THIS week Behind The Lens shines the spotlight on Jan Budgen, 63, who works for Adur and Worthing Councils as a support services assistant in planning. Jan, who is originally from Staines in Middlesex, moved to Worthing in 1984. She is married with four children and two grandchildren. She hates being in front of the camera - but just loves being on the other side.
When and why did you get into photography?
I bought a DSLR camera back in 2018 in readiness for a trip to Norway to see the Northern Lights in February 2019. It gave me a few months to get to know the camera ahead of the trip. I had an interest in photography many years ago but family life was very busy and I just couldn’t fit taking photographs in so I put down my camera (an old Praktica film camera) and eventually sold it. It’s been great to be able to take it up again and I have a real passion for photography now. It’s a challenge getting to grips with shutter speeds, apertures and ISO in different settings but I have grown in confidence. I know I don’t always get it right.
A colourful mallard
What do you love about taking pictures?
I find it very relaxing, it gets me out evening and weekends. I have met so many people along the way and it’s nice to meet up when restrictions allow. I have also found that using social media and posting my photos there has brought some happiness to others during lockdown which means a lot to me. It’s a real lift to receive lovely comments on my photographs and a nice feeling to think others are getting enjoyment from them.
Jan Budgen loves sunrises and sunsets. This is sunset from Goring beach. Right, a rare picture of Jan herself
Where is your favourite place for taking pictures?
I don’t think I have a favourite place as my tastes are quite diverse. I love sunrise and sunset shots on the beach but also like wildlife which can take me anywhere. I also love low light photography which can mean nights on the beach shooting the Milky Way to taking shots of laser lights down by Worthing Pier to pictures down at Shoreham Harbour. I am also fascinated by the moon and take photographs when I can. I am planning a trip to London to take shots along the river at night.
What equipment do you use?
Since buying my first DSLR crop sensor camera (Nikon D3400) in 2018 I now have a full frame camera, Nikon D750, which I am going to be trying out on landscapes. I have various lenses from 18-55mm, 24-120mm, 70-200mm and a 100-400mm which is my go to lens for wildlife but also gets used for sunrise and sunset shots. I use a tripod for beach shots and low light long exposure shots but usually hand-held shots for wildlife.
Jan’s favourite kingfisher shot
What is your favourite picture?
I have become totally hooked on kingfishers and we were very lucky this year to have one down at Brooklands Park and so I spent a few early mornings there taking photographs of this stunning bird. I think this has been one of my most favourite pictures to take.
Moonrise from Shoreham Harbour
Why did you join The Argus Camera Club and what do you like about it?
A few of my photography friends were members and I love the camaraderie. It’s great to see other people’s photographs and be able to pass on positive comments and praise. It’s also a good feeling to have one’s work published.
What tips do you have for others who want to take up photography?
To get out as much as you can even if it’s just with a phone camera. Talk to other photographers and ask questions if you get stuck, photographers are very friendly and always willing to help. You can join local camera clubs and meet up on outings But most of all, enjoy!
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