This article is from page 80 of the 2008-07-29 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 80 JPG
CAMERA enthusiasts in Clare can get clicking thanks to the formation of the Ennis Camera and Photo- graphic Society.
Patrick Ryan, Tina Walker and Ni- all Considine established the society as a forum for professional and ama- teur photographers from Ennis, west Clare and north Clare.
All three share a keen interest in photography and were eager to cater for the needs of similar enthusiasts.
Club president Patrick Ryan became aware of the need for a photographic society through discussions with fel- low photographers and artists.
Patrick explained, “Much of pho- tography takes its roots from tradi-
tional art – thus many artists evolve into excellent photographers. They felt that if they had a forum to talk about the more technical aspects of photography – that they too could bring the artistic flair to the group which would benefit everyone”’.
This has certainly proven to be true – with over 20 regular members at- tending the fortnightly meetings. There is an excellent mix of pho- tographers at all levels – from pro- fessionals to members who are just thinking of buying a camera and tal- ented artists.
This has provided for some lively debate during the sessions around the various artistic and technical as- pects of photography.
Club secretary Tina Watkins, her-
self an artist and budding photog- rapher, said, “Having the discussion across all elements of photography from composition to finishing has helped in learning new skills which I can apply to photography and paint- ing alike.’The club is not strictly confined to digital based photogra- phy either. Several members shoot photographs using film and many of the members who have never used film are very keen to understand this traditional approach and apply it to the new digital era.
Members also meet regularly for field trips throughout Clare. The aim is to implement shared ideas and techniques in a real life. Recent outings included visits to Dromore Woods and the Aran Islands. An ex-
hibition of work is also planned for later in the year. It 1s also hoped that the club will play an active role in lo- cal community groups and organiza- tions or centres of learning that are interested in photography.
Many of the members’ work can be viewed at www.enniscameraclub. Lovee mem UOercmaalNemAlbus sme LUO NGlolF-RULE The club meets every two weeks on a Tuesday night in Clarecastle GAA Club House at 8pm, all new mem- bers, regardless of skill or technical ability, are welcome.
The next meeting takes place tonight (Tuesday July 29). Further details are available from Niall Considine at the Ennis Fuji Centre on O’Connell Square, email:niall@photocart.ie or or IR Ole merer-cle eee