Photo Critique

We often hear that people's style/fashion choices can be superficial and consumerist. We also rightly hear criticism against the big industry players' practices. But does this make style and fashion inherently a dilemma of "vanity vs function"? Whether we wear casual hoodies like in a tech startup, or designer pieces from the catwalk, don't we all signal something about who we are and where we belong? We'll discuss.. 1- Why do we appreciate other forms of creativity (painting, design, entrepreneurship, etc) but are more critical of people's clothing choices? 2- Can our style choices carry a deeper effect than just the external looks? 3- How many of our close friends wear completely different styles from us? Why / why not? *Join us for a relaxed group conversation where we explore the real life, the grey areas, and how our different cultures and backgrounds shape our views about key topics.* *Expect real talk, no judgment, and a chance to learn how others see it.* **\*Come for the discussion, stay for the friendships. Our weekly discussion series brings together thoughtful people for honest conversations on relationships, life, and society - with warm social vibes before and after.\*** **WHAT TO EXPECT:** * Good vibes only: we chat big topics in a chill, respectful way. No arguing - just open-minded exchange. * We warm up with casual socializing (come solo or with friends!) * The topic starts around 7:45/8pm, wraps around 9:30. * 🍕 There's pizza, drinks, milkshakes and snacks available at the bar (incl plant-based options) * And most people stay until late for drinks and mingling! **DISCUSSION FORMAT:** **\- Our group conversations are open and flexible\! There is a very soft guided flow to ensure we focus on the key questions\, and to ensure that everyone gets a balanced opportunity to speak\.** \- We rotate groups intentionally during the discussion so everyone gets to meet a wider mix of people and perspectives\. \- After the structured part\, you’re free to mix and mingle with anyone\. **Here's a typical discussion structure, but we may adjust this depending on the turnout:** \- Introductions and initial thoughts *(\~5 mins).* \- Group breakouts per question *(\~20 mins x 3).* \- Final round of opinions *(\~10 mins)*. \- Mix and mingle\, make new friends\, get drinks etc *(\~until late)* **Rules & etiquette:** 1\. Debate the topic\, not the participants \- no personal attacks please\. 2\. No phones\, no interrupting\, no bystanding\. 3\. Always follow the moderator/host instructions and guidelines\. **WHAT IS WORLD CITIZENS?** We're one of London's longest-running and largest communities. Since 2012 we run socials, cultural activities and stimulating discussions to foster meaningful exchange and learning among London's global professionals. They are inspired by MUN (Model United Nations) and salon discussions and offer a more relaxed and social evening version. **LOCATION DETAILS** What: Discussion session followed by social/networking When: Tuesday, 7:30pm until late. Where: Curzon Aldgate (bar area), 2 Canter Way, E1 8PS Closest stations: Aldgate East, Aldgate, Tower Hill/Gateway Cost: Pay for your own meals or drinks Hosts: We have a rotating team and the actual host of each event varies. Our regular members can also help you out with basic matters. *NOTE: like most guests, our volunteer hosts join after work and may arrive after the start time. If you are punctual or earlier than our hosts, we highly appreciate this! Please feel free to start socializing already and/or get something to eat or drink - that’s the point of our events anyway! Our regular members can also help you out with any basic matters.* **\*Our other weekly events\*** \- Friday evening socials every week \- Saturday afternoon cafe in Chelsea \- Canary Wharf socials every other Wednesday \- Outdoor fun \(hiking\, kayaking\, etc\) every weekend \- Dining\, cultural and travel activities on\-demand **JOIN OUR TEAM!** We're all volunteers, so if you enjoy organizing activities or events in your spare time, while meeting great people every week, send a message to our team account "TP"! **DISCLAIMER** We are a 100% volunteer-run team. Though we have high standards in planning, this is a private informal activity so we cannot be liable for any damage or inconvenience. However, we put safety and comfort first. We take all complaints seriously, and take severe action against any harassment, verbal or non-verbal, and anti-social behaviour, towards our guests or team members. We collaborate with the police when needed. We take photos and videos which may include you to help promote the community in line with GDPR Data Protection law, as well as stock photos from Pexels or Unsplash. We may restrict or prioritize guests at our own discretion for safety, quality and logistics reasons. While our team's decisions may not be perfect we ask that you follow our decisions first and raise any disputes to discuss with us later and privately. By attending you understand, agree with and respect all terms of this disclaimer.

