Margaret C. Benmore's Posts - SaltSpring Photography Club2024-03-28T15:26:26ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmorehttps://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1548044688?profile=RESIZE_48X48&width=48&height=48&crop=1%3A1https://ssphotog.ning.com/profiles/blog/feed?user=36oa5o1z2ow87&xn_auth=noMinutes March 14,2018tag:ssphotog.ning.com,2018-03-24:3859646:BlogPost:3804622018-03-24T16:54:17.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p><strong>Photo Club Minutes</strong></p>
<p><strong>March 14, 2018</strong></p>
<p><span> </span></p>
<p><strong><span>Opening:</span></strong> <span>Avril Kirby opened the meeting... about 25 folks came out to play... and learn about scanography from Janet Dwyer... a woman outstanding in her field...</span></p>
<p><span>The gathering was lovely full of chatter and laughter... always a good sign... it really sounded like a group of…</span></p>
<p><strong>Photo Club Minutes</strong></p>
<p><strong>March 14, 2018</strong></p>
<p><span> </span></p>
<p><strong><span>Opening:</span></strong> <span>Avril Kirby opened the meeting... about 25 folks came out to play... and learn about scanography from Janet Dwyer... a woman outstanding in her field...</span></p>
<p><span>The gathering was lovely full of chatter and laughter... always a good sign... it really sounded like a group of friends...</span></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong><span>New Members:</span></strong> <span>Jesse Freemont, Janet Hamilton</span></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong><span>Shows:</span></strong> <span> </span></p>
<p><span> <strong>Festive Fernwood:</strong> Bruce McPhee has had a very successful run of his wonderful landscapes... even sold 5... congrats...</span></p>
<p><span> Mike Levy will be showing for March... treat yourself to a pastry and admire his work... always a pleasure and a lesson...</span></p>
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<p><span> <strong>Country Grocer Café:</strong> Margaret C. Benmore... SaltSpring Goddesses return for an encore... until the end of March...</span></p>
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<p><span> <strong>Ladysmith show</strong>... Jana won the “Unaltered Photography” category with her frozen rose portrait... well done Jana</span></p>
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<p><span> <strong>Vancouver Island School of Art</strong>... Avril will be showing April 13, located on Quadra in Victoria</span></p>
<p><strong><span> Electric Vehicles:</span></strong> <span>Ann Mccolm is working with the island Electric Vehicles Group for an event June 23/24... it will be at the big barn at the Farmer’s Institute... she has posted a notice on our website... let’s get out there and support the Electric Vehicle people with some amazing images and little imagination...</span></p>
<p><span>She is looking for images of anything mobile and electric... bikes, cars, baby buggies and 3 wheeled scooters (they are sooooo cute) ...</span></p>
<p><strong><span> Eclectic Visions 2018 (EV)</span></strong><span>... Jana Zachariou has been working on hard to produce the best EV yet... she has simplified, organized, booked and registered.... It is looking great with 29 people signed up for the show... She would appreciate the fees as quickly as possible in order to have an operating budget ... Send in your $$$’s to Jana as soon as you can... Looking forward to another amazing show... If you need any further information about EV Jana has also posted the rules and dates on the website under Blogs...</span></p>
<p><strong><span>Announcements:</span></strong></p>
<p><strong><span> Club DVD... “Spring/Summer on SaltSpring</span></strong><span>”... everyone is invited to send Judy McPhee 10 images (landscape) she has posted the requirements and guidelines on the website... it is a fun project that brings a great deal of delight and relaxation to those who get to see it at the hospital... 3 screens are operating there (Emergency, Extended care and the Blood Station)... great Stress relief and passes waiting time in a beautiful way... well done Judy for producing them and to all who contribute too...</span></p>
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<p><strong>Educational Bit:</strong> our guest speaker was Janet Dwyer... She of Scanography fame... It was a fun and lively presentation with lots of questions and discussion... Janet shared in detail her process and working environment as well her growth over the years... Her shared enthusiasm for the whole process especially when it involves wrangling live critters on her scanner... Janet’s images are clean (she spends hours cleaning dust off the scanner)... Some of her images are gently disturbing with the juxtaposition of the materials in the image (bird skulls in flowers, frozen flowers)... Others are very simple, elegant and sophisticated... Great composition and colour ranges... Such variation and experimentation... She is definitely inspirational with her work... and is encouraging us all to play with the concept... explore the constructed composition in our photography... as she suggested next months challenge...</p>
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<p><strong>The April challenge:</strong> “Arrangements” inspired by Janet’s presentation you are challenged to produce an image... contrived with purpose... an arrangement or Still Life...</p>
<p>A Still Life: Inanimate subject matter selected and arranged, with special attention to the control of composition, story, lighting and such... tell us a story with your image... you can do it using a scanner or just use your camera...</p>
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<p><strong>Evening Show/Challenge:</strong> “ Shadows & Reflections</p>
<p>It was a great show... fun to see what other people do with the topic and the wide variation of interpretations... go to website to view the show... Doug has posted it in the Blog section...</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Next Meeting: Wednesday, April 11, 2018</strong></p>
<p><strong> Lions Club… 7:00 pm</strong></p>
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<p><strong>Editorial aside:</strong> If you have any comments, corrections or additions please feel free --- all help is welcome…</p>
<p>I would like to encourage all club members to take part in the conversations on the website --- they are interesting and endlessly informative… Share your pictures with the club on the site – you know we all love to look at images and it would give us a chance to get to know a little bit about you … let’s participate…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><em>Thanks for your patience...</em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em>Cheers… MCB </em></strong></p>Nov 8 2017 meeting minutes...tag:ssphotog.ning.com,2017-11-23:3859646:BlogPost:3489992017-11-23T03:00:00.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p align="center"><b>Photo Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>November 8, 2017</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>My apologies... but life/time have been blasting by at warp speed... in a good way mostly... so the notes slipped under incoming things to do... MCB... sorry G&C... lots of hugs...</b></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Opening:</b> Another amazing turnout... there must have been 35-30 friendly folks... the room was a humming and lots of new faces... and young faces too... it was…</p>
<p align="center"><b>Photo Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>November 8, 2017</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>My apologies... but life/time have been blasting by at warp speed... in a good way mostly... so the notes slipped under incoming things to do... MCB... sorry G&C... lots of hugs...</b></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Opening:</b> Another amazing turnout... there must have been 35-30 friendly folks... the room was a humming and lots of new faces... and young faces too... it was great...</p>
<p align="right"><b> </b></p>
<p><b>New Members:</b> Lois, sorry didn’t catch the last name, Terry Curell, Karen Olender Kipmis, Karen Hroch</p>
<p>We are looking forward to getting to know you and your work... show us what you can do... and Participate, Participate, Participate... The club is all about sharing experiences and information... Let us know if there is anything we can do to help you with your photography or life on the island... welcome... come on out and play... and learn...</p>
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<p><b>Announcements</b> & <b>Current & Upcoming Club Member Shows:</b></p>
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<p><b> <u>Country Grocer Café:</u> Sylvia Beech</b> is showing her work <b>“Pride”</b> in the café it is a delightful through the Pride of SaltSpring... colourful and high spirited and full of fantasy... great palette... ... thanks for sharing Sylvia... </p>
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<p><b> <u>Gallery 8:</u> “ Exhibition of Small Works”</b> a wonderful collection by SaltSpring artists small is beautiful and small is interesting... <b>Opening Nov 24<sup>th..</sup></b></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p> <b><u>Fernwood Café</u></b><u>:</u> Photo Club’s Greetings to the Island... it is about sending beauty, colour, humour, spirituality, multi-cultural...out across the island and out into the universe... all very SaltSpring... It is lively, fun and very interesting... thanks all who</p>
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<p><b><u>Pemberton Holmes:</u></b> Judy McPhee is showing her beautiful work in the boardrooms ... lots of traffic through there over the year... great place to hang...</p>
<div><p> <b><u>Festive Fernwood:</u> </b>The Photo Club will be collecting images to do an installation at Fernwood Café... one of our favourite venues “Festive Greetings” from our club members... let’s send out our heart to our fellow islanders and visitors... and the rest of the world... and celebrate the Festive...</p>
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<p><b>To participate bring your contribution to Fernwood Café at 3:30 – 4:30 Saturday December 9...</b> any size from teeny to semi huge, well large’ish... any one or two/person... this is very free form and offers an opportunity for creative hanging...</p>
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<p>We will be hanging Sat as things are coming in... so if you want to help with that stick around... it is always fun... If you can’t make it at that time give your work to a friend to bring along or drop it of with me...mcb</p>
<p>The opening will be on <b>Sunday December 10, 3-5</b>... gather and share the warmth, a warm cappacino/tea and nibblies... enjoy the hugs...</p>
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<p> <b>Monday Coffee Photo Klatch:</b> is the huge uber booth at Penny’s (Golf Course) at 10’ish +... Come on out and get to really “know” your fellow club members... some of them even talk camera, photography, art, community stuff... great folks and lots for great advice, help and stories...</p>
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<p><b>ArtSpring Lobby Show:</b><u> </u> <b>Jan 8 – 30<sup>th</sup></b>... This year the show theme is “ Experimental ”... oh does that tickle your creative taste buds... Lets show the World what we can do with Experiment... So many Definitions of experimental... So many Outcomes are possible... Let’s make it dramatic, vibrant and there is beautiful tranquility and quiet in other experiments... The personalities and thoughts of the Artist unveil... Come on out and participate... it’s big space... so dare... It’s fun to see a piece of your own work hanging in a public space... It gives you and others a very different perspective of the work... don’t be shy... Wendy Rosier and elves will be sharing the rules and regs and ETA stuff... details details... watch the emails and website...</p>
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<p><b>Club Elections:</b> will be held at the January 10 meeting... so nominate or volunteer for the assortment of positions... step up and participate in taking the club in wonderful new directions... grow it...</p>
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<p><b>Club Website:</b> I would like to encourage all club members to take part in the conversations on the website --- they are interesting and endlessly informative… Share your pictures with the club on the site – you know we all love to look at images and it would give us a chance to get to know a little bit about you … Let’s participate… I think the website is the clubhouse of the former generation... so lets make virtual chatter and exchange ideas, opinions and news...</p>
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<p><b>Guest Visit from Photo Synthesis... Seth Berkowitz and Alane Lalonde</b> brought a wonderful idea to the Club... they were wondering if our Club would like to join forces with Photo Synthesis whom they were representing to develop a Photography Festival (?) on SaltSpring... a month long photography event, a come-to event for visitors and locals... It would feature members of both organizations as well as others in the SSI community... Bring together: shows, galleries, features, workshops.... A focus on SaltSpring Photography in all it’s wonderful ways... It is an exciting idea and offers all sorts of opportunities... Sorting out the organizational details, logistics and finding people interested in taking it on... Oh so many things to think/talk/workout... but a wonderful idea to think about...</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Guest Presenter: “ Portraiture” a Look Back... Seth Berkowitz...</b> What a fun gallop through some wonderful portrait photographers of yesteryear... Their techniques, tricks, subjects and interests... It was a lovely show of strong iconic images... thanks Seth for the treat and the conversation... you are delightfully informed and presented it beautifully...</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Evening Show/Challenge:</b> <b> “ INSPIRATION “ </b> It never ceases to amaze me at how creative our Club is are with a concept... they deliver such wonderful interpretations of the theme... strong work... </p>
<p>It was a great show... go to website to do a rerun Slideshow November... it is lovely seeing it again in the comfort of my own computer... enjoy </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Up Coming Meetings:</b><b> </b> will feature: <b>January 10<sup>th</sup></b> Micheal Wall: <b>Febuary 14<sup>th</sup></b> Greg Constantine and Jennifer... a artist in residence at SaltSpring Schools/man about the island... you can check them both out online... I think you will find we are delighted and priviledged to have them coming to address the Club... so come on out learn and participate...</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Next Meeting: December 13, 2017</b></p>
<p align="center"><b> Lion’s Club 7:00 pm </b></p>
<p><b>The challenge:</b> offered by our guest speaker Seth Berkowitz <b>“ Boundaries</b>”... So stretch your boundaries around that</p>
<p> my dearies !!!!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Our Island offers many things/people/places all pushing at boundaries in a multitude of ways and areas.. The subject is only limited by your imagination/creativity... Have fun with it... Drop your Boundaries... Challenge yourself... take it out there...</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Editorial aside:</b> If you have any comments, corrections or additions please feel free --- all help is welcome…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>Thanks for your patience & understanding...</i></b></p>
<p><b><i>Cheers... MCB </i></b></p>Jan 11, 2017 Meeting Minutes...tag:ssphotog.ning.com,2017-01-17:3859646:BlogPost:3247872017-01-17T17:26:53.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p align="center">Photo Club Minutes</p>
<p align="center">Jan 11,2017...</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Wow... where did all these folks (35’ish) come from... I walked into a room that was buzzing... lots of new faces... lots of conversation and laughter... lots of old friends too... it was wonderful... </p>
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<p align="center"><b><i>Make 2017 wonderful for you and those around you...</i></b></p>
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<p><b>Meeting/business/housekeeping part was presented by our esteemed President Wendy…</b></p>
<p align="center">Photo Club Minutes</p>
<p align="center">Jan 11,2017...</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Wow... where did all these folks (35’ish) come from... I walked into a room that was buzzing... lots of new faces... lots of conversation and laughter... lots of old friends too... it was wonderful... </p>
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<p align="center"><b><i>Make 2017 wonderful for you and those around you...</i></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Meeting/business/housekeeping part was presented by our esteemed President Wendy Rosier... </b></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Firstly she welcomed some new members to this fun group of folks... Bob MacKie and Budd Stewart...</p>
<p>While fact checking just now ... I found whole bunch of folks I didn’t recognize...</p>
<p> </p>
<p>You have joined a very welcoming, sharing group of people with buckets of knowledge about any aspect of photography you can think of... If you want to know something about photography just ask... There is someone in this club who will be able to help you... Just ask... Welcome ... we are looking forward seeing you at the meetings, workshops, show, hearing you through the website and seeing your images... come on out and show us what you can do...</p>
<p> </p>
<p>What makes the Photo Club the way it is you might well ask... It is the active participation by people just like you.... So come on out... play with us... Work with us to keep the club vital, spirited, growing and interesting... Help us to gather as friends who share an interest in photography... help to keep the club purring along for the benefit of us all and the community... </p>
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<p><b>New location...</b> due to renovations at the Harbour House the club will need to find a new meeting place for at least a couple of months... You will be notified of the change of location by email...</p>
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<p>Doug McMillin needed to <b>two strong men</b> to help him dismantle the Clubs Screen and frame from the HH wall... the task was done by many strong men right after the meeting... good work guys and thanks...</p>
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<p><b>Annual fees</b> are due... $30.00 please give it to Pat Page our ever diligent Treasure extraordinaire... Best entertainment on the SaltSpring at that price...</p>
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<p><b>Shows running around the island...</b></p>
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<p><b>ArtSpring Main Lobby area...</b> The Photo Clubs annual Winter show... it was hung by a wonderful team of Maggie Aggiro, Judy McPhee, Wendy Rosier and many other volunteers... Thanks to you all... it is beautiful... The Driftwood had a wonderful article covering it... The show has some amazing work by your fellow members... Be sure to drop by before Jan 31... treat yourself... it is a wonderful show with a great range of work... well done all of you who made it happen...</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Country Grocer Café...</b> is presently showing the amazing work of Colton Prevost... stop by and check it out...</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Roasting Company:</b> now has two exhibition areas, the main shop and a new hallway, entry wall space... It is a great space for giving an up close and personal viewing... a more participatory viewing... Thanks to Ross who stick handled the creation of this space... and thanks to SaltSpring Roasting Company for encouraging the arts in our community... Judy McPhee and Maggie Argiro for opening the space with their beautiful work... a beautiful way to christen a new space... Drop by and check it out... word is the coffee, treats and now photos are worth the trip... enjoy...</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Educational Section:</b> </p>
<p><b>Photo finishing Options:</b> Doug McMillin mounted an amazing educational display of various photo finishing/printing technologies or methods... It enabled us to see the differences between the many options available fairly readily...</p>
<p>The display shows a variety of papers and printing options... it also showed some of the more novel things available like: canvas, wood, metal, acrylic... Doug shared with us briefly... the pros and cons of each... as well as what the visual strengths you can build on... I am sure Doug will be more that willing to share his finding with you if you ask... he is that kinda guy... </p>
<p>Thanks Doug... what a great job... it was so clear and simple and informative... </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Night Photography</b> was the topic of Bob Roger’s discussion... as always he presented in an informed relaxed way with a love for his subject... Bob is a master of night photography... his images of downtown Ganges are full of a deep feeling for the place and the way it breathes and sings... it is a living, resting organism... Bob had many hints for us... first of all be Safe... be seen ... dress for the event... this is a mission... However Bob pointed out you can easily do it with the simpliest of point and shoots and the most complex camera you can find... The point is have the camera there, have a system to brace it steadily... Rain is good... great effects and reflections, mood... go out in the Weather and play... it offers endless possibilities... Bob also demonstrated some beautiful work done in a theatre setting... dress rehearsals are the best time for shooting, it allows you great lighting and also closer proximity to the stage/action... Photography during a performance is strongly prohibited... as it can be very distracting for the performers, technicians and the other audience members...</p>
<p>Thanks Bob for another interesting presentation... well done and we are looking forward to next months pre meeting Night Photography walk-about and pointers... Time and place to be posted on the Website... remember it has to be after dark... so bundle up and lets go play in the dark...</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Next months Challenge:</b> “<b>Night Shots...”</b> well now... what can you do with that... what do you see in the dark... what do you feel in the dark in different settings... how do you make the dark pop with colour... how do you use the mystery of the dark... rural/urban... nature/man-made.... see what you can do with night shots...</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Evening Slideshow...</b> Last months challenge was <b>Travel</b>... a pretty open ended subject for people on this island... The show (available on the website to review) incorporated local travel, international travel, travel food, cultures, high Art, architecture... adventures, and natural scenery that must be seen to be believed... It was a wonderful show of images and the stories that accompanied them... some fun, some moving and others interesting and educational... what a wonderful world we all travel through...</p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><b>Next meeting:</b> February 8... 7:00 P.M. Watch for an email or notice on the website... mystery location...</p>
<p align="center">Don’t forget the <b>shooting in the dark session</b> before the meeting... again timing and location to be announced...</p>
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<p> </p>Photo Club Minutes Sept 14, 2016tag:ssphotog.ning.com,2016-09-22:3859646:BlogPost:3134672016-09-22T03:29:30.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p align="center"><b>Photo Club Minutes Sept 14, 2016</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Opening...</b> Welcomed by Curt Firestone extraordinaire past president in is own style he scrabble to cover for Wendy who was lost on the way.... who then zoomed in in a knick of time to save the day... what a team... about 22 people were in the rowdy crowd making Curt’s dance even more interesting... a lively crowd indeed... fun...</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>New Members...</b> We welcomed new members and some new faces who…</p>
