McGowan - The Master of Tough Love

Gordon McGowan is known for his no-nonsense advice and mentoring but his ultimate aim is simply to help fellow professionals improve their standards and to master the details. He is interviewed here as his Convention classes move ever closer

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Few photographers go to the lengths that Gordon McGowan does to put something back into the their profession. A busy professional photographer with a studio that’s based near the banks of Loch Lomond in Scotland, Gordon is one of the most recognisable figures within the Societies, having been heavily involved in mentoring and judging print competitions for several years. His feedback and criticism is highly valued by those who can take it in the right spirit, but Gordon would be the first to admit that he doesn’t pull his punches.

“Too many photographers think that, just because their clients seem to be happy with their results and will pay for their pictures, they are doing everything right,” he says. “I believe that you have to go further than that and that you need to be able to stand back and look at your own work and see the faults that might be in there.

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“Often photographers will come to me and they don’t realise what their faults are but then I ask them to tell me what they can see. They will usually just stare at the picture for a while but eventually they will get it. It might be an awkward body movement, something in the background that shouldn’t be there or the fact that the angle of light isn’t right. So many things can dilute a picture and take away from its impact and you need to get used to seeing these things naturally.

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What our members say
Why I like the Societies: Ability to learn, network and improve my business - Louise J
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Convention testimonials I just wanted to say thank you for once again hosting an excellent Convention. I felt it was very well organised, well executed and gave everyone many, many opportunities. We certainly had the best one yet and now look forward to a new venue and pastures new. Please pass on my thanks to all involved. Derek Poulston One Vision Imaging Ltd.
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Photo Quote: There is nothing worse than a brilliant image of a fuzzy concept. - Ansel Adams

There are 228 days to get ready for the SWPP Convention and Trade Show at The Hilton London Metropole Hotel ...
which starts on Tuesday 8th January 2013