Win for photographer after chance encounter with Cooper Park fencers
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A CHANCE encounter with two fencers duelling beneath the trees of Elgin's Cooper Park has resulted in a local photographer clinching top prize in a UK photography competition.
Professional Elgin-based photographer Graham Cormie (57) came upon two members of Elgin Duellist Fencing Club back in early November last year while out taking pictures of autumn leaves.
Graham (57) naturally got his camera out to capture the unusual sight of club coach Callum Sutherland (left) lunging against fellow coach Robin Paterson.
His image went on to win the British Fencing Image 2020 Competition, which is sponsored by Nikon School UK.
Graham, from Bishopmill, specialises in family, wedding and personal branding photography. He said: "Ever since I bought my first little digital camera nearly 20 years ago, I discovered my love of taking photographs and I always take a camera with me everywhere I go.
"During the autumn, I was out walking with my wife and grand-daughter one afternoon in Cooper Park when I spotted the two gentlemen fencing under the trees next to Grant Lodge.
"It not often you see this happening in Elgin and so I took some pictures.
"I was encouraged to enter the competition and I was delighted that others liked the photo too."
The judging panel considered the submission as the one which best conveyed British Fencing’s motto, "Be You. Be Different", and awarded Graham the title of overall winner.
Elgin duellist coach and Scottish Senior Epee team member Callum (22) said: "Both Robin and myself really liked Graham’s photos.
"The stunning image with the autumnal leaves in the background is poignant for both of us in that it reflects a moment in time when, due to Covid-19 restrictions, we were not allowed to fence indoors and had to adapt to fencing in the open air.
"We both have copies of Graham’s images from this shoot as pictures in our homes."
Robin added: "I think the reason why this is a great image and won the competition is that it is a perfect riposte to the profoundly alienating impact caused by Covid.
"The image shows two friends engaging with one another through their shared passion for this fantastic sport, which is reason enough alone to make it a powerful image.
"But the stunning backdrop makes a connection with the out of doors and with nature.
"I believe that not only making connections with people but also interacting with nature can help improve our mental health and wellbeing.
"Last year, many of our club members commented on how surprised they were to have enjoyed fencing out of doors."
Elgin Duellist Fencing Club is looking forward to resuming fencing in Cooper Park next month for both junior and adult members.