<p align="center"><b>Photo Club Minutes Sept 14, 2016</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Opening...</b> Welcomed by Curt Firestone extraordinaire past president in is own style he scrabble to cover for Wendy who was lost on the way.... who then zoomed in in a knick of time to save the day... what a team... about 22 people were in the rowdy crowd making Curt’s dance even more interesting... a lively crowd indeed... fun...</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>New Members...</b> We welcomed new members and some new faces who might become new members... welcome to: Mindy Heppner, Leaf Lund, Don Clog who brings another cowboy hat to our collection of hatted dudes... and wonderful subculture in the club check them out... Ron Hawkins, Douglas K. Fryett, Susan Davenport... I think there were a couple of stranger scoping us out... but hopefully they had a wonderful time... and enjoyed Simon’s B& W presentation and of course our own excellent interactive Travel/BW slideshow... Come on out a play with us... You will have fun and meet some pretty amazing people with a wide range of skills they will happily share with you...</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Visitor...</b> We also had a very special warm welcome to our own Trudy Sloan who came to visit from Comox/Courteny... Trudy is an honorary Club member (for all of her hard in helping to birth the photo Club and feeding us at opening... )We welcome her anytime with open arms any time she is on the island... especially if she brings treats....</p>
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<p><b>Education Team...</b> Curt Firestone informed us that he is officially turning over the Education Co-ordinator role to Ross McLeod and his team... and boy do they have things lined up for us... we are going to be active participants and learn lots... they have wonderful plans... Brace yourselves... and come on out and learn stuff... it doesn’t hurt a bit... trust me... (lifelong learning resister, have whiplash from learning curves)... but I think their plans sound exciting...</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Now Showing about the island</b>...</p>
<p><b>County Grocer Cafe:</b> Elizabeth Dow is presenting a lovely cross section of her styles and subjects of interest.... Drop by and have coffee/treat with a friend and really look it what is she saying, what has she captured...</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>SaltSpring Gallery (on McPhilips)</b> has a mixed media show by two extremely talented artists ( Mike Levy, photogrpaher and LeeAnn Norgard potter) with a wonderful high level of craftsmanship an presentation... It is a beautiful show on many levels... Mike’s photography is always exceptional, but I think that this portfolio of work in truly exceptional... the whole concept and end products are just outstanding... please drop by... Bob Rogers also has a few of his pieces showing in the gallery so be sure to take a peek at them...</p>
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<p><b>Fernwood Café</b> is now showing works by me (MCB) Street Art is a collection of international graffiti and shop windows... enjoy with a cup of something and one of Jen’s special treats... </p>
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<p><b>The Club Seasonal DVD</b> has now been finalized by Judy McPhee who as taken over from Wendy Rosier... Judy has done a magical job with our images once again while she was learning the ropes from Wendy... Thanks Judy and we are all looking forward to seeing the final product... The blood letting and emergency waiting at Lady Minto is so much more interesting and less stressful with our slide shows... everyone tells me ... Thanks all for your contributions... Judy is now going to be calling for a winter production... so sift through your stuff and send her winter gems... Judy will be sending out an email with the specifics very soon... thanks Judy... nice to have you working with us...</p>
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<p><b>ArtSpring...</b> Bernadette Mertens-McAllister... will be posting a notice for ArtSpring’s celebration of Arts & Crafts... she is looking for demonstrators and exhibitors... so watch the notices on the website...</p>
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<p><b>Coming Opportunities to Show</b>... don’t forget that the club is booked to hang an Island Greetings show at Fernwood again this year... It is our opportunity to send out love and wishes for peace to our friends, visitors and neighbours on the island ...</p>
<p>While you are digging through your winter shots for Judy McPhees Winter DVD production... pull out a few glitz seasonal to print up for the Island Greetings Show at Fernwood... Then we will have a Opening get together for coffee and treats to celebrate it on the Sunday afternoon...</p>
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<p><b>Educational Session...</b> <b>Black and White Photography by our very own Simon Henson...</b> What a wonderful presentation... Simon showed us that Black and White is so much more that just the lack of colour... it is also an element of design in it’s own right... It would be wonderful if Simon could present his slides/notes on the Blog as my note taking in the dark was somewhat limited and the old memory is’t what she used to be... He had so many interesting ideas and points to consider... It really was a great presentation and gave us lots to think about... Simon will also be running a session at Burgoyne Bay Barn... 9:30-11 am September 24<sup>th</sup>... If the weather is iffy so much the better and we will be sheltered while we play... Simon suggest a tripod might add to the fun... This is to help us work with the B&W concepts and considerations that he presented... ( <b>note...</b> this is to be an new feature of the Educational presentations ... an opportunity 2 weeks later to practice what we have learned in a hands-on session... great idea guys)... see you in the Barn rain or shine...</p>
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<p><b>The evening slide show</b>... theme... <b>Travel</b>... well that certainly opened the floodgates with an international flare... pictures from everywhere... with a few B&W’s thrown in for fun by people who were ahead of their time...(that is next month all).. it was all good and fun... Doug has posted the show on the website so that you can see and enjoy it all over again... Thanks Doug the master of weaving our work into a wonderful show... it always makes us look so good and I love hearing the back-stories... keep them coming folks...</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Challenge for October meeting...</b> well it is <b>Black and White</b> of course... Simon Henson gave a great talk on Black & White photography with a concise description of the elements of design that make a good photo when colour is removed from the equation. He emphasized trying to see in Black and White rather than just removing colour from an image as an exercise to create better B&W photos. So here is the challenge: shooting any subject in Black and White be prepared to tell us how you shot it, how and why. Here is opportunity to strut you stuff and show us what you can do... what you have learned ... have fun and play with it... take it to the limit...</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Next meeting:</b> October 12... 7pm... Harbour House...</p>
<p></p>
<p>Any mistakes, misspellings, bad grammar and forgotten details are all mine... feel free to add on or correct in the comments section... prize for those who add to the minutes in anyway... </p>
<p>Cheers... MCB </p>
<p></p>
<p> </p>Minutes for March 9, 2016tag:ssphotog.ning.com,2016-03-14:3859646:BlogPost:2819672016-03-14T04:00:00.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p align="center"><b>Photo Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>March 9, 2016</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Opening:</b> It was a <b>Dark and Stormy night</b>... a few hardy souls managed to swim their way in... a small but significant group... Man was it ugly out there... Wendy has a new bell for calling order... it’s pretty cute... but who could get order with this group.... think herding cats, noisy cats... lovable cats... Bigger Bell !!!!</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>New Members:</b> no new…</p>
<p align="center"><b>Photo Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>March 9, 2016</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Opening:</b> It was a <b>Dark and Stormy night</b>... a few hardy souls managed to swim their way in... a small but significant group... Man was it ugly out there... Wendy has a new bell for calling order... it’s pretty cute... but who could get order with this group.... think herding cats, noisy cats... lovable cats... Bigger Bell !!!!</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>New Members:</b> no new members to announce but we welcomed Ann Holt to her first meeting... nice to meet you in person... We are now at 110 members... which is a lot of photography happening on this little island...</p>
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<p><b>Announcements</b>: </p>
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<p> <b>Monday Coffee</b>: The lovely corner table at Penny’s on the Green (Golf Club) is full to brimming with camera nuts, photo talk, good breakfasts and lots of laughter and good company... Be sure to drop by... </p>
<p> Ross McLeod has been leading a pre-coffee shooting adventure for the early bird keeners.. they meet somewhere like downtown Ganges at 7:30’ish and go on a shooting spree... weather has been everything and has produced some interesting learning experiences and images... watch for his announcements on the website....</p>
<p> </p>
<p> <b>The website:</b> has been having hiccups for Wendy and she is straightening things out with Ning and is exploring some options.... Peter Freeman has volunteered to work with her on the website.. as soon as he is finished the house he is building (finished house on SSI never happens Peter)... so we are looking forward to his assistance... Thank you Peter much appreciated...</p>
<p><b> Resource Page...</b> Evelyn Smith will update on the website Resources page... have a look... it is full of wonderful useful information about all sorts of Photography related things; matting, framing, expert help, coaching, reading materials, websites of interest.... check it out ... and add your sources too...</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> Eclectic Visions 2016 (EV)</b>... Jana Zachariou the chair of the EV committee gave a brief update... reminding us that our entrance fee is due <b>March 17<sup>th</sup></b> to confirm your place in the EV Show... There are 20 participants for this years show to date... we can accommodate a few more... so if you are holding back... Come on join the fun, it is well presented show at Gallery 8, well attended and well received and a great opportunity to share your best shots...</p>
<p>Our Student guest has been chosen and will be revealed when the paper work is complete... if you are interested contact Jana at <a href="mailto:janazachariou@hotmail.ca">janazachariou@hotmail.ca</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p> <b>The Education Committee:</b> is driven by Curt Firestone and his merry team of bandits ( Ross McLoed, Doug Wahlston. Jana Zachariou and Simon Henson...) They have all sorts of surprises and delights in store for us... field trips, presentations from experts through to August or September... topics to preparing to show, framing and matting, software sessions, how to put together a show like an expert... Wildlife photography.... so keep an eye on the site for what is going on... it promises to be an interesting and educational year...</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Club Publication:</b> An off shoot of the Education team headed by Doug Walhston will be looking a publishing a Collection of SaltSpring images by the Club members... much like out DVD projects... this is seen possible product... an affordable book or SaltSpring images... of interest to the Real Estate Community, islanders to send to friends... Doug will spearhead a group that will look at the costs, resources, logistics and such.... MCB volunteered to help... always full of ideas... so stay tuned and keep an ear open....</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Boat Field Trip...</b> Ross McLoed offered to take 5 people on a field trip by boat to one of nearby small Gulf islands... to view the wild flowers: the Fawn Lillies and Currants are in full bloom there right now... Needless to say he had a full boat immediately but has sworn to offer more opportunities in the future.... so stay tuned... Thanks Ross... looking forward to it...</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>What’s Showing</b></p>
<p><b> Country Grocer Café:</b> Sylvia Beech has everything ship shape at the Café... a wonderful display of boats and fun on the waters of the West Coast... Drop by and have a look... they are beautiful...</p>
<p> </p>
<p> <b>Fernwood Cafe:</b> has a beautiful show of houses with split personalities by Bill Underwood... Bill uses a soft palette to capture the age and tone of these wonderful images... They depict houses, townhouses, duplexes which outwardly show the personalities of those found within... It is a lovely collection... Venture to the far Northend for coffee and a treat as well as a feast for the eyes... enjoy....</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Harbour House:</b> Anna McColm is showing her fantastic images of the Wild West Coast... until March 31... she captures the power and wonder of the scenery, the wildlife as only an be found in our part of the world... makes you want to grab a kayak and go there... it is so wild, rugged and beautiful... Thanks Anna for sharing your images...</p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p> Also at Harbour House... April 1-30 “ <b>In, Out, Up, Down and Through “</b> by Maggie Agiro and Margaret C. Benmore show about Windows, Doors, Passageways & Stairs)... Architectural Elements that allow access... Our photography surveys these architectural elements of design that are used to interact with or allow access to spaces it includes images from around the world and across cultures... Opening reception Sat. April 2 11 am to 1pm... we would love to se you there... </p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> Pemberton Holmes</b> April 19<sup>th</sup> will see a new show grace the boardroom walls at Pemberton Holmes... These are image of SaltSpring as captured by... Evelyn Smith and TBA</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Educational Bit for the Evening</b><b>.... Sunrises and Sunsets by Jana Zachariou</b>... well this dark and stormy night was full of beautiful sunsets and sunrises.... Jana gave us some useful checklists to prepare us to go hunting for these elusive images: from clothing, to equipment, to filters... coffee, umbrellas, extra batteries and cards.... She shared some of her favourite island spots, seasons and post shoot tricks... Thanks Jana it was fun and informative.... Now we are all going to go out there and challenge you .... Though you are certainly the reigning Champ...</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Evening Slide Show:</b> “ MACRO “ an interesting array of images appeared in Doug’s show... especially the opening Macro of Mac &Cheese... only Doug could do this... we had computer chips and bugs, not computer bugs, real bugs, micron’s and neurons... Plant life and birds.... Close ups of beach life, spiderwebs, tiny tiles from huge mosaics.... and floors of multi-coloured marble... ... Doug has posted the show on the website.... have a look there were some beautiful images... Enjoy...</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Next Meeting: </b></p>
<p align="center"><b>Wednesday, April 13<sup>th</sup>, 2016</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>Harbour House… 7:00 pm </b></p>
<p><b> The challenge for April meeting: Sunrise and Sunsets</b> after Jana’s presentation we were all inspired to rise to the challenge of capturing the sun doing it’s daily performance of coming up and going down... The first challenge is getting up early enough for the sunrise ... Jana gave us lots of tips and hints to help us explore this range of images to take them out of the ordinary.... Go out and have fun with it...</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> Editorial aside:</b> If you have any comments, corrections or additions please feel free --- all help is welcome…</p>
<p>I would like to encourage all club members to take part in the conversations on the website --- they are interesting and endlessly informative… Share your pictures with the club on the site – you know we all love to look at images and it would give us a chance to get to know a little bit about you … let’s participate…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>Thanks for your patience...</i></b></p>
<p><b><i>Cheers… MCB </i></b></p>
<p> </p>February 10th Meeting Minutes...tag:ssphotog.ning.com,2016-02-15:3859646:BlogPost:2791632016-02-15T00:02:56.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p><span><font size="2">Salt Spring Island Photography Club Meeting February 10, 2016 MINUTES</font></span></p>
<div><font size="2"><font size="2">(minutes written by Colleen Barnes </font></font><div>in<font size="2"> Margaret Benmore's absence)</font></div>
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<div><font size="2"><font size="2">Wendy Rosier, announced three </font></font><div><font face="Comic Sans MS">and a tenth </font><span style="font-size: small;"> …</span></div>
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<p><span><font size="2">Salt Spring Island Photography Club Meeting February 10, 2016 MINUTES</font></span></p>
<div><font size="2"><font size="2">(minutes written by Colleen Barnes </font></font><div>in<font size="2"> Margaret Benmore's absence)</font></div>
</div>
<div> </div>
<div><font size="2"><font size="2">Wendy Rosier, announced three </font></font><div><font face="Comic Sans MS">and a tenth </font><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;">new members:</span></div>
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<div><font size="2">- Gary Blake</font></div>
<div><font size="2">- Tom<font face="Comic Sans MS"> Shiffman</font></font></div>
<div><font size="2"><font size="2">-Daniel </font></font><span style="font-size: 13px;">Coopet</span></div>
<div><font size="2"><font size="2"> and Halanna new baby girl... </font></font><span style="font-size: small;">Carter ( our youngest member by proxy at 8 days of age)</span></div>
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<div><font size="2">Guest speaker Susan Huber - speaks to her photograph processes with platinum palladium</font></div>
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<div><font size="2">There was a vote for the four positions:</font></div>
<div> </div>
<div><font size="2">President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer:</font></div>
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<div><font size="2"><font size="2">For President- Wendy Rosier was nominated and seconded by </font></font><div> Curt Firestone</div>
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<div><font size="2"><font size="2">For Vice President - Bob Rogers </font></font><font size="2">was nominated and seconded by Curt Firestone</font></div>
<div><font size="2"><font size="2">For Secretary - Margaret Benmore </font></font><span style="font-size: 13px;">was nominated </span><font size="2"><font size="2"><br/></font></font><font size="2">and seconded by Anna McComb</font></div>
<div><font size="2"><font size="2">For Treasurer - Pat Page </font></font><span style="font-size: 13px;">was nominated, </span><font size="2">seconded by Sylvia Beach</font></div>
<div> </div>
<div><font size="2">elections by acclamation</font></div>
<div><div dir="ltr"><div class="gmail_quote"><div dir="ltr"><div class="gmail_extra"><div class="gmail_quote"><div> </div>
<div><font size="2">Education Coordinator - Curt Firestone</font></div>
<div><font size="2">Public Relations - Maggie Argiro</font></div>
<div><font size="2">Eclectic Vision - <font face="Comic Sans MS">Jana Zachariou</font></font></div>
<div><font size="2">Webmaster - Peter Freeman</font></div>
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<div><div class="gmail_default">Shows - </div>
<font size="2">AA at HH</font></div>
<div><font size="2">Avril Kirby and Anna McComb have a photography display at Harbour House.</font></div>
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<div><font size="2"><font size="2">Jana <font face="Comic Sans MS"> Zachariou </font></font></font><span style="font-size: 13px;">won prize at Jury Show, Artspring Salt Spring Island</span></div>
<div><font size="2"><font size="2">Jana mentioned the art gallery at Ladysmith </font></font><span style="font-size: 13px;">The </span><font size="2"><font size="2"><br/></font></font><font size="2">Waterfrount Ladysmith Art Gallery was showing 3 D art displays</font></div>
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<div><font size="2">-There are other displays of SSI photography at Pemberton Homes and also at the Embe Bakery</font></div>
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<div><font size="2">Information from Education Coordinator Curt Firestone</font></div>
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<div><font size="2">1. Coffee Monday AM</font></div>
<div><font size="2">- there was a suggestion for members to get together and go out to take pictures after the Monday AM gathering if folks were inclined. </font></div>
<div><font size="2">-The idea is to do photography together, share through the experience, and inspire one another on different aspects of photography such as macro or landscape techniques.</font></div>
<div><font size="2">- to bring your camera to the Monday morning meetings and network.</font></div>
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<div><font size="2">- New Coffee Venue at Penny's at the Golf course as it can accommodate more members.</font></div>
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<div><font size="2">2. Slide Show to now have more of an education component as it is currently more social. The idea is to share ideas when the pictures are shown on the screen to say a word about the picture and reveal some technical aspects of the picture.</font></div>
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<div><font size="2">3. Education - group to give suggestions to the education committee...</font></div>
<div><font size="2">- Ross McLeod volunteered.</font></div>
<div><font size="2">- perhaps there are ways to improve the slide show.</font></div>
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<div><font size="2">Wendy has suggested to do a work shop and will call on members for photo's.</font></div>
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<div><font size="2">Sylvia wanted to learn to do a slide show <font face="Comic Sans MS">/ make DVD of your own work</font></font></div>
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<div><font size="2">-Pat Page encouraged the group to pay dues to the club.</font></div>
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<div><font size="2">---Guest Presenter..... Susan Huber, this is her second invitation to speak to the group. </font></div>
<div><font size="2"> She has a wealth of knowledge to share as she uses a large format camera. Her work was judged best in the S</font>NAP (Saltspring National Art Prize)<font size="2"> show. </font></div>
<div><font size="2"> She has her own studio on Salt Spring Island and has sold her work around the world. </font></div>
<div><font size="2"> She passed around various negatives, pictures and a book " In Celebration of Trees" from a show in Vermont, to the group.</font></div>
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<div><font size="2"> She has a respect for everyone's ability to take pictures. </font></div>
<div><font size="2"> She grew up in Northern California and went to the West Coast School of Photography. </font></div>
<div><font size="2">She would take negatives and expose it, as she was self taught to deal with these negatives. Now the mainstream is digital.</font></div>
<div><font size="2">Two years ago she studied in the Netherlands and found more men to be involved with this process. They used platinum palladium.</font></div>
