A Pioneer of Local Photography and Filmmaking
As a more serious practitioner, I am continually refining my understanding of both the technical and creative sides of the medium. As I delved deeper into the world of film and video, I began to recognise the subtle differences between the two forms and how they could complement each other. Film, with its grainy texture and rich depth, had a timeless quality, while video offered immediacy and flexibility.
The ability to edit video and seamlessly create different sequences was a game-changer. Whereas film required meticulous planning, with each shot being precious due to the limitations of film stock, video offered the luxury of experimentation. It wasn’t long before I became fascinated with the post-production process—splicing footage together, experimenting with transitions, and learning how to craft a narrative through the editing suite.
Despite this growing interest in video, my roots in photography—thanks to Alan’s influence—remained strong. The precision required to compose a shot, the understanding of light, and the ability to capture a fleeting moment never lost their importance. In many ways, film and photography were two sides of the same coin, each offering a different perspective on reality but ultimately converging in their purpose: to preserve and tell stories.
As I gained more experience, I found myself wanting to share what I had learned with others, much like Alan had done for me. I began teaching fellow photographers and filmmakers about the processes I had honed over the years. I shared Alan’s belief that the camera was not just a tool but an extension of the photographer’s vision. Whether it was the importance of choosing the right lens for the right moment, or how to manipulate light to achieve the perfect mood, I worked with others to help them understand that every shot, every frame, had a purpose.
Teaching others about the intricacies of photography and filmmaking became an incredibly fulfilling part of my journey. I wasn’t just passing on technical knowledge; I was encouraging a deeper connection to the art form. I emphasised that the camera should never be used passively, but rather as an instrument of expression. The importance of the composition, the timing, and even the stories behind the images were all elements I sought to instil in my students.
I also helped others navigate the challenges of the evolving technology, much like I had done in the early days of VHS and Super 8. New formats, software, and editing tools were constantly emerging, and while this was exciting, it could also be overwhelming. I made sure to offer practical advice on how to use these new tools without losing sight of the core principles of filmmaking and photography. Technology might change, but the essence of good storytelling and great imagery remained timeless.
Looking back on my journey, I realise that my early exposure to photography—through Alan and the Macelveen family—shaped not only my appreciation for visual storytelling but also my understanding of the responsibility that comes with it. Capturing moments on film and in photographs is more than just about preserving memories; it’s about interpreting and presenting life as it happens. Every photo or film is a reflection of the world through the lens of the person behind the camera.
Photography and filmmaking have been my lifelong passions, and they continue to evolve with me. Whether it’s through the grainy frames of film or the crisp clarity of modern video, my love for visual storytelling remains unwavering. And as I continue to share this passion with others, I carry forward the lessons I learned from Alan: that the camera is not just a tool, but a bridge between our memories, our imagination, and the world we want to share with others.
The journey from the Box Brownie to the modern-day video equipment has been one of immense change and growth, but it’s also been a journey of continuity. In each step along the way, whether with a still camera or a video recorder, the core essence of capturing life through a lens has remained the same. And I owe much of that understanding to the influence of Alan Macelveen and his unwavering commitment to capturing life as it was meant to be seen. Read more
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