Camera club can help you call shots
For anyone purchasing a new camera, or who has received one as a Christmas gift, getting to know how to use it and get striking results can be a daunting experience.
The controls, the relationship between shutter speeds and F-stops, the menu system – all seem designed to make taking photographs as hard as possible.
But as Terry Hawkins, the general secretary of Bridgnorth and District Camera Club explains: "We were all beginners once.
Terry said: "We don't have a 'beginners' class' at the club where you are sat down with paper and pencil and get detention if you fail. However, we do hope that you obtain some useful information at the club each week rather than bombard you with all the answers that you probably won't retain anyway.
"We have found that the best way to learn is simply to ask, and all our members will try and help, please don't be shy, you'll find us a friendly bunch."
"The Bridgnorth & District Camera Club can proudly boast of helping many of its members to become excellent photographers over the years.
"Unfortunately we can't all become top photographers but we do hope to help you become a better photographer."
The club was formed in 1952 by a group of like-minded enthusiasts and since then has developed alongside the technological advances made in photography.
Terry said that photography has moved on in giant leaps over the last few years with the introduction and development of digital imaging.
He said: "We open our doors to all types of photography and we are certain that we can accommodate everyone.
"Whether you are an experienced photographer or just a keen beginner we would welcome your involvement."
And who knows, you could soon be producing images to rank alongside those featured on this page which were all produced by club members.
The photographs range from atmospheric landscape shots, featuring views of Bridgnorth as well as seaside shots to pictures of wildlife and railway stations.
"Why not come along and visit us if you need help with film, digital or if you want advice on software like Adobe Photoshop?
"Just ask, we have someone who will help you become that little bit better.
"The club holds regular competitions, with Midland Counties Photographic Federation judges for all competitions.
"Along with this we have some excellent lecturers who will demonstrate how the professionals do it.
The club meets between September and May in the Community Hall, Severn Street, on Thursday evenings, between 7.45pm and 9.30pm.
Annual subscriptions to the club cost £20. In addition, there are door fees, which are £2.50 for members and £3 for visitors. These fees are inclusive of tea or coffee and biscuits.
For further information on the club, visit their website at www.bridgnorthcameraclub.org.uk
If you need help but can't get to the club there is a free help page in the 'Guides' section called 'Digital for Beginners' on the club webpage, available as a downloadable PDF file, which has a few simple tips to help you on your way.
