Given that I already do some voluntary work for Age UK Lancashire, being awarded a photographic commission to record some of their ‘Journeying Together‘ events was especially rewarding. The series of social events and art workshops, run in conjunction with The Dukes Playhouse is geared towards people suffering the early stages of dementia and their family members.

Limbering up for a dance workshop.

The first activity I covered was a special screening of George Formby film, ‘Let George Do It!’, which attracted a good crowd. After everyone was fed and watered they settled down for the classic film. I crept around discretely and photography was strictly without flash!

Enjoying the film at The Dukes.

Photographing people watching a film in a cinema proved technically extremely difficult. I got into a good position and waited for a suitable, still and bright scene from the film to capture it (sharply), as well as an impression of people watching it. I also wanted it to have  some atmosphere. Not disturbing anyone was my first priority, so I also had to use louder scenes to cover the clicking of the camera… ever the sensitive photographer!

Interval sing-along George Formby style.

Dancing seated or standing!

 

 

My second event to cover was a ‘Fun & Friendly Dance‘ workshop. I was surprised by the enthusiasm and enjoyment shown by everyone, whatever their physical abilities. There was a great spirit, which I wanted to capture.

There was a sense of fun throughout and each event had it’s individual characters. I wanted to show some of their personalities  in my photography. My intention was to pose as little as possible, except for several newspaper style shots for publicity purposes. Otherwise I was very much fly-on-the-wall.

Telling tales at a writing workshop.

At a ‘Telling Stories‘ workshop, participants were encouraged to explore their experiences through writing and storytelling. All had interesting stories to tell and obviously enjoyed recounting them. I had to keep reminding myself that I was there to take pictures!

My personal photographic journey with this project has been satisfying and enlightening. With the recent national launch of the Dementia Friends campaign, it has been very topical too. I would recommend anyone to spare a couple of hours to learn more about this condition (as I did) through one of the many Dementia Freinds workshops. It’s heartening to see this dreadful and up until now relatively ‘hidden’ condition come out into the open.

Click here to learn more about commissioning me.