THERE is “a real buzz in the air” ahead of Forest of Dean Camera Club’s second post-covid season, with members inviting even more newcomers to join them next month.
The club, which organises a range of workshops, guest speakers and participation in local events for members, is hosting a pre-season “come and meet us” event at Viney Hill Sports and Social Club on Sunday, September 4.
Last year, their welcome event saw membership increase by more 30 per cent, with long-time member Alan Waterman saying the newcomers “have really added to the vibrancy of the club”.
In the last year, the club has been invited to attend a host of local events, photographing the community at Parkend Carnival, Cinderford Arts Jab and Speech House Food Festival to name a few.
The club has strong links to Viney St Swithins Football Club and regularly photograph their matches home and away.
They also organise a variety of competitions and workshops, including with local models and groups such as Dean Forest Railway and falconry Little Owlets.
There are also challenges for members to complete during the year, such as ‘Just Mobile’ in which the best photgraphs taken on a mobile phone are judged by the group.
But Alan says the club is about more than just photography, with social events and informal get togethers a key part of the season.
He explained that during the summer, the members meet at their “local watering hole” The Rising Sun in Moseley Green, where “sometimes” the talk is of photography, but not essentially.
He said of the club: “It is a lively welcoming social club.
“Photography is just the vehicle fancy expensive equipment is not necessary.
“With another expected influx of new members this autumn who knows what 2022/23 will bring.”
For more information, go the Forest of Dean Camera Club Facebook page.