SheFeatures: Lesley Wilkinson
Name: Lesley Wilkinson
Camera: Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
Favourite type(s) of photography: Portraiture, architecture and seascapes
Instagram: @lesleywilkinson64
Location: Preston, Lancashire, UK
How did you get into photography?
I enjoyed capturing the sights of Europe, but a trip to Italy in 2012, in particular, left me wanting to take better photos rather than holiday snaps. I took a few one-day courses, but it was only after a block of lessons at night school that I started to show improvement.
Do you have any photographic qualifications or accolades?
Not yet, but watch this space as I’ve just submitted for my first BPE (British Photographic Exhibitions).
What's the first photograph you remember seeing or shooting?
I had a Polaroid Instamatic camera when I was about 10 years old (circa 1974), and the earliest photo I remember is a black-and-white photo of my three-year-old brother on Christmas Day when he was dressed as a cowboy and surrounded by presents.
What do you love about photography?
The complete escapism when out and about searching for that shot!
What do you wish you'd learned about photography earlier?
Post-processing.
Where is your favourite place for photography?
Another Place, Crosby Beach, Liverpool, UK.
Do you have a favourite photographic technique?
Playing with long exposures for light trails, especially at the Blackpool illuminations.
Can you briefly outline your approach to image processing?
I use Adobe Bridge and Photoshop for the majority of the time, but I recognise the need to get to grips with Lightroom, particularly for batch-editing. I have enjoyed the challenges by Jane Lazenby over the last few years and I am getting better at masking and applying textures. I love the creative art techniques that post-processing allows. I am a sucker for a mono conversion too
What's your favourite lens?
The Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm f/2.8 PRO.
Do you have a favourite accessory?
My Big stopper - it’s a high-density neutral-density filter that enables long exposure in daylight.
Have you found the perfect camera bag yet?
No, definitely not.
Which photographers have influenced or inspired you, and how or why?
During the Covid pandemic, Margaret Soraya did a Zoom presentation to our camera club. Her images and outlook on life just blew me away. It was a real ‘wow’ moment. The key message was, do what pleases you and don’t shoot to please others, which I think is great advice.
Please recommend 2 or 3 female photographers to follow on Instagram.
Margaret Soraya @margaretsoraya and Linda Wride @lindawride.
Is there a camera, lens or accessory that you don't have yet but you'd like to buy at some point?
I’d like the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 8mm F1.8 Fisheye PRO, but the M.Zuiko Digital 17mm F1.8 is second on my list.
Is there a photography genre you love but haven't tried yet?
I would love to photograph the night skies.
What's your proudest photographic moment?
Seeing my portrait of Erica Mulkern which won my club's portrait of the year blown up and exhibited in Preston City Centre year
If you could have one superpower that could help you with photography, what would it be?
The ability to carry all my kit all day long - strength!
Your favourite baked goods are?
Lemonade scones with lemon curd and cream from a local cafe.
Please tell us a little about yourself.
I’m based in the northwest of England, and I’m a member of the Preston Photographic Society. I have been taking my hobby more seriously for the last 6 years. I did a 10-week night school course, and my first SheClicks event was at Crosby Beach in February 2019. Through the group, I connected with Nancy Phillips, who encouraged me to meet up with her at Preston Photographic Society. Through the club and the SheClicks group, I have developed my skills and made friends for life. I have hosted several SheClicks meet-ups with more planned around the Northwest in the coming months. I love meeting people with a shared passion for photography. I have a milestone birthday in the summer and can’t wait to retire so I can spend more time out and about with my camera.
