Camera clubs encourage photographers to share their passion

Lake Louise by D Hardwick, Rochdale Photographic Society

Photographic enthusiasts are spoilt for choice with the wildlife, landscapes and architecture on our doorstep.

Whether your passion is portraits, stunning scenery or sports, Martyn Slater focuses on some of the camera clubs in our area who are looking to give new members a warm welcome.

Rochdale & District Camera Club
Rochdale & District Camera Club is a friendly group of photographers which meets every Tuesday evening at Syke Community Base & Methodist Chapel, bringing together people with a wide range of experience, interests and photographic styles.

The club’s aim is simple: to enjoy photography, learn from each other and encourage people to get more from their cameras and their images.

The club said: “Our program mixes visiting speakers and demonstrations with practical evenings, competitions, members’ presentations and opportunities to try different techniques.

“Recent sessions have ranged from portraiture and image editing to creative practical evenings such as light painting and creative challenges.

“We also believe that photography is best enjoyed by getting out with a camera.

Photographers have plenty of activities to focus on

“During the summer months, we swap our usual meeting room for weekly photography walks and visits around Rochdale and the surrounding area, giving members the chance to photograph landscapes, architecture, people and local places together. Our evenings are also open to visitors and prospective members.

“Competitions remain an enjoyable part of club life, including our annual Photographer of the Year competition, but we try to maintain a supportive atmosphere where taking part, because sharing ideas and improving your photography matter more to us than simply collecting awards.

“Perhaps most importantly, RDCC is a social club as well as a photographic one. Members are always willing to share knowledge, offer advice or simply enjoy a brew and a conversation about photography.”

The club meets on Tuesday evenings at 8pm at Syke Community Base in Rochdale, and visitors are always welcome. More information, the syllabus and members’ galleries can be found on its website: www.rochdalecameraclub.org.uk

Rochdale Photographic Society

Rochdale Photographic Society is an active society which holds weekly meetings throughout the year.

It said: “We extend a welcome to anyone with an interest in photography in all its forms, and who would like to share their enthusiasm with like-minded members.

“We welcome enquiries from all ages and experience at our weekly meetings, held throughout the year.

“We have no limitations on equipment, and we especially welcome smartphone users, which are capable of high-quality images, and have won several competitions.

Time to Reflect by Mike Hortop, Rochdale Photographic Society

“Guests are welcome to visit free of charge for up to three evenings to see if the range of activities are of interest.

“Our programme on our website lists a variety of activities for the year. We also run several competitions each year, both digital and print, hold practical evenings and presentations by members and internationally renowned photographers.

“We aim to promote enjoyment and improvement for hobbyists irrespective of standard, whilst providing a friendly social environment. ”

For details and to get in touch, visit www.rochdaleps.org.uk

Oldham Camera Club

Oldham Camera Club meets at the Moravian church, Spring Garden St, Royton, Oldham, OL2 5QE, on Thursday evenings 7.30pm.

Each evening session has a theme which can include taking photos, editing and competitions.

The club said: “If you have any interest in photography from using your phone to digital cameras or film, please join us. If you are thinking of buying a camera, members will be happy to share their experiences of different brands.

“This summer we had trips to a variety of places including; Oulton Park, SMJ Falconry, Barton Airport, Keithley and Worth Valley Railway, and Magpie Mine for the solar eclipse.

Photographers capture the action

“During the winter months, we meet at the church most weeks, we also have studio nights with professional models, these are very popular.

“We hold quarterly competitions. which are judged by nationally renowned judges. Judges offer advice on how we can all improve our techniques.

“We raise money for local charities including Dr Kershaw’s Hospice and provide the pictures for the calendar.

“The club website has full details of the syllabus and examples of our photographs.

“New members are welcome to come and meet us, with no charge for the first couple of weeks.”

Membership is just £20 per quarter with a concession for the first quarter of £10. Visit oldhamcameraclub.org.uk for the syllabus and contact details.