The Latest from MPB

• MPB Photographic, http://www.mpbphotographic.co.uk/, 2013-05-20 12:00:00

  
  
  

  Miniclick Meets.... Chloe Dewe Mathews

  
  
  Back in March we told you about our exciting new collaboration with Brighton’s very own Miniclick Photography talks and how MPB will be sharing content from these events with you. We will be uploading short but insightful video interviews with each of the months Miniclick speakers along with a profile of them and examples of their work providing you with exciting content from a variety of renowned and lesser known photographers. We know we are a little bit late but we are very pleased to present the first instalment of Miniclick Meets…., this month with Chloe Dewe Mathews.
  
  
  Having graduated from Oxfords Ruskin of school of Fine art in 2004 and spending three years working in the film industry, Chloe Dewe Mathews decided to pursue a career in photography and has since had great success. Her work has been published in The Times, The Independent and Dazed & Confused and in 2011 her series Caspian was awarded BJPs International Photography award. Although predominantly a documentary photographer Chloe’s subject matter is diverse, from Hasidic Jews on holiday in Wales to exploring the cultural shift between Europe and Asia in the region of Naftalan by the ancient Caspian sea. Her work has been described as the perfect photo essay and there is no doubt that Chloe’s ability to blend everyday observation, unassuming reportage and sometimes an underlying dark narrative make her not only one to watch out for but also a powerful young female figure within photography. Here we have a chat with Chloe about her work and her feelings on equality within photography.
  
  
  
  
  Chloe Dewe Mathews: Hasidic Holiday
  To see more in the series

  
  
  Chloe Dewe Mathews: The Banger Boys of Britain
  To see more in the series

  
  
  Chloe Dewe Mathews: Caspian
  To see more in the series

  
  To find out more about Chloe's work, have a look at the website www.chloedewemathews.com

   

   

  
  Follow @mpbphotographic 

   
  

  Miniclick Meets... Chloe Dewe Mathews

  A new series of short photographer interviews in collaboration with Brighton's Miniclick photography talk... Read More
• MPB Photographic, http://www.mpbphotographic.co.uk/, 2013-05-15 12:00:00
  This spring the UK sees the arrival of two international photography festivals; Liverpool’s Look/13 and Cardiff’s Diffusion. In recent years many cities including Brighton, Perpignan, Paris and New York have all seen programmes of events that examine and celebrate photography in all its many forms. Here we take a quick look at a few of the highlights from Look/13 and Diffusion.
  
  

  Look/13. Liverpool: 17th May-15th June

  
  Look/13 is the second edition of Liverpool’s international photography festival and this Friday 17th May sees its launch. The four-week programme of events taking place across the city includes exhibitions, talks, workshops and film screenings and will showcase some of the worlds most influential and established artists alongside international emerging talent.
  
  The theme of this years festival has been summed up in one question ‘who do you think you are? And explores what happens when the camera is turned on ourselves, questioning ideas of identity and the self, a theme vitally important within the realms of photography. This years programme of events brings together both historic and contemporary photographic practises and work and each of the venues produces a unique response to the central theme.
  
  Highlights include:
  
  The Bluecoat, August Sander/Weegee: Selections from the Side Photographic
  This exhibition brings together two hugely influential photographers of the 20th century, August Sander and Arthur Fellig (nicknamed Weegee). Sander’s work, a sociological portrait of pre-war German society is shown alongside prolific newspaper photographer Weegee’s work of the dark side of the American dream during the 1930s and 40s. The work being shown together highlights the photographers varying styles of realism and portraiture and gives us a valuable insight into the social documentary style of the time.
  
  
  
  The Walker Art Gallery, Martin Parr & Tom Wood: Every Man and Woman is a Star
  This is a rare look at the early work of Parr and Wood when both were developing their signature styles during the 1970s and 1980s. This collection, which mainly includes photographs of the Merseyside area, explores the differences and similarities between the two photographers work.
  
  
  
  Open Eye Gallery, Charles Freger: The Wild and the Wise
  This previously unseen body of work reflects on themes of identity and the tensions that surround it. It considers how we construct an identity, how we embrace or reject it and how we use this to define ourselves, especially in front of the camera.
  
  
  
  Miniclick Photo Pulse: The Bluecoat. Saturday 18th May
  This dynamic symposium brings together ten of the UKs leading photographers, each giving a fast paced slide presentation of their work on the theme ‘who do you think you are’. Featuring Jack Latham, Alma Haser and Chloe Dewe Matthews, Eva Vermandel, Jenny Wicks, Jim Mortram, Maja Daniels, Niall McDiarmid, Sophie Gerrard and Tadgh Devlin.
  
  
  
  For more information please visit: lookphotofestival.com/

  Diffusion. Cardiff: 1st May-31st May

  
  Diffusion 2013 is a brand new international photography festival to be held in Cardiff throughout the month of May, its aim being to showcase emerging Welsh photographers work alongside some international names. This year’s festival asks the question ‘and where are we now?’ allowing for a diverse programme of events which takes visitors to various sites across the city.
  
