Southwell Ploughing Match - 26th September 2026

The Southwell Ploughing Match is a fantastic event for photographers of all interests and abilities. Combining traditional countryside skills with impressive vintage machinery, working animals, and modern agricultural equipment, the event offers a wealth of photographic opportunities. From dramatic action shots of ploughs turning the soil to detailed close-ups of steam engines, tractors, and rural crafts, there is something to capture around every corner.

In addition to the machinery and agricultural competitions, the event provides excellent opportunities for candid photography, environmental portraits, and documentary-style images that tell the story of rural life and heritage. The rich colours of the countryside, the textures of freshly turned earth, and the character of the exhibitors all combine to create a rewarding day out for photographers. Whether your interest lies in landscapes, people, machinery, or creative storytelling, the Southwell Ploughing Match is an ideal venue for producing a diverse and engaging collection of images.

For details entry pricing etc. Visit their website at - Southwell Website

Osberton Horse Trials

2nd to the 4th October £15 per car (includes all occupants)

The renowned Osberton Horse Trials, one of the UK’s most respected equestrian events and a fantastic opportunity for action, sports, and storytelling photography.

Set within the beautiful parkland of the Osberton Estate, the Horse Trials combine top level equestrian competition with a stunning rural backdrop. The event features three demanding disciplines such as dressage, cross country, and show jumping with each offering its own distinct photographic challenges and rewards. From the precision and elegance of dressage to the speed, power, and drama of cross country fences, there will be plenty to capture.

For photographers, Osberton Horse Trials provides an excellent chance to practise:

• Fast action and panning techniques
• Freezing motion at high speed
• Storytelling sequences and candid moments
• Environmental sports photography within a landscape setting

The varied terrain, autumn colours, and changing light conditions in early October add further interest, making it a particularly appealing time of year to visit. Whether you prefer tight action shots, wider contextual images, or atmospheric detail work, Osberton offers a rich and dynamic environment.

Entry is excellent value at £15 per car, which includes all occupants, making it a cost effective day out for club members wishing to travel together and share ideas in the field.

We plan to attend on one of the event days between 2 and 4 October, depending on club arrangements and conditions. Further details regarding meeting times and exact dates will be shared closer to the event.

This outing promises to be both challenging and rewarding which is ideal for anyone looking to push their photography skills, experiment with settings, or simply enjoy a great day out with fellow photographers in an inspiring setting.

Fungi at Calverton Colliery

Target dates are: 7th, 8th, 12th, 14th & 15th October This event is free entry

A visit to Calverton Colliery, is well worth considering where you focus (literally) on one of autumn’s most fascinating and photogenic subjects — fungi.

Calverton Colliery, a former industrial site now reclaimed by nature, provides a rich and varied environment that comes alive during the autumn months. As temperatures cool and moisture levels rise, the woodland floors, decaying timber, and leaf litter become home to an impressive variety of fungi, making this an ideal location for seasonal photography.

For photographers, fungi offer fantastic opportunities for:

• Close up and macro photography
• Exploring colour, texture, and pattern
• Creative compositions using natural backgrounds
• Abstract and detail focused images

From delicate toadstools and vibrant brackets to more unusual and sculptural forms, the diversity found at Calverton Colliery rewards slow, careful observation. The site’s wooded areas also provide soft, diffused light which is perfect for bringing out subtle details without harsh shadows.

These outings will be run on multiple dates, 7th, 8th, 12th, 14th, and 15th October. Hopefully this will allow flexibility depending on weather conditions and giving members the chance to return more than once as different species emerge. Entry is completely free, making it an accessible and low pressure opportunity to practise and experiment.

This is an excellent outing for photographers of all experience levels. Whether you’re new to macro photography or simply enjoy getting out into autumn woodland with your camera, Fungi at Calverton Colliery promises a rewarding and enjoyable photographic experience.

Further details, including meeting times and date confirmation, will be shared closer to the time.

Bring your camera, a sense of curiosity, and perhaps a macro lens — autumn’s hidden world awaits.

Papplewick 1940s Steam Weekend – A Photographer’s Paradise

The 1940s Steam Weekend at Papplewick Pumping Station is one of the region's most rewarding photographic events, providing an exceptional combination of heritage, atmosphere, and action. Set against the magnificent backdrop of one of Britain's finest Victorian pumping stations, the event offers photographers the chance to capture authentic wartime scenes, historic machinery, and a wide variety of colourful characters in period dress.

Throughout the weekend, visitors can photograph military and civilian re-enactors within detailed living-history encampments, creating excellent opportunities for environmental portraits and documentary-style images. The popular Cooling Pond Skirmish, staged daily at 2:00 pm, provides exciting action photography with realistic battle re-enactments, while live performances from period entertainers add further opportunities to capture the spirit and atmosphere of the 1940s.

Photography enthusiasts will also enjoy the sight of the magnificent James Watt beam engines and Galloway boilers operating under full steam, alongside displays of classic vehicles, military transports, and vintage bicycles. The site's stunning Victorian architecture, combined with steam, period costume, and historic transport, creates countless opportunities for both creative and traditional photography.

In addition to the main attractions, visitors can explore trade stalls, the miniature steam railway, underground reservoir tours, and refreshments from Lincoln Green Brewery, making this an enjoyable and highly photogenic day out for photographers of all interests and experience levels.

Date: 17–18 October

Location: Papplewick Pumping Station, Nottinghamshire

Admission: Adults £14 | Seniors/Students £13 | Children under 12 Free

Whether you're interested in portraiture, action photography, industrial heritage, or capturing the atmosphere of a bygone era, the Papplewick 1940s Steam Weekend offers a wealth of photographic opportunities not to be missed.