A buzz of eager anticipation filled the air as members of Dawlish & Teignmouth Camera Club packed the room to listen to guest presenter, Andrew Cooper, award winning wildlife film-maker and one of Britain’s most distinguished and influential documentary television producers. And they weren’t disappointed. “It was the best speakers the club has ever had” one member was heard to say.

Andrew’s interest in wildlife film-making began at an early age by telling stories with pictures. Sir Peter Scott, Gerald Durrell and Sir David Attenborough have all been a source of inspiration to him and he actually went on to work with each of them.

Andrew spoke eloquently and with humour of the adventures (and perils) he faced whilst visiting over 60 countries from the Arctic to Africa and the Himalayas to the Galapagos Islands whilst making films for the BBC Natural History Unit. Many of his film-making projects were ground-breaking because they showed the wildlife behaving in a way that had never been seen before.

Andrew shared some advice with all budding photographers by emphasising the importance of how photos need to have a strong composition and must tell a story.

The evening finished with a round of applause in show of appreciation for a most enjoyable speaker.

The Camera Club has a varied programme of guest speakers, competitions and workshops and meets on a Wednesday evening at Holcombe Village Hall and all are welcome. See our calendar of events.

Club Member Bob Clowes shaking hands with Andrew Cooper.