Jenny Woodward
Name: Jenny Woodward
Camera: Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark3
Favourite type of photography: Landscape, seascape, dogs and horses
Location: Clitheroe, UK
Instagram: @woodward2915
How did you get into photography?
I self-isolated through COVID and someone suggested I try the A Year With My Camera (AYWMC) course. I already had a Coolpix P9000, but changed to an Olympus due to the weight.
Do you have any photographic qualifications or accolades?
I want to enjoy taking photos and have never really wanted to obtain any qualifications
What's the first photograph you remember seeing or shooting?
The first photograph I remember seeing was of my parents' wedding day. My first shoot was out walking with my dogs and I started to notice so much more to photograph that my walks ended up taking a lot longer!
What do you love about photography?
Being at one with nature and your surroundings and creating that feeling in the photos has always been an aim of mine. Taking the time to frame a shot, change the angle, whatever it feels right to do.
Read about Creative Photography, What it is and How to Get Started
What do you wish you'd learned about photography earlier?
I suppose it’s the technical side and how best to use the features on your camera. As I get older, forgetfulness creeps in!
Where is your favourite place for photography?
I am lucky living in the Ribble Valley, where there is such a range of countryside to take photos of, whether it be hills, waterfalls, rivers, old abandoned buildings. The list is endless.
Do you have a favourite photographic technique?
Not really.
Can you briefly outline your approach to image processing?
I am always questioning the amount of editing I use on my photos, that is apart from being creative for abstract shots. My thought process is that I need to try and get it right when I am taking the shot. It maybe that I resize an image at a basic level.
What's your favourite lens?
My 14-150mm.
Read the SheClicks Guide to Lensbaby Lenses
Do you have a favourite accessory?
Not really as try to keep things simple - batteries are my most important accessory!
Have you found the perfect camera bag yet?
My rucksack (no particular make) is brilliant.
Which photographers have influenced or inspired you, and how or why?
Will Patino for his amazing landscapes and Glyn Dewis for inspiring me to get editing!
Please recommend 2 or 3 female photographers to follow on Instagram.
I rarely use instagram.
Is there a camera, lens or accessory that you don't have yet but you'd like to buy at some point?
I would love the 100-400mm Lumix lens - it’s very expensive though!
Is there a genre of photography that you love but that you haven't tried yet?
I would love to have a go at urban photography, but its well outside my comfort zone and I lack the confidence to have a go.
What's your proudest photographic moment?
Receiving some really positive comments on a photo I entered in a competition at my camera club.
If you could have one superpower that could help you with photography, what would it be?
Remembering the menus on my camera!
Your favourite baked goods are?
Date oaties.
Tell us a little about yourself.
I am a retired PE teacher from a farming background, which would explain my love of the outdoors. Having lived in Kent for 40 years, the family moved to Lancashire for hubby's job. It was a real culture shock, but after the last 25 years living here, we call it home. We are lucky to be surrounded by beautiful countryside, within easy reach of the coast and can go north, south, east or west!
Having taken up photography, I wanted to become more confident in my ability to take good photos that I was happy with. I joined the local camera club (mostly males), but they have been very supportive and encouraging. I have had a few online sessions, which have been great. I’ve also had some sessions on landscape photography, joined RPS and a Skool community, run by Glyn Dewis. I feel I am getting there, but very slowly.
For me, taking photos is about enjoyment of the moment. If someone else likes my photos that’s a bonus. I have purchased a mini studio and want to spend the winter getting to grips with that, so have plans moving forwards with many UK trips to look forward to.