<div><font size="2">Then she found a women's group that used big cameras with film 8 X 10 and then 16 X20 pinhole.</font></div>
<div><font size="2"><font size="2">Her picture of the Wild Horse<font face="Comic Sans MS"> Wind </font></font></font><div>Farm print won a prize in the Vermount show, this was about wind turbines.</div>
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<div><font size="2">She felt one needed to go out every day to take the time to think about the pictures they take. Take time to think about the art and how it is done and how one visualize the scene. Take what gives you pleasure so that pleasure stays with you.</font></div>
<div><font size="2">As a chemist she developed her pictures to see it and remember the pleasure.</font></div>
<div><font size="2"> She talked about looking and questioning what she sees.... she works with collages and what does it mean.....</font></div>
<div><font size="2">What resonates with the photographer. And she said it is ok to fail. She is clear that she knows what she likes and works hard at this...... </font></div>
<div><font size="2"> ( it is boring to be perfect) With passion you can do it well by looking and seeing.....</font></div>
<div> </div>
<div><font size="2">There was a question about light measurement and how she deals with the chemicals...... ( they do not go in the septic) </font></div>
<div><font size="2"><font size="2">As for light she uses a light meter and reflective aspects...... 400 ASA </font></font><div><b></b></div>
<font size="2"><font size="2"> </font></font><br />
<div><b>/ISO</b></div>
<font size="2"><b> </b> speed with increased or decreased exposure, bring up shadows</font></div>
<div><font size="2">- with the chemicals she uses lots of water and is very careful.</font></div>
<div><font size="2"> </font><font size="2">She talked about contact prints and showed a book where the negatives were directly on the paper. Some of the paper for the negatives comes from Italy. Germany also makes a paper for platinum palladium</font></div>
<div><font size="2"> ( There was something about 8X 10 no longer exists.)</font></div>
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<div><font size="2">She had different sizes of negatives for each camera.</font></div>
<div><div><font size="2"> She uses field manuals and records what she has done with each specific camera. Each camera has it own field manual.</font></div>
<div>One needs to take time to take pictures.... Each photographer has their own style......</div>
<div><font size="2"> She has done work on the dissappearing churches of the prairies through the B.C. arts program in 2007.</font></div>
<div><font size="2"> She enjoys Creekside Nature preserve of Beddis road on Salt Spring Island. </font></div>
<div>She talks about how it takes a long time to get the light to the film. uses F 22...... and takes her time to develop the film....</div>
<div> </div>
<div> She talked about the borders around the negatives and how she does the brush work around the edges to apply the platium palladium.....</div>
<div>- each negative needs a certain formula and not too wet. She enjoys sharing her ideas. Feels European artists learn from something about being courious..... and she encourages us to be yourself with your own vision. </div>
<div>A very interesting session with Susan...</div>
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<div><br/><div class="gmail_default"><strong>Next Month's Challenge is MACRO</strong></div>
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<div class="gmail_default">(up close and personal - with macro lenses or settings or just plain as-close-as-you-can-get-to-a-subject)</div>
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</div>January 13th Meeting Minutes...tag:ssphotog.ning.com,2016-01-22:3859646:BlogPost:2766602016-01-22T04:48:25.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p align="center"><b>Photo Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>January 13, 2016</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Opening:</b> Another amazing turnout... there must have been 30-35 friendly folks... the room was a humming and lots of new faces... and young faces too... it was great...</p>
<p align="right"><b> </b></p>
<p><b>New Members:</b> Gary Blake, Bruce McPhee, Ann Holt, Halanna Bradley, Giz Blazeka, Lindsey Patterson... Oh we are looking to getting to know you and your work... show us what…</p>
<p align="center"><b>Photo Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>January 13, 2016</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Opening:</b> Another amazing turnout... there must have been 30-35 friendly folks... the room was a humming and lots of new faces... and young faces too... it was great...</p>
<p align="right"><b> </b></p>
<p><b>New Members:</b> Gary Blake, Bruce McPhee, Ann Holt, Halanna Bradley, Giz Blazeka, Lindsey Patterson... Oh we are looking to getting to know you and your work... show us what you can do... and participate, participate, participate... the club is all about sharing experiences and information... let us know if there is anything we can do to help you with your photography... welcome... Come on out and play... and learn...</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Announcements</b>: </p>
<p> </p>
<p> <b>Festive Fernwood:</b> Jennifer tells me that the Club Greeting to island was very well received and people were really looking at it up close and personal... Thank you to the 14 members who participated, if you haven’t picked up your things... I have them, call and we can arrange a pickup or let me know and I will try to remember to bring them to the next meeting in Feb....</p>
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<p> <b>Monday Coffee</b> it is at the long central table with all the really noisy friendly people, at the SaltSpring Inn... at 10’ish.... come on out and get to really “know” your fellow club members...</p>
<p> </p>
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<p><b> ArtSpring Lobby Show</b>: Jan 4 – 30<sup>th</sup>... If you haven’t already been to the show at ArtSpring make a point of dropping and take all of your friends... It is an amazing collection of work by the our Club members... It is varied in content and styles, size... It is vibrant and there is beautiful tranquility and quiet in other works... The personalities are peeking through... Well done all who submitted...</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Bob Rogers managed the whole process... brave wonderful soul... thanks Bob... Wendy Rosier gave us the benefit of her unfailing eye and good taste in the placement of the work... and scads of members showed up to help with the hanging... Which was a very big job this year because there were so many pieces submitted... much to Wendy’s horror.... But they look wonderful and we certainly filled the space this year... Thank you all who helped out and participated...</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Country Grocer Café:</b> Judy McPhee is currently showing at the Country Grocer Café... she has such soft touch and sensitive eye... treat yourself to a viewing...</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Club Elections:</b> will be held at the February meeting... see Educational section for description of the process and election discussion....</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> News Flash</b>!!! The Photo Club Seasonal DVD which appears all over the island, including the hospital, a couple of coffee shops and the theatre.... Wendy has found someone who is interested in learning how to produce the Club Seasonal DVD... She is going to train them and when she described the process and the training she is going to be doing with this person... there were lots of members present who would like to learn the process too... they wanted to learn so that they could apply it to their own projects and even help out with the overall project... To use on their own work/productions and maybe assist with Club projects...</p>
<p>Wendy has volunteered to do a workshop sometime in the near’ish future... so do stay tuned for that one... That could be really fun... think of how you will be able to impress your relatives with endless DVD’s of your pictures... won’t they just love it... or DVD to market you work... the possibilities are endless....</p>
<p> </p>
<p>On the serious side... I have several friends who are spending lots of time at Lady Minto these days... and the praise and accolades I get for the images... they are lovely, they remind them how beautiful their island is... The other thing I hear is the appreciation from staff, patients, visitors, caregivers who appreciate the installation in hospital... could we work towards getting another display unit for Extended Care... </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> The Website...</b> the website comments have been buzzing these days... lots of lovely nice comments and some very constructive/instructive ones... I would like to encourage all members to participate in the conversations... it is a great way to learn to look at things... look at image construction and composition... You can learn a great deal by listening, looking and asking questions... If you are interested in particular image ask about it... make a comment... This is the 21<sup>st</sup> C “ <b>ARTIST’s SALON” ...</b> you know like... Paris, Hemmingway, Picasso, the 20’s/30’s... Lets talk, pontificate and ponder about Photography; the structure, the message, the software or even the images... Participate...</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> Eclectic Visions 2016 (EV)</b>... Jana Zachariou has bravely stepped up to take on the job of Coordinator for EV 2016...<b> </b> Oh this is going to be fun... A new perspective... I am sure she will be looking for a team... but rest assured is lots of support in the Club... It is a great opportunity to learn about all of the aspects of mounting a show... thanks Jana nice to have you playing with us...</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Shows:</b></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p> <u>Fernwood Café:</u> Photo Club’s Greetings to the Island... about 14 members contributed work to this show... sending beauty, colour, humour, spirituality, multi-cultural... it was lively, fun and very interesting... thanks all who participated... we are already booked for 2017...</p>
<p>Milan Stevulak will be showing at the Fernwood Cafe until March 12... If you are going to drop by check for the opening... Jen and Dave are going to be taking a 3 week holiday during this period...</p>
<p> <u>Pemberton Holmes:</u> Jana Zachariou and Margaret C. Benmore are presently showing at PH... Island images to promote SaltSpring to the visitor looking to move here...</p>
<p>There is <b>an opportunity</b> for anyone to hang their work at PH... the space takes ten 16X20 images... or smaller of course... or larger but fewer... The theme is SaltSpring Images is very loosely defined... if you are interested in showing here just email me... <a href="mailto:mcbenmore@saltspring.com">mcbenmore@saltspring.com</a> and I will add you to the rotating team...</p>
<p><b> </b> <u>Harbour House Lobby:</u> Anna McColm and Avril Kirby presently have a show of their work showing in the Lobby... a wonderful collection of WestCoast birds and one boat...</p>
<p><b> </b> <u>Bank of Montreal:</u> Doug Wahlsten is showing here... it is a new venue and he will find out the protocol for booking time on their walls... if you are interested in showing here contact Doug... Douglas Wahlsten <a href="mailto:wahlsten2@gmail.com">wahlsten2@gmail.com</a></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Educational Bit:</b> Tonight we learned about our Club... What the Club goals and functions are... Wendy gave an overview of all of the things that this Club is doing in the Community and for its membership... We discussed what is entailed in running a Club like ours... we discussed the various roles on the Executive...</p>
<p>The present Executive have all put in many years to get the Club to where it is today (It has been 7 years and we have reached 107 members...)... we would really like to see some new people step up and take it to the next level...</p>
<p>We outlined our roles and duties... and all of us talked about the fun and learning opportunities that we have experienced in working for the Club... The opportunity to do things we have never done before... We also committed to working with the new folks to help them get oriented and spread the workload... All of us found that the workload and time commitments are quite manageable... <b>if you are only doing one job...</b> We have several who are doing several and it gets to be onerous and no fun... so help is needed...</p>
<p>If you are interested in any particular position or job type please feel free to contact the people presently doing it... they would love to explain the job, answer questions... provide support... you will find the names for each position on our website Main page...</p>
<p>We decided to postpone the election itself until the February meeting in order to allow everyone to think about it and hopefully put theirs or someone else’s name forward for positions on Executive... </p>
<p>Please contact any of the Executive if you have suggestions, ideas or career aspirations in Club Management.... we would love to hear from you...</p>
<p><a href="mailto:mcbenmore@saltspring.com">mcbenmore@saltspring.com</a></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> Evening Show/Challenge:</b> “ NEW to RENEW “ It never ceases to amaze me at how creative people are with a concept... NEW, RENEW one would think it is pretty straightforward... Not to this crowd... we had new blossoms, new angles, new perspectives... even new photographic technology (the old one too)... We had babies every so new and a house being built/born (nice job Peter)... We had the first Vietnamese monkey of the year... and eggs, there was a wonderful SaltSpring detailed discussion of chickens and eggs... We learned about Oka ( a Peruvian tuber, thanks Pat)... and Bernadett’s light bulbs/heads were many levels of NEW - they were disturbing/lovely and provocative... </p>
<p>It was a great show... go to website to do a rerun...</p>
<p>Well done all... Now let’s see what you can do with OLD...</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Next Meeting: </b></p>
<p align="center"><b>Wednesday, February 10<sup>th</sup>, 2016</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>Harbour House… 7:00 pm </b></p>
<p><b>The challenge:</b> Since last month's challenge was NEW we thought giving <b>OLD</b> equal time would only be fair</p>
<p>Since the Island offers many things/people/places etc... things that have been around long enough to develop character... The slideshow this month should be Chock-a-Block full with really interesting shots... Happy Shooting... Play with it! What can you do with OLD...</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Editorial aside:</b> If you have any comments, corrections or additions please feel free --- all help is welcome…</p>
<p>I would like to encourage all club members to take part in the conversations on the website --- they are interesting and endlessly informative… Share your pictures with the club on the site – you know we all love to look at images and it would give us a chance to get to know a little bit about you … let’s participate…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>Thanks for your patience...</i></b></p>
<p><b><i>Cheers… MCB </i></b></p>Meeting minutes, Dec 9 2015tag:ssphotog.ning.com,2015-12-18:3859646:BlogPost:2729222015-12-18T03:58:20.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p align="center"><b>Photo Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>December 9, 2015</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Opening:</b> Wow, what a crowd... it must have been the food... tell them there will be food and they will come... Wonderful... there were about 50 people enjoying the Christmas cheer and endless goodies... Thanks to all who brought and thanks to all those who added to the festive evening... chat & munch time was a great opportunity to meet some new folks...…</p>
<p align="center"><b>Photo Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>December 9, 2015</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Opening:</b> Wow, what a crowd... it must have been the food... tell them there will be food and they will come... Wonderful... there were about 50 people enjoying the Christmas cheer and endless goodies... Thanks to all who brought and thanks to all those who added to the festive evening... chat & munch time was a great opportunity to meet some new folks...</p>
<p align="right"><b> </b></p>
<p><b>New Members:</b> Colton Prevost and Kim Stewart welcome to the group... look forward to seeing you participating in the shows and activities... welcome... ps. we don’t always have that many treats...</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Announcements</b>: </p>
<p> </p>
<p> <b>Festive Fernwood: </b> The club greeting to the island has been hung at the Fernwood Café... please drop by with your friends... it is lovely, colourful, varied and fun.... Thanks Judy, Roy and Anna for your help hanging... Jen has wonderful holiday treats and winter soups.... The show is up until Jan 16 --- but the café will be closed for 2 weeks in Jan... well deserved warm holiday for Jen and Dave...</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p> <b>Monday Coffee</b> it is at the long central table with all the really noisy friendly people, last seen in Santa hats, very strange... at the SaltSpring Inn... at 10’ish.... come on out and get to really “know” your fellow club members...</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> ArtSpring Lobby Show</b>: Jan 4 – 30<sup>th</sup>... This is a wonderful Island/Club event... it is our opportunity to brighten up the doldrums of winter on the Rock... and it is our time to Rock too... The show is of your favourite/Best/etc... the size is unlimited, the number is possibly 2 or 3 images... The lobby is huge and lots of hanging room... So really strut your stuff... </p>
<p> </p>
<p>For those of you new to the club and still now sure about participating in shows... this is a great introduction and it such fun to go to ArtSpring events and listen to the buzz... or show off your work... come on out a play with us...</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Bob Rogers will be coordinating the show... he will need hangers and people with taste... to help with the hanging... 10 am January 4... if you are interested in helping or learning how to hang a show... Bob is a Master Show Hanger with years and years of experience... </p>
<p>link <a href="http://ssphotog.ca/forum/topics/artspring-january-lobby-show">http://ssphotog.ca/forum/topics/artspring-january-lobby-show</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Country Grocer Café:</b> Cliff Kelly is retiring from coordinating and hanging of the clubs work in the cafe... Doug McMillin will be taking over that role... ( he is wonderful, such talent and so many hats... ) He will be looking for people soon... so stay tuned... Thank you Cliff for your years of help... you are fun to work with and I always enjoyed our hanging evenings... take care my friend...</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Club Elections:</b> will be held early in the new year... so please think about how you can help the club, the best way to get the most out of any club is to get involved... and we would like to see some new people stepping up to fill positions... talk to any of the executive and they will brief you on the expectations of time and effort... In fact at the Jan meeting we will have a panel discussion about the various positions...</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> News Flash</b>!!! the Photo Club seasonal DVD is now showing in the Visitor’s Information Centre and getting rave reviews... from staff and visitors... well done all... </p>
<p>Wendy has said that she is finding it difficult to fulfill both the President and the DVD Producer roles... she would love some help with one or the other... She will train anyone wanting to learn how to do the DVD’s... or she will gladly turn the presidency over to a willing volunteer so she can concentrate on the DVD’s...</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Mini easels...</b> Dave Bartel showed us some very cool little easels, great for countertop or table displays... he has the pattern for if anyone is capable with powertools and not losing their fingers ... contact Dave for more information </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> The Website...</b> the website comments have been buzzing these days... lots of lovely nice comments and some very constructive/instructive ones... I would like to encourage all members to participate in the conversations... it is a great way to learn to look at things... look at image construction and composition... You can learn a great deal by listening, looking and asking questions... If you are interested in particular image ask about it... make a comment... This is the 21<sup>st</sup> C Art Salon... participate...</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Shows:</b></p>
<p> <u>Fernwood Café:</u> Photo Club’s Greetings to the Island... about 12 members contributed work to this show... sending beauty, colour, humour, spirituality, multi-cultural... it is lively, fun and very interesting... thanks all who participated... we are already booked for 2017...</p>
<p> <u>Pemberton Holmes:</u> Presently Avril Kirby and Anna McColm are showing at PH</p>
<p>There is <b>an opportunity</b> for anyone to hang their work at PH... the space takes ten 16X20 images... or smaller of course... or larger but feawer... The theme is SaltSpring Images is very loosely defined... if you are interested in showing here just email me... <a href="mailto:mcbenmore@saltspring.com">mcbenmore@saltspring.com</a> and I will add you to the rotating team...</p>
<p>It’s a fun place to show... it helps to sell the island and the island atmosphere... hmmmmm????</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Educational Bit: </b> our guest was Alane LaLonde, the 5 year director for Photosynthesis... Alane discussed her work and how she viewed her images... her works showed strong forms, strong shadows and lots & lots of colour... Much of the work was done in Mexico, which of course provides lots of opportunity for colour and strong compositions...</p>
<p>Thanks Alane for your presentation and enlightening comments on how you work your magic...</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> Evening Show/Challenge:</b> the theme was festive, spiritual, glitz, holidays, Wendy’s whatever the word was that encompasses all the various festivals at this time of year.... Doug has posted the December show on the site... as usual the show encompassed everything and every body... it went from Judy McPhee’s delicate ornaments to Avril’s Santa Club Monday Management Meeting over coffee... Bernadett’s candles spoke to another time and oh yes Marks miracle on Beaver Point Road... it was a great show...</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Next Meeting: </b></p>
<p align="center"><b>Wednesday, January 13<sup>th</sup>, 2016</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>Harbour House… 7:00 pm ???</b></p>
<p><b>The challenge:</b> Our next meeting and slide show will be in First Month of the New Year 2016 so think in terms of... New, Fresh, Rejuvenated, Original, Firsts, maybe even Resolutions - whatever else this time of year brings to mind. Happy Shooting!</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Editorial aside:</b> If you have any comments, corrections or additions please feel free --- all help is welcome…</p>
<p>I would like to encourage all club members to take part in the conversations on the website --- they are interesting and endlessly informative… Share your pictures with the club on the site – you know we all love to look at images and it would give us a chance to get to know a little bit about you … let’s participate…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>Thanks for your patience...</i></b></p>
<p><b><i>Cheers… MCB </i></b></p>Minutes... Nov 11, 2015tag:ssphotog.ning.com,2015-11-18:3859646:BlogPost:2697662015-11-18T05:05:23.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p align="center"><b>Photo Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>November 11, 2015</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Opening:</b> a happy but disorderly crowd gathered at Harbour House for our meeting... Wendy herded us into out seats and announce<b>d</b> a whole w<b>h</b>ack of stuff....</p>
