Share your passion at the Bonza Bay Photographic Society
As a photographer, I know for a fact that there is so much more to my camera and its functions that I am currently aware of. I could, of course, leave it like that and limit myself and my capabilities, but what purpose would that serve if I want to better myself and improve my photography skills? None whatsoever, of course.
The fact is that there is almost always room for improvement, whatever your skill in life. We can’t claim to be the best at what we do, we can only do our best and alongside that comes making the most out of what’s available to us. In terms of photography, we can ensure that we dedicate enough time to learning as much about our camera equipment as possible. We can get to know other photographers and exchange tips and guidance. We can join clubs and participate in assignments, exercises and outings. Whatever our style of photography, there is always more we can learn, it’s an ongoing process.
Last weekend I went along to Bonza Bay Beach with some photographers from the Bonza Bay Photographic Society. I was invited, along with others, to see what it was all about and participate in a project that was nothing short of awesome. With fire dancing, steel wool and luminescent orb spinning, it was an eye opener (and a first) for me and a pleasure to work alongside other photographers – some professional, others first-timers – trying to get that perfect shot. I received invaluable guidance that evening and enjoyed being in the company of others who didn’t mind my asking the simplest of questions. After all, the most professional photographers started from scratch and would have asked similar questions I am sure.
After completing our photography session, we headed to the Bonza Bay Bowling Club where we had a braai and got to know the other members of the club. It was a chilled social event and one where you felt comfortable enough to chat further about the assignment just completed. Personally, I think it’s a wonderful photography club to belong to, to be able to participate in such projects and also attend the Tuesday evening meetings.
The Society was established in June 2012 by Michael J. Stone with co-founders Rod Taylor and Carol Stanton. Michael was, at that stage, president of the Bonza Bay Bowling Club and decided to incorporate a society to increase interest and membership. With photography being such a popular hobby, numbers grew and the club meetings became a permanent fixture for many photographers in and around the city.
Today, Paul Griffin is the Chairman of the Society and has been for the past two years. He tells me that the club’s aim is for both new and professional photographers to meet in a friendly, social and fun environment to enjoy their hobby/profession together, and to learn from one another along the way. Membership fees cost R300 per year, entitling you to all facilities at the Bowling Club. Visitors are also welcome at a charge of R20 per meeting.
The guidance and help received at these meetings is indeed invaluable and a wonderful opportunity to get together and share passion, experience and knowledge of photography on a more sociable level.
As an example of the type of outings you can participate in, I have included one of the photographs that I took last weekend of the steel wool spinning. Other photographs featured here are by various members of the club and are, I’m sure you will agree, absolutely stunning.
Should you be interested in finding out more information about the Bonza Bay Photographic Society, you can contact Paul Griffin on 082 852 7785, email him, or visit the Facebook group.