Since its invention more than 150 years ago, the impact of photography on meteorology has been immense. Recent advances in digital imaging technology have increased both the availability and portability of high-quality cameras, making the capture of even the most difficult meteorological subjects easier than ever. This Royal Meteorological Society Saturday meeting aims to cover many of the varied and interesting aspects and applications of surface-based photography to meteorology at all levels from beginner to advanced, and includes presentations from many of the leading exponents of weather-related photography in the United Kingdom today:

· Roger Coulam – noted severe weather photographer and veteran of many years storm-chasing in the United States
· Storm Dunlop – author of Photographing Weather (Photographers’ Institute Press, 2007)
· Gavin Pretor-Pinney – founder of the Cloud Appreciation Society and author of two popular best-selling books on clouds, The Cloudspotter’s Guide and A pig with six legs
· Malcolm Walker – chairman of the Society’s History Group and an expert on early meteorological photography
· George Anderson – photographs editor for Weather

There will also be shorter sessions by three leading meteorological photographers, who will provide details, tips and practical examples of their weather-related photography, both film and digital, aiming to educate, enthuse and encourage you to take your own pictures.

The day will conclude with a panel session consisting of all the day’s speakers: audience participation is actively welcomed! This is your chance to put your questions to the experts. The meeting will be chaired by Philip Eden, Vice President RMetS.

Provisional agenda

10:30 am – Registration

Introduction and welcome – Philip Eden, Vice President

Malcolm Walker – Some of the best meteorological photographs ever taken: the work of the pioneers pre-1930

Storm Dunlop – Photographing Weather

George Anderson – Photographing for Weather and the Society Calendar

LUNCH

Roger Coulam – ‘Storm Light’ – Extreme Weather photography

Gavin Pretor-Pinney – A Pig with Six Legs and Other Clouds, from the Cloud Appreciation Society

My weather photography – Stephen Burt

My weather photography – John Mason

My weather photography – Richard Griffith

Panel discussion and audience questions

Preview and launch of the Society’s 2009 Calendar

5.20 pm – Meeting close

Make it a family day out … Why not combine the meeting with a day’s Christmas Shopping in London for the rest of the family?

Registration for RMetS members will open on 1 May, for non-members on 1 July. Places are limited, so early registration is advised.