Steering Committee message for Fall 2026

 

Welcome to another year of photography, learning, sharing, and of course, plenty of fun!!  

 

Over the summer, the Steering Committee mapped out an exciting program for the year ahead. A big thank-you to all the members who joined us and shared their ideas and input. We think we’ve come up with a lineup that has something for everyone—from those just getting started to those who have been behind a camera for years.

 

We have a terrific roster of experienced and engaging speakers covering topics that include portraiture, abstract photography, still life, nature, preparing photos for print, and the ever-interesting world of AI editing tools. We’ve also got several critiques and contests on the calendar.

 

 

We’re especially excited about several programs that connect learning with opportunities to put those lessons into practice. On October 5, Jack Anon, a judge from Erie, will evaluate member images entered in the 2026 digital contest and provide pointers for getting photographs competition- and exhibition-ready. Jack will return on December 7 to critique images selected using the principles he recommended.

 

On November 16, Christianne Ebel will give a presentation on portraiture, and on January 4, she’ll return to judge a portraiture contest. Mary Scheibe’s presentation on abstract photography will likewise be followed by an abstract-themed contest, judged by artist Robert Burger, whose work is funky and truly otherworldly!

 

Check the Meeting section for full details on all of this year’s programs.

 

 

We’re also introducing interactive meetings, where a topic is presented and members share and discuss their own images related to the theme. It’s a chance to see what other members are seeing, thinking, and creating—and perhaps to look at your own photography in a different way.

 

The theme for our inaugural discussion is “Sh*ts and Giggles.” You probably don’t need us to explain the concept. Just bring your sense of humor—and some photos!

 

 

Both newer and long-time members are on deck for our traditional Fifteen Minutes of Fame programs, scheduled for the Fall and Spring. Members get 15 minutes or so to showcase their work, share a project, tell a photographic story, or simply give us a peek at what they’ve been up to. It’s a great way to get to know the people behind the photographs.

 

 

The much-loved Photo Scavenger Hunt returns in the Spring, along with the 4th annual online digital contest. Open to the public, the contest is also an important fundraiser for the club.

 

We’ve also been working behind the scenes on some fresh branding. Our new logo, club business cards, and brochures will be revealed soon! A big shout-out to Laurie Santoro, who has provided her graphic design expertise to this effort.

 

 

As usual, we’ll kick off the year with our Fall Social on September 21 at the Churchville Nature Center. We’ll spend the first hour or so noshing, chatting, and catching up. Then we’ll open the Zoom session for anyone who can’t attend in person, and members will be invited to share some of their favorite photos from the summer. Please remember that Dues are Due! If you are coming to the social please bring a check with you, or mail it to Elaine Barkan, Treasurer

 

Details will be coming by email and will also be posted on our Facebook page. Prospective members are always welcome to join us as guests and see what we’re all about. If you’re interested, please email info@churchvillephoto.club.

 

We’re looking forward to another year of learning, experimenting, sharing, and inspiring one another!

 

See you soon!

 

Marty, Dianne, Elaine, Sara and Laura