<p align="right"><b> </b></p>
<p><b>New Members:</b> we welcome Larry Citra to this fan<b>t</b>astic group of Individuals... I am sure he will find it interesting and fun, when he gets to know us... welcome…</p>
<p align="center"><b>Photo Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>November 11, 2015</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Opening:</b> a happy but disorderly crowd gathered at Harbour House for our meeting... Wendy herded us into out seats and announce<b>d</b> a whole w<b>h</b>ack of stuff....</p>
<p align="right"><b> </b></p>
<p><b>New Members:</b> we welcome Larry Citra to this fan<b>t</b>astic group of Individuals... I am sure he will find it interesting and fun, when he gets to know us... welcome Larry...</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Announcements</b>: </p>
<p> </p>
<p> <b>Monday Coffee Clatch...</b> Monday Coffee will continue to be in the back corner booth at the SaltSpring Inn... at 10’ish.... come on out and get to really “know” your fellow club members...</p>
<p>You can asked technical questions, spread gossip, swap lies... it is generally a free for all... a great place to ask those questions about photography or life that you have never had the nerve to ask – there will always be several answers and sometimes some real expertise...</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Club Seasonal Greetings to the Island...</b> we have the Venue (Fernwood Café... Dec. 12 – Jan 16) now we need your help... We would like to hang a collection of Festive images taken by the members of the Photo Club... <b>If you are interested in participating... Please let me know</b> <a href="mailto:mcbenmore@saltspring.com"><b>mcbenmore@saltspring.com</b></a> <b>...</b> and we will see what develops...</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Think diversity of the celebrations at this time of year... think bold, think glitter and sparkle... think what you like...</p>
<p> </p>
<p>So far I have about 6 people interested... the more the Merrier...</p>
<p>Come get involved... Add to the message of Thankfulness for our community, our island and a message for Love and Peace to the world...</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>There will be a Club Coffee Clatch at Fernwood... Sunday Dec. 13<sup>th</sup> around 3:00... Come on out, have a treat and coffee and wish each other well.... and see how the Club sends Tidings to the world...</b></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> ArtSpring Lobby Show</b>: Jan 4 – 30<sup>th</sup>... This is a wonderful island/Club event... it is our opportunity to brighten up the d<b>o</b>ldrums of winter on the Rock... and it is our time to Rock too... The show is of your favourite/Best/etc... the size is unlimited, the number is possibly 2 or 3 images... The lobby is huge and lots of hanging room... So really strut your stuff... </p>
<p> </p>
<p>For those of you new to the club and still now sure about participating in shows... this is a great introduction and it such fun to go to ArtSpring events and listen to the buzz... or show off your work... come on out a play with us...</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Bob Rogers will be coordinating the show... he will need hange<b>r</b>s and people with taste... to help with the hanging... if you are interested in helping or learning how to hang a show... Bob is a Master Show Hanger with years and years of experience... </p>
<p>If you are interested in participating let Bob know by Dec. 18<sup>th</sup> <a href="mailto:wetcoastbob@mac.com">wetcoastbob@mac.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> PARC’s Invitation – Photo 101</b>... we have been invited by PARC to develop and deliver an introductory short course on photography... Bob Roger, Jana Zachariou, Pierre Mineau and Ramona Lam will be working together on this project... That will be one GREAT introduction to Photography... lucky folks...</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Shows:</b></p>
<p> <u>Fernwood Café:</u> until November 21... Anna McColm will be showing her beautiful West Coast – The Cape Scott Series... always a pleasure to share her perspective of B.C’s beautiful coast... Especially with a bowl of Jen’s soup or grilled cheese sandwich...</p>
<p> <u>Pemberton Holmes:</u> Presently Avril Kirby and Anna McColm are showing at PH</p>
<p>There is <b>an opportunity</b> for anyone to hang their work at PH... the space takes ten 16X20 images... or smaller of course... or larger but fewer... The theme is SaltSpring Images is very loosely defined... if you are interested in showing here just email me... <a href="mailto:mcbenmore@saltspring.com">mcbenmore@saltspring.com</a> and I will add you to the rotating team...</p>
<p>It’s a fun place to show... it helps to sell the island and the island atmosphere... hmmmmm????</p>
<p> <u>TJ’s Beans Coffee House:</u> is looking for images to deck their walls... Doug Wahlston will be looking into the schedule there for us...</p>
<p> <u>Bank of Montreal:</u> Doug Wahlston is presently showing at this new venue and is looking into setting up a relationship with the club to adopt it as a show place for the members...</p>
<p> <u>Country Grocer Café:</u> Doug McMillin is “Back by Popular Demand”... it is a lovely green show... very lush and peaceful...</p>
<p> <u>Embe’s Café:</u> Avril is showing until Nov. 30<sup>th</sup>... stop by and take a gander...</p>
<p> <u>ArtSpring’s Ladies Room...</u> only space in town with no Club member showing... Bob Roger’s will see to arranging the takeover of the washroom too... stand by for updates</p>
<p> </p>
<p>With all of these venues showing the members work... it is fun to share your work with friends and stranger... I repeatedly hear words of appreciation for the images that come up on the screens of Lady Minto... it is wonderful to know that it is giving folks some relief from their worries for a moment.... Thanks to all of you for contributing it is making a difference in our Community.... keep it up....</p>
<p><b><i> </i></b></p>
<p><b>Educational Segment: Lenses and Clarity...</b> Bob Rogers again took us through some of the finer points with lenses, how do you know that you have a problems and how to fix it or compensate for it... This man is a wizard with the inside of a camera... not bad with the picture taking too.... Thanks Bob...</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Evening Show/Challenge:</b> <b>“Remembrance” </b> - Doug (bless him) has posted November’s Show on the website – it was a loving show, it showed compassion, it showed respect... There was beautiful use of light to capture silence, thought and calm... There was the use of framing to tell the stories... be they huge flowered vista’s or close personal space... The stories attached to the images were tender and loving.... and respectful... It was a thoughtful set of images and stories... Thank you all for sharing with us so beautifully...</p>
<p>Whoa ??? Is that Toooooo SaltSpring or is it okay to say... I mean IT – it was a beautiful show... go look at it on the site ... </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Next Meeting: </b></p>
<p align="center"><b>Wednesday, December 9<sup>th</sup>, 2015</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>Harbour House… 7:00 pm</b></p>
<p><b>The challenge: For the month of December the challenge is “ Festive ”</b> ... you can use the same image you put in the Fernwood Festive Show... or different ones or additional ones...</p>
<p><b>The December Educational</b> event will be a presentation on Photo<b>Synthesis</b> and the work they are doing... it should be very interesting as they are wonderful group of artists/photographers...</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Editorial aside:</b> If you have any comments, corrections or additions please feel free --- all help is welcome…</p>
<p>I would like to encourage all club members to take part in the conversations on the website --- they are interesting and endlessly informative… Share your pictures with the club on the site – you know we all love to look at images and it would give us a chance to get to know a little bit about you … let’s participate…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>Thanks for your patience...</i></b></p>
<p><b><i>Cheers… MCB </i></b></p>Send SSI Folks and Visitors a Seasonal Greeting.... and have a Seasons Greeting party...tag:ssphotog.ning.com,2015-11-03:3859646:BlogPost:2683442015-11-03T01:53:09.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p>Hi all - We have wonderful opportunity to send SSI folk and visitors a Photographic Seasonal Greeting from the SSI Photography Club... </p>
<p></p>
<p>I would like to collect an array of framed photographs... any size, any content, any frame (the more decorative the better) that you like... Please let me know if you are interested and would like to participate ( mcbenmore@saltspringcom ) --- so that I will have some idea of the # of images we are working with and whether or not I will have…</p>
<p>Hi all - We have wonderful opportunity to send SSI folk and visitors a Photographic Seasonal Greeting from the SSI Photography Club... </p>
<p></p>
<p>I would like to collect an array of framed photographs... any size, any content, any frame (the more decorative the better) that you like... Please let me know if you are interested and would like to participate ( mcbenmore@saltspringcom ) --- so that I will have some idea of the # of images we are working with and whether or not I will have to puff it up with my own or rustled images... I really would like contributions from as many of you as possible so that it is really a Club Greeting... I'm sure Jen won't mind getting a few more hanging thingies.... </p>
<p></p>
<p>The show will be hung at Fernwood Cafe Dec 12 and hang over the holidays until 5 pm Jan 16... The last two weeks of the show the cafe will be closed (Jen and Dave take their well earned holiday then...) so, you can peek at it through the window and we will get them when they return... </p>
<p></p>
<p>We want Bold, Bright, Festive, Quiet, Contemplative.. or anything else that sends Your Greetings to all... generally capturing the feeling of the season, any faith, any culture... the more and the more inclusive the better... It is a season of peace and harmony, caring and softness... and it is Festive... </p>
<p>Write your greeting to all on an old beloved greeting card... it will send more calm out into the world.... Wow this is getting scarily SSI'ish... sorry sometimes it just takes over... Just do it SSIy, okay --- any darn way You want to send good vibes to all... </p>
<p></p>
<p>Join the fun... I will act as the collection point and would like all framed work at my house by the latest noon Saturday Dec. 12... If someone would like to help me handle and hang them that would be wonderful... </p>
<p></p>
<p>Then let's get together to toast each other with<span style="font-size: 13px;"> seasonal beverage at Fernwood.... Sunday Dec.13.... 3pm... Fernwood Cafe... </span></p>
<p></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 13px;">Hope you will join in this show... it will be interesting to see what comes up... </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 13px;">Thanks... Cheers... MCB </span></p>Min. Oct 14, 2015tag:ssphotog.ning.com,2015-10-18:3859646:BlogPost:2666522015-10-18T23:33:20.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p align="center"><b>Photo Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>October 14, 2015</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Opening:</b> again a couple of dozen people... it is fun to hear the buzz in the room before the meeting... everyone catching up and swapping tales...</p>
<p>Wendy tried to gain control of the unruly mob... ( JJJ )... she is so polite... thanks Wendy for doing the President thing... you are doing a good job....</p>
<p align="right"><b> </b></p>
<p><b>New Members:</b> Danelia Dino and…</p>
<p align="center"><b>Photo Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>October 14, 2015</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Opening:</b> again a couple of dozen people... it is fun to hear the buzz in the room before the meeting... everyone catching up and swapping tales...</p>
<p>Wendy tried to gain control of the unruly mob... ( JJJ )... she is so polite... thanks Wendy for doing the President thing... you are doing a good job....</p>
<p align="right"><b> </b></p>
<p><b>New Members:</b> Danelia Dino and Illia Paton... welcome to you both... hope you have as much fun as we do... come on out and participate... </p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Announcements</b>: </p>
<p> <b>Monday Coffee Clatch...</b> there was a great deal of discussion about possible locations and a few will be explored in more detail... In the meantime Monday Coffee will continue to be in the back corner booth at the SaltSpring Inn... Stay tuned for future adventures</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Wedding Photographer wanted</b>... Wendy has posted the description of the assignment on the website along with contact information... It is a wonderful opportunity to do some fun things... weddings on SSI are very special...</p>
<p> </p>
<p> <b>Simon Henson</b> will be presenting <b>“Putting the Art into Photography”</b> the third in the series will be October 22... it is a wonderful opportunity to focus on the elements of design...</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Club Seasonal Greeting to the Island...</b> we have the Venue (Fernwood Café Dec. 12 – Jan 16) now we need your help... We would like to hang a collection of festive images taken by the members of the Photo Club... if you are interested in participating... let me know <a href="mailto:mcbenmore@saltspring.com">mcbenmore@saltspring.com</a> ... and we will see what develops... think diversity of the celebrations at this time of year... think bold, think glitter and sparkle... think what you like...</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Come get involved, add to the message of thankfulness for our community, our island and a message for love and peace to the world...</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Storage</b> space for EV racks and sandwich boards, Wendy asked for some help in that department... Elehna has graciously volunteered some space... thanks Elehna...</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Shows:</b></p>
<p> <u>Fernwood Café:</u> From October 25<sup>th</sup>... Anna McColm will be showing her beautiful West Coast – The Cape Scott Series... always a pleasure to share her perspective of B.C’s beautiful coast... especially with a bowl of Jen’s soup...</p>
<p> <u>Pemberton Holmes:</u> There is presently <b>an opportunity</b> for someone to hang their work there... the space take ten 16X20 images... The theme is SaltSpring Images and that is very loosely defined... if you are interested in showing here just email me... <a href="mailto:mcbenmore@saltspring.com">mcbenmore@saltspring.com</a> and I will add you to the rotating team...</p>
<p>It’s a fun place to show... it helps to sell the island and the island atmosphere... hmmmmm????</p>
<p><b><i> </i></b></p>
<p><b>Educational Segment: “How do you Choose”</b> The third in the series presented Elehna DeSousa, Bernadette MacAllister, and Wendy Rosier.... what a wonderful contrast in styles, processes and personalities... each presented the images they choose for EV and discussed the decision making process...</p>
<p>Elehna was Poetry in Motion, Bernadette was about pushing the envelop and doing something unexpected... Wendy is about happenstance and purity... very different moods and themes... but all shared a wonderful level of craftspersonship... and design... Thanks all for sharing your process...</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Evening Show/Challenge:</b> <b>“Regal, Royal or Noble ” </b> - Doug (bless him) will be posting October’s Show on the website soon... wander over and see what can be done with Regal/Royal/Noble... It is amazing... of course there is a amoured doge’ish person on high horse... there is Rachel in a crown, looking good girl... a tiny bird looking though the window at a glass bird and wondering if it is his mother...</p>
<p>Noble were wonderful feather headdresses and traditional portraits, it was Elizabeth May cutting a cake on SSI... Elehna got play Queen for a day and order the minions around... well done my dear...</p>
<p>Go the website and see for yourself... it is fun and very interesting... make up your own explanations.... they all have a story... It was indeed a Show fit for Royalty...</p>
<p><b>Next Meeting: </b></p>
<p align="center"><b>Wednesday, November 11<sup>th</sup>, 2015</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>Harbour House… 7:00 pm</b></p>
<p><b>The challenge for next month: </b> Since the next meeting is on November 11<sup>th</sup> (<b>Remembrance Day</b>)... Wendy and I thought it appropriate to have <b>“ Remembrance ” and ” Peace “</b> as the options to our monthly challenge.</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Editorial aside:</b> If you have any comments, corrections or additions please feel free --- all help is welcome…</p>
<p>I would like to encourage all club members to take part in the conversations on the website --- they are interesting and endlessly informative… Share your pictures with the club on the site – you know we all love to look at images and it would give us a chance to get to know a little bit about you … let’s participate…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>Thanks for your patience...</i></b></p>
<p><b><i>Cheers… MCB </i></b></p>Minutes for Sept. 9, 2015 Meetingtag:ssphotog.ning.com,2015-09-15:3859646:BlogPost:2642722015-09-15T23:48:55.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p align="center"><b>Photo Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>September 9, 2015</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Opening:</b> (aprox. 15 warm bodies) Curt Firestone opened the meeting with some god awful pipe/whistle thingy… where does this man find these toys… Curt moved quickly and easily into his old post to relieve Wendy Rossier, who is in Toronto with a Show Opening (we are with you in spirit Wendy)… enjoy it… </p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>New Members:</b> Peter Freeman, Dave Seifer – come on…</p>
<p align="center"><b>Photo Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>September 9, 2015</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Opening:</b> (aprox. 15 warm bodies) Curt Firestone opened the meeting with some god awful pipe/whistle thingy… where does this man find these toys… Curt moved quickly and easily into his old post to relieve Wendy Rossier, who is in Toronto with a Show Opening (we are with you in spirit Wendy)… enjoy it… </p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>New Members:</b> Peter Freeman, Dave Seifer – come on out and play with us…</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Announcements</b>: Simon Henson will be presenting a series of workshops <b>“Putting the Art into Photography”</b> the workshop is designed to develop your photography by enhancing your visual perception and knowledge of design.</p>
<p>This four session workshop explores the components of aesthetics and composition through presentations, and group interactivity. See the website for the full details… under Events… Go for it Simon is a wonderful instructor...</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Shows:</b></p>
<p> <strong><u>Fernwood Café:</u></strong> From September 19<sup>th</sup> will be Margaret C. Benmore (me) the show is “Reflections of Venice”… it is shows my view of Venice a magical place… Venice has reflections on many levels… physical, mental, spiritual, and artistically and so on… what a place to play with reflections and glitz and a camera…</p>
<p> <strong><u>Pemberton Holmes:</u></strong> Bob Roger is presenting his work “Things” … catchy title Bob…. To see “Things” drop by for a peek… </p>
<p><b> </b> <strong><u>Country Grocer Café Gallery:</u></strong> Margaret C. Benmore (me, again) will be showing for the month of September … a show of graffiti images from Croatia and Italy… lots of colour..</p>
<p> <strong> <u>Roasting Company:</u></strong> Avril is showing us her wild side, her creative side and her just mucking about side…” Song of Self” is a wonderful demonstration of fun and interesting experimentation and exploration within photography… great fun…</p>
<p><b><i>If you know of other shows in town… add them on to this blog or better yet post it on the event section of our website… Let us all know what you have found and enjoyed…. </i></b></p>
<p><b><i> </i></b></p>
<p><b>Educational Segment: “How do you Choose #2”</b> This second in the series brought us Avril Kirby, Judy McPhee and Jacqueline Sutton, who each presented two or three of each of their latest photographic efforts. Not only was the artistry wonderful, but the creative energy was marvelous. Each of them put huge amounts of thought into their work. Each of them took the time necessary to make their images work for the viewer.</p>
<p>“Where do you get the inspiration?” was a question asked but not answered. Inspiration comes from deep inside each of us. I did a little web searching and came upon this quote.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“There’s no hard and fast rule to achieve creative photography nor are there guidelines and steps to think out of the box. But one thing’s for sure, for those who create some of the most creative photos in the world, they have great passion for photography and some years of practice and experience.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>As shown last night at our meeting, the practice and experience have manifested themselves to some creative, thoughtful artistic work from Avril, Judy and Jacqueline.</p>
<p></p>
<p><b>Evening Show/Challenge:</b> <b>“Soft ” </b> - Doug (bless him) has posted the September Show on the website so you can see it for yourself… all things soft, it is quite amazing what a little four letter word can conjure up in the minds of our membership… go spend some soft time on the website and look at the show...</p>
<p></p>
<p><b>Next Meeting: </b></p>
<p align="center"><b>Wednesday, October 13, 2015</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>Harbour House… 7:00 pm</b></p>
<p></p>
<p><b>The Challenge for next month: “ Regal “</b> as a tribute to the Queen – we are to turn out thoughts and visions to REGAL… now that can be anything you wish… but must capture the essence or attitude or look of Regal… Regal is fit for a Monarch… Have fun with the assignment and take it on out there… </p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Editorial aside:</b> If you have any comments, corrections or additions please feel free --- all help is welcome…</p>
<p>I would like to encourage all club members to take part in the conversations on the website --- they are interesting and endlessly informative… Share your pictures with the club on the site – you know we all love to look at images and it would give us a chance to get to know a little bit about you … let’s participate…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>Thanks for your patience...</i></b></p>
<p><b><i>Cheers… MCB </i></b></p>August 12 minutes...tag:ssphotog.ning.com,2015-08-21:3859646:BlogPost:2620862015-08-21T20:57:37.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p align="center">Sorry I am late again... I got all caught up in the KraftProjectPlay .... thanks everyone who voted for SSI... today we will find out... keep your fingers crossed... </p>
<p align="center">By the way if there is someone out there who would like to take over the minutes duty... I would welcome the relief... it is fun...</p>
<p align="center">Any mistakes are mine feel free to correct in the comments section... and check there before you believe anything... cheers...…</p>
<p align="center">Sorry I am late again... I got all caught up in the KraftProjectPlay .... thanks everyone who voted for SSI... today we will find out... keep your fingers crossed... </p>
<p align="center">By the way if there is someone out there who would like to take over the minutes duty... I would welcome the relief... it is fun...</p>
<p align="center">Any mistakes are mine feel free to correct in the comments section... and check there before you believe anything... cheers... MCB </p>
<p align="center"></p>
<p align="center"></p>
