During the second half of the week John Parris the award winning Scot made delegates look outside the “box” with some creative location fashion style portraits with the help of his willing young model Lana. That other well known Scottish photographer, wedding expert Gordon McGowan showed his exceptional talent in posing a bride and groom, whilst Jo de Banzie enthralled with her informal take on photographing young children outdoors. Mike McNamee treated delegates to plenty of tips on Masking, Montages and Cut Out’s with his digital skills. A new addition to PTO this year was the services of top designer Tina Kypriadis who offered advice on studio layouts, colour co-ordination and design. 

Evening seminars featured the ever-popular print critique competition when speakers offered constructive criticism – well most of the time – to participating delegates. Llewellyn Robins bestowed the virtues of professional qualifications, John & Sandra Parris showed off their wedding marketing skills and Brian Brown treated the group to an insight into his glamour model sessions. Whilst Dave Wall presented a zany and informative look into how a commercial photographer viewed the “social photography” scene.

With daily brain teaser competitions, a comprehensive “trade” show plus an end of  week awards bash and superb weather, delegates went home well satisfied and sporting a healthy sun tan.

Watch out for details of next years PTO which promises to fulfil all the expectations of this now established annual crusade.