On 24th February eight OffShoot members visited University College Dublin (UCD) Belfield for a focused abstract photography outing.
Blessed with dry weather and soft winter light, the group spent several hours exploring the campus’s striking modern architecture and textured surfaces.
The clean lines, spiral staircase and scale of the O’Brien Centre for Science, with its glass panels and sharp angles, proved especially inspiring. Members concentrated on isolating patterns, reflections, shadows, and structural details, transforming everyday campus features into abstract compositions. It was interesting to see the change in Architectural styles from the Brutalism of the 80’s and 90’s to the Minimalism of the 20’s
Throughout the outing participants experimented with perspective, focal length, and contrast to capture images that emphasised form over function. Concrete facades, steel railings, staircases and geometric walkways became studies in shape, rhythm, and light.
The visit provided an excellent opportunity for members to challenge their creative vision, engage in peer discussion, and refine techniques in-camera rather than relying solely on post-processing. The outing concluded with coffee in the Bluebird Cafe where the group shared previews of their work and discussed ideas for future themed shoots.
Overall, the UCD Belfield trip was a productive and enjoyable exploration of abstraction in a contemporary urban setting.
Some images (click on an image to open in full-screen mode) from the outing can be seen below:
