Sale Photographic Society member wins ‘Outdoor Photo of the Year 2023’ award
In the world of outdoor photography, capturing the perfect moment in nature can be a daunting task. But for Sharron Diffley, a member of the Sale Photographic Society, that moment came when she least expected it. Sharron recently clinched the prestigious 'Live for the Outdoors' Outdoor Photo of the Year - Nature competition, and we had the opportunity to chat with her about her win.
The winning entry for Outdoor Photo of the Year - Nature’ award © Sharron Diffley
Sharron's winning photograph features a vibrant green dock beetle, a testament to the beauty of nature that often goes unnoticed. She explained the serendipitous circumstances surrounding the shot, saying, "I am a Scout leader for 1st Timperley. I was cooking while on a camping trip with the cubs and scouts. After preparing a hearty breakfast for 30, I was in need of a walk. I love photography, had my camera with me, and I saw the beetle, shiny and captivating, and just took the photo."
Winning the competition was a momentous achievement for Sharron, who expressed her excitement, saying, "It’s amazing! You see these competitions, and sometimes you don’t enter them because you don’t think you stand a chance. I can’t believe that people voted for me. I tend to take photos of strange things, so I wasn’t sure if people would like it. I saw the other photo submissions I was up against, and they were great. I know that photography is subjective, and in this competition, there were three different categories, some of the mountain ones I couldn’t dream of taking a picture."
Matt Merritt, competition judge, said of Sharron's image; "A brilliant bit of wildlife photography that deserves extra credit for seeking out an unusual subject."
This year, Sharron, who is assistant headteacher and designated safeguarding lead at Altrincham College, has not only won the 'Outdoor Photo of the Year' award but also received an RHS bronze medal for her stunning series of 'funghi' photos, which were exhibited at the Saatchi Gallery in London as part of the RHS Art and Photographic Botanical Awards in July.
Magical Mycenae: Sharron’s mushroom portfolio was exhibited at the Saatchi Gallery in London and were awarded a bronze RHS medal © Sharron Diffley
When asked about her involvement with the Sale Photographic Society, Sharron shared, "I joined last year. The Society holds lots of competitions and members critique each other in a friendly environment. Listening to other members of the society, they have such a wealth of knowledge. Their feedback has made me a better photographer and they are so generous with their time."
To those contemplating joining the Sale Photographic Society, Sharron offered encouraging words, saying, "Get involved and experience the benefit of getting feedback from others. I’ve only had a ‘proper’ camera for two years, and without people helping and supporting me, it can be hard. Every single one of the photos I take is a combination of other people’s feedback and support. I was made to feel so welcome from my first meeting."
The Sale Photographic Society, founded in 1946, continues to provide a supportive and nurturing environment for photographers of all levels. They meet on Thursdays at St Mary Magdalene Church Centre on Moss Lane. The society offers a programme of activities and guests are charged only £2, which includes tea, coffee and biscuits.
For special events featuring renowned outside speakers and image projections on a big screen, guests are charged £6.
Sale Photographic Society is currently open to new members. So, if you're looking to enhance your photography skills, gain valuable feedback and be part of a welcoming community, don't hesitate to join.
For more information on the society and its activities, visit salephoto.org.uk. You can also view Sharron's photography portfolio at shashaphotography.com.
Sharron Diffley's win in the 'Live for the Outdoors' Outdoor Photo of the Year - Nature competition is not just a personal achievement but also a testament to the thriving photography community at the Sale Photographic Society. Her passion for photography, coupled with the support of fellow enthusiasts, has paved the way for her success and it serves as an inspiring story for anyone looking to explore the world of photography.