<p align="center"><b>Photo Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>August 12, 2016</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Opening:</b> (approx. 16 give or take a body or two) Wendy once again to gain some control over the boisterous group of enthusasts… okay maybe a bit of overkill… but everyone seemed to be having a good time… and that is good…</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>New Members:</b> Aya Watanabe, Randy Belanger, Peter Freeman – come on out and play with us…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Announcements:</b></p>
<p> <u>Photo Op:</u> <b>SPCA Fundraiser Calendar</b></p>
<p>Shawn from the SPCA is looking for images of <b>Men and their Cats…</b> which leaves lots to imagination… they want to show the diversity of men & cats on SSI… Wendy has posted the details on the club website… come on lets show him what we can do ---have fun with it…</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Shows:</b></p>
<p> <u>Fernwood Café:</u> Avril Kirby is showing her work at Fernwood this month… the opening is on Sunday 23, 2-4pm … it is a great place for a coffee milkshake… The photos are delightful, colourful and varied… always a treat to see Avril’s work…</p>
<p> <u>Pemberton Holmes:</u> Bob Roger is presenting his work “Things” … catchy title Bob…. To see “Things” drop by for a peek… </p>
<p><b> </b> <u>Country Grocer Café Gallery:</u> Margaret C. Benmore (me) will be showing for the month of September … a show of graffiti images from Croatia and Italy… lots of colour..</p>
<p><b> </b> <u>jOnezi – “aRt pArty” </u> Sept 6 at 3 pm and Sept: 7 at 12 am… see details on the events listing on our site…</p>
<p> <u>PhotoSynthesis:</u> is again at ArtSpring August 27<sup>th</sup> to September 8… always a special show and it is feature some of our members work… be sure to catch it…</p>
<p><b><i>If you know of other shows in town… add them on to this blog or better yet post it on the event section of our website… Let us all know what you have found and enjoyed…. </i></b></p>
<p><b><i> </i></b></p>
<p><b>Educational Segment: “How do you Choose”</b> was a presentation by three members on how they made the decision of what to submit for the Eclectic Visions show…</p>
<p>MCB (me) showed the various candidate images in the running and explained the careful scientific process used to narrow it down… and the rationale for the final choice… basically it was close your eyes and point… much like my photography…</p>
<p>Bob Rogers… presented his process, which was very organized, analytical and rational… but then it would be wouldn’t it… nice work Bob…</p>
<p>Jana Zachariou… presented her tried and true method of general consultation with family and friends… and then picking the one you like anyway… she also converted us all into to Booth Bay watchers with her amazing sky and water work… thanks Jana..</p>
<p></p>
<p><b>Evening Show/Challenge:</b> <strong>“Sharp”</strong> – as always the members were very Sharp… Doug (bless him) has posted the August Show on the website so you can see it for yourself… brambles, swords of honour, still-life of Hypodermic needles and an homage to the SSI knife sharpener… it was a vey pointy type of show…</p>
<p></p>
<p><b>Next Meeting: </b></p>
<p align="center"><b>Wednesday, September 9, 2015</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>Harbour House… 7:00 pm</b></p>
<p></p>
<p><b>The challenge for next month: “ Soft“</b> there are so many ways to illustrate the concept of soft… soft to the touch, soft in colour, soft in content… and the various kinds of soft … it will be a lovely cozy show I am sure… have fun with it and really show us what you can do with SOFT…</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Editorial aside:</b> If you have any comments, corrections or additions please feel free --- all help is welcome…</p>
<p>I would like to encourage all club members to take part in the conversations on the website --- they are interesting and endlessly informative… Share your pictures with the club on the site – you know we all love to look at images and it would give us a chance to get to know a little bit about you … let’s participate…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>Thanks for your patience...</i></b></p>
<p><b><i>Cheers… MCB </i></b></p>Eclectic Visions 2015... Debriefing Notestag:ssphotog.ning.com,2015-07-21:3859646:BlogPost:2601562015-07-21T18:45:34.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p align="center"><b>Eclectic Vision’ Debriefing</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>July 8, 2015</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><u>Quick Stats:</u></p>
<p> </p>
<table border="1" cellspacing="0">
<tbody><tr><td valign="top" width="74"><p>Year</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="74"><p>Location</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="74"><p>Attendance</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="74"><p>Days Run</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="74"><p>Sales…</p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p align="center"><b>Eclectic Vision’ Debriefing</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>July 8, 2015</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><u>Quick Stats:</u></p>
<p> </p>
<table border="1" cellspacing="0">
<tbody><tr><td width="74" valign="top"><p>Year</p>
</td>
<td width="74" valign="top"><p>Location</p>
</td>
<td width="74" valign="top"><p>Attendance</p>
</td>
<td width="74" valign="top"><p>Days Run</p>
</td>
<td width="74" valign="top"><p>Sales</p>
</td>
<td width="74" valign="top"><p>Participants</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr><td width="74" valign="top"><p>2013</p>
</td>
<td width="74" valign="top"><p>ArtSpring</p>
</td>
<td width="74" valign="top"><p>900 +</p>
</td>
<td width="74" valign="top"><p>10 days</p>
</td>
<td width="74" valign="top"><p>1334</p>
</td>
<td width="74" valign="top"><p>28</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr><td width="74" valign="top"><p>2014</p>
</td>
<td width="74" valign="top"><p>ArtSpring</p>
</td>
<td width="74" valign="top"><p>600+</p>
</td>
<td width="74" valign="top"><p>13 days</p>
</td>
<td width="74" valign="top"><p>673</p>
</td>
<td width="74" valign="top"><p>26</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr><td width="74" valign="top"><p>2015</p>
</td>
<td width="74" valign="top"><p>Gallery 8</p>
</td>
<td width="74" valign="top"><p>950+</p>
</td>
<td width="74" valign="top"><p>10 days</p>
</td>
<td width="74" valign="top"><p>1768</p>
</td>
<td width="74" valign="top"><p>33</p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p> </p>
<p>How people found out about EV’15</p>
<ul>
<li>The downtown location, walk by</li>
<li>Sandwich boards, strategically placed</li>
<li>Word of mouth</li>
<li>SaltSpring Exchange</li>
<li>Gallery 8 mailing</li>
<li>Driftwood</li>
<li>Email notice</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p>Comments/suggestions/observations:</p>
<p><u> </u></p>
<p><u>Viewers feedback:</u> from chats, comments, the guestbook and reviews was very positive… they were impressed with the quality and variety of the work… and that our little island had so many wonderful talented imaginative photographers… (pat on the back to all of you who helped organize, sit and participated in EV’15) – it was a great success and we just seem to get better and better each year… Let’s see what we can do in 2016…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><u>Marketing:</u></p>
<ul>
<li>Let’s look at reducing the mailing costs; either more selective mailing to cut the number of mail outs and use more email invitations</li>
<li>It was noticed the EV’15 was not promoted on the Gallery 8 website… this would be helpful…</li>
<li>It was suggested that MarketPlace and Fish Bow are both good at getting the information out on SSI</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li>Change SSI Exchange banner ad (which costs $ ) for a free event ad</li>
<li>Not found on Gallery 8 website ?</li>
<li>Driftwood was difficult to work with, expensive and cut the copy they were given to a minimum and did not do a show review…</li>
<li>Facebook was also suggested as a good source of marketing…</li>
<li>Enlist the younger club members to up our profile on social media…</li>
<li>It would be useful to have a second week booster shot of marketing, reviews, etc… just as a reminder…</li>
</ul>
<p><u> </u></p>
<p><u>Sandwich boards</u> were good, locations good, visibility, and branding seem to be good… people are recognizing the EV look…</p>
<p>Downtown location had lots of walk-in traffic…</p>
<p>Thanks Dave for your help… you are great…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><u>Sales:</u></p>
<p>Much improved over previous years…</p>
<p>45 cards, 2 shrinks, and 6 wall pieces</p>
<p>Total sales about $1768</p>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li>It should be noted that a red dot indicates the sale of the framed image on the wall… however others are usually available making arrangements with the photographer… so a work could be sold multiple time…</li>
<li>It was also suggested that when sitting we promote each others work, read the bio’s and know something about each others work… perhaps a preshow briefing on each of the works..</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p><u>Inventory System:</u> worked well’ish, however some of the sitters forgot to write the alphanumeric code on the receipts which resulted in Pat Page spending hours and hours late into the night trying hard to figure out who had sold what… We need to be more careful on this front… Thanks Pat for you patience and forebearance… you too are wonderful…. The participants were however very good about their labeling of inventory…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><u>Location:</u> was generally felt to be good, in the centre of town…</p>
<ul>
<li>There were some who prefer ArtSpring for both the space, big and open and the feel of it as a community space/environment for the club…</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p><u>Space:</u></p>
<p>Hanging: again generally positive reactions, liked the variation, the new hanging arrangements and the lighting (except for a few reflections from the windows)…</p>
<p>The colour of the walls also worked well with our images…</p>
<p>Thanks Razali and his helpers for a beautiful hanging…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><u>Reception:</u> as usual was great, the food, the attendance, the community involvement/contributions and of course Fifi’s management of the whole thing… oh yes the club members tasty treats add to our reputation for the Best Opening… well done my dear… you are indeed Wonderful !!!</p>
<ul>
<li>Some suggestions: moving it to outside the mail gallery space as it was noisy and crowded with the milling about the food tables…</li>
<li>Somehow make more working/prep space available… it was impossibly small…</li>
</ul>
<p><u> </u></p>
<p><u>Accessibility:</u></p>
<ul>
<li>there was concern about the stairs and the lack of accessible entry for the mobility challenged… suggested renting a ramp for the back door…</li>
<li>the noise level, especially at the reception, it was very difficult for those with trouble hearing or who have hearing aids… </li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p><u>Theme:</u> Eclectic Vision… people seemed to appreciate the versatility of the club members… no restrictions on choices for the show…</p>
<ul>
<li>Have a more themed show was discussed, as it is every year, and will again be discussed before 2016 I suspect… it is always food for thought…</li>
<li>There was discussion about the concern as to whether some content is deemed appropriate for public viewings, with concern about children… it was generally felt the present standard of monitoring is adequate – which is basically <b>none</b> on content, as it has not yet presented an issue to date within any of the club activities…</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u>Job Posting</u></b>: the position of chairperson for Eclectic Visions 2016 is available…</p>
<ul>
<li>It is a position of great power, high esteem and much gratitude from the masses…</li>
<li>It is a position that requires the patience of a Saint, the wisdom of the Oracle and the many arms of an Asian goddess…</li>
<li>It is a wonderful opportunity to work for the Club, the Community, your friends and most of all to develop new skills you didn’t think you would every possess…</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p><b>No Really !!!!</b> Okay maybe a bit of verbal overkill… however the position is really open… Avril has been actively involved for many many years on Eclectic Vision… the last two as the chairperson and now feels it is time to pass the baton --- She has many other obligations which require her attention, energy and time… so it is time for a break… </p>
<p>Avril will of course help with the transition (though everything is very organized, systematized and documented)… she will also help support the new chairperson in anyway she can… Thank you Avrll so much for all of your hard work, worry, inspiration and cajoling… Love you my dear – you have done a wonderful job…</p>
<p> </p>
<p>If you are interested in taking this on (great) or even two people taking it on as a team… please let Avril, Wendy or anyone else know… we would love to talk to you…</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Thank you to all of you who make EV2015… FANTASTIC… you are all Wonderful… and what a great group of lovely people… Well Done Everyone!!!</p>
<p></p>
<p>Cheers... </p>
<p>MCB </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>June 8, 201 minutes...tag:ssphotog.ning.com,2015-07-17:3859646:BlogPost:2594142015-07-17T18:21:26.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p align="center"><b>Photo Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>June 8, 2016</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Opening:</b> (approx. 20 good natured folks) already warmed up and no longer shy and reticent as the meeting was in full swing when Wendy again tried to call us to order… because of the EV15 debriefing... which had everyone talking ... </p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>New Members: </strong> Colleen Barnes Horel, Marcia Jeanne and Elizabeth Dow… welcome to you all and are glad that you have found…</p>
<p align="center"><b>Photo Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>June 8, 2016</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Opening:</b> (approx. 20 good natured folks) already warmed up and no longer shy and reticent as the meeting was in full swing when Wendy again tried to call us to order… because of the EV15 debriefing... which had everyone talking ... </p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>New Members: </strong> Colleen Barnes Horel, Marcia Jeanne and Elizabeth Dow… welcome to you all and are glad that you have found us…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Announcements:</b></p>
<p> <u>Eclectic Visions’15</u> – just finished the debriefing session prior to this meeting and the debriefing notes will be posted on the Club site… generally it was a whopping success again this year, sales were much better, attendance was way up and all seemed to have a good time… well done all those that showed, helped out and worked on making it happen… what a wonderful team… Those that attended voted unanimously to show at Gallery 8 next year if it is possible, Curt will talk to Razali next week sometime… so wish him luck…</p>
<p> </p>
<p> <u>Thanks Photo Club</u> – a letter has been received from GISS thanking the club for working with them on the mentoring program this year… it was very successful from the perspective of the school, the students and the mentors… it is hoped that it will be continued and expanded next year… Thanks Wendy and Don for spearheading these projects…</p>
<p> </p>
<p> <u>Photo Op Opportunity: Firefighter Training</u> – once again club members are invited to get up close and personal with firefighters practicing their skills… it is fun and exciting… If you are interested contact AJ George and he will take you through the process of gaining entry to the event… <b>July 18 at GISS</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p> <u>Cycle for Life Event:</u> <b> July 25 & 26</b> - A ride in support of Hospice BC (and Hospice SSI) will have riders arriving at Vesuvius on Saturday, staying overnight at the Farmer's Institute Saturday night and departing on the 11:50 ferry at Fulford on Sunday morning. If you are interested in photographing a team of cyclists contact Wendy at <a href="mailto:wrosier@gmail.com">wrosier@gmail.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p> <u>Club Education Survey: </u> Curt Firestone presented a summary of his findings and discussions with regard to the Club’s Educational endeavours… people are keen to learn anything, no preference between educational and more entertaining events… 1 day workshops appeared to be popular, even with a modest fee attached… people did not want workshops on Saturdays – they are just too many other things on Saturdays… could be even short series ( 2 or 3 sessions at most)</p>
<p>Technical camera, software and such workshops need to be balance with more design focused workshops (composition) working with colour, creativity… well done Curt thanks for making some sense of our fondest wishes… </p>
<p> </p>
<p> <u>Lavender Festival:</u> Once again Saltspring is being blessed with the wonderful lavender festivies, the fields are in bloom and the opera is warmed up... It will be an Italian based festival this year with lots and lots of colour, music and wonderful food…</p>
<p>Jacquelin Sutton has generously offered Photo Club members free admission to the festival to capture the action and atmosphere…</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Shows:</b></p>
<p> <u>Pemberton Holmes:</u> Bob Roger will be presenting his work here for the next couple of months so drop by and have a look… it is always a treat to see Bob’s work and you can buy a house at the same time...</p>
<p><b> </b> <u>Country Grocer Café Gallery:</u> Elehna de Sousa is showing “West Coast Birds” a lovely series of portraits of birds… Elehna has a wonderful sense of colour and composition… stop and have a treat with her show… it is beautiful… until July 31</p>
<p><b> </b> <u>Talia:</u><b> </b> Judy McPhee is showing at this lovely coffee shop and her work is always worth at least a latte and goodies… enjoy… she is showing until August 5… <b> </b></p>
<p> <u>Embe’s:</u> Doug McMillin’s never ending ever-changing show is running continually in the coffee shop. It is definitely worth dropping by to see just what our magical mystical Doug is up to --- guaranteed to surprise and delight you…</p>
<p><b><i>If you know of other shows in town… add them on to this blog or better yet post it on the event section of our website… Let us all know what you have found and enjoyed…. </i></b></p>
<p><b><i> </i></b></p>
<p><b>Educational Segment: “Making Sharp Images” </b> Bob Rogers walked us through what he does to ensure that his images are sharp, crisp and clear when they are supposed to be… Bob has posted his presentation on the Club Site… so go and take a peek, he is full of great ideas – I especially like the one about tangling yourself up in your camera strap and leaning on a tree… it boggles the mind…</p>
<p>Oh yes don’t forget you lavender eye pillow to steady your camera.. No really… go read the blog… you will be delighted to learn how to “Make Sharp Images” SaltSpring style… Thanks Bob, as always a treat for all of us…</p>
<p></p>
<p><b>Evening Show/Challenge:</b> “Dry” – timely indeed… man was it a dry show… Doug has posted the images on the website.. So if it isn’t dry enough for you right now… go see just how dry it can get… we are talking Death Valley, Artichokes, fire, dry grasses tassels, starfish and a birds nest riding a bike… yup it sure is dry…</p>
<p></p>
<p><b>Next Meeting: </b></p>
<p align="center">Wednesday, August 12, 2015</p>
<p align="center">Harbour House… 7:00 pm</p>
<p></p>
<p><b>The challenge for next month: “ Sharp “</b> and all that word conjures up for you… let you imagination run with and surprise us with your creation… stay sharp now…</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Editorial aside:</b> If you have any comments, corrections or additions please feel free --- all help is welcome…</p>
<p>I would like to encourage all club members to take part in the conversations on the website --- they are interesting and endlessly informative… Share your pictures with the club on the site – you know we all love to look at images and it would give us a chance to get to know a little bit about you … let’s participate…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>Thanks for your patience...</i></b></p>
<p><b><i>Cheers… MCB </i></b></p>Minutes April 8, 2015tag:ssphotog.ning.com,2015-04-13:3859646:BlogPost:2498202015-04-13T18:32:05.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p align="center"><b>Photography Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>April 8<sup>th</sup>, 2015</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>1. </b> <b>Opening:</b> (approx. 23 lively individuals). It is such fun to walk into the monthly meeting at Harbour House… there is such good energy in the air… the buzz, the laughter and chatter… it is so SaltSpring…</p>
<p>Wendy again tried valiantly to restore order… and managed to welcome 3 new members… Reign Ackerley, Dave Thompson and Marc Johnson… welcome to…</p>
<p align="center"><b>Photography Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>April 8<sup>th</sup>, 2015</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>1. </b> <b>Opening:</b> (approx. 23 lively individuals). It is such fun to walk into the monthly meeting at Harbour House… there is such good energy in the air… the buzz, the laughter and chatter… it is so SaltSpring…</p>
<p>Wendy again tried valiantly to restore order… and managed to welcome 3 new members… Reign Ackerley, Dave Thompson and Marc Johnson… welcome to you and we all look forward to seeing you and your photography… we LOVE to look at pictures --- ours and others…</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>2. </b> <b>Announcements:</b> </p>
<p><b> Eclectic Visions 2015</b>: Time: June 11-24</p>
<p> Place: Gallery 8, Grace Sq.</p>
<p>Avril reported that all is going well and that she would like to ask for volunteers for two big tasks…</p>
<p>1. Addressing envelopes for the mailing… neat printing/writing is the only requirement… she will need about 8-10 Volunteers… </p>
<p>And wouldn’t you know it with this club --- people leapt up to volunteer… Maggie, Jacqueline, Pierre, Patricia, Doug Mc, Timmy, Anna, Judy and MCB... Now that sounds like a fun afternoon…</p>
<p>If you would like to help… call Avril for time and place… the more hands the lighter the job and the more chatter...</p>
<p>2. We are also in need of Club sandwich boards (6) – the request was made for a volunteer to build some… and up jumped Dave Bartle… thank you Dave… you are Wonderful !!! </p>
<p> </p>
<p> <b>Free Series on the Art of Photography: </b> Greg Klassen will be offering <b>“ Why Photography “…</b> on the 2<sup>nd</sup> Sunday of each month --- 2-3:30 at the Library… next one will be May 10… Come on out and learn Photography from a whole new angle… little or no techtalk… lots of art talk…</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> Ladysmith Camera Club: (April 28, 2015, 7 pm)</b> is having a presentation on “Forensic Photography” by Constable Doug Giles of the Nanaimo Crime Scene Investigation Team… This should be a fascinating evening of another whole area of photography… Hardwick Hall (3<sup>rd</sup> & High St., Ladysmith) There will be a $5 drop-in fee for non-members.</p>
<p><a href="http://ssphotog.ca/page/forensicphotography">http://ssphotog.ca/page/forensicphotography</a></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>3. Now Showing: </b></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p> <b>Pemberton Holmes:</b> now showing the work of Larry Melious – wonderful island photographer, Larry plays with light in a most extraordinary way… drop by to view his images of the island… May 10-July 10 will be the very surprising images of Wendy Rosier and Margaret C. Benmore Drop by and have a look….</p>
<p><b> Country Grocer Café Gallery</b>: Doug Wahlston is showing for the month of May --- so keep your eyes open in the café area…</p>
<p>Cliff still has the November slot empty for anyone who is interested… one or two people… speak up, this is your opportunity to show in the big leagues on SaltSpring… a very discerning audience at Country Grocers… contact Cliff at <a href="mailto:gykelly@hotmail.com">gykelly@hotmail.com</a> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> TJ Beans:</b> April 2-30<sup>th</sup>… Avril brings “ China to TJ’s”... showing work from her recent trip to China… Do drop in for a treat and peek… her work is always worth a viewing… Wishing Tim a speedy recovery – our love and good wishes go out to Tim and John…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Fernwood Café:</b> Elehna de Sousa will be showing April 12 to May 16... her work is always a pleasure to see… be sure to drive out for a lovely coffee and treat and see what Elehna has to show us this time…</p>
