Stroud Camera Club officially launched its 2026–2027 competitive calendar at the Cotswold Bowls Club with Competition No. 1 – Open. The highly anticipated evening marked a historic shift for the club with the official debut of the Digital B section, a brand-new tier intentionally crafted to support new members and those who find the traditional, high-stakes competition arena daunting.
The evening was guided by the highly respected external judge, Steve Field (ARPS, AIPF, AWPF, ADPS, EFIAP/b, BPE3)*, returning to Stroud for his third judging invitation. Field brought his signature constructive, highly analytical, and deeply encouraging critique style to a packed room of prints and digitally projected images.
In the main ‘A’ digital competition in third place was Gary Cannings stunning image called ‘Rider in the storm’. In second was Annie Blick’s lovely image called ‘Locker Room winner’ and the winner was Leslie Holmes’ fantastic image called’ ‘Antarctica’.
In the new ‘B’ section the winner was David Walls dark image called ‘Fasnacht Visage’. In second was Phil Walker’s ‘Bubbles’ and in third was Ian Clements ‘St Georges Church’.
In the open print competition, the evening was dominated by Trish Bloodworth who swept the board with her two images. In first place was her image ‘Spirit of the Wild’. In second was her other image called ‘Langston Hardware’ and in third was Mick West’s ‘Lines to the clouds’
The successful launch of the Digital B section sets an incredibly inclusive tone for the months ahead. The club meets every Thursday evening at 7.30pm, and anyone wishing to learn how to get the most out of their camera in a friendly, supportive environment is highly encouraged to attend.
