Here we go with another Scotland Region newsletter bringing details of events and activities within the Region. During the last month we have had two more guest speakers, David Gilliver and Peter Wilkinson. David’s talk was inspiring, not just from a photography point of view, but also as it showed the development of an idea through a number of different stages. David approaches his work with a great deal of humour - too often we lose sight that for most of us photography is a leisure activity and we should enjoy it and perhaps even have fun doing it It was refreshing to see a similar approach in a professional, where the emphasis is equally split between conveying a vision and bringing a smile to people’s faces. As I write this we have not yet had Peter’s talk but for those who do attend I am sure that it will be equally inspiring.
The Northern Area had a day out in Aberdeen and you will find a link to their photographic output in this newsletter. Sam took a small number of photographers to what will hopefully be the first of a series of visits to the Bird of Prey centre in Fife.
The Scotland 2025 exhibition is now on show in Stirling and I encourage everyone who is local and has not seen the images to go along. And for anyone who has seen the exhibition, please do send feedback as to what you thought of it. We have a refreshingly different approach to the layout this year and it would be useful to have feedback to use when we curate next years exhibition.
We are social! On Facebook as RPS Scotland Group, you will need your membership number to join!
Trish Roberts - Autumn Leaves
Region Events News Contd...
Thanks to the efforts of Sam (Events) and Neil (Web), we have agreed with the new Director of Marketing and Membership that the Photoforum event in Perth on 18 October will be free to attend. We shall look at a similar approach for any more ‘first-in-the-area’ Photoforums as a means of bringing the RPS to a wider community and hopefully signing up more members. So please do sign up and come along and, most importantly, bring some of your work to share with us all
The RPS AGM took place on 20 September, and included an address by the President, Simon Hill, and a report by the new CEO Victoria Humphries. The good news for the Society is that membership numbers are up, however the overall financial situation remains challenging; there are some robust plans in place to address this. A new position of Deputy President will be set up from next year to allow a succession path for when Simon Hill steps down. On the Distinctions front, the new framework is still under development and this will be informed by a working group that will convene in the next couple of weeks under the CEO. There is no specific timetable for rollout yet, however Victoria did suggest that there may be another round of assessments under the current framework There will also be a member survey coming out with a number of wide-ranging questions to find out what we all think on a number of topics regarding being a member of the RPS. Simon Hill talked at length in his address about Distinctions, and suggested that the Fellowship Distinction could become ‘genre-free’. Given the current fluidity of the Distinctions process, I would strongly urge any member who is working towards and A or F level Distinction to contact the Distinctions Dept for advice
Looking ahead in the Region, we have the Perth Photoforum coming up in October, followed by one in Nairn in November, and a Night Sky Workshop in December There are more guest speakers in the pipeline; and Scotland member Dave Shillabeer will be doing an on-line talk on November 11th in association with the Documentary & Contemporary SIGS with tales on the subject of ‘Steam and Heavy Metal’. Having seen Dave’s A panel this should be an inspiring and entertaining talk.
Please do send feedback, thoughts and comments to any of the RPS Scotland Team, and to keep up to date with the latest news do regularly visit our RPS Scotland web-site. And don’t forget to entertain the monthly competition!
Join us in Perth for a day of inspiration, discussion, and community! Bring along your work and connect with fellow photographers. This is also a great, informal way to have your L panels reviewed and get constructive feedback.
RPS Scotland Committee members will be in attendance
�� Saturday 18 October 2025
�� 10am – 4pm
�� Perth – Lecture Hall Art Gallery
�� Book online: RPS Scotland Events Page
This event is a fantastic opportunity to share your images, exchange ideas, and get support from the Scottish photography community. Don’t miss it!
IF YOU CAN HELP AND ALLOW US TO BORROW L, A & F PANELS
I CAN COLLECT WITHIN AN HOUR OF PERTH - scotlandevents@rps.org
We are updating the RPS Scotland Website, and want to showcase YOU!
