Week 4 workshop – Erin Gethins

F stop to the lowest setting

In this first image, the f-stop is set to the lowest setting available on an iPhone 12, which is f/1.4. This allows more light into the photo but results in a shallower depth of field, keeping less of the image in focus.

F stop somewhere in the middle

The f-stop is set to f/2.8, which is the default setting on an iPhone. This aperture creates a balance between the subject and the background, keeping the individual in focus while still providing some background detail.

F stop set to the highest setting

In this final image, the f-stop is set to the highest setting available on an iPhone 12, which is f/16. As a result, the image receives less light, but a greater depth of field keeps more of the scene in focus. The background appears much clearer, making details such as the tunnel and people passing through more visible. This type of photo encourages viewers to explore the entire scene, whereas the previous images draw more attention to the individual subject.

Pitch Journal – Erin Gethins

As I mentioned in my Week 2 reflection, I had a rough idea for my final assignment. Since then, I have finalised my concept, started reaching out to interviewees, and begun planning meetings.

My final project focuses on my brother, Kieran Gethins, who is running the Brighton Marathon on April 5, 2025, to raise money for Pancreatic Cancer UK. I will be interviewing Kieran about his motivation for choosing this charity, his training journey, and his experience on race day.

Additionally, I plan to interview a representative from Pancreatic Cancer UK to discuss the importance of fundraising for pancreatic cancer research, share personal stories, and raise awareness. I initially contacted their media team and was connected with Harriet Dalwood, their Senior Media Officer in Engagement and Marketing. However, as she is taking time off, she forwarded me to her manager, Chris. While I have yet to finalise an interview date with Chris, we have been in contact, and they seem eager to be involved.

Over the next week or so, I plan to travel home to capture photos of Kieran preparing for the marathon, ensuring I document his training from various angles.

I aim to take photos of:

Kieran training and warming up
The starting and finishing lines
Kieran running the race
His race number featuring the Pancreatic Cancer UK logo
The crowd, including supporters holding signs
Kieran crossing the finish line
Family and friends celebrating with him
Kieran with his medal

This project will be presented in an online format.

Reflection week 3

This lecture was more engaging as we had the opportunity to view and discuss everyone’s work from last week. This gave the class a chance to reflect, develop, and add more to our previous workshop tasks. I took this opportunity to add more to my work and publish my final research post.

Following that, I wrote my reflection post summarising the past couple of weeks. I also started planning interview questions and explored the settings on my camera to figure out how to achieve the best quality photographs. However, I struggled with this because the settings kept resetting every time I turned the camera off. I’m unsure if I’m doing something wrong, so I’m going to bring the camera to next week’s session for Karl to take a look and help me adjust it properly.

After the session, I drafted an email to Pancreatic Cancer UK to request an interview. This will help me start gathering quotes and images for my final assignment.

Reflection week 2

I really enjoyed this lecture as it followed a similar structure to the previous week, where we went through the presentation slides and learned about different styles of photography and how they are applied in various environments. This led to selecting a specific style of photojournalism to focus on. I chose sports photography because it aligns with my interests and the area I want to specialise in.

I researched the history of sports photography, exploring some of the earliest examples and how the genre has evolved over time. I also discovered the work of several well-known sports photographers and showcased their work as part of my research. Finally, I discussed the key techniques, challenges, and recurring themes within the genre.

During the lecture, Karl went around and spoke to everyone individually. When I spoke with him, it really helped me develop and solidify my idea for my final project. I’ve decided to focus on my brother, who will be running the Brighton Marathon at the beginning of April. My article will cover his journey, starting with his training and preparation, followed by the marathon itself and his performance in the race. Additionally, I plan to interview the charity he’s raising money for, discussing the importance of fundraising through physical activities and how it supports their work

Ink with meaning

Aisling Gethins Tattoo on her left ankle saying 'dancing queen'

Aisling Gethins shared the heartfelt story behind her tattoo on her left ankle. The tattoo reads “Dancing Queen,” inspired by the well-known song from the film Mamma Mia. She explained that the tattoo is a tribute to her Auntie Mary, who passed away unexpectedly from cancer in August 2022. It was her aunt’s favourite song, and Gethins wanted a permanent reminder of her.

Aisling Gethins

“I got this tattoo to remind me to keep dancing and smiling during tough times and to always feel her presence with me,” she said. Gethins described their relationship as incredibly close, filled with cherished memories and wants to always keep her close.

A very touching detailing to Gethins tattoo is written in her aunt’s handwriting, making it even more meaningful, adding a deep personal touch.

“Seeing it in her handwriting makes me feel like she’s always with me.” Gethins shared.

Reflection week 1

I missed the first lecture back due to a family circumstance; however, I caught up by watching the lecture online. I thoroughly reviewed all the slides, made notes on the assignment, and familiarised myself with the module’s background and the key concepts needed to begin the Week 1 workshop. Additionally, I spent time looking through past examples to gather inspiration for my final assignment.

For the workshop task, I chose to explore the meaning behind a tattoo. Since I was at home, I decided to interview my sister (Aisling) about one of hers. I approached the interview in a more serious, journalistic manner, ensuring that even though she knows me well, she wouldn’t assume I already knew the answers. Aisling provided great answers and some heartfelt quotes, which added a personal and emotional touch to the story.

I also took three photos to complement the piece: a headshot to introduce her, a close-up of the tattoo we discussed, and an action shot of her talking about and showing it.

Despite not being physically present for the lecture, I feel I gained a strong understanding of the material and learned a lot. I’m excited to build on this knowledge and get started on my assignment.