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Merit Competition Round 3 – “Wheels”
Last night saw the third and final round of this season’s Merit Competition at Dunchurch Photographic Society, and what a fitting finale it was. The theme, “Wheels,” proved to be wonderfully open to interpretation — and our members certainly rose to the challenge.
As always, the breadth of creativity on display was impressive. From the rugged textures of cast iron wheels to dynamic images capturing the intensity of wheelchair boxing, members explored both the mechanical and the human stories behind the theme. There were beautifully detailed studies of potters’ wheels in motion, atmospheric scenes featuring traditional water wheels, and even striking architectural perspectives of the iconic London Eye.
What made the evening particularly special was the sheer variety of approaches. Some photographers focused on form and texture — spokes, curves, symmetry and shadow — while others captured movement and energy. A number of images highlighted determination, craftsmanship, engineering and sport, reminding us that wheels are not just functional objects, but symbols of progress, creativity, and resilience.
It was fantastic to see the final round so well supported. A strong entry always makes for a vibrant and engaging competition, and last night was no exception. The discussion around the images was lively and thoughtful, reflecting both the high standard of work and the supportive spirit that defines our Society.
Our Thanks to the Judge
A special thank you must go to our judge for the evening, Liz Peate, who did a truly Stirling job. Her thoughtful critiques, constructive feedback and warm delivery made for an engaging and educational evening. Liz took great care to highlight both the strengths of each image and areas for development, offering valuable insights that will undoubtedly help our members continue to grow and refine their craft.
As we close this season’s Merit competition, we can look back with pride at the creativity, technical skill, and imagination shown across all three rounds. If “Wheels” has shown us anything, it’s that even the most everyday objects can become compelling photographic subjects in the right hands.
Well done to everyone who entered — and we look forward to seeing what next season brings!