Life drawing, shorter poses, experimental and fun! This session will be run by Freya Tate, a wonderful artist with a sharp eye and a playful line. The session will be life model focused but Freya will introduce chaotic elements to challenge you and move your drawing on to higher levels. You can see more of Freya’s work on Instagram: [@freyatateify](https://www.instagram.com/freyatateify/) Our studio is purpose built, spacious and well equipped with easels, drawing boards, clips and so on. We sell materials at reasonable prices so if you forget anything we should be able to help you out. We have professional lighting for the models and and full spectrum lights for the studio to give you a good experience. £15 to join us in the studio £8 to join us on Zoom. £5 for students in studio, or £12 via Zoom. Drop us an email at info@dulwichartgroup.co.uk and we will send you the discount code. To book, [please click here ](https://www.dulwichartgroup.co.uk/product/tuesday-evening-fast-poses-creative-life-drawing/)

**DUE TO LIMITED SPACE PLEASE ONLY RSVP IF ATTENDING. IF NO LONGER ATTENDING PLEASE UPDATE YOUR RSVP.** Join us in the upstairs room of the Grafton Pub in Camden for another writing-focused session. Bring whatever you’re working on, whether you’re outlining a new idea or deep into your current WIP. This is a space for writers to connect, share ideas, and find inspiration. Whether you’re looking for feedback, want to brainstorm with others, or simply need a quiet place to write, our goal is to build a supportive and collaborative community for sci-fi and fantasy authors at all stages of their journey. Writing will start at 6:30, but feel free to arrive and leave at your own convenience! We will end at 8:30pm, but the pub is open till 11pm so after it ends people can mingle or go home as they please. **While we encourage collaboration and occasional chat, we ask everyone to be mindful of those focused on writing until 8pm.** **Also please support the venue by buying food or drink from the pub!**

Join us for a drink at **Hamilton Hall Wetherspoon,** Liverpool Street Station. 4pm onwards, but all welcome to come anytime after work. Cheers 😃

**Photo Walk: Perivale Wood (Natural Reserve) Open Day (Sat 25 April). Gates open at 10am so we aim to meet at 9.50am and enter the park at 10am on the dot.** **Very Important** - Tickets must be purchased online in advance via their website: [https://selbornesociety.org.uk/](https://selbornesociety.org.uk/) **Price: £5.50** - Very limited availability, so book early to secure your spot Perivale Wood opens its gates only a handful of times each year, and Saturday 25 April is one of those rare chances to explore one of London’s oldest private nature reserves with a camera in hand. **We’ll meet at the entrance:** **Rear of 36 / 38 Sunley Gardens, Perivale, UB6 7PE** Once inside, expect ancient woodland, spring colour, quiet paths, and the kind of calm that feels miles away from West London—even though it’s right on our doorstep. This is a relaxed, photography‑friendly visit: all cameras welcome, from phones to medium format. Whether you’re shooting nature, textures, colour, or just enjoying a slow walk with fellow photographers, this is a lovely chance to experience Perivale Wood at its best.

**SONY WORLD PHOTOGRAHY AWARDS EXHIBITION PRIVATE TOUR** **We are giving away free tickets for the private tour!** **Sign up and you may win a ticket!** Please note only winners of a free place will be notified by text message on the same day. **If you haven't won a free place there is a 15% discount code below.** The world-class photography exhibition is back. Offering an insight into the artists working in the medium today, the Sony World Photography Awards bring the best images from the past year to the West and East Wings of Somerset House. This curation is a unique opportunity to see all of the winning and shortlisted images under one roof. Explore the very best of photography across a variety of styles, themes and genres: from documentary to wildlife, portraiture to architecture, sport to still life. Discover the best photographs from the past year in a diverse display of over 300 pictures * See Joel Meyerowitz’s work in a new light through an immersive, mixed-media presentation * Be part of photography's unmissable annual moment **Exhibition is open from 17 April until 4 May 2026** **DISCOUNTED TICKETS** Use the link below to go to the website for your **15% discount** off a full price ticket: [https://www.worldphoto.org/sony-world-photography-awards-exhibition](https://www.worldphoto.org/sony-world-photography-awards-exhibition) PROMO CODE: **LONDONPHOTO15** **HOW TO INPUT THE PROMO CODE**: Using the link above choose the day you would like to attend and click **BOOK NOW**. On the top right side of the page you'll see the **OFFER CODE** box where you can type in the promo code **LONDONPHOTO15** We look forward to seeing you there! CONTACT Alex 07956 264049 VENICE PHOTOGRAPHY WEEKEND - Oct 2026 [https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events/313109100/](https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events/313109100/) UPCOMING EVENTS [www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events](http://www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events) Photo ©Liam Mann

Discover how to capture striking architectural images in this hands-on walk/workshop. Following a carefully curated route along the Thames—starting at the Tate Modern—you’ll explore and photograph a diverse range of architectural styles, from Brutalist to Modern, as well as structures serving different functions, including buildings and bridges. Guided by your tutor Kevin Koekkoek, you’ll complete engaging photography tasks and receive constructive feedback to refine your technique. **Workshop Instructor** Kevin has been developing his career in photography with a focus on urban and environmental portraits, as well as abstract photography for print. In addition to his personal work, he organizes street photography walks and teaches at UAL and the RCA. **What You Will Learn** Scouting a Building – How to approach and analyse architectural subjects. Explore Composition – Utilize leading lines, framing, and perspective for dynamic and engaging images. Working with Available Light – Understanding light conditions and how to adapt to them. Optimal Camera Settings – Essential settings for architectural photography. **Location** This workshop takes place along the Thames, beginning at the Tate Modern, and follows a thoughtfully designed route showcasing notable architectural landmarks. You’ll have the opportunity to photograph a variety of architectural styles—including Brutalist and Modern—as well as structures with different functions, such as buildings and bridges. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced photographer, this workshop will help you develop your eye for architecture and enhance your technical skills—all while exploring London’s rich architectural landscape. **Cost** The cost of this workshop is £75, plus Meetup fees. Refundable when the event is cancelled by the Organiser. **Meeting Point** Kevin will be in a Cafe (Leon) near the Tate Modern from 945. The workshop starts promptly at 10:00 After the workshop we will brake for a quick lunch and social (Lunch not included) **Bad Weather Policy** The workshop will proceed in light rain, with route adjustments to find shelter where possible. The event will only be cancelled in case of severe weather conditions, at the discretion of the organizer. **Experience Level** No prior experience is required—everyone is welcome! However, you should have a basic understanding of your camera. While there will be limited time for technical support, assistance will be provided for creative aspects. **Equipment** We aim to make this workshop inclusive. If you are just starting out and only have a mobile phone, you are welcome to join. For those with DSLR or mirrorless cameras, I recommend using prime lenses and doubling up your focal range for better coverage. Suggested focal lengths include: Prime Lenses: 14mm, 28mm, 50mm, 80mm Zoom Lenses: 70-200mm Tripods are not allowed to avoid security concerns. **CONTACT** This is Kevin's phone number for walks and events. 07895295284 Also advertised on Eventbrite and photowalk.me

**Take Creative Control of Your Photos with Manual Settings (Beginner Guide)** This beginner-friendly street photography workshop focuses on understanding and controlling your camera settings so you can stop relying on automatic modes and start making deliberate photographer decisions like a pro instead of guessing. The session begins with a short cafe pre-brief where we talk about your camera's primary settings: **aperture**, **shutter speed**, **ISO** in creative ways, using **Manual Mode** and **Priority Mode** Settings. We then head out onto the street and work through beginner-friendly creative tasks designed to help you put into practice these three key settings to capture photos as we walk and pause at scenes of interest to compose photos. You’ll be actively shooting throughout, learning how to react to changing scenes, adjust your camera, and understand what settings actually do and adapt in the moment. I will be on hand, helping you individually through the session. We will explore around the St Paul's, Paternoster Square and Southbank areas. *** **What You Will Learn** **How to Use the Exposure Triangle:** Understand aperture, shutter speed, and ISO and how they work together in street photography situations. **Controlling Motion:** Learn when to freeze action and when to introduce motion blur for creative effect or storytelling. **Depth and Separation:** Use aperture to control background blur (bokeh) and isolate people and subjects from background. **Camera Adjustments:** Learn how to change your settings efficiently when in the moment. **Shooting with Intent:** Build confidence to move away from full automatic modes and start making deliberate creative decisions using manual control settings. *** **What to Bring** * **Camera Kit:** Any camera (mirrorless or DSLR). A standard zoom or prime lens is ideal or your smartphone if you prefer. * **Essentials:** Fully charged batteries and empty memory card. * **Comfort:** Weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes. *** **Event Info** * **Duration:** 2.5 hours * **Group Size:** Max 5 * **Meeting Location:** St. Paul's, London (exact location will be sent to attendees) *** **PAYMENT OPTIONS** * RSVP via Meetup (standard fee applies) * Or send £25 via PayPal to **street@lindawisdomphotography.com** — no extra fee * Message me to confirm your spot & I will add you to attendee list. \*\*\* **Bonus for Members** * **FREE DOWNLOAD –** **Master Your Camera Settings Street Photography** Tip Sheet covering the key topics from this event. You will receive a download link to follow along during the session. * **FACEBOOK COMMUNITY GROUP:** A private group for Meetup members to showcase their best work, receive critique, advice, and tips.

