingly relying on to capture special scenes, events or moments these days. Not only are phone cameras convenient, portable and user-friendly, but they mean images can immediately be edited and shared remotely. Nevertheless, often we don’t realise their full potential.
“Many people still think that the camera on their phone is somehow not a ‘real’ camera, but it is the real deal,” points out professional photographer Richard Gadsby. “Smartphone cameras have come such a long way – these days they are so sophisticated and have fantastic features, which enable top-quality results. Once you appreciate that, you’ll quickly see what it –and you – are capable of creating.”
With that in mind, here are a few tips to help you get more from your smartphone camera. (And even if you’re still using your much-loved traditional camera, you’ll hopefully find some of the creative ideas here helpful too!)
Get familiar
Take time to explore what your camera phone is capable of and experiment. All models have comprehensive online guides that highlight features you might not even know are there and explain how to put them into practice. And a quick online search will almost always take you to a helpful YouTube video that will guide you through features to action when you’re taking the photograph, and those to employ to edit and refine it afterwards. Alternatively, ask someone more familiar with zippy smartphone technology – or, better yet, join a u3a photography group and learn together.
Find the light
Artificial light results in harsh, unflattering results, so whenever possible seek out natural light. Even that, however, is not without caveats. Avoid the midday sun, which creates extreme shadows (most professional photographers prefer overcast days), and if you have options, try shooting your subject in the early morning or just before sunset – the golden hour – when the light is softer and more flattering. If you’re photographing in daylight but the subject is in shadow, using the flash may help. Conversely, at night, it rarely works well, and many photographers recommend a night mode feature instead, if your camera has one. Too much light can be just as bad, particularly when using a smartphone camera, as it can dominate the sensor. When indoors, make sure the light source is not behind someone, as the shot will be under-exposed.
Capturing the light can result in great images
Hold steady
Phone cameras are highly sensitive to movement, which will result in unfocused images. To eliminate camera shake, always hold your phone with both hands, tucking your elbows firmly against your torso. You can also brace yourself against something like a wall or a table, or place the phone on a firm surface before taking the photo. You could try the self-timer or a remote shutter – this stops shaking when the shutter button is pressed.
Frame your subject carefullyand hold the camera securely to avoid camera shake
Ci h
Compose with care
Don’t just casually point your phone camera at a subject, press the button and hope for the best! Take time to really look at what’s in the frame.
Experiment with different heights and angles too: try crouching down or shooting from above rather than just at eye level, and make sure that you have framed your subject correctly: an image showing a huddle of people crammed to the edge of the frame with an empty space on the other side is never going to be pleasing to the eye. Symmetry creates a sense of balance, proportion and harmony.
Stay focused!
Ensure the main subject of your photo is in focus: most smartphone cameras have touch focusing (if you touch the screen on the part of the image you want to be the focal point, the camera will adjust its focus to ensure it is sharp).
And stay focused yourself: how often do you see images of people with a telegraph pole sticking out of the top of their heads, objects in the foreground confusing the scene and obscuring a subject, or unwanted clutter or signage dominating the picture? Concentrate and consider what’s in the frame before you take it.
Smartphone cameras have come such a long way
Make the most of your smartphone’s focus feature
Think in thirds
The rule of thirds is a traditional technique used to create interesting pictures: use the grid feature on your phone (check settings), which will divide your screen into nine equal parts to form a three-by-three grid. You then aim to place the main subject of your photo in the intersections or along the lines.
Edit with ease
Most photographs will benefit from a little editing – again, this is where learning more about what your camera is capable of, and then experimenting, will pay dividends. Editing apps and tools will enable you to adjust things such as exposure (that is, how much light is in the image), colour balance (correcting unwanted colour casts), and contrast to add depth. You can also straighten and crop – a handy way of correcting that slanting horizon, or losing a stranger who had wandered into shot!
And finally... keep it clean!
If your photos look smudged or hazy, chances are the lens is dirty: a common problem because you’re constantly handling your phone, and the lens is really small. Wipe with a soft cloth regularly – don’t forget the front camera – and keep your phone in a case to protect it when not in use.
Crowd scenes
Try these tips when you’re taking group photographs: Choose the setting in advance. Think about the best place to take the shot and, if possible, avoid backgrounds that are busy or distracting. Make sure the light is as good and evenly distributed as possible, too – you don’t want half the group in shadow, for instance.
Plan properly. Tell everyone when and where you want to take the group shot, so you can rally the troops quickly when the time comes. Explain what you hope to achieve – for example, people smiling directly into the lens, or interacting with one another as if the camera isn’t even there...
Check the vision. If someone in the group can’t see you clearly, you won’t see them either, and they’ll be obscured on the image. Adjust positions slightly, or get people to move their heads. Obviously, if you have tall people in your picture, get them to stand at the back or even sit down. In terms of composition, try to find
a balance, so that you don’t have a lot of tall adults on one side of the frame and little children on the other... mix everyone up.
Be prepared! Have your camera set up and ready to go – it’s so frustrating for everyone otherwise. Similarly, don’t rush to click, and instead take a moment or two to frame the shot. Tell your group to relax until you’re ready – that they don’t have to smile or engage until you tell them to. Otherwise you’ll get blinks, fixed grins or someone will have got distracted and looked away (you know those photographs!).
Make the most of burst mode. This feature means you can take many photos in a second, dramatically improving the chances of getting the right shot of everyone (this is also really useful to try if you’re taking shots of people moving – playing a sport, for instance). Check out your phone camera’s instructions and experiment with this feature – it’s a game changer!
Using the rule of thirds is a great composition technique
No one’s looking at the camera - but it’s still a spontaneous, fun-filled shot!
Creative types
‘It’s so inspiring to see how others interpret and photograph a subject’
Deb Cook is the deputy group leader of Southwell u3a’s Photogra phy group: “There are about 17 of us in our group, and we meet every month for two hours in the local library. At the previous session, we’ll have set some photography homework – a theme such as ‘nature’ or ‘food’ – so that members have a specific challenge to meet, and our group leader, Graeme, will show the results using a PowerPoint presentation. This is very informal, and it’s so inspiring to see how other people have interpreted an idea.
We also have a practical photography lesson where we discuss techniques and so on. Some members in the group are quite experienced and
All in the detail
know a lot about how their camera works, but we have relative beginners joining too, so we buddy up with one another to teach the basics and share tips. There are so many fantastic smartphone camera apps to download, for instance, which many people don’t even know about. These really help to edit and improve images. We especially like a free one called Snapseed: it’s so easy to use and the results are terrific. Sometimes we organise trips to specific places such as beautiful gardens or interesting buildings, and last year we all got up early to capture the stags in the early
morning mist at nearby Wollaton Hall. We experiment with interesting techniques too, such as ‘light painting’: that’s when a torch is waved around and you take photographs of the light’s movement using a long exposure – even phone cameras can capture it. The results are fascinating.
I’d recommend everyone take time to look around them and spot the potential in even the most everyday scenes or subjects. Once you’ve got your photographer’s ‘eye’ in, it’s amazing what you see.”
When you’re capturing a scene, consider taking more than just one photo. “Build the visual story a little more,” suggests photographer Richard Gadsby. “If you’re photographing a tree, for instance, try a variety of different angles, and go in close on the leaves or the interesting shape of the branches against the sky. A set of related pictures centred around a theme can look great displayed together.”
The same approach applies if you’re photographing people. If they’re involved in an activity, for example, try
shooting them from different angles, or go in close on the details. “On holiday recently, I photographed a ceramicist with my smartphone. Along with the various portraits, I took detail shots of his hands shaping the clay on the wheel, and the pieces lined up ready for the kiln,” explains Richard. “It’s an effective way of telling a story, but it also makes you think much more about the importance of detail.”
There may also be a group shot of members, and some examples of their photography. Leave space if possible
Finally, for best results, try to go as close to a subject as possible: using the zoom feature may seem an easy option, but it will impact on the finished result, and the subject won’t be as sharp or defined as it should be.
This shot of Newark Castle - taken on a group field trip - ended up on BBC’s Weather Watch!
The enthusiastic Southwell u3a Photography group
Try unexpected angles when you take a photograph
A peaceful still life from a group member
Good grandfather figures are vital in our society Insight
Steve Wells, who co-runs a philosophy group at Elmbridge u3a, discusses the positive contribution older men can make
When I’m in the garden planting things with our grandchildren, the words of my own grandad come to mind: “This soil is so good it will grow walking sticks!” His sense of joy, hope and anarchy have had a lasting effect on my life, and that is now echoed in the pleasure I get from being a granddad myself. This, I suspect, is different from the satisfaction gained from being a grandmother.
There is abundant literature and so on about grandmothering, but there doesn’t seem to be so much about the role of grandfathers. This has prompted me to start exploring what’s going on with grandads at a time when there is much discussion about ‘toxic masculinity’ and the alienation of young men from the rest of society.
On one level, I’m learning that today’s grandads can have fun and create havoc, while having the freedom to express love and nurture youngsters in ways that complement those offered by parents and, not least, grannies. Grandads can do crazy stuff, from wild sports and cheeky storytelling to role playing – and it’s OK! In doing so, grandads may discover their fun alter ego too (when their inner Victor Meldrew might hold sway at other times!).
It must be recognised, though, that not all grandfathers can have this licence for endless fun. In today’s fragile
and pressurised world, the need for grandparents to help out is increasing – many must cover for parents who are working or studying, for instance. (And in some cultures, grandparents being left in charge of little ones is the norm.)
I’m convinced that grandads must play a vital role in bridging the generation gap
Of course, not everyone is a ‘blood’ grandfather either, but that should not stand in the way of youngsters benefiting from the support that they can experience in the company of a surrogate grandad –and crossing the generation gap benefits the oldies too. I’ve come across older men who don’t have their own grandchildren but have gained a new lease of life by offering support to young people in valuable ways such as mentoring or coaching sport. I recently heard a man in his mid-60s describe the delight of taking a foster child into his family.
As we grow older, we can reflect on, and offer, valuable life experience,
knitting together past and present in a way that can be understood. Grandads can tell stories that give such vivid expression to family history... even if it’s not a child’s own family. Youngsters love hearing about ‘the olden days’, and this provides a vital sense of crossgenerational support in a very uncertain world. Most importantly, it generates a feeling of security: through giving love, children experience and learn what that is.
I’m convinced that grandads – and surrogate grandads – must play a vital role in bridging the generation gap. I’m writing a book on the subject, interviewing older men in various situations to discover more about what it is to be ‘a grandad’, in whatever way that may be. If anyone would like to contribute, please do get in touch at: steve@wellsandcompany.co.uk
The u3a couldn’t agree more with Steve Wells’ ca ll for good gra ndfather figures, but we’d a lso love to know what u3a members or groups (not just gra ndads!) a re doing to engage with younger people in our society. Whether it’s a community project, a one-off loca l event or a n ongoing initiative, do let us know! Email: editor@u3a.org.uk
