Lighting the way

Photography has a reputation for being an expensive hobby and there’s no denying that camera kit can get very pricy, very fast. But while it’s nice to have the best cameras and a large collection of the finest glass, serious investment isn’t required to become a great photographer. Stu Meech and his Apprentice, sixth form student Jack Pawlyn, met at Queen Square in the historic city of Bath, and the discussion soon turned to gear.

“That’s a nice camera,” said Jack as he eyed up Stu’s Nikon Z 6. “What is it?” Stu explained the difference between a mirrorless and Jack’s DSLR.

“This is just a tool though,” said Stu. “It’s nice to have, but it isn’t the most important thing when starting out.” Jack admitted that his photography classmates cheekily rib his D3400 for not being the coolest camera.

THE PRO

NAME: Stu Meech

CAMERA: Nikon Z 6

Stu is a self-taught, award-winning photographer based in Stratford-upon-Avon. Between photo shoots, writing photography-based articles and running camera workshops, he still finds the time to work as a freelance theatre production electrician. His background in stage lighting influences his work, and as a past resident of Bath, he’s the ideal mentor to help Jack get the most out of the city’s photogenic streets. See more of Stu’s work by visiting www.stumeech.co.uk

THE APPRENTICE

NAME: Jack Pawlyn

CAMERA: Nikon D3400

17-year-old Jack is currently studying photography at A Level and has ambitions to become a professional landscape photographer. He spends most of his time photographing in and around Bath, and is particularly fond of editing. Jack caught the photography bug while travelling with his family and enjoys shooting landscapes, portraits and light trails. He’s hoping Stu can help him get the most out of his limited kit and shine a new light on the city streets he’s so accustomed to.

“I think you’ll find this year’s Landscape Photographer of the Year was using a camera like yours,” said Stu