Snap decisions

Five local schoolboys were invited to mix it with the professionals recently when the Fuji/Press Photographers Association of Ireland held its 11th annual assembly in Rosslare, Co Wexford. The idea was to let the boys, from CBS Wexford, experience "shooting against the clock" - each was given a camera, a roll of film and 90 minutes to get his work back. "Members were delighted with their enthusiasm," said PPAI president Frank McGrath Junior. "With guidance and assistance, the workshop results were a great success. In fact, it all brought our members back to their roots."

John O'Donoghue, who is in sixth year, hopes to work in media production. "The knowledge and technical information I gained during the workshop will stand to me," he said. "I intend to use photography more in the future."

David and Diarmuid O'Riordan were surprised how much skill is involved in considering light readings, framing the picture and timing the shot. Scott Hayes found that deciding the point of focus and composition with regard to landscape photography was most interesting.

Rory Allen used a 300mm lense and mono pod and an 80-200mm zoom lens. "I was delighted with the advice I got. It was fun taking the pictures against the clock."