Camera club celebrates 50 years of helping artists

A camera club supporting local photographers of all abilities is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

Mid Somerset Camera Club meets every Tuesday in Street - and has done for decades.

In 1974, workers from Somerset-based shoe manufacturer Clarks came together so that they could purchase camera film in bulk.

The club has since evolved and now runs weekly sessions, exhibitions and competitions.

"Through Covid, we ran virtual meetings," said John Law, the club's chairman.

"We provided a useful lifeline to the outside world and our members appreciated the human contact and friendship we provided."

New member Charlotte Cobb joined the club because she wanted to take her photography more seriously.

"I didn't have very much confidence with my skills but I was determined to put in some hard work.

"Janet, my mentor, has helped me no end from the basics of understanding the exposure triangle to making my images competition ready.

"For anyone that is starting out, or wanting to gain further skills, I would highly recommend the mentoring programme."

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Situated as it is near the North Somerset coast, the cities of Bristol and Bath, and the Somerset Levels, the club regularly takes field trips in the area.

Adam Humphrey, the club's programme secretary, said: "We aim to provide a learning experience and a social meeting place where like-minded photographers can come together.

"Our research has shown that the social side of club life is a valued part of what it does."