Back Beach Poetry Trail by the Back Beach Writers' Collective, a group of West Harbour writers and poets, which features the work of Port Chalmers ceramic artist Tina Grubba.

Have you ever visited the Kotupai / Port Chalmers Back Beach Poetry Trail? What a wonderful addition to this area and celebration of artists in an organic way. We often walk past and do not always read these, however, sometimes we are stalled by Molly. That's when I take another moment to read and try to understand my own interpretation of each poem.

The cool thing is on dull days, like today its a great opportunity to photograph objects. Flat light on a grey day offers an even spread of light, without harsh brightness or dark shadows. It's also a great time to do portraits... but that's another blog ;)

These creations are now iconic to the area and need to be looked after for future years to come. What do you think about photographing someone's art? I think it's ok if you do a few things. See my photographic tips below to find out.

Cover Image:

'Quarantine Island
A place to set nets
Catching pestilence
From over the sea.'

- Anna Holmes

Reference links:

https://www.cityofliterature.co.nz/a-literary-city/back-beach-poetry-trail/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GkDBT-nyiuE

https://www.odt.co.nz/news/dunedin/poetry-trail-launched

All of these images have been taken with a Panasonic, G9.

BEING AND POINTLESNESS - PAUL CHAPMAN

Andy`s Photography Tip: 'Photographing other Art'

If you have a dull day and can not find inspiration consider photographing objects or other art, like street art.

Is photographing someone's art ok? Yes if it is in a public area. If it is on display in a museum etc then you should seek permission. You should consider these guidelines;

- Your images should uphold the mana of the art you are photographing i.e. make it a nice photograph,

- You should always acknowledge / credit the artists work,

- Your image should not discredit the artists work,

- You should do your best to research what the art is called and learn what it is about,

- You should ensure you get the spelling correct - especially the artists' name,

- Never claim it to be yours... unless it is :)

Please put a comment or emoji below. If you have any questions pop them in the comments box below or send me a video with your questions via Facebook - keep taking photos and get out there!

Andy Thompson