A FUNERAL, A PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW, AND NEW FRIENDS IN BIRMINGHAM
I’m not entirely sure how the conversation started. However, with a visa still valid from our previous trip to Scotland and Emirates miles, I was on my way to The photography and video show in Birmingham. What should have been a three-day trip entirely focused on the photography show turned into so much more.
The funeral.
I know what you must be thinking. I go to Birmingham for a photography show, and then I start with a funeral. This funeral is a fundamental part of the trip that changed so much.
About a week before the show and my flight, the sad news was announced. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II had passed away. Soon after, it was announced that the funeral would be held on the following Monday (my last intended day at the show). The UK was given a bank holiday for the occasion, and out of respect, The Photography show also closed for the day.
Without breaking the bank, I could move my return flight and add two nights at the hotel. This meant I could explore Birmingham, experience the Queen’s funeral, and have an extra day at the photography show.
On the Monday of the funeral, I had breakfast and headed out to explore Birmingham. I would meet up with “Sheclicks” in the afternoon, but more about that a bit later.
The funeral was the strangest thing I’ve ever witnessed in a city before.
Almost everything was closed; I struggled to find a coffee shop open.
There were screens throughout the city broadcasting the funeral.
People gather and make an outing to watch the funeral.
Books were available for the public to write messages.
Everywhere, on every available billboard or screen, was a black background with only EIIR 1926 -2022 and a crown on it.
The Photography and Video Show
In so many of the Photography magazines I read, I’ve seen the ad for this show. It’s been on my list to do for quite a while, and the stars finally aligned perfectly.
The show is an absolute must for any amateur, pro or hobbyist photo- and videographer. I can’t wait for the next one in 2024 and will try my best to attend again.
It has so much to offer:
All the latest gear is available with hands-on interaction and knowledgeable product specialists.
Inspiring talks from professionals
Enthusiastic people, just oozing with information.
Workshops
Creator corner where fun props are available.
Models that can be photographed and used in portfolios.
Sheclicks & Birmingham photo walk.
I’ve left out the most essential bullet above, –COMMUNITY-.
I got so much out of the show, but the sense of community was the biggest. More specifically, the sheclicks community. I’ve been part of their mailing list before the show but only got to know what they’re really about at the show.
It’s a group of supporting and inspiring female photographers with meetups, challenges, webinars, and much more. They organised a Photowalk on the Monday afternoon after the funeral. Although hesitant to join at first, after meeting them at the show, I was sure to join in.
I was gutted that I had to leave them behind in the UK, but I found another member in Dubai with whom I had already met up.
The Photowalk was aimed at the surroundings, but I snapped a few pics of some lovely ladies I’ve met.
I never thought I would see Birmingham in 2022. It’s also not listed as the most photographed destination, but I had a lot of fun capturing something new.
Final words.
The trip was an unexpected burst of inspiration, and thanks to the Sheclicks group for making me feel so welcome. I would recommend joining them to anybody that would listen.
My biggest thanks go to T for supporting my passion and sending me to Birmingham. The photography show sparked my joy for photography again. I hope to return in 2024, and maybe T can join me then.
In our next post, a dear friend of mine is coming to visit in Dubai.
Wandering off now…
Just me.