It's time to get out in nature and enjoy the beauty of the bluebell woods. It's been a long winter so lets embrace spring and capture these gorgeous flowers. We’ll look at camera settings to use to ensure you get the best photos of bluebells. We'll give you loads of tips to help you capture classic and creative bluebell shots. We'll have some optional exercises to help you get the best of your afternoon shooting bluebells. EQUIPMENT * Any camera including smartphones * Kit lens such as 18-55, 24-70mm lens * 50mm or macro lens (if you have one) OTHER ESSENTIALS * Check the weather and wear appropriate clothes and shoes TRAVEL * As usual check the TFL website for disruptions that might delay your journey * We'll have a 1 km gentle walk to the bluebell woods * If you drive we will meet you by the park IMPORTANT INFO * Bluebells are protected under UK law so it is advisable to stay on the footpaths provided CONTACT * Alex 07956 264049 VENICE PHOTOGRAPHY WEEKEND - Oct 2026 [https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events/313109100/](https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events/313109100/) UPCOMING EVENTS [www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events](http://www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events)

TICKETS MUST BE PURCHASED VIA THIS LINK ONLY: [TICKETS](https://fatso.ma/3pye) Inspired by the serene, flowing atmosphere, this shoot explores movement, light, and natural textures in a calm yet expressive creative environment. The concept blends dance, fashion, and storytelling - creating visuals that feel like stepping into a dreamlike oasis hidden inside the city. ✨ Flowing fabrics, wooden textures, and soft natural light come together to create an illusion-like world where models move freely, fabrics drift through the air, and photographers capture those fleeting in-between moments. This shoot invites dancers, yogis, and movement artists to guide models through simple, fluid motions and poses, helping everyone explore natural body movement, fabric flow, and expressive energy. Through gentle movement, breath, and rhythm, participants will discover new ways to pose and create organic, graceful imagery that captures motion in a soft and dreamlike way. ✨ **THEME** **“Dreamy Oasis – The Art of Movement”**   This concept focuses on grace, motion, and softness. Think: * Flowing fabrics drifting through the air * Gentle turns, spins, and slow movements * Organic textures and warm tones * Dreamlike imagery where stillness meets motion The aim is to capture moments that feel spontaneous and alive — movement frozen beautifully through photography. **THE VENUE** 📍 London Docklands (exact location shared with participants) This 1625 sq ft creative studio offers a unique blend of industrial architecture and natural artistic warmth. The space features: * Three large windows with direct sunlight * Wooden flooring and natural textures * High ceilings and a spacious upper mezzanine * Soft diffused skylight creating dreamy light conditions * Unique wooden sculptures and organic decor The studio’s wooden art pieces and natural props create an inspiring environment that feels both earthy and surreal — perfectly suited for the Dreamy Oasis concept.  **WHAT TO EXPECT** ✨ 4-Hour Collaborative Photoshoot A relaxed but creatively energising session focused on movement, storytelling, and capturing the moment. During the shoot we will explore: • Movement-based posing • Flowing fabrics and garments in motion • Slow dance elements and expressive gestures • Soft natural light photography • Organic compositions using the studio’s wooden props Dancers may also guide models through simple flowing movements, helping everyone discover new ways of expressing emotion and motion in front of the camera. The goal is to create editorial, artistic, and dreamy visuals while maintaining a supportive collaborative atmosphere. **STYLE & VISUAL DIRECTION** The overall palette should feel soft, warm, and ethereal. Key aesthetic elements: ✨ Flowing fabrics and natural silhouettes ✨ Linen, chiffon, silk, soft cotton textures ✨ Barefoot or minimal styling ✨ Earth tones and warm neutrals ✨ Soft creams, sand, beige, ivory Contrast colours are welcome to add visual interest: * Terracotta * Rust * Soft sage * Muted gold * Dusty rose * The aim is to create a soft visual world with occasional striking accents. * **DRESS CODE – MODELS** Models should arrive prepared with 1–3 looks that fit the theme. Suggested wardrobe: • Flowing dresses or skirts • Light linen outfits • Soft draped fabrics • Minimalist fashion pieces • Elegant editorial looks Designers joining the shoot may also provide additional garments for styling throughout the session. **WHO THIS IS FOR** ✔ Photographers & Content Creators ✔ Models (all experience levels welcome) ✔ Dancers & Movement Artists ✔ Designers & Stylists ✔ Creatives who enjoy collaborative artistic environments This session is about creating together, experimenting, and building beautiful portfolio work. **COLLABORATION GUIDELINES** This is a collaborative photoshoot. To keep the experience fair and supportive for everyone: • Models should receive photos without additional charges • Images must be shared without watermarks or logos • All participants should credit fellow creatives when posting • Collaboration and respectful communication are encouraged throughout **JOIN THE SHOOT** Once you secure your ticket, please email: 📧 welove.socialise@gmail.com Include: * Your WhatsApp number * Your Instagram handle You’ll be added to the event WhatsApp group at least 2 weeks before the shoot, where all final details will be shared. 📍 Exact location revealed to confirmed participants only 📸 Follow on Instagram: @welove_shoots Step into a world of soft light, flowing movement, and dreamlike visuals. Let’s create something beautiful together. ✨

