Picture-perfect way to beat the blues during lockdown
A new group has been launched to help people have a focus during lockdown.
PhotoSoup and its 52-week challenge was set up by Jon Morris, who is a self-taught photographer. He now wants to pass his advice onto others.
More than 60 people have already joined the Facebook page which Jon, known as Jonnymo, 44, from Ellesmere, created in September, having seen his interest in taking pictures wane.
“I began to lose my photo mojo,” he said. “Back in September, I decided enough was enough, and I had to do something to get out of the rut I found myself in; becoming like many others a Covid hobbit.”
He invited others to join socially-distanced walks in Ellesmere and Shrewsbury. “I found it so rewarding to help others and set challenges,” he said.
“I would go scout out a walk a few days before to plan a route and see what kind of subjects were on route to then set challenges for the group as we walked around to try and photograph.
"I even started to read up on the history of Shrewsbury so I could give some interesting facts about the place as we walked.”
The walks ended in October as Covid worsened. “Once again, I retreated into my home office,” he added.
“I knew my mental well being was suffering and needed to find something positive to do and focus on again. Then I saw a blog about the 365 photo challenge, and thought ‘that’s it’, but instead of a photo a day I changed it to one a week and PhotoSoup 52 weeks challenge was born.
“I wanted it to be fun but also teach and help people understand their cameras more, and the art of photography. So I went for it, I posted on social media and was stunned by the positive response.
“I encourage anyone who enjoys taking photos tojoin the challenge and bring some joy back into their 2021.”
Visit @PhotoSoupUK on Facebook for details on how to get involved.
