FRANK MORGAN REMEMBERED Atouch oflight magic
‘FRANK WOULD OFFER ADVICE, HELP AND ENCOURAGEMENT’
FOR the late Frank Morgan photography was as much about enjoying his art as it was about capturing that perfect image and memory.
It was therefore fitting that his memory be enshrined in an annual competition inaugurated this year by the Fermoy Camera Club (FCC), a club that he played a pivotal role in founding.
Club PRO Helen Arnold said that in addition to being an extremely talented photographer, Frank Morgan proved to be a “wonderful asset” to the club serving on early committees and working with its outings group for many years.
“Through his photographic studios business, which his wife Breeda and sister-in-law Helen continue to run, Frank freely and happily gave his time to all club members who brought photos in to be printed. He would gladly offer advice, help and most importantly, encouragement,” said Helen.
“Through his mentorship the standard of photography being produced by club members certainly rose. It was a very sad day for the club, and indeed all who knew Frank, when he passed away earlier this year.”
In honour of Frank, Breeda and Helen kindly sponsored the Frank Morgan Memorial Cup, the results of which were announced this week at a special meeting of club members.
Each one was invited to submit what they considered to be the favourite/best photograph they have taken this year.
“It was testament to the esteem in which Frank was held that there were an amazing 49 entries – by far the largest number of entries ever received for any of our club competitions,” said Helen.
“The standard of entry was extremely high, with the independent judging panel of John Finn, Catherine O’Callaghan and Andy Kelly handed the almost unenviable task of picking the winners.”
After much consideration the first name to be etched on the memorial Cup belonged to Terence Rumley for his evocative image of the mighty Ballard Waterfall near the Mountain Barracks, Kilworth.
Second place went to Geraldine Dorgan for her quirky study of a young girl dreaming of being an adult, while Mark Heffernan’s stunning image of a stag charging through water during the rutting season at Killarney National Park was third.
“It was a night of mixed emotions as members reminisced about Frank. Telling stories and recalling incidents of the many great years we shared since 2010,” said Helen.
“The one common thread that case through all the stories was the theme of ‘Fun with Photography’, something we all shared while in Frank’s company.