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Join WQC on April 25th from 11am-1pm at Inniswood Metro Park for a Nature Photo Walk. All types of cameras welcome! Let's enjoy spring to the fullest... 🌻🌼🌷🐤

AI is changing how art is made. But when does it stop being your work and start being the machine’s? This month we're going to be doing a panel with with digital image, music, and written word artists, talking about at what point, while using AI in the creation process, does the work become not the artist creation? We encourage audience participation during this event that will be moderated by Chris Slee. Whether you’re deep in the field or just getting curious, come connect with others building and exploring AI in Columbus. Sponsored by [Transform Labs](https://www.transformlabs.com/services) Sign up also accessible via [Transform Labs Luma](https://luma.com/55umjqta)

"The SOB is a ballet dancer. He’s the best ballet dancer that ever lived, and if I get a good chance I’ll kill him with my bare hands." - W.C. Fields In *City Lights*, Chaplin's Little Tramp meets a blind girl selling flowers who mistakes him for a wealthy man. When he learns that an operation may restore her sight, he sets off to earn the money she needs to have the surgery. He also befriends an alcoholic millionaire who only recognizes him when he is drunk. When the blind girl and her grandmother fall behind in the rent and face eviction, he tries working and even enters a boxing competition to raise the money they need. Regarded as Chaplin's masterpiece, *City Lights* has been ranked on more than seventeen "100 greatest movies of all time" lists. Orson Welles cited it as his favorite picture. *City Lights* is available for streaming on Amazon Prime, Hulu, HBOMax, Tubi and PlutoTV. The Columbus Library lists three copies on blu-ray and eight copies on DVD. Watch the movie on your own, then join us upstairs at East Market to discuss the film. If you want more, *Unknown Chaplin* is a three-episode lost-footage documentary available on Youtube. It covers his time on *City Lights* beginning at the twenty-six minute mark of episode two: https://youtu.be/f8960Uc15hI?t=1558

Join us for one of our favorite hikes this Tuesday (4/21/26) at 6:30 pm as we hike the Hoover Dam Scenic Trail, starting at the west end of the dam. This hike includes some paved paths/roads along with some dirt trails, with a few beautiful views of the reservoir. Join us for this 2 mile hike, finding us in the parking lot at the corner of Sunbury and Smoke Burr.