<p>Tatjana will be showing from May 17 to June 13… </p>
<p><b><i>If you know of other shows in town… add them on to this blog or better yet post it on the event section of our website… Let us all know what you have found and enjoyed…. </i></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>4. Educational Segment</b>: <b>Lo Camps</b> of Nature Trek Canada… Lo is a scientist, raconteur, wilderness expert and very funny Dutchman… what a delightful evening we had seeing his wonderful images of our beautiful country…. Canada… From the West Coast to the far North and as far east as you can go… he told wonderful stories of his adventures in wilderness Canada… showed us the magnificence of areas few people get to see… It was an entertaining, educational and refreshing presentation by someone who is passionate about his work and our Country… Sometimes we need to be reminded just how great it is… out there – just you and the wilderness… Where things are very real and not marketed/packaged or techno-ized…. Where Mother Nature is running the show…</p>
<p>Thanks Lo and thanks Bob Davidson for suggesting the topic--- it was an entertaining and educational evening…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>5. Evening Show/Challenge</b>…<b>“ Challenging Your Creativity…</b> “ the challenge was hijacked by MCB… Props were given out, and others chose to get their own props… and amazing images came forth…</p>
<p>Thank you all who played with me… I was amazed and delighted with the work that was shown using the Props… It was beautiful, imaginative and interesting… I heard many say that they had fun, they used their imaginations, they stretched their comfort zone, they played and focused on their images more…</p>
<p>Doug of course took it over the top with his three breasted thingies from Outer Space… hmm… deep meanings in that I am sure… Maggies Magnolia’s on the tideline were surreal and the contrast was lovely, silk and barnacles… <br/> The glass square were used by Chris, Bernadette and Avril to produce amazing images… all very different from each other…</p>
<p>Evelyn lost her marbles, but demonstrated making new ones from her own pictures… Pierre’s Selfie captured his true inner character… Reign’s frames in the forest and the forest framing Jan’s VW camper…</p>
<p>Well done all… thanks for taking up my challenge… MCB</p>
<p>If you would like to see the evening’s show again… Doug has posted it on our website… show your friends and families… it is super…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>6. Next Meeting:</b> Wednesday, May 13, 2015</p>
<p> Harbour House… 7:00 pm</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>7. The Challenge</b> <b>for next month: “Need Moral/Physical Support</b>” We have been challenged to venture outside our comfort zone… WAY !!!! outside our comfort zone… and take a friend/buddy with us to lend support on the journey… Take yourself somewhere that you have always wanted to shoot but haven’t had the nerve… it could be a place, situation, time of day… maybe it is shooting people, icebergs or helicopters… Something you have always wanted to do, you would REALLY like to do it – <b>if</b> someone would come along with you for support… Find a buddy… take the shoots… then treat yourself and your buddy to cup of tea and cookies when you have done it…. And gloat a little… you were amazing…. Challenge yourself…</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Editorial aside:</b> If you have any comments, corrections or additions please feel free --- all help is welcome…</p>
<p>I would like to encourage all club members to take part in the conversations on the website --- they are interesting and endlessly informative… Share your pictures with the club on the site – you know we all love to look at images and it would give us a chance to get to know a little bit about you … let’s participate…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>Thanks for your patience...</i></b></p>
<p><b><i>Cheers… MCB </i></b></p>
<p><b><i> </i></b></p>
<p><b><i> </i></b></p>Minutes March 11, 2015tag:ssphotog.ning.com,2015-03-16:3859646:BlogPost:2476002015-03-16T05:02:47.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p align="center"><b>Photography Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>MARCH 11, 2015</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>1. </b> <b>Opening:</b> Wendy opened the meeting trying to get the attention of the rabble… what a group (approx. 27) of enthusiastic and friendly people… it makes for a fun evening…</p>
<p>We welcomed another new member Patricia Calvert and had a young visitor… Reign Ackerley… nice to have you come, we look forward to having you come and play with us…</p>
<p>Simon Henson our…</p>
<p align="center"><b>Photography Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>MARCH 11, 2015</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>1. </b> <b>Opening:</b> Wendy opened the meeting trying to get the attention of the rabble… what a group (approx. 27) of enthusiastic and friendly people… it makes for a fun evening…</p>
<p>We welcomed another new member Patricia Calvert and had a young visitor… Reign Ackerley… nice to have you come, we look forward to having you come and play with us…</p>
<p>Simon Henson our evening’s guest speaker has had to beg off for the evening for health reasons… but hopefully he will be able to do the presentation on lens and Macro’s in the future… Get well Simon, we are all sending our best wishes and love your way…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>2. </b> <b>Announcements:</b> </p>
<p><b> GISS Mentoring program</b>: several of the club members have reported that the program is going well and that they are having fun and it sounds like the student is too… keep up the good work all…</p>
<p> </p>
<p> <b>SaltSpring Cultural Round Table:</b> Wendy Rosier will be representing the Photographers and the Club at this discussion forum on the future of the island’s cultural scene… it is on March 19<sup>th</sup>… she will report back to us at the April meeting… stay tuned this could be lots of fun…</p>
<p> </p>
<p> <b>Club Website:</b> Wendy informs us that the application used on our website “Ning” will be doing a major overhaul/update and the site has an opportunity to change with it… She is asking for any ideas, suggestions, wants, needs… and if possible help… Interested ??? Get involved !!!! Help out !!! She will be sending out an email next month so stay tuned…</p>
<p> <b style="font-size: 13px;"> </b></p>
<p><b> Eclectic Visions 2015</b>: Time: June 11-24</p>
<p> Place: Gallery 8, Grace Sq.</p>
<p>Avril reported that there are 30 participants signed up for EV 2015… that is so great… largest showing to date…</p>
<p>Avril has posted all of the EV 2015 Guidelines in the Forums section of our website… it is very clear and simple, but if you have questions you can reach Avril at <a href="mailto:avek@telus.net">avek@telus.net</a></p>
<p>Dave Bartle has generously volunteered to construct some sandwich boards for the Clubs EV Publicity… Thanks Dave you are super…</p>
<p>Bob, Wendy, Elehna and Bernadette volunteered easels if they are necessary… possibly for in front of windows…</p>
<p>Doug Wahlston has stepped up to the task for PR… thanks so much Doug…</p>
<p>EV 2015 Opening Reception will be similar to last years, managed by the ever capable Fifi and contributions from all... don’t forget we are known for the Best Opening Reception on the Island… so we have a tradition to uphold…</p>
<p>Wine service… Avril will be talking with the Uptown Liguor store who worked with us last year so generously…</p>
<p>Wendy briefly spoke about pricing your work – reminding us that our images/experience and labours are WORTH something, so DO NOT undersell yourself or your work… Her rule of thumb is… Costs X 2 or 3 or 4 depending on what you are comfortable with…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Membership Dues</b>: are now due for 2015 - $20 – best investment on the island, great entertainment and great people … please get them to Pat Page as soon as possible…</p>
<p> </p>
<p> <b>Free Series on the Art of Photography: </b> Gregg Klassen will be offering <b>“ Why Photography “…</b> on the 2<sup>nd</sup> Sunday of each month --- 2-3:30 at the Library… next one will be April 12 … tentatively, on the <i>“ connection between experimentation with camera controls and experimentation with artistic intentions “...</i></p>
<p>These sessions are really thought provoking and start you thinking about why you do photography and why you like to capture or create images… he challenges us to examine the subject from different perspective</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>3. Now Showing: </b></p>
<p><b> ArtSpring: Here’s Looking at You…</b> until March 29<sup>th</sup>, be sure to stop by and check it out several of our members are showing… <b>Late Breaking news:</b> Congratulations!!! Doug McMillin who won the $1000 prize at the Here’s Looking at You exhibition… cookies are on your Doug at the next month’s meeting… Maggie Argiro who got an honourable mention! </p>
<p>Well done all Photo Club members who entered and were accepted, your works are a fine representation of our club's many talented Photographers. It is a good show and well worth seeing.</p>
<p> <b>Pemberton Holmes:</b> now showing the work of Larry Melious – wonderful island photographer, Larry plays with light in a most extraordinary way… drop by to view his images of the island…<b style="font-size: 13px;"> </b></p>
<p><b> Country Grocer Café Gallery</b>: Judy McPhee is showing a riot of floral, sort of a CanCan of images… … beautiful… until March 31…</p>
<p>Cliff still has the November slot empty for anyone who is interested… one or two people… speak up, this is your opportunity to show in the big leagues on SaltSpring… a very decerning audience at Country Grocers… contact Cliff at <a href="mailto:gykelly@hotmail.com">gykelly@hotmail.com</a> </p>
<p><b> TJ Beans:</b> will be featuring the work of Avril Kirby in April… she will be showing work from her recent trip to China… Do drop in for a treat and peak… her work is always worth a viewing…</p>
<p><b> Fernwood Café:</b> Bill Underwood is showing from March 15 to April 11 The show is a snapshot for Prairie architecture and the disappearing small town… A lovely sensitive show with a very soft pallet… so venture out to the far north for a cuppa/treat… and a look at his work…</p>
<p>Elehna de Sousa will be showing April 12 to May 16</p>
<p>Tatjana will be showing from May 17 to June 13… </p>
<p><b><i>If you know of other shows in town… add them on to this blog or better yet post it on the event section of our website… Let us all know what you have found and enjoyed…. </i></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>4. Educational Segment</b>: Due to ill health Simon’s presentation on Lens has been postponed to a later date…</p>
<p>Doug McMillin presented a short overview of the club slide management system and the workings of our wonderful new HH screen… he even made it work without his computer – just from a USB stick… Wow isn’t technology wonderful… isn’t he wonderful too… So now Doug can rest assured that we have him covered if he can’t make it… well sort of…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>5. Evening Show/Challenge</b>… The Challenge of the month was multi-faceted <b>“ Feet/Macro/Kitchen</b>” and somehow <b>“ Reflections “</b> got thrown into the equation… so it was a challenging mix that harvested some wonderfully imaginative work... The prize for the most inclusive image of the evening has to go to Doug McMillin as he managed to have Feet, Reflection and his Kitchen floor all in one image… not bad…</p>
<p>It is wonderful to see the work shown by the members… it just seems to get more and more striking… and we can certainly raise to ANY challenge… well done all !!! Let’s see what you can do next month…</p>
<p>If you would like to see the evening’s show again… Doug has posted it on our website… show your friends and families… it is super…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>6. Next Meeting:</b> Wednesday, April 8, 2015</p>
<p> Harbour House… 7:00 pm</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>7. The Challenge</b> <b>for next month: “ Challenging Your Creativity…</b> “ the challenge was hijacked by Margaret Benmore… presenting an approach to exercising your Creative juices… stretching your imagination and flexing your visual boundaries… The instructions for this challenge are on the website under <b>Blog Posts “April’s Challenge”…</b> Props were given out, and others chose to get their own props… Go out there and just have fun, play, and really enjoy your own private shoot…. Go for it… </p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Editorial aside:</b> If you have any comments, corrections or additions please feel free --- all help is welcome…</p>
<p>I would like to encourage all club members to take part in the conversations on the website --- they are interesting and endlessly informative… Share your pictures with the club on the site – you know we all love to look at images and it would give us a chance to get to know a little bit about you … let’s participate…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>Thanks for your patience...</i></b></p>
<p><b><i>Cheers… MCB </i></b></p>
<p><b><i> </i></b></p>
<p><b><i> </i></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>Minutes of Feb. 11/15tag:ssphotog.ning.com,2015-02-19:3859646:BlogPost:2448132015-02-19T18:59:57.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p align="center"><b>Photography Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>February 11, 2015</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>1. </b> <b>Opening:</b> Wendy opened the meeting to the hoots an hollers of all and the commanding whistle of Bob Davidson… such a well mannered group… Spring is in the air on SSI…</p>
<p>We have three new members: Dave Thomson, Olivia McDaniel and Laurie Sim, as well as our wondering member Ross MacLeod… looking forward to working/playing with you all…</p>
<p>This is going to…</p>
<p align="center"><b>Photography Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>February 11, 2015</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>1. </b> <b>Opening:</b> Wendy opened the meeting to the hoots an hollers of all and the commanding whistle of Bob Davidson… such a well mannered group… Spring is in the air on SSI…</p>
<p>We have three new members: Dave Thomson, Olivia McDaniel and Laurie Sim, as well as our wondering member Ross MacLeod… looking forward to working/playing with you all…</p>
<p>This is going to be an amazing year for the Club… I can feel it…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>2. </b> <b>Announcements:</b> </p>
<p><b> GISS Mentoring program</b>: Bob Fenske has this project well in hand – they have a student, volunteer mentors from the Club and action plan… this is a pilot run to work out the kinks and logistics… so keep an eye on it… Next year it might involve more opportunities for students and Club mentor/volunteers… it is a rewarding experience for all… well done Bob and Wendy... you do good work…</p>
<p> </p>
<p> <b>Lions Directory: </b>Wendy contacted the Lions re our Directory listing only to find it was due in NOW for the next printing… good timing girl… anyway she to executive action and relisted us. We are now listed in the regular listing (new for us) pages as well as in the Assoc/Clubs section…</p>
<p> </p>
<p> <b>Arts Council:</b> our fees ($25) have been paid and Bob Rogers will be the Club representative on the Arts Council – good luck Bob… Bob will be giving us a short overview of what the Arts Council means to our Club and how we can participate in their activities/events… at some future meeting…</p>
<p> </p>
<p> <b>Club Website:</b> Wendy informs us that the application used on our website “Ning” will be doing a major overhaul/update and the site has an opportunity to change with it… She is asking for any ideas, suggestions, wants, needs… and if possible help… Interested ??? Get involved !!!! Help out !!! She will be sending out an email next month so stay tuned…</p>
<p> </p>
<p> <b>Show labels:</b> it was suggested that in future all Club shows labels should include contact information for the participants… either on the tags themselves or on a list of show participants… It would make it much easier from interested viewers to contact the photographer…</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> Eclectic Visions 2015</b>: Time: June 11-24</p>
<p> Place: Gallery 8, Grace Sq.</p>
<p>Avril gave us a briefing on what is happening and more importantly what will be happening soon… She would like an indication of interest ASAP (see website Forum for details)</p>
<p>Fees will be $70/participant and is due in full at the March 11 meeting… (refundable until May)</p>
<p>If you are participating in the show you will be expected to sit the show and share the fun of watching people looking at the Clubs work… it really is a fun thing to do… and this year hopefully will see a marked increase in viewer traffic with the new downtown location…</p>
<p>Avril will also be sending out details on sizes, number of pieces at a later date… and she is looking for volunteers with good hand writing to help address the envelopes for the announce of the opening/show… there is a 300 strong mailing list…</p>
<p>So for right now all you have to do is DO II, tell Avril and bring $... Easy, come on out a strut your stuff…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Wendy’s Call for Spring:</b> Wendy Rosier is getting into the production of the CD for Spring… she will be sending out an email with a request for submissions soon… so start collecting your best island Spring images… Spring on our island is so special… let’s show the world just how beautiful it is… Deadline for sending is Feb 25<sup>th</sup>.</p>
<p>These CD’s are now shown at 5 locations on the island: Harbour House, Fritz Movie Theatre, two locations within Lady Minto, Salt Spring Coffee & TJ Beans and they are being sold at 2 locations in town… Harbour House and TJ’s</p>
<p>This is a particularly good time to send island images to your friends back East… they love it…</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> Membership Dues</b>: are now due for 2015 - $20 – best investment on the island, great entertainment and great people … please send them to Pat Page or give them to her at the meeting in March.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> <b>Free Series on the Art of Photography: </b> Gregg Klassen will be offering <b>“ Why Photography “…</b> on the 2<sup>nd</sup> Sunday of each month --- 2-3:30 at the Library… next one will be March 8 … the session will be about the relationship between the natural and manufactured landscapes… the relationship between the literal and the metaphorical…</p>
<p>Greg’s sessions are always really interesting and thought provoking – really get the grey cells jumping about… come on out and enjoy the stimulation…</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>3. Now Showing: </b></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> ArtSpring Pop-Up:</b> Judy McPhee and Pierre Mineau are showing at the Pop-up Show: a collection for wonderful island art by a wide range of local artists… drop by and check it out… well done you two…</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> TJ’s:</b> Keith Fleming is showing this month at TJ’s – checkout their webpage with SSAD… They list who they are showing…. <a href="http://www.saltspringartistdirectory.com/tj-beans.html">http://www.saltspringartistdirectory.com/tj-beans.html</a></p>
<p> Special note: TJ’s sells our Club CD so if you are looking for a gift to send to friends off island… why not show them our island home at its finest as taken by your friends…</p>
<p> <b>Pemberton Holmes:</b> now showing the work of Anna McColm and Jana Zachariou</p>
<p> <b>Hilton in Whistler:</b> Sylvia Beech and Anna McColm are going big time with an upcoming show at the Hilton in Whistler… well done you two… have fun…</p>
<p><b> Country Grocer Café Gallery</b>: Cliff is looking for individuals or group to show at the Café for: May , July, September, and November which have not been scheduled as yet. 5-8 pieces… if you are interested contact Cliff at <a href="mailto:gykelly@hotmail.com">gykelly@hotmail.com</a> Doug Wahlsten is showing there in March.</p>
<p> <b>Fernwood Café:</b> The café open again… and the show this month is a mystery… so mozy on out there and have treat and solve the mystery….</p>
<p><b><i>If you know of other shows in town… add them on to this blog or better yet post it on the event section of our website… Let us all know what you have found and enjoyed…. </i></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>4. Educational Segment</b>: Avril Kirby and Anna McColm… SaltSpring’s own Calendar Girls… gave a wonderful presentation of things you have to think about in producing a calendar… they have been doing it since 2006 and have learned a thing or two along the way… they talked about the inspiration, the perspiration and dedication… they share their production lessons and marketing strategies… it was a delightful evening with all of us helping to choose the images for next years… well rather we gave our opinions and they reserve the right to do what they want anyway… sounds very SaltSpring to me… The tips they have shared might just have sparked some new photographic entrepreneurs… the principles are very applicable to many product lines, not just calendars… Thanks Anna and Avril… </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>5. Evening Show/Challenge</b>… The Challenge of the month was “First Light “ and boy did we see dawn in many many ways, in many countries and on a whole lot of ferries… We say desert dawns, ocean sunrises and and forest mists…</p>
<p>It was all about the light and what a variety of light there is at that time of day… well done all it was a lovely show… and the sun will rise again tomorrow… if you want to see it again Doug has posted it on the website… show your friends and families…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>6. Next Meeting:</b> Wednesday, March 11, 2015</p>
<p> Harbour House… 7:00 pm</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>7. The Challenge</b> <b>for next month: </b></p>
<p><b> </b> <b>“ Feet/Macro/Kitchen” –</b> now this one is interesting and challenging to say the least… they can be interpreted singly: Feet, Macro or Kitchen… or they can be taken in any combination of the words… Kitchen/Macro, Feet/Kitchen, Macro/Feet… or if you are truly compulsive all three in and combination… Have at it and enjoy the process… we are bound to enjoy the results…</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Editorial aside:</b> If you have any comments, corrections or additions please feel free --- all help is welcome…</p>
<p>I would like to encourage all club members to take part in the conversations on the website --- they are interesting and endlessly informative… Share your pictures with the club on the site – you know we all love to look at images and it would give us a chance to get to know a little bit about you … let’s participate…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>Thanks for your patience...</i></b></p>
<p><b><i>Cheers… MCB </i></b></p>
<p><b><i> </i></b></p>
<p><b><i> </i></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>Minutes Jan.14, 2015tag:ssphotog.ning.com,2015-01-22:3859646:BlogPost:2422522015-01-22T17:55:16.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p align="center"></p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-6" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><b>Happy New Year !!!!!</b></span></p>
<p align="center"></p>
<p align="center"><b>Photography Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b> January 14, 2015</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>Happy New Year !!!</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>1. </b> <b>Opening:</b> Wendy Rosier opened the meeting with a Happy New Year to all…</p>
<p>We have a new member Michelle Barszcz – welcome to our…</p>
<p align="center"></p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-6" style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino;"><b>Happy New Year !!!!!</b></span></p>
<p align="center"></p>