  The broad theme invites both artists and audiences to engage in the increasingly visual world that we live in, where we are bombarded by photographic images so often that it is often difficult to distinguish the boundaries between artist and audience, amateur and professional. Through its exhibitions, performances, discussions and workshops Diffusion aims to explore and examine the many approaches there are to photography both traditional and contemporary and celebrate it in all its forms.
  
  
  Highlights include:
  
  The Tramshed, Various Photographers: The Valleys Represented
  This exhibition brings together various artists whose work examines South Wales’ valleys, its communities and representations of the people and place. Including work by legendary photographer David Bailey as well as contemporary work by Alicia Bruce and Huw Davies.
  
  
  
  Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Elin Hoyland: The Brothers
  An intimate portrayal of two brothers, Mathias and Harald who lived together on a small farm in rural Norway. This photo essay examines a way of life that has almost entirely disappeared and considers the relationship between the two brothers.
  
  
  
  Maurizio Anzeri: But it’s not late it’s only dark
  Anzeri uses embroidery on vintage photographs that he finds. By sewing into their faces he creates a mask or costume, giving the subject a new identity and examining themes of gender and the self.
  
  
   
  For more information please visit: www.diffusionfestival.org/
  

  Look/13 & Diffusion: International Photography Festivals

  Highlights from Look/13 and Diffusion, two international photography festivals being held in the UK this Spring... Read More
• MPB Photographic, http://www.mpbphotographic.co.uk/, 2013-05-01 12:00:00

  
  
  Canons 5D series of cameras have always been a popular choice with our customers and are a best seller here at MPB. In this article we compare the 5D, the 5D Mk II and the 5D Mk III, looking at each of the cameras key features, their capability and what sort of photography we think that they are best suited to.
  
  

  Canon 5D: Released 2005

  
  
  
  
  Key Features
  12.8 Megapixel
  Digic II Processor
  Maximum ISO 6,400
  9 Point Autofocus
  Compact Flash
  100,000 Shutter Expectancy
  3 Frames Per Second
  
  Despite it's age and low megapixel count this camera is still very capable of producing some first-class shots. Although not the greatest in low light situations, when it does show some obvious signs of grain, outside on a brighter, sunnier day it will give you very similar image quality to that of either the Mark II or Mark III. (see pictures below). The 5D produces photographs which have a very distinct appearance, mainly due to the slightly older processor which results in the photographs having softer tones and a more natural aesthetic, perfect for portraiture. It features a quick and easy to use menu system and regardless of its slightly slower frame per second rate the 5D is a great and affordable full frame camera for both amateurs and pros alike.
  
  Best suited to: Portraiture and Studio
  Also suitable for: Landscape, Wedding, Macro
  Prices start at £419 EXC++ condition
  Find this on our website
  
  
  Canon 5D f/1.6,1/3200 ISO 100 with Canon 50mm f/1.4 Lens
  
  

  Canon 5D Mark II: Released 2008

  
  
  
  
  Key Features
  21.1 Megapixel
  Digic 4 Processor
  Maximum ISO 25,600
  9 Point Autofocus
  Compact Flash
  150,000 Shutter Expectancy
  3.9 Frames Per Second
  
  Three years after the release of the 5D Mk I came the highly anticipated Mk II and with it a number of improvements. The resolution on the Mk II is perhaps the first thing to mention, almost double that of its predecessor it jumps to 21.1 megapixels and enables the user to save much higher res files giving you more freedom when editing as well as the opportunity to print far larger images. Another huge advantage of the Mk II is the cameras HD video capability. With the benefits that come with being able to film with countless Canon lenses and due to its compact size the Mk II has become a favourite with filmmakers and cinematographers who are using it to produce countless films and TV shows. Some other significant improvements are that this camera has a Live View mode; enabling you to to use the LCD monitor as a large viewfinder, it also features a high 6400 ISO setting perfect for low light shots. The auto focussing system is the one element of the Mk II we found slightly disappointing, it is the same as its predecessor with just 9 focus points meaning it is far from ideal to use for any kind of sports photography. (Perhaps the reason Canon shied away from updating the AF was because they feared they might get it wrong again after the fiasco they had not long before with the 1D III). Regardless of this point the 5D Mk II is a fantastic full frame camera. It was originally targeted at professionals and has become particularly popular with wedding photographers, however generally this is a camera suitable for anyone wanting a high end full frame camera but without the bulkiness or price tag of Canons 1D series.
  