Please send your website details and a brief synopsis to Sam scotlandevents@rps.org
Raptor World Bird of Prey Centre Fife
A heartfelt thank you to Rob Judd at the Bird of Prey Centre for inviting us to share in his trial falconry experience. Rob’s knowledge, enthusiasm, and the clear bond he has with the birds made the day truly special. Our members loved every moment and many said they would happily return again.
You can find more details on the Scotland RPS page and select images next page
Loxley Colour
Have generously given a 10% discount code for Photographic and Fine Art Prints specifically for RPS Scotland members, single use code
Please note that other Print companies are available and Loxley is not endorsed by The Royal Photographic Society.
David Shillabeer - ARPS
�� Upcoming Event – Railway Photography & Art with David Shillabeer ARPS
Tuesday 11th November 2025, held via Zoom
We’re delighted to welcome David Shillabeer ARPS, who will be giving us a fascinating talk on railway photography and railway art. David has a long-standing passion for both subjects, and he will regale us with stories of steam, heavy metal, and the artistry of the railways. This promises to be an engaging and nostalgic evening for anyone who enjoys photography, history, or the romance of the rails.
On the same evening, Dave will be sharing his A Panel – a wonderful opportunity to see a completed body of work presented in context.
This event is free for RPS members, and promises to be both informative and inspiring – not just for rail enthusiasts, but for anyone interested in how photography intersects with culture and industry. �� Tickets are available now through the Contemporary / Documentary website: https://events.rps.org/en/4LrdQ66/contemporary-and-documentary-groups-never-again-and-backagain-nov-25-5a2NN2AwCEL/overview
Viv Cotton
Neil Gallacher
Chris Reekie
Neil Hutton
Raptor World at Scottish Deer Centre Fife
A big thank you to everyone who came along to the visit at Loxley Colour �� I hope you enjoyed the tour and got a good feel for what Loxley has to offer. ��
“It was fascinating to see behind the scenes and understand the care that goes into professional printing.”
Just to be clear I’m not affiliated with Loxley, and the visit wasn’t endorsed by the RPS. There are, of course, plenty of other great printers out there too, so this was simply a chance to see one option in action. Thanks again for coming along — it was lovely to see so many of you! ��
I will be arranging another visit first quarter 2026, unfortunately Loxley do not offer weekend visits.
Loxley Colour
Camera & Coffee
A new way to connect, share, and be inspired!
Coffee & Camera (with a side of Lens & Lunch) is coming soon to a location near you.
Join fellow photographers and enthusiasts for an informal gettogether, pick a location take some photos and then go for a coffee, conversation, and creativity.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just love taking pictures, this is your chance to:
Share ideas and inspiration
Connect with other members
Enjoy coffee, lunch, and good company
Stay tuned for dates and venues, announced shortly.
CAMERA & COFFEE
☕�� Meet. Shoot. Sip. – Camera & Coffee is here!
We’re launching a brand-new way of getting together across the region – Camera & Coffee
It’s a relaxed, informal, and short event all about connecting with fellow photographers
�� One meet-up per month (weather permitting!)
�� Weekends and weekdays available
�� Suggestions welcome! – If you’d like us to bring Camera & Coffee to your area, get in touch. Even better, volunteer to host one!
�� First Dates Announced
�� Stirling – Saturday 11 October 10am - 1pm meet at Stirling Train Station
�� St Andrews – Friday 12 December
Why join us?
Meet fellow members and enthusiasts in a relaxed setting
Share stories, ideas, and inspiration
Explore new areas with your camera in hand
Enjoy coffee, food, and a welcoming atmosphere
�� We’d love your suggestions!
Email Sam at scotlandevents@rps.org if you’d like Camera & Coffee to come to your area, or if you’re happy to help host.