<p align="center"><b>Photography Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b> January 14, 2015</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>Happy New Year !!!</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>1. </b> <b>Opening:</b> Wendy Rosier opened the meeting with a Happy New Year to all…</p>
<p>We have a new member Michelle Barszcz – welcome to our playgroup… come on out and join the fun…</p>
<p>Susan Cogan is a returning member, nice to have you among us again…</p>
<p>We also had a couple of young visitors – Pat Page’s grandsons… we hope you learn to enjoy photography as much as we all do… your Grandmother will be a great teacher…</p>
<p></p>
<p><b>2. </b> <b>Announcements:</b> </p>
<p><b> GISS Mentoring program</b>: Bob Fenske outlined for us the approach that the new GISS mentoring program will take and he is asking for anyone with interest in mentoring to contact him…</p>
<p>The program basically will be offering a student a selection of photography content areas, for example; Macro, Street shooting, Portraiture, Post production, camera skills, lighting and anything else that the mentors have to offer… Each student will have 32 hours, which will be broken up into units or blocks according to their interest/passion… A mentor or mentors will work with students in areas of their interest or passion…</p>
<p>Wendy Rosier and Bob will be sending out a full description of the program and the mentor requirements in the near future… so keep an eye open… it is a wonderful opportunity not only teach someone, but also to develop your own skills… </p>
<p>GISS is offering a program on how to mentor for those interesting in working with students on various projects… if you are interested contact Wendy Rosier at <a href="mailto:wendyrosier@gmail.com">wrosier@gmail.com</a> </p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> Eclectic Visions</b>: Well it is time to start thinking about Eclectic Visions again… our annual Showcase… It is time to start the planning and looking at the lessons learned and the new vision for the show… remember this year it is an entirely new setting… Gallery 8 in Grace Point… Volunteer to be part of the process it is lots of fun and you will be working together with great people to put on a terrific show…</p>
<p>Also think about the work you want to Showcase…</p>
<p>Avril will be sending out information soon and calling for volunteers… so jump in, get involved…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Wendy’s Call for Spring:</b> Wendy Rosier is getting into the production of the CD for Spring… she will be sending out an email with a request for submissions soon… so start collecting your best island Spring images… Spring on our island is so special… let’s show the world just how beautiful it is…</p>
<p>These CD’s are now shown at 4 locations on the island: Harbour House, Fritz Movie Theatre, two locations within Lady Minto and they are being sold at 2 locations in town… Harbour House and TJ’s</p>
<p>This is a particularly good time to send island images to your friends back East… they love it…</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> Membership Dues</b>: are now due for 2015 - $20 – best investment on the island, great entertainment and great people … please send them to Pat Page or give them to her at the meeting in Feb. </p>
<p> </p>
<p> <b>Free Series on the Art of Photography: </b> Gregg Klassen will be offering a new series <b>“ Why Photography “…</b> the 2<sup>nd</sup> Sunday of each month --- 2-3:30 at the Library…</p>
<p>If the last series was any indication it promises to be thought provoking and stimulate your views of Art and of Photography…</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>3. Now Showing: </b></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> ArtSpring Lobby Show:</b> Maggie Argiro, Bob Rogers and Wendy Rosier did a wonderful job of hanging the ArtSpring Lobby Show --- it looks Great!!!! The work submitted by the club members is first class, imaginative and beautifully presented… Be sure to drop by for a look…</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4"><strong>Please don’t forget to pick up your work Sunday, Feb. 1, 10 am to 12 noon… </strong></span></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> TJ’s:</b> Judy McPhee is showing at TJ’s this month, so be sure to drop by for a warm cuppa and enjoy her work… always something beautiful…</p>
<p> Special note: TJ’s sells our Club CD so if you are looking for a gift to send to friends off island… why not show them our island home at its finest as taken by your friends…</p>
<p><b> Harbour House</b>: Presently Peter Oosterweghel is showing at HH… It is a show that makes you look at things just a little differently and wonder how does he do that… Go have a look it is fun and very, very interesting…</p>
<p> <b>Country Grocer Café Gallery</b>: January show features the work of our own Cliff Kelly… It is a lovely show of Cliff’s birds… boy does he do birds beautifully… drop by for a look next time you are in the deli area… </p>
<p>Cliff will be sending out a notice of the openings available for 2015 or you can give him a call/email if you are interested… CG is always fun because they have very participatory viewers… do your own show or team up with someone… it is fun…</p>
<p> <b>Fernwood Café:</b> The café is closed until mid January… call Jennifer after that if you are interested in reserving some show time for 2015/16… it is a great venue…</p>
<p><b><i>If you know of other shows in town… add them on to this blog or better yet post it on the event section of our website… Let us all know what you have found and enjoyed…. </i></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>4. Educational Segment</b>: Doug McMillin did a wonderful presentation <b>“Mirrorless Camera: A Small Revolution “</b> Doug’s talk took us on a historical journey through the advent of the camera and the introduction of the mirror, right through todays technologies which are swinging back again to the Mirrorless Camera… The presentation was wonderfully clear as Doug used lots of simple clear illustrations to demonstrate the progression/development… Doug has also posted Blog on our website covering the evenings presentation… Thanks Doug…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>5. Evening Show/Challenge</b>… the theme for the evening was <strong>“Adventure, Excitement or Chaos”</strong> and boy did we bring it to the screen… what fun… lots of energy in the evenings images… If you would like to see them again they are posted on the website under Blogs “January Slideshow” … enjoy… </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>6. Next Meeting:</b> Wednesday, February 11, 2015</p>
<p> Harbour House… 7:00 pm</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>7. The Challenge</b> <b>for next month: </b> <b>“ First Light” –</b> okay !!! the first challenge here is to get up early enough to capture “First Light”… the second challenge is to get a great image for your efforts… Doug has posted a great description of this challenge on our website… have a read… or create your own interpretation… have at it, have a good time playing with the light… and get your images in to Doug preferably a day or two before the deadline... let's be fair Doug needs some time to do his magic to pull together a show that always makes us all look pretty darn good... so try and get you images to him at least on time... </p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Editorial aside:</b> If you have any comments, corrections or additions please feel free --- all help is welcome…</p>
<p>I would like to encourage all club members to take part in the conversations on the website --- they are interesting and endlessly informative… Share your pictures with the club on the site – you know we all love to look at images and it would give us a chance to get to know a little bit about you … let’s participate…</p>
<p><b><i>Thanks </i></b></p>
<p><b><i>Cheers… MCB </i></b></p>
<p><b><i> </i></b></p>
<p><b><i> </i></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>Dec. 10 2014 Meeting Minutes...tag:ssphotog.ning.com,2014-12-20:3859646:BlogPost:2394242014-12-20T03:25:26.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p align="center"><b>Photography Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>December10, 2014</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p>My apologies for the delay in the minutes --- but just back, got the plane plague and had to do a Vancouver run… so here they are… with love… MCB</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>1. </b> <b>Opening:</b> Wendy Rosier did a fabulous job of opening the meeting at Harbour House… a new president, a new location and new hi-tech toys… what more could a club want… Boy lots has changed since I left you…</p>
<p align="center"><b>Photography Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>December10, 2014</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p>My apologies for the delay in the minutes --- but just back, got the plane plague and had to do a Vancouver run… so here they are… with love… MCB</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>1. </b> <b>Opening:</b> Wendy Rosier did a fabulous job of opening the meeting at Harbour House… a new president, a new location and new hi-tech toys… what more could a club want… Boy lots has changed since I left you alone for two months ago… but it nice to see the old and friendly group…</p>
<p>There was a very good turnout about 25-30 folks… with a few guests: Ben Fenske and Dave Buffett… We also have two new members; Tamar Griggs and Brenda Dixon --- welcome and come on out and play with us…</p>
<p>If I was a cynic (which I am not… just a realist) I think the wonderful turnout was due to a warm place to meet, food and coffee --- it was all terribly comfortable and cozy… love it… good move…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>2. </b> <b>Announcements:</b> </p>
<p><b> GISS Mentoring program: </b> GISS is offering a program on how to mentor for those interesting in working with students on various projects… if you are interested contact Wendy Rosier at <a href="mailto:wendyrosier@gmail.com">wrosier@gmail.com</a> More information will be emailed out to all members in the coming weeks.</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> ArtSpring Lobby Show:</b> Bob Rogers and Maggie Argiro are organizing the Club Show for the ArtSpring Lobby this year… you know the one --- your best/favourite image of the year… It is the show that really struts the members stuff and is truly enjoyed by those on SaltSpring during the wonderful quiet cozy winter… so let’s dazzle them…</p>
<p> </p>
<p> The email with instructions from Maggie reads:</p>
<p>“Hi Everyone, The January Lobby show is coming up very soon! </p>
<p>There’s just under two weeks before we need to know what you are putting in the Show. Bob is making the title cards for each piece, so let’s give him a few days to do that, and set <b>December 31</b> as the deadline to sign up on the SSIPC site under the forum for the Show. Enter your name, the title of your piece, etc....</p>
<p>Remember, there is no fee and no size limitation for this show. You can also put in as many pieces as you like! <b>Drop off date is January 2, 11am</b> to 12 noon. <b>Pick up date, Feb 2, 11am to 12 noon. </b></p>
<p><b>SIGN UP NOW !!!!!!!!</b></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> Club's new technology at Harbour House:</b><b> </b> Doug McMillan and Chris Dixon have been very busy little elves working for the Club… they have purchased, installed, tested and encased in a cabinet our new whiz of a projection system… great job guys…. Thank you so much… it is a thing of beauty… perhaps a huge Photo Club picture on the cabinet drawer would help pretty it up and lay the Photo Club claim to it… though other groups I understand will be able to use/rent/borrow it… but it is an opportunity to show our images… just a thought ???</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>3. Now Showing: </b></p>
<p><b> TJ’s:</b> Judy McPhee has a show at TJ’s this month, so be sure to drop by for a warm cuppa and enjoy her work… always something beautiful…</p>
<p> Special note: TJ’s has also offered to sell our CD so if you are looking for a gift to send to friends off island… why not show them our island home at its finest as taken by your friends…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Country Grocer Café Gallery</b>: a new year of showing at Country Grocer Café is unfolding with a January show featuring the work of our own Cliff Kelly… so that will be something to look forward to… Cliff will also be sending out a notice of the opening available for 2015 or you can give him a call/email if you are interested… CG is always fun because they have very participatory viewers… do your own show or team up with someone… it is fun…</p>
<p> </p>
<p> <b>Fernwood Café:</b> Bob Rogers is presently showing at Fernwood… always a treat… as is the coffee. lunches and goodies… wander out that way and see what is hanging… Bob is there until mid January…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>If you know of other shows in town… add them on to this blog or better yet post it on the event section of our website… Let us all know what you have found and enjoyed…. </i></b></p>
<p><b><i> </i></b></p>
<p><b>4. Educational Segment:</b> <b>Lenses</b> Simon Henson…</p>
<p>Simon graciously stepped in at the last minute to cover for someone what had to cancel… As always it is wonderful to have Simon with us and he is at his best when he is teaching us and sharing his beautiful images… it is always inspiring and awesome… Simon explained to us that there are two types of photographers… <b>Image Scavengers:</b> those that like to shoot everything/all the time (that’s definitely me… more later)… </p>
<p>And there are those <b>Others</b> who have refined/disciplined themselves, who work in areas of particular interest which enables them to refine their knowledge, equipment requirements and choice of devices… this is Simon – his interests are: Nature, Macro and Landscape… though he does everything sooooo well and knows so much techno stuff… he is wonderful… (read devoted fan here…)</p>
<p>Simon spoke about 2 types of lenses: <b>Prime Lens</b> – better Optics, sharper image, lighter weight, less moveable parts, lower mount, better in low light…</p>
<p><b>Zoom Lens</b>: flexibility, move between focal lengths, less intrusive, safer in some situations, physically heavier and larger and slightly poor optics…</p>
<p>By the way all through the presentation Simon was showing off his newly developed skill in transitions between slides… they were very interesting, fun and entertaining… the slides were instructive too… nice job Simon… pretty tricky…</p>
<p>I won’t even try to relate all of what Simon said (JJJ) but will say that it was informative and useful… and everyone seems to have been actively involved… we even picked up some wonderful hints… want a soft picture, breath on your lens to fog it up a bit before you shoot… now that is my kind of technology…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>5. Evening Show/Challenge</b>… <b>Peace, Tranquility and Renewal… with words…</b> how seasonal was that… what a lovely show… </p>
<p>Doug opened the show with a wonderful sunset Heron… followed by a magical image of a child’s hand holding a Dragonfly by Linda Roth… Then it progressed from there with images of Grandpa’s sharing a child, Harry’s naked beach in Fulford (sans Harry), Cherry blossom Peace Symbol, and Anna’s eagle on foggy Maxwell… Fifi’s Mexican Angel and Jaclyn’s garden at Hately Castle… a single white rose of serenity… Susan sang us through her image of the Lone Tree in Israel – lovely … some stunning images of the snow on the beach/shores of Vesiuvus… tombstones by Pierre, the Great Wall from a new perspective… Soltice Sunbread… and so much more go to the website and have a look or relook it is sooooo Lovely…</p>
<p>It was a wonderful collection of peaceful images, some familiar, others calming and yet others reflective and made you smile… thanks to all who participated and shared their words and their pictures… it was a beautiful Season’s Greeting from one to the other… gave us all a glow of well being…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>6. Next Meeting:</b> Wednesday, January 14, 2015</p>
<p> Harbour House… 7:00 pm</p>
<p> More goodies to be had… friends and fun too...</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>7. The Challenge</b> <b>for next month: </b> <b>“Adventure, Thrills and Chaos “…</b> the other extreme from December’s challenge of Peace, Tranquility and Renewal “… Now this can be taking pictures of your New Year Bungee jump, it could be a great vertigo shot, it could be walking in the wilds of a Rainforest threatened by fast growing moss… it could even be something like the chaos of cold germs festering in a petre dish… it is all up to your imagination… but feel the Rush, feel the Thrill… or not… it is SSI and anything is acceptable… enjoy the process… and please don’t get hurt… </p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>8. Health and Safety for Photographers: </b> Just an aside, nothing to with the meeting at all… Many of you know that I have been away for a couple of months. While off travelling I discovered something that might be of interest to you as intrepid Photographers… It is possible to sustain a “workplace injury” while photographing… After two months of continuous shooting (20K+ images - that’s another story) I found I had a very painful shoulder to elbow… like tennis elbow but longer, to the shoulder… It wasn’t until the last couple of days that I realized it was due to the fact that I shoot lots of UP… art, architecture, street art, churches and everything else… (<b>Image Scavenger</b> by Simon’s definition… totally undisciplined, spontaneous… EVERYTHING… I love it all… Let’s talk rebranding though… ) all requiring me to hold my camera up and steady… thus the painful arm/shoulder from repetitive stress/strain injury… who would have thought…</p>
<p>Then at the meeting with Simon spoke of his neck problems from carrying too much equipment… AHHHHH !!!! thinks I…. others probably have other ailments/conditions related to their photography adventures/efforts… </p>
<p>So I was wondering if you could help me to develop Taxonomy for Photography Related Conditions (PRC’s)… either physical or psychological… We only need a Name, a brief Description and best guess cause and if you have a suggested treatment all the better...</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Anyone with any ideas of a name for my particular condition – it would be appreciated as right now I am using Shutter Shoulder… but it doesn’t really capture it….</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>9. Best of the Season to you all ...</b></p>
<p align="center">Hear it… Taste it… See it… Smell it… Touch it…</p>
<p align="center">Most of all Appreciate it…</p>
<p align="center">Enjoy…</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1561482145?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1561482145?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p> <span class="font-size-1">( This is one of the 20K… Verona, Italy… )</span></p>
<p align="center"><b>Wishing you Peace, Love, Health and lots of laughter…</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>MCB</b></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Editorial aside:</b> If you have any comments, corrections or additions please feel free --- all help is welcome…</p>
<p>I would like to encourage all club members to take part in the conversations on the website --- they are interesting and endlessly informative… Share your pictures with the club on the site – you know we all love to look at images and it would give us a chance to get to know a little bit about you … let’s participate…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>Thanks for your patience...</i></b></p>
<p><b><i>Cheers… MCB </i></b></p>
<p><b><i> </i></b></p>
<p><b><i> </i></b></p>
<p> </p>Sept.10 Meeting Minutes...tag:ssphotog.ning.com,2014-09-17:3859646:BlogPost:2317122014-09-17T05:00:00.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p align="center"><b>Photography Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>September 10, 2014</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>1. </b> <b>Opening:</b> Curt Firestone, El Prez… welcomed us all with a basket of Gwen’s tomatoes... we could not enter without having a tomato… they were lovely… tasted of sunshine… Thanks Gwen…</p>
<p>We have no new members this month… but I think winter is coming and so will the new members…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>2. </b> <b>Announcements:</b> </p>
<p><b> Apple…</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>Photography Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>September 10, 2014</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>1. </b> <b>Opening:</b> Curt Firestone, El Prez… welcomed us all with a basket of Gwen’s tomatoes... we could not enter without having a tomato… they were lovely… tasted of sunshine… Thanks Gwen…</p>
<p>We have no new members this month… but I think winter is coming and so will the new members…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>2. </b> <b>Announcements:</b> </p>
<p><b> Apple Festival:</b> Curt did bring an offer from Harry Burton to earn a “little” cash while recording the goings on at the Apple Festival… it is a wonderful way to see the island in all her bounty and all her spirit… the food is good, the farms are lovely and you meet the nicest people along the way… If you are interested in this assignment call or email Harry Burton – Mr. Apple himself… 250-653 2007 or email <a href="mailto:harryburton@shaw.ca">harryburton@shaw.ca</a> … Also let Curt know</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> TJ’s:</b> Curt also outlined the wonder/magic of our Club… Judy McPhee was talking to John of TJ’s and he was saying their screen is empty most of the time… Judy told him about the Photo Club…. John called Curt, Curt talked to Wendy and POOF --- TJ’s will now be showing club work… never let it be said that this Club will leave any screen empty and unemployed…</p>
<p>We have the island saturated with club pictures… isn’t that just Wonderful… names up in bright lights… fame and fortune must surely follow… oh the glory !!! Thanks all of you… what a team….</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Copyright and Privacy in Photography:</b> Pat Page pointed us to the definitive work (at the moment anyway) on copyright & privacy… this paper has been produced by CIPPIC (Canadian Internet Policy and Public Interest Clinic) of the Law Faculty at the University of Ottawa… It is available at <a href="https://cippic.ca/en/FAQ/Photography_Law">https://cippic.ca/en/FAQ/Photography_Law</a> It will answer many of your questions and definitely promote lots of discussion… Thanks Pat…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>3. Election:</b> Chris Dixon, VP is having a little bit of a challenge finding a volunteer for the position of President… Please bring forward with some ideas, find someone who you think would be great in the position... let us know... How about yourself... It is a fun job and can take you (and us) in some wonderful directions... Contact Chris at <u>cw.dixon@shaw.ca</u> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>4. Now Showing: </b></p>
<p><b> ArtSpring: “ Up Close & Personal “</b> is a lovely, lovely show by Wendy Rosier and Bob Rogers --- it is a show full of colour, drama and looking at things very very closely… The presentation of the work is simple and elegant and really expresses the individuality of the two artists… This is a must see show… Great work guys… and thanks for sharing it with us all… Bob and Wendy will be doing a presentation on their work and this show Sept. 16 7-8:30 come on out and hear what they have to say…</p>
<p><b> Country Grocer Café Gallery</b>: Judy McPhee is showing in the Café until the 30<sup>th</sup> of September… drop by and have a look at her wonderful work… it is always a treat… to see what Judy has to offer…</p>
<p><b> Pemberton Homes Real Estate…</b> Sept. 2 to Nov. 1 will be the work of Sylvia Beech and Margaret C. Benmore… this is a wonderful opportunity to share your SaltSpring images with people who are thinking of moving here… let’s just show them how wonderful it is to live here…</p>
<p>Team PH welcomes new members, the Boardrooms are a fun place to share some of your Island images, if you are interested in participating please contact Avril <a href="mailto:avek@telus.net">avek@telus.net</a> or Margaret C. Benmore (MCB) <a href="mailto:mcbenmore@saltspring.com">mcbenmore@saltspring.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p> <b>Fernwood Café: Help needed… frame up your festive shot/s and let’s hang a Club Christmas Greeting to the Island…</b></p>
