The centre of Reykjavík is the base of SEEDS Photo Marathon, which is hosting 23 volunteers from all around the world, coming from Austria, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Korea, Russia, Singapore, UK and US! 11 different countries!

 

After comparing cameras, the serious photographers are identified, and the camp can begin ;)

 

The days would start in the morning with an informal lecture from our resident expert (Enrique). These would last roughly an hour and would set out the techniques or technical skills that were to be practised. These lectures were on the theme of light, cameras, favourite photographers, to name a few.

 

After the lecture, the Environmental Messenger would present the topic of the day. There was a short explanation of what sort of ideas were appropriate, but there was always a lot of room for interpretation so volunteers could allow their imagination to wander. They frequently did and this resulted in some very interesting and entertaining results.

 

In the evenings, after dinner, there was the opportunity for everyone to view everybody’s work from that day. Each volunteer was asked to submit 5 of their best photos for that day’s topic, and they could then explain each photo or tell the story or idea behind their portfolio.

 

In addition to the lectures and photography, there are International Evenings; an opportunity to sample the cuisine from each others home nations. Environmental activities allow each other to discuss the big problems in the world, before retiring to bed for a well earned rest.

 

The seas around Reykjavik offer good whale watching, and an excursion is arranged by SEEDS.

 

The tour around provided good views of local bird life, including a colony of Puffins, as well as dolphins and 30 Beluga Whales. SEEDS also gives volunteers the chance to take a day trip to the Golden Circle; visiting Þingvellir National Park, Godafoss waterfall and the hot springs of Geysir.

 

The final days of the workcamp build up to an exhibition of the best photos from all the volunteers in the Reykjavík City Hall. The exhibit lasts for two weeks and allows the local residents to view their city in a new light.

 

There was a unique feel to the workcamp as there was no ‘work’ to be done, simply an opportunity to improve photographic skills and understanding.There was a short explanation of what sort of ideas were appropriate, but there was always a lot of room for interpretation so volunteers could allow their imagination to wander. They frequently did and this resulted in some very interesting and entertaining results.

 

The topics selected to be presented at the City Hall were: Human Rights in Developed Society, Energy, Water, Pollution and Contrasts.

 

The workcamp leaders are Henry Franklin and Enrique Pedrero, while the Environmental Messenger is Magnus Tulloch.