In a delightful turn of events, Brighton-based photographer Bertram Greenhough has showcased the power of simplicity in his latest image, captured on his iPhone 13 Pro. The photograph, taken during a family outing, encapsulates a serene moment amid the hustle and bustle of a crowded beach, offering a poignant reminder of the beauty that can be found in everyday life.
A Family Outing Turns to Art
On a sun-soaked June day, Greenhough found himself wandering the vibrant streets of Brighton with his six-year-old daughter, Audrey. After a visit to an upside-down house near the i360 observation tower, the duo set off towards the Palace Pier with one mission: to indulge in some ice-cream.
As they strolled along the packed beach, Greenhough’s keen eye for detail spotted a lifeguard shelter that seemed to float above the throngs of beachgoers. “I often carry my SLR film camera—very hipster of me,” he chuckled, reflecting on his choice of equipment that day. “But as they say, the best camera is the one you have with you.” In that fleeting moment, he recognised the potential for an exceptional photograph.
“I remember saying to my daughter, ‘Oh, look at that, I need to take a picture!’ She didn’t grasp what I meant,” he recalls. Within seconds, the lifeguard shifted, altering the scene entirely. For Greenhough, it was a “decisive moment,” one that encapsulated the essence of photography: seizing the unexpected.
The Art of Editing
Later that evening, after enjoying a Mr Whippy ice-cream topped with a flake, Greenhough returned to his image for some digital refinement. Utilizing presets in Lightroom as a starting point, he enhanced the photograph’s vibrancy, particularly focusing on the yellows and reds while adjusting the hue of the blue sky.
“I often find how I see a scene and what the camera actually records can be quite different,” he explained. His meticulous edits aimed to create a visual harmony that echoed the warmth and tranquility he felt when capturing the scene. “I hope it gives people a sense of peace and security,” he added, inviting viewers to share in the calm he experienced.
A Moment of Connection
Greenhough’s photograph serves not merely as a testament to his skills but also as a reminder of the intimate moments that define our lives. In a world increasingly dominated by noise and distraction, his image stands as a beacon of tranquility.
The lifeguard, the shelter, and the sun-soaked backdrop come together to tell a story of leisure, safety, and familial bonds. As we navigate through our busy lives, it is essential to pause and appreciate these moments, much like Greenhough did with his daughter on that warm day in Brighton.
Why it Matters
In an age where photography is often overshadowed by elaborate setups and high-end equipment, Greenhough’s work epitomises the notion that beauty can be captured with simplicity and spontaneity. His image not only highlights the artistic potential of everyday scenes but also encourages us to cherish the fleeting moments that define our existence. The ability to find serenity amidst chaos is a lesson we can all take to heart, reminding us that sometimes, the most profound connections are found in the simplest of experiences.
