Monumental success for photographer

A Bailieborough photographer has had two of his photos place in the top ten in the Wiki Loves Monuments global photography competition.

Oliver Gargan claimed fifth and sixth place, in the top 10 Irish photos in the popular competition. That nearly 1300 photos were entered into the Irish competition, it was some achievement to rank so highly. Oliver’s photos will now be amongst the 10 to represent Ireland in the international rounds of the competition.

Wiki Loves Monuments (WLM) is an annual international photographic competition held during September, organised worldwide by Wikipedia community members with the help of local Wikimedia affiliates across the globe. Participants take pictures of local historical monuments and heritage sites in their region, and upload them to Wikimedia Commons.

The 36 year old said it was “nice” to have his photography work recognised.

“A lot of work goes into it, from taking the actual photo, editing, and uploading the images. Anyone who paints, writes, etc, would agree it’s always nice to see your work do well. I always encourage friends and fellow photographers to enter contests and competitions.

“In my case it took a few hours to enter my chosen images, for this particular contest.”

The hours were well spent, especially at Elphin Windmill in County Roscommon which took fifth place. Oliver says it “has been on my list for years”.

“It’s such a rare piece of Irish industrial architectural heritage, as it’s over 300 years old,” says Oliver. “It was originally used for grinding corn and other grains and now houses a visitor centre where the workings of the windmill are demonstrated. I think it shows a part of Ireland, that’s somewhat forgotten about. It’s something one would see in another European country, not County Roscommon.”

Asked what works well in the photo of Fore Gate, in Fore village which claimed sixth, Oliver suspects it was his decision to go for the less obvious, but nevertheless impressive, subject.

“The image of Fore gate, appealed to me, and possibly the judges, as I think it’s a part of Fore someone would easily drive past. Fore Abbey is the main tourist attraction, which attracts thousands every year. The old Fore gate, literally sits at the road side. It has a sense of familiarity to it, with the wildflowers that grow around it. It’s robust and has stood the test of time, for many hundreds of years, and is still standing strong.”

Oliver has only been a photography enthusiast for the last decade, but in addition to enjoying his competitive success, he is currently the chairperson of Breffni Photography Club, whose 30-plus members meet fortnightly in Virginia.

“It’s a very encouraging club, with a good mix of practical photo shooting nights, guest speakers and some club competitions and outings. We have a great committee of members.

“The hope for the club during the year, is to keep it as a close knit club, of friendly members, who feel welcome and valued. Photography has evolved, and some members might use their phone, some might use a DSLR professional camera. But all levels are welcomed and encouraged.”

Oliver is eager to encourage everyone to try their hand at photography.

“I personally find it therapeutic, just to grab the camera and venture out. Even if it’s the local lake or forest. I enjoy taking some extra time to appreciate what’s around us, that we maybe take for granted. I do often have friends and people message me, or stop me to say, their son/daughter/ friend has taken an interest in photography of some description.

“I tell them to encourage and show an interest yourself maybe. Online resources/tutorials are plentiful, and you can really learn a lot from YouTube, and other sites. Everyone definitely has a creative side.”