<p>Jen is booked for 2014, except for Dec/Jan --- MCB is orchestrating the show… I will be back on island Dec. 5, so frame them up any way you like (think festive/sparkle) and we will collect them all and see what we have… It will be a Spontaneous, mismatched themed collection of Celebration… Let me know if you are interested in contributing an image to the show… <a href="mailto:mcbenmore@saltspring.com">mcbenmore@saltspring.com</a> love to hear from you…</p>
<p>Jen is looking for people for 2015 – this is wonderful place to show your work the light is terrific and the goodies and coffee are pretty darn good too… and people really take notice of what is on the walls…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>If you know of other shows in town… add them on to this blog or better yet post it on the event section of our website… Let us all know what you have found and enjoyed…. </i></b></p>
<p><b><i> </i></b></p>
<p><b>5. Call for Harbour House slide show…</b>Wendy has put a call out for images for Fall… lets strut our Island’s best... *** the details (entire Wendy email) are tagged on to the end of these minutes… so give it a read and jump in… send her your images… </p>
<p>It is due this <b>Friday, September 19<sup>th</sup>…</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>6. Educational Segment: </b> Tonight’s session was an education on many many levels. Maggie Argiro treated us to a trip to India… Opening with a very cushy landing in Delhi at the most beautiful hotel… Wow and it just got better and better… Maggie has wonderful eye for composition that seems to simplify the complexities of India to crystal clear images while still capturing the full spectrum of the Indian experience… She captures the colours of Indian in villages, fields and slums; she gives elegance and dignity to her subjects… Maggie’s portraits are alive with feeling, compassion and wisdom… she captures the pain, thoughtfulness and joy in the faces of her subjects…</p>
<p>We also learned about her mission and her travels through the countryside… her nature shots were amazing with the main character being the light of India, the mists, the smoke, the sunrise, sunsets and scorching sun… you could almost taste the dust and feel it on your skin… The Cow Café and the Brick factory were beautiful stories and images…</p>
<p>I was particularly intrigued by the Chanting training Centre… the images were lovely, but the description of the waves of sound from the chanting mesmerized me… as I had experience a similar spiritual moment in Turkey with the Sufi Dervish Dances/Music…</p>
<p>Maggie thank so much for sharing your images, your stories and most of all your compassion and curiosity for such a complex country… it was indeed a treat for all of us…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>7. Evening Show/Challenge</b>… <b>“Try Something you have Never Done Before ”</b> … </p>
<p>Wow this was a wonderful show… people really took the challenge seriously and STREEEEETCHEEEED outside of their comfort zone and by the sounds of it were excited about learning something new that they had always wanted to try… Some tried tricks in-camera, while others got creative in post-production and editing programs… it was a delightful show of experiments… and that is a very good thing…</p>
<p>We saw double exposures done in camera on a foggy Sooke day… Glow sticks and LED with glowing goldfish… night shots and mash-up layering… several played with time exposure and macros... and trying to catch flying birds…</p>
<p>Avril even went swimming with her camera held above her head and produce some weird and wonderful images..</p>
<p>We learned about “Reversing Ring” lens adapter from Janna Zachariou --- with her lovely purple/gray sweet pea…</p>
<p>We also learned that Judy McPhee can shoot the full moon with her iPhone through a telescope to get a very interesting and unexpected result…</p>
<p>Curt showed us a spectacular metamorphosis of water glasses through postproduction playing with the editing software…</p>
<p>It was a brilliant evening of fun and shared learning’s… who says old dogs can’t learn new tricks… Keep playing all…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>8. Next Meeting:</b> Wednesday, October 8</p>
<p> Portlock Portable… 7:00 pm</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>9. The Challenge</b> for next month: </p>
<p><b>“ Portraits “</b> There was much discussion about whether this was restricted to Human portraits or could we include critters and other kinds of Portraits… The consensus was typical of SSI --- yup it is all good… a Portrait of anything/body/pooch… Whatever… so goes at it… give it your best creative shot… and have fun with it…</p>
<p>Please have your pictures to Doug by October 5<sup>th</sup> midnight… he will be sending out reminder and nudges… <a href="mailto:djmcmouse@gmail.com">djmcmouse@gmail.com</a> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>10. The Tomatoes were all gone</b>… thanks again Gwen, feeding the troops is always good… missed you though…</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>11. Editorial aside:</b> If you have any comments, corrections or additions please feel free --- all help is welcome…</p>
<p>I would like to encourage all club members to take part in the conversations on the website --- they are interesting and endlessly informative… Share your pictures with the club on the site – you know we all love to look at images and it would give us a chance to get to know a little bit about you … let’s participate…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>Thanks for your patience...</i></b></p>
<p><b><i>Cheers… MCB </i></b></p>
<p><b><i> </i></b></p>
<p><b><i> </i></b></p>
<p><b><i> </i></b></p>
<p><b><i>*** Wendy’s call for Fall Photos…</i></b><b>CALL FOR FALL SHOTS: Give her your best shot…</b> <b>JJJ</b><b> It’s fun to see your name up a screens all over the island… as I said the fame and fortune will surely follow…</b></p>
<p><b>From Wendy : Well the temp is dropping a bit and I'm seeing the occasional coloured fallen leaf that means that it is time to send me your best SSI FALL shots.</b></p>
<p>************</p>
<p><b>What I need from all of you is as follows:</b></p>
<p><b>NEW:</b> Please send a <b>Maximum of 10</b> of your Best Fall shots.</p>
<p><b>Shape: </b> Landscape (oblong - not portrait or square) images of Fall on Salt Spring.</p>
<p><b>Size:</b> 1920 x 1080 px If you can size them to those dimensions great - if not just send them as is and trust me to re-size or crop to best display your image.</p>
<p><b>Resolution:</b> Don't re-size them for Email - they will be too small/low res for the monitors to show them well. You can send them to me as you shot them.</p>
<p><b>Format:</b> JPEG - All images will be converted to JPEG for display but if it is easier to for you, you can send RAW files from any camera and I can convert.</p>
<p><b>How to send them to me: Two options....</b></p>
<p><a href="mailto:wrosier@gmail.com"><b>wrosier@gmail.com</b></a></p>
<p><b>1) Email</b> - if you only have one or two, send as email attachments.</p>
<p><b>2) DropBox</b> - If you have the <b>full 10 images</b>, email me and let me know and I will send you a link to the DropBox folder with any instructions you need.</p>
<p>I can't wait to see all the wonderful shots you have taken!</p>
<p>Cheers</p>
<p>Wendy Rosier</p>
<p><b>************************</b></p>
<p><b>Fundraising DVD Information</b></p>
<p><b> We have been given permission to sell copies of the monitor DVD video in the lobby of the Harbour House Hotel as a fundraiser for the club! This will support our ongoing continuing education and sponsorships.</b></p>
<p><b>SOME THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW: </b></p>
<p> 1) This is a mpg video DVD not a slide show so individual photos can not be easily copied....but anything can be hacked if you try hard enough, so keep that in mind.</p>
<p> 2) By sending me your photos, your are agreeing to have them used for this fundraising purpose as well the ongoing monitor projects.</p>
<p> 3) If you do not want them used in the fundraiser DVDs just stipulate that in your email to me and they will <b>only</b> be used for the ongoing monitor projects.</p>
<p>************</p>Eclectic Visions 2014 Debriefing Mtg Minutes...tag:ssphotog.ning.com,2014-08-23:3859646:BlogPost:2303512014-08-23T19:42:36.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p>A meeting was held for the EV 2014 participants and worker bees before our August monthly meeting August13: about a dozen folks attended and discussed some of the outcomes, suggestions for improvement and to hear the feedback for all sorts of sources... the general consensus was that it was a wonderful show and very well received by those who saw it --- unfortunately attendance was very low this year... A possible option for amending that problem was also presented and discussed --- it…</p>
<p>A meeting was held for the EV 2014 participants and worker bees before our August monthly meeting August13: about a dozen folks attended and discussed some of the outcomes, suggestions for improvement and to hear the feedback for all sorts of sources... the general consensus was that it was a wonderful show and very well received by those who saw it --- unfortunately attendance was very low this year... A possible option for amending that problem was also presented and discussed --- it is outlined in these minutes... </p>
<p></p>
<p align="center"><b>Eclectic Vision’ Debriefing</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>August 13, 2014</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Quick Stats</b></p>
<ul>
<li>Attendence 2013 = 900 (plus) attendees for a 10 day run</li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-size: 13px;"> 2014 = 600 (plus) attendees for a 13 day run</span></p>
<ul>
<li>July 1 – CANADA DAY – was a washout again this year…</li>
<li>51 image showed by 26 participants</li>
<li>3 wall pieces sold… and some cards and shrinks… but sales were down</li>
<li>after all expenses were tallied we had a <b>Profit of $4.00</b> – Wow !!! That was great… We made a Profit and provided lots of fun for those that viewed EV, those who sat the show and those who submitted work to the show…</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li>Viewers were asked informally how they heard about the show… there was general agreement that we should formalize the survey for 2015 --- it would provide information for EV’s future promotional opportunities…</li>
<li>It was suggested that posters and handouts in the Market greatly helps to bring people into the show… they often don’t venture as far as ArtSpring on their own…</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li>The numbering system for images and products employed this year made it easier for both accounting and the people handling sales at the desk… also for the EV exhibitors… good move all…</li>
<li>Bio’s express the photographer’s explanation of the where’s and why’s of the images they are displaying… it was also suggested sitter’s carry the bio book to the viewers if they seem to be particularly interested in a piece…</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li>Hanging --- thanks to Bob and Wendy for doing such a great job… there was lots of room and people seemed to appreciate that --- good job kids…</li>
<li>There was discussion about the numbering of images (as they do in printmaking eg. 1/10) and signing… there was some concern about this as it means not using that image again once the maximum number (eg. 10) is reached… However numbering seems to imply: work of “Art”, Collectability, limited availability… no conclusive decision was made, it is up to the maker of the image as to how they want to proceed…</li>
<li>Kids: there was some concern that small children cannot see the images and perhaps a special kids section hung with little people in mind…</li>
<li>there was also discussion of having demonstration, talks and such during the run of the show… some how engaging people more… Photo Synthesis tried this last year and did not get the attendance to make it worth the effort…</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li>Storyboarding the steps related to the process of photography from shooting to the gallery wall… digital modifications, cropping, matting, framing, etc… could be an interesting instructional display…</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li>One big problem area for EV is people who drop out at the last moment… 2014 had 36 people registered and plans were developed accordingly --- 9 or 10 people at the last moment dropped out– which caused much unnecessary reworking of the show layout, budgets, display specifications and loss of revenue to cover the costs of the show… This will have to be resolved for future shows… Space in any show is limited and this needs to be respected… If you speak for a space it is your responsibility to fill it or leave the space for someone else…</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p> <b style="font-size: 13px;"> </b></p>
<p align="center"><b> </b></p>
<p align="center"><span class="font-size-5"><b>A Possible New Approach for Eclectic Visions…</b></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Several factors coming together all at once has lead the Club Executive to consider new options for Eclectic Visions…</p>
<ul>
<li>Drop in attendance</li>
<li>Getting viewers to come up to ArtSpring is a challenge</li>
<li>Very limited sales</li>
<li>ArtSpring’s new booking policies: re deposits and refundable deposits, a fiscal load the Club would have difficult meeting…</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p>Curt has approached <b>Gallery 8</b> in Grace Point Square about having the EV Show 2015 in the upstairs gallery and Razali Wahab (Gallery 8 owner) has expressed interest in the proposal…</p>
<p>This is a new idea and something of an experiment for both Gallery 8 and the Photo Club… but could be a Win/Win for both... </p>
<p><strong>Approval to explore</strong> the Gallery 8 Option further was given by those attending the EV Debriefing and the August Club meeting…</p>
<p>Things have progressed a bit further since those meetings and here are some the details we have to date: </p>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li>The date for Eclectic Vision 2015 will be in June – the middle two weeks…</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li>The gallery space will be the upstairs gallery directly ahead of you when you come up the stairs… There are some portable forms for the centre of the room which would expand the hanging space, should that be needed…</li>
<li>We will do our own reception as we have done in the past with the help of volunteers and food contributions… “ Best Opening Food on the Island” … we will be able to use the kitchen area and balcony for the opening reception… </li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li>Razali will hang the show, but will require some grunt workers… his method of hanging is more gallery style with multiple images sharing the space… not necessarily isolated linear single images which we have used in the past… so this will provide us with an interesting new look at how our work will show… Come on out – it will be lots of fun to see your work in this new space…</li>
<li>We will still require volunteers to sit the show during the Gallery 8 hours… 10-5 Mon. to Sat. and 11-4 on Sunday…</li>
<li>We will be able to use Gallery 8 “ Visa” service in the same way we used ArtSpring… for sales</li>
<li>We will have access to Gallery 8 mailing list and e-mailing list… we will be responsible for printing and postage… Printing will be done to reflect the standards of Gallery 8</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li>There may be a need to increase the operating budget for EV’15… to cover a few new costs that will be associated with this adventure… and the Exec is examining two options…</li>
</ul>
<p> 1. a modest $10 increase to $70/person…</p>
<p> 2. The club could subsidize the extra costs</p>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li>The gallery will hold a comparable number of images to ArtSpring… 50-60 images</li>
<li>There is a constant flow of viewers through the Gallery during a day… and it is easily accessible to those cruising downtown… Parking is relatively easy</li>
<li>There was also discussion about our goals for EV’15 --- are we a Show or a Sale or something of both…</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>At both the Debriefing and the Monthly meetings</b>… there was a great deal of enthusiasm for this new Adventure for Eclectic Visions 2015… it will be interesting to see how it will unfold…</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Thanks to all who helped, submitted, attended Eclectic Visions 2014… It was a wonderful show and many people praised our members for their vision and their creativity… well done all…</p>
<p>Great job Avril and her team… and what a team it was too…</p>
<p></p>
<p>Let us know what you think of this new options... we would like to hear from everyone... </p>
<p></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>August 13 Club Meeting Minutestag:ssphotog.ning.com,2014-08-23:3859646:BlogPost:2303492014-08-23T19:30:59.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><b>Photography Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>August 13, 2014</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p>1. <b>Opening:</b> Curt Firestone, El Prez… welcomed new member Chris Picard and invited him to come out an play with us…</p>
<p> </p>
<p>2. <b>Announcement:</b> Curt then shared with those present his resignation from the position of President of the SaltSpring Photography Club after four great years… Curt stressed that he was really proud of the Club…</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><b>Photography Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>August 13, 2014</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p>1. <b>Opening:</b> Curt Firestone, El Prez… welcomed new member Chris Picard and invited him to come out an play with us…</p>
<p> </p>
<p>2. <b>Announcement:</b> Curt then shared with those present his resignation from the position of President of the SaltSpring Photography Club after four great years… Curt stressed that he was really proud of the Club and its members, we have all grown a great deal and we have been very active and very inclusive… He feels strongly that it is time to let others take up the reins and move the Club to the next level… He also feels that a change in leadership will provide for a change in energy and direction… Curt assured us all that he will transition with the new President and that he will be supportive of Club activities as Past President and of course as an active participating member…</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Curt also shared his pride in the Club for operating with no by-laws, very little formal structure and a giving to the community attitude - just a group of friends with a common interest… He is also very proud of the Clubs contribution to the slide shows at Harbour House, Fritz and the two stations at Lady Minto… we are giving to our community of our interest and talents… and it is making so many people feel better… we hear constantly from people who see them and enjoy them… thanks for Wendy for all her work on this project… </p>
<p>Curt graciously thanked the executive for their support, work and fun… it is a pretty neat group of wonderful individuals who happen to work very well together…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Personal Aside from MCB :</b> I am delighted that Curt is finally stepping down as President… he needs to let us go a little bit… he needs to pull back and take care of himself and Gwen… and play a little more…</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Curt has been an amazing President – I have worked with many volunteer organizations/executives during my life and I have never seen a President more dedicated to his job, more concerned about being fair, democratic and impartial… more concerned about his membership as a group and as individuals… As an Exec member I was privileged to work with him and watch him stick handle some very ticklish distasteful situations with great skill and fairness… and I also witnessed his pride in our little Photo Club… man does he ever crow about us… a lot !!!!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Curt’s wandering and talking to anyone anywhere about photography, photo legal issues, photo shows, photo clubs, photo trivia, applications has greatly enriched our Club… We have all benefited from his endless searches for things to bring to the club… Curt has orchestrated outings, arranged guest speakers out of mid air… managed endless shows with a supreme eye for detail, all the while reaching for Bigger and Better…</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Curt has bedded and fed many, many of our guest speakers, he has arranged countless carpools… I sort of look at him as the Club Mom… Curt has challenged us and we have grown… He has been greatly responsible for our educational efforts… which have enriched us all, they have opened our minds, change our images and stretched us… made us better and more conscious photographers…</p>
<p>We all thank you Curt for all your hard work and driving force…</p>
<p> </p>
<p>I look forward to playing with Curt as a participating Past President and of course as a playmate member for our future adventures….</p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p align="center">Thank you Curt, you have been a joy to work with…</p>
<p align="center">and a person that I have grown to love dearly…</p>
<p align="center">Now lets play together….</p>
<p align="center">Take care my friend…</p>
<p align="center">and</p>
<p align="center">Go enjoy EVERYTHING !!!!!</p>
<p align="center">Cheers… MCB</p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Which leads logically to the next segment of the meeting:</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>3. Election:</b> Chris Dixon, VP (bless his heart ) has bravely stepped up to manage putting together a nomination Committee to deal with the filling of the Presidental Position and any other vacant positions at the time of the election… We are due to have the election at the November 12… Chris would appreciate anyone who would like to give him a hand or has any suggestions for nominations for President… Come forward with some ideas, find someone who you think would be great in the position... let us know... How about yourself... It is a fun job and can take you (and us) in some wonderful directions... Contact Chris at <span style="text-decoration: underline;">cw.dixon@shaw.ca</span> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>4. Now Showing: </b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Roasting Company:</b> Avril Kirby is showing on the walls of the Roasting Company… it is a lovely show of some of her latest work with layering… that girl can do magic with layering…</p>
<p>I think the Roasting are playing old ones… there are some wonderful shots, and the names of friends keep flashing up there… well done all who are appearing</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Embe’s Fresh Baked (Embe’s café)</b> this is another collection of the work of Doug and Avril (Team Embe) and as always they are worth a side trip for goodies and coffee… Doug and Avril have an endless supply of great images --- but they would welcome anyone who would like to join Team Embe --- it is great exposure with another kind of islander ---</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Have you ever noticed that each of the coffee shops ( Barb’s, TJ’s, Roasting Company, Talia, Fernwood, Fulford has it’s own following/culture and what each group has in common --- a very interesting study… hang out and then tailor your show to that audience… pick your favourite coffee culture… and just go for it…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Pemberton Homes Real Estate…</b> Sept. 2 to Nov. 1 will be the work of Sylvia Beech and Margaret C. Benmore… this is a wonderful opportunity to share your SaltSpring images with people who are thinking of moving here… let’s just show them how wonderful it is is to live here, all the hidden waiting to be discovered…</p>
<p>Team PH welcomes new members, the Boardrooms are a fun place to share some of your Island images, if you are interested in participating please contact Avril <a href="mailto:avek@telus.net">avek@telus.net</a> or Margaret C. Benmore (MCB) <a