Taking pictures has become something many people do on a daily basis. After all, lives are defined by images. Much of the credit for this can be laid at the feet of smartphones. Many people take pictures merely to document their lives for future nostalgia or to share with friends and loved ones, but what about those who want to do more? When taking pictures becomes a serious hobby or even a profession, one way to improve skills and grow as a photographer is to join a club.
Oklahoma has several options for photography clubs, but perhaps the longest-running is the Oklahoma Camera Club (OCC). Formed in 1931 during the early days of photography and long before camera phones, the OCC holds meetings on two Tuesday evenings each month.
“[Our members] come to learn and share ideas, to develop their photographic skills, to enjoy the art of photography,” says OCC president Jaci Finch.
The mission of the club includes helping photographers, from beginning hobbyists to professionals, to advance their knowledge of photography through fellowship and sharing of information and skills. OCC is also a founding member of the national organization Photographic Society of America, which offers a wide range of learning opportunities for those interested in art form.
Another club that supports photographic pursuits in Oklahoma is the Oklahoma City Photography Group.
“Members can expect to improve their skills, learn from experts and connect with others who share their passion for photography,” says Magee Delos Santos, the group’s event manager. “It’s a practical, hands-on approach to learning, emphasizing fun and social interaction.”
The barriers for entrance are low for these clubs – no expertise required. Everyone is welcome and membership is not typically required to attend meetings. And no fancy, high-level equipment is expected either, though many of their members do enjoy practicing with actual cameras in addition to smartphone cameras. All skill levels are welcome.
“Whether someone is just starting out or has been photographing for years, they will find opportunities to grow and enhance their skills,” says Santos. “[Our] focus is on fostering a welcoming and engaging atmosphere where all members can feel comfortable and supported in their photographic journey.”
Pictured are a collection of photographs from Oklahoma Camera Club members:
Photographic Technology
At the Oklahoma Camera Club, there is an emphasis on learning all the technology throughout the photography process, both for actually taking photos and for editing them later.
“Most of our members are hobby photographers and have a real interest in developing a high level skill – using the technology required both to use the equipment for taking the picture and the computer skills for finishing their work [and] taking pride in the finished photographic image – projected, print or both,” says Finch.
The OCC offers classes that can help photographers enhance the images they have taken.
“The club members work together with the primary goals of having fun, sharing information, and learning both the technology and the art of photography,” says Finch.
