In 1996 a photographer approached me about starting a camera club to serve the people of the Cobourg-Port Hope area. He placed a notice in the local newspapers. When I saw it, I noted he had given my name as the contact person; thus I became the leader of our camera club, a position I held for nine years.

We started with a small group of photographers – some very experienced, others just beginning. From the outset our goals have been to help members improve their photography, expand their photographic horizons, and have fun. These goals have not changed, despite an increase in membership.

To achieve these goals, we have a variety of educational programs and workshops. Unlike many camera clubs, we do not hold competitions. Instead, we have frank but friendly discussions of members’ photographs, both film and digital. These discussions have resulted in a significant improvement in the overall quality of our club’s photography. We also have regular group outings, photographing such subjects as wild flowers, old buildings, waterfalls, church interiors, the farmers’ market, ice, etc. These outings not only widen members’ photographic interests, but also encourage friendship and allow for the informal exchange of ideas and information between participants.

Bill Crowley