NSW had only one new Covid case in 24 hrs the other day. Hopefully that last wave is really settling again. It’s rather overwhelming isn’t it. I must admit that it really gets to me at times. I have had to switch off a fair few times and just do some things for myself. Skipping the news and Facebook helps I have noticed. Getting out with my camera is another. Catching up with friends has turned out to be vital.

Actually teaching online has been my saviour. Talking to people through the internet and live streaming classrooms. I can’t believe how lucky I was to have been working on Len’s Club when we were forced to stay at home. A lifeline for my sanity.

Another one unexpectedly turned up too. The idea of running very small group workshops and tours in a Covid Safe manner. I flouted the idea with Judy just to get some feedback on my crazy idea. With some words of encouragement I put the idea out in this newsletter and I have now run two. One was to the snowy mts while the other was to Myall Lakes. Both were a great success.

Despite the hard work that they are for me, both of them totally revitalised me. The connection with a place with my camera was the final element that I needed. To be out shooting with people, helping them improve and get to fantastic locations at just the right time. Teaching in person can’t be replaced by electronics. Each was so different. Because we all want something different. A cookie cutter approach to life just doesn’t work. I love not knowing what each trip is going to be like. Different outcomes every time. It is so rewarding to do.

So I have four trips in NSW coming up over the next four months. Each Covid Safe, following the health department guidelines.

Narooma 14 - 18 September

Mudgee 21 - 25 September

Jervis Bay Abstract Workshop 19 - 23 October

Port Stephens 16 - 20 November

Each has wonderfully lovely photographers booked in so they are all starters, as long as we don’t blow up again with the pandemic.

I have only two spots left on each one.

They are fully inclusive. Private room, all meals, transport if required or drive yourself to maintain maximum social distancing.

When I say small groups I mean small. Most of these will have just two people, some will get to four. The Abstract Workshop will go to six as accommodation isn’t included and we will set up a classroom appropriately. Shirley Steel teaches the Abstract Workshop with me which we have been doing together for years now. Is a fantastic week.

I hope you will consider joining us, particularly if you live in NSW and want to get out and reward yourself and spoil yourself on a trip. Knowing you will be looked after and that we take the pandemic as seriously as you do. Being at risk and caring for someone at risk, I understand how it feels to be vulnerable.

https://www.lensschool.com/workshops-tours/iso-escapes

https://www.lensschool.com/workshops-tours/abstract-photography-workshop-2020

Hopefully I will see you soon.

Glasshouse Rocks in the distance from Narooma. Photograph and text copyright © Len Metcalf 2020