DO WE ALL USE

 EXPENSIVE CAMERAS?

The answer is no.  It is quite possible to take photographs with a disposable camera (rather expensive if you take a lot of photographs!).  Some members use the cameras they have used for years, some have newer ones with more facilities and some are using digital cameras.  It is what you do with your camera that counts                                                      

PRINTS (FILM OR DIGITAL) OR SLIDES, COLOUR OR MONOCHROME?

 The choice is ours.  The situation is changing as digital photography is gradually replacing traditional film-based photography.  While we still retain some slide competitions, increasingly we think these will be displaced by digitally projected competitions.  Prints remain a major part of our photography whether they be produced from film or digital camera work.  Some members produce prints using their computer systems while others rely on commercial printing.  Colour and monochrome photographs are equally welcome.

WHAT DO WE DO AT CLUB EVENING MEETINGS?

 During the Club year from September to May, we have a mix of competitions within the Club, with trophies to strive for, a variety of illustrated talks some on photographic topics and others on e.g. travel, home-grown evenings on subjects which members have requested (these can include demonstrations of techniques and question and answer sessions), Inter-Club competitions and get-togethers with other Camera Clubs.  We also have social functions including an annual dinner.  Our Annual Exhibition (usually put on during Beaminster Festival week) is the Club’s showcase and we also exhibit examples of members’ work in the Yarn Barton Centre all year round.     

DO WE WELCOME VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS?

We certainly do.  We are frequently complimented on our friendly and enthusiastic attitude.  If you are in doubt about joining the Club, why not come along for a “taster” evening at one of our meetings?  You will be made very welcome.

HOW DO WE HELP BEGINNERS?

Experienced members will always help by giving demonstrations and answering questions; all you have to do is ask.

CONTACTS WITH OTHER CLUBS AND ORGANISATIONS

 We have friendly contact and rivalry with all the local clubs.  We also benefit from belonging to the Western Counties Photographic Federation who organise inter-club competitions, study days, field trips etc.  Our Club has also provided a basis for those wishing to try for one of the Royal Photographic Society’s distinctions, such as the L.R.P.S.

HOW DO WE KEEP MEMBERS INFORMED?

Our Programme is designed to tell you most of what you need to know, but we occasionally publish a Newsletter.  Information is also given out at each meeting.

WHO RUNS THE CLUB?

 The Club is run by a Committee elected at the Annual General Meeting. The Committee consists of the Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Honorary Secretary, Treasurer and six other members, all listed on the Programme card.

 WHERE AND WHEN DO WE MEET?

 We meet at the The Museum, Whitcombe Road, Beaminster, Dorset DT8 3NB on alternate Tuesdays at 7.30pm.  The 2009/10 season starts on Tuesday 15^th September and ends May 4th 2010.

FINANCES

The Club’s Annual Subscription for 2008/09 is £25 (£12.50 for Junior Membership, limited to those in the 16 to 21 age group).  Thereafter meetings are free, although a small charge is made for tea/coffee.