Melton Photographic Society continues to flourish

The group, which aims to promote enjoyment, advancement and inclusion in photography, normally meets every Friday evening, at 7.15pm, until the end of May, at St Mary’s Place, formerly known as the Samworth Centre.

Meetings will be very different for the foreseeable future, however, and will instead be held remotely on the Zoom video conferencing network until at least January.

But membership is healthy and upcoming programme of activities includes a varied set of external speakers, competitions and member evenings with plenty of opportunities to develop camera skills.

Club chairman, Nick Lane, said: “This has been a very difficult year for all of us, including photographers, as we have had to cope with movement restrictions during lockdown along with the end of last season, and the start of this coming season being run over Zoom rather than face-to-face.

“Many clubs have struggled during these difficult times, but I am happy to say our society has flourished, including the addition of summer talks and Zoom events during these difficult times.”

The original minutes book of the club shows that the inaugural meeting was held in the town’s technical college at 7.15pm on February 13, 1948.

The equipment members use has certainly changed dramatically since those days but their love and passion for taking photographs most definitely hasn’t.

New members are always welcome and Nick, a member for three years, said: “I have found the society a very friendly, welcoming group of people who are very happy to share their expertise as well as encouraging new members to take part in competitions and events.

“Whether you’re a complete beginner, keen improver or experienced enthusiast, you’ll find a great deal at our society for you.

“The society embraces the full spectrum of subject matter, but with a real emphasis on learning new skills and genres, quality speakers and encouraging participation from everyone.”

In 2015, the club introduced an intermediate, as well as an advanced, category for its competitions with the aim of encouraging new members to take part and get the opportunity to receive feedback on their photography without being intimidated by being up against the more experienced photographers.

The society’s external speakers also provide an opportunity to learn and advance members’ skills.

This year’s speakers will cover wildlife, urban photography, landscape photography and camera skills, among other topics.

There are also social evenings, if coronavirus restrictions allow, including a Christmas quiz evening.

Nick added: “If you love taking photos and have the urge to take better ones, we would say to people to feel free to come along to one our meetings including the first online meeting on Friday, where we will introduce the programme for the year.”

New joiners are able to take advantage of a special offer of first year membership for £36, which works out at £1.25 per meeting.

Email [email protected] or [email protected] or visit the society website at www.meltonphotographic.co.uk for further details.