  Best suited to: Portraiture, Wedding, Studio, Video
  Also suitable for: Landscape, Macro, Wildlife
  Prices start at £999 EXC++ condition
  Find this on our website
  
  
  
  Canon 5D II f/1.8,1/2500 ISO 100 with Canon 50mm f/1.4 Lens
  
  

  Canon 5D Mark III: Released 2012

  
  
  
  
  Key Features
  22.3 Megapixel
  Digic 5 Processor
  Maximum ISO 102,400
  61 Point Autofocus
  Compact Flash/SD/SDHC/SDXC
  150,000 Shutter Expectancy
  6.4 Frames Per Second
  
  The jump up to Canons 5D Mk III isn't as revolutionary as it was between the Mk I and Mk II yet there are still a great deal of features that make the Mk III one of Canons most high ended cameras on the market. The focussing system has been considerably improved on this camera and is fantastic with 61 focus points, a huge step up from the 9 point focus systems of the previous models, this enables lightning fast, accurate focussing perfect for sports photography. The low light capabilities of this camera are also extraordinary with a maximum ISO of over 100,000. The ability to shoot at 6 frames per second (double that of the Mk II) and the silent shutter mode make this ideal for shooting wildlife. The design of the Mk III body has slightly changed, it now includes a middle button on the mode dial for locking in mode settings and an easy to reach front preview button and even though it is a fraction larger and heavier than the others in the 5D series, it is by far the most comfortable to hold. Compared to the Mk II the video functionality is a lot more easily accessible, however due to the increase in technical features and what the camera is able to do, the menu can be a little confusing at first. The Canon 5D Mk III is really all about building and improving on what the Mk II lacked and this includes an incredible AF system a much faster FPS rate, an improved ISO and increased video capability making this a fantastic camera for not only professionals but semi-pros, enthusiastic amateurs and film-makers alike.
  
  Best suited to: Portraiture, Studio, Wildlife, Wedding, Landscape, Macro, Video
  Also suitable for: Sports
  Prices start at £2019 EXC++ condition
  Find this on our website

   

  
  
  Canon 5D III f/1.8,1/2500 ISO 100 with Canon 50mm f/1.4 Lens

   

   

   

  

  A Comparative Guide to Canons 5D Mk I, Mk II and Mk III

  A look at Canons very popular 5D series of cameras, comparing their key features and capability... Read More
• MPB Photographic, http://www.mpbphotographic.co.uk/, 2013-04-23 12:00:00

  Spring/Summer Exhibition Roundup
  
  Landmark: The Fields of Photography. Somerset House, London. Until 28th April.
  This exhibition explores our rapidly changing environment and engages with those photographers, whose work grapples with problems of rising seas, melting ice caps and global warming. Both stunning and shocking, many of these photographs taken by more than 70 of the worlds most highly regarded photographers, will remind us to slow down and appreciate the beauty of the world often where we least expect it". Including work by Simon Norfolk, Robert Polidori and Mitch Epstein.
  
  
  
  Gaiety is the most outstanding feature of the Soviet Union: What’s on today from Russia, Saatchi Gallery, London. Until 5th May 2013.
  This exhibition looks at the story of art in Russia and addresses its communist legacy and how things stand today. Featuring sculpture, painting and installation as well as a heavy influence from two photographers in particular, Sergei Vasiliev and Boris Mikhailov this often quite disturbing exhibition showcases an unseen Russia. Each of the documentary photographs featured confront us with a stark, complex and often haunting view of Russia and give us an insight into what the collapse of communism really meant for many.
  
  
  Bert Hardy: Centenary Exhibition. The Photographers Gallery, London. Until 26th May.
  Photojournalist Bert Hardy who was best known for his Picture Post assignments would have celebrated his 100th birthday this year and this retrospective of his work focuses on the wartime and post-war pictures he took. His photographs, mainly shot on a second hand Leica camera, offer a valuable insight into the lives of ordinary people going about their ordinary lives during a period of hardship and adversity.
  
  
  
  Man Ray Portraits. National Portrait Gallery, London. Until 27th May.
  Best known for his surrealist work and with a career spanning more than fifty years, Man Ray was amongst the leading artists both in his field and of his time. This exhibition concentrates on the artist’s portraiture work and features more than 150 photographs including portraits of muse, Lee Miller, artist Pablo Picasso and examples of his ground breaking solarisation technique. Innovative and influential this exhibition hopes to highlight the significance of Ray’s work and demonstrate his central position amongst the leading artists of the time.
  
  
  
  Mary McCartney’s Radical Women. The Lowry, Manchester. Until 9th June.
  Here renowned portrait and fashion photographer Mary McCartney offers an intimate and often unguarded look into the lives of some of the worlds most influential and radical women in the world of fashion and entertainment. Including many unseen photographs of Tracey Emin, Vivienne Westwood and Frida Kahlo, these portraits demonstrate McCartney’s spontaneous response to a wide variety of personalities and situations.
  
  
  
  Genesis: Sebastiao Salgado. Natural History Museum, London Until 8th September.
  Brazilian photographer Sebastiao Salgado is probably best known for his humanitarian photojournalism and social documentary. In this ambitious eight-year project, Salgado went in search of those parts of the world untouched and unspoilt by mankind and modern society in a statement about ‘the way we used to be.” This incredible selection of black and white images takes the viewer on a journey to the most pristine and remote parts of the planet and celebrates the world we live in.
  
  

  
  Sony World Photography Awards. Somerset House, London. 26th April-12th May.
  This exhibition showcases the very best contemporary photography from around the world including winning and shortlisted photographs spanning photojournalism, commercial and fine art photography. Including work by the pioneer of colour photography William Eggleston.
  
  

   

  

  Spring/Summer Exhibition Roundup

  A roundup of photography exhibitions showing around the UK this Spring and Summer.... Read More