Nigel Corby - Area Rep NE Scotland
There is a local group for RPS members in north-east Scotland (roughly the AB postcode area but those outside the area are welcome to join). Their most recent outing was in September to four of the buildings participating in the Aberdeen Doors Open Days programme They produced a zine with images from the day which is now on the RPS Issuu pages https://issuu.com/royalphotographicsociety/docs/aberdeen doors open sept 2025
Outings are friendly and informal and are an opportunity to meet with other RPS members locally and share ideas and inspiration. If you want to find out more about the group or would be interested in joining future outings, please contact Nigel Corby at RPSGrampian@gmail.com
Don’t forget your dates for
Talk - Walk - Talks
The Landscape and Digital Image Group is pleased to announce the next in the series, Inland Water.
Inland Water can be rivers, streams, lakes, ponds, reservoirs, waterfalls, canals, even floods or recreational venues You can shoot the water for its beauty, colour, tranquillity or turbulence
Walks in Scotland:
02/10/25 The Blue Door, led by Steve Whittaker ARPS 03/10/25 Raiders Road, led by Jean Robson FRPS 07/10/25 The Kelpies, Falkirk, led by Viv Cotton ARPS 09/10/25 Water of Leith, led by Colin Balfour LRPS
04/10/25 Birnie & Gaddon Lochs led by Monica Vella 22/10/2025 The Birks of Aberfeldy led by Robin Millar
The T-W-T programme is free to all RPS members; the public is welcome to join us, but there is a charge for their participation.
BOOK YOUR PLACE ON ZOOM MEETINGS AT SCOTLAND EVENTS PAGE
Andrew Allan - Scotlands NightSky THURSDAY 30 OCTOBER 2025 7PM ZOOM
In this Night Sky and Astrophotography Zoom talk, Andrew takes guests through the world of astrophotography in Scotland, blending technical insight with personal passion. Drawing from experience photographing some of the most breathtaking Scottish night skies, Andrew explores the Northern Lights on how to forecast and how to photograph them. Milky Way tips and tricks such as the best dark sky locations.
The talk covers how seasonal changes in Scotland influence visibility and photographic opportunities, offering tips on when and where to shoot for the best results. Andrew also dives into moon photography, discussing timing, equipment, and techniques to capture the moon in its many phases. Guests will gain practical advice on night sky photography, including camera settings and gear recommendations.
Whether you're a seasoned astrophotographer or a curious beginner, this talk provides inspiration, education, and visual storytelling. Andrew is passionate at promoting the dark skies of Scotland and has done through social media, BBC programmes and self-publishing books.
Andrew also shares content from abroad trips to the arctic for the aurora and the milky way core in Tenerife.
NOVEMBER - NO ZOOM SPEAKER
Shahbaz Majeed - Frame Focus Capture, and Landward Monday 1 December 2025 7pm
Shahbaz Majeed is a Dundee-based award-winning photographer and author, widely recognised for his striking aerial and landscape imagery. His work has been published internationally in books, magazines, and newspapers, and he is especially known for capturing Scotland from the air in unique and evocative ways. He has authored several photographic books including Scotland From the Sky — which showcase his ability to blend technical expertise with a strong artistic vision Majeed’s photography continues to inspire and influence many in the field, highlighting the power of aerial perspectives in modern storytelling.
He talks about his landscape and aerial photography journey which lead him to work as a TV presenter and ending on some behind the scenes.
IN PERSON ADVENTURES
ANDREW ALLANSCOTLANDS NIGHTSKY
£25 PER PERSON 12 PLACES AVAILABLE
FRIDAY 19 DECEMBER 2025 MEETING TIME TO BE CONFIRMED
Come along for a relaxed and inspiring evening under the stars with professional astrophotographer Andrew Allan, where you’ll explore the night sky like never before. Using telescopes, binoculars, a laser pointer, and astrophotography gear such as star trackers and filters. Andrew will guide you through the constellations, planets, and other celestial sights visible on the night.
You’ll learn how to spot key features in the sky and get hands-on experience looking through telescopes. For anyone curious about astrophotography, there’ll be friendly tips on how to capture the night sky with your own camera. Whether you’re a stargazer or photographer Andrew will help you enjoy the beauty of the dark skies of Scotland.
Bring your own refreshments, soup and a roll recommended
Travelling Print Exhibition
The Scotland Region of the Royal Photographic Society will be presenting an exhibition of photographic prints that show the variety of work undertaken by members. It includes images of wildlife, landscapes, people and places taken both in Scotland and around the world and demonstrates a range of photographic techniques to present these subjects.
The Smith Gallery Stirling - September - 12 October 2025
Eden Court Gallery - Inverness January 2026
Aberdeen Art Centre - Aberdeen February 2026
A Walk in the Woods by Pat Ness LRPS
A PASSION FOR WILDLIFE
A photographic exhibition by Jean Manson
Images and stories from Scotland,India and the Arctic th th accompanied by two talks
“A Fragile Wilderness” 18 October 4 - 5.30pm
“The Realm of the Tiger” 20 October7 - 8.30pm
This exhibition is a body of work spanning many years of photography based on observing and understanding the behaviour of some remarkable wildlife in their natural environment both home and abroad.
Biggar Museum 16 -26th October 2025 th
Biggar and Upper Clydesdale Museum
Royal Photographic Society Landscape Group
Members’ Exhibition 2025/26
The RPS Landscape Group is holding its second exhibition of members’ work across 8+ locations, starting in May 2025 at Southwark Cathedral, before moving to Bristol Central Library, eventually ending in Scotland in Spring 2026. 80 beautiful prints; from London to Antarctica; land & sea; rural & urban; from big scenes to intimate abstracts. All venues are outdoors, open 24/7
Founded in 1853, current patron HRH The Princess of Wales, the RPS mission is to bring inspiration, creativity and connection through photography to people of all ages and backgrounds. The Landscape Group has 1200 members and is one of 16 special interest groups .
A year long journey across Scotland's sweeping landscapes is coming soon. From sweeping vistas to quiet intimate moments, we're capturing the stories of people, place, and the land itself. Stay tuned as we gather voices, photographs, and perspectives that explore how we live with the land and how it lives within us. Exciting discoveries are ahead, watch this space for details on how to get involved.
Getting ready for launch in November, and the project involving RPS Scotland members coming from 1 January2026.
BLACK AND WHITE WITH A SPLASH OF COLOUR
1 October - 23 October rd
Dear Members,
A few of you have asked if it’s possible to click on a competition image to view it full size. I have asked HO who tell me it is not possible. I am not convinced so please bear with me whilst I investigate.
Your main image must be in true black and white (monochrome with no added tones such as sepia, cyanotype, or other colour washes).
A splash of colour may then be added to highlight one or more areas of the image — for example, a single object, detail, or focal point. The colour element should be limited and deliberate, creating contrast and visual impact against the black and white background. The aim is to show how selective colour can be used creatively to draw the viewer’s eye and enhance storytelling within a predominantly black and white image.
Lastly, some members have asked if we could provide a 12-month plan of themes in advance. We’ve chosen not to do this, as the aim of the monthly competition is to inspire you to get out and create fresh images, rather than relying on back catalogues. By setting themes monthly, we hope to keep the challenge exciting, spontaneous, and engaging — encouraging everyone to look at the world around them in new ways.
With best wishes,
Neil Hutton
Scotland Web Officer- Volunteer
Winners and placements September 2025 Competition - A Shaft of Light
A safe Haven in the Summer Isles by Roger Hinton LRPS
Sand Beach Applecross by Alan O’Brien ARPS
The Cuillin by Andy Kirby LRPS
The last word......
If you would like something included please email Peter or Sam before the 20 of each month. th
Coming soon
......
Zoom Talks with
Jennifer Charlton - MPB Scottish Portrait Photographer of the Year 2024Wednesday 14 January 2026
David Gilliver - Lightpaintinig Tuesday 24 February 2026
Stewart Wall - Photobook and Zines Wednesday 4 March 2026
Karen Miller - Wildlife - Wednesday 25 March 2026
Mark Banks - Printing and Paper Choices Thursday 9 April 2026
Adventures.........
David Gilliver 2026 - After lightpainting zoom, date to be confirmed
If you want Sam to look at any other in person events drop her a message. scotlandevents@rps.org
