Spring Shoot

Spring Shoot 2025: A Day of Inspiration, Innovation, and Imagery

On May 13th, Castle Cameras hosted its Spring Shoot 2025, our annual photography show that brought together photography lovers, industry experts, and top-tier brands for a truly unforgettable day at The Hamworthy Club near Wimborne.

A buzzing crowd explores the latest cameras, lenses, and accessories from leading brands at Spring Shoot 2025

From hands-on demos to expert-led seminars, breathtaking bird displays to pirates (yes, really!), the day was bursting with inspiration, entertainment, and unbeatable deals.

Top Brands, Hands-On Demos & New Tech

As always, our trusted suppliers pulled out all the stops, showcasing the latest innovations in cameras, lenses, optics, and accessories. Attendees got up close with cutting-edge gear from Canon, Nikon, Fujifilm, OM System, Panasonic Lumix, Sigma, Tamron, ZEISS, Swarovski, Celestron, Vortex, Leofoto, Peak Design, Think Tank, Samyang, Fotospeed and more.

Top tech, expert advice—our supplier booths were packed with hands-on demos and unbeatable deals

Visitors were able to test out the latest kit, ask questions directly to brand reps, and grab some fantastic show-only offers.

Packed-Out Photography Seminars

One of the biggest highlights of the day was our series of photography seminars, which were incredibly well-attended and full of useful insight and inspiration.

Jayne Bond during her speech. Standing room only at the back!

Standing-room only! Photography enthusiasts soak up pro tips at one of our inspiring seminars.

We were thrilled to welcome:

Ellie Rothnie for Canon
Emily Endean for Fujifilm
Jayne Bond
Rachel Bigsby for Nikon

Each speaker shared their unique approach to photography—from wildlife to landscape—and gave practical tips and techniques that had attendees buzzing with creative energy.

Ellie Rothnie

Emily Endean

Jayne Bond

Rachel Bigsby

Live Portrait Sessions with a Pirate Twist

Another show-stopping moment came from Sony ambassador Diana Kenyeres, who delivered live portrait photography demos throughout the day.

Live in action: Diana Kenyeres captures a pirate portrait while walking us through her Sony portrait workflow.

Diana offered a behind-the-scenes look at her process, as she photographed none other than the crew members from The Pirates of Poole—a group who added a hearty dose of humour and hijinks to the event (as well as some rather photogenic faces!).

Birds of Prey Take Flight

One of our most beloved features returned this year—the Birds of Prey experience from South Wilts Falconry. Their majestic feathered performers wowed audiences with two flying demonstrations, offering a rare opportunity to photograph these stunning animals up close, in motion, and in magnificent detail.

Up close with nature—guests enjoyed meeting these incredible raptors between shows."

Supporting Local Causes

We also held a charity photography jumble sale, where pre-loved gear found new homes and all proceeds were split between two fantastic causes: Julia’s House and the Pirates of Poole’s chosen charities. Thank you to everyone who donated and grabbed a bargain for a good cause!

All for a good cause—our photography jumble sale raised money for Julia’s House and local charities supported by the Pirates of Poole.

A Fantastic Day for All

Between the interactive brand showcases, compelling guest talks, portrait demos, birds of prey, and a healthy dose of pirate-fuelled fun, Spring Shoot 2025 was a massive success. Attendees left with new skills, new gear, and plenty of inspiration to fuel their next photographic adventures.