These words from photographer Sean Tucker perfectly capture the spirit of the Photographers of Shambellie House 2025 Photography Convention.
Held within the tranquil surroundings of Shambellie House, this gathering invited participants to pause, reflect and reconnect with the joy and meaning in their photography.
With our guiding motto at Shambellie being Relax, Learn, Enjoy, this experience offered a day that celebrated inspiration, community and personal growth. From powerful talks to taster workshops, every moment was designed to encourage thoughtful exploration and shared enthusiasm.
What We Offered:
After a Private View of the Rural Life exhibition on Friday evening with around 50 people in attendance, over 75 guests arrived early the next day for the Photography Convention, a day packed with:
· Inspirational talks from leading photographers
· A superb lunch alongside lively conversation
· A choice of talks from local speakers
For those who wanted to fill up their whole weekend, we offered a day of taster workshops on Sunday, giving people a chance to experience a guided photo-walk around the beautiful village of New Abbey or enjoy an introduction to cyanotypes inspired by our natural setting.
People came from near and far, travelling from London, Penicuik, Lanarkshire, Fife, Troon, Aberdeenshire and across Dumfries and Galloway. There was a brilliant turnout from young people, now eager to grow a photography collective with support from Shambellie House.
The Speakers:
· Emily Endean – Outdoor photographer known for chasing light and capturing soulful imagery in nature
· Sean Tucker – Filmmaker, speaker and author, sharing insights on visual storytelling and personal development
· Jean Robson – Local speaker exploring photographic projects from Scotland to the ends of the Earth
· John McKenna – Advocating personal projects as a key to artistic growth
· Judith Hewitt – Celebrating Dr Werner Kissling’s legacy and Dumfries’ ethnographic photography heritage
The whole event was sponsored by local business Kilnford Farm Shop.
Looking Ahead:
Next year our exhibition theme is “Overlooked” which speaks to places and people too often missed. The Photographers of Shambellie House have taken a breath and are ready to "sing out". We can’t wait to support and grow our tribe of image-makers throughout the next year, leading to another impactful event in 2026 to inspire even more people on their photographic journey.
Our diverse community - from enthusiastic photographers in primary schools and inspired young adults, to the ‘New Scot’s’ we have welcomed and the seasoned professionals who support us - they will all help shape the vision for 2026.
The Impact:
The entire weekend was a celebration, not just of photography but of Dumfries and Galloway as a generous, welcoming destination.
Quotes
“Truly inspiring.”
“Super to see so many young people involved.”
“Beautiful venue and delicious food.”
“A rare and exciting blend of energy, passion and generational diversity.”
“Very beautiful venue, brilliant service and food was delicious.”
“Thought provoking.”
“Incredible show of energy, passion for photography and opportunity to learn and be inspired.”
“Dumfries and Galloway is a home to so many wonderful artists and creators who have moved before us…celebrating that at Shambellie this weekend was wonderful.”
“It’s encouraging to see such a good demographic spread with young and old present. It’s rare and I think you’re on to something.”
