TIMEframe Workshop 1, the first in a series of free photography workshops with LANDshapes, took place on Saturday 26th February. A chance to learn new skills; improve on techniques and some principles of photography, but also a chance to experience our local heritage - ‘new’ and unusual places with old and fascinating histories. 
The Albion works in Woodville, the site of a derelict pipeyard where clay pipes were produced and distributed across the country for the General Post Office, was the first site visited. Mr. Harry Whitworth, who was employed at the site opposite, brought the buildings to life with his memories of working in this industry; the noises, the smells, the dirt, the long hours and the often harsh conditions. Old clogs, left by the men from the works, lie scattered on the site amongst stacked piles of ‘niners’ and bricks.
The group surprised themselves at how much they discovered was there to photograph. Finding lines, colour, pattern, shape, texture and contrasts all around them and views of the dramatic, active open cast works just in front. By photographing this site the group was actually making an historical record, as the whole place will soon be lost forever to new housing.
 A quick lunch stop and then off to Wychnor, to a place of complete contrast. Arriving at a medieval church with Elizabethan modifications it didn’t take long to see history oozing out all around us. Mr Roger Hailwood interpreted what had happened in this area from early history to present day. Just below us was the Trent and Mersey Canal, one of the oldest industrial canals in the country and behind, the earth works of a deserted medieval village were visible. Coppice crafts gave the local population an income through basket making, for which the area is well known and the willow still grows there. The church is home to some of the oldest stained glass in Staffordshire at 500 years old. If the light is right ridge and furrow can be seen in the fields.
Despite a rainy backdrop our photographers isolated particular features of interest, some even daring to climb the tower to capture sweeping views. Professional photographer, Mr Chris Beech, ensured that hands on expertise was available, helping people to learn to ‘look’ and make decisions about the subject being photographed. Decisions that can make the difference between creating image of real interest or not!
Chris devised a fantastic workshop which suited both self proclaimed ‘Happy Snappers’ and those with more experience. An indoor session at the end of the day presented impressive digital pictures, downloaded and projected at size and to music. Over 200 images were taken by 12 people.
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