This evening Neil Scott FRPS of Edinburgh Photographic Society entertained us with his talk “Keep It Simple Stupid”. Neil showed us how an aware-winning image can be created from the simplest of components: a small jug, a single flower, a petal, and space, lots of space. Neil uses space in his images to make an impact, proving that the often-heard judge’s comment of “crop out this empty space” doesn’t always apply. Neil’s images were sometimes surrealist, but always fascinating. Sometimes the ugliest subjects make the most striking photographs: such as pieces of rusty metal revealed in striking colours.

Neil revealed some of his secrets. Use a piece of black velvet to make a contrasting background, but make sure the velvet is free from dust and creases. Use mountboard to make an interesting background. Make an “infinity curve” to use as a background, which will eliminate unwanted corners in the background.

All in all a very entertaining evening.