A PDCC Outing: A surreal photography experience
Early Saturday morning two car loads of our members embarked for Whitby on the North Yorkshire coast. Most have witnessed and shot the Whitby Goths weekend before, for the writer it was a new experience.
Following in the steps of Bram Stoker and his creation - Dracula - this gathering of Goth culture offers an opportunity to - from the official guide https://thelittleblackalmanac.co.uk/ - "immerse yourself in our delightfully dark domain, for here, the pulse of Goth, Alternative and Bohemian lifestyle thrives, waiting to captivate your soul."
For the photographer desiring some chances at interesting street photography it is an amazing experience. The surreal nature of standing in a graveyard surrounded by both those posing in their sometimes astonishingly creative costumes and makeup, and the very many photographers is both bizarre and enchanting. I found myself almost laughing out loud at the experience. It is as much an opportunity for those costumed to have their image captured - and hopefully published - as it is for the photographers. The shooters seem almost as numerous as the goths - they included groups from other clubs - some well known faces, professionals, as well as family, friends and the participants themselves.
Descending the 199 steps from the Abbey into town you are met with a throng jamming the narrow streets down to the harbour. More posing, most inviting to be photographed, very rare were the ones who shied from the camera. It was all very polite - permissions being asked, requests to pose, and most delighted to be shot. If you go on one of the Whitby Goths Facebook groups you will find requests from some for photographs of themselves.
If you have never been, it is a highly recommended photography experience especially with the bonus of being in the great company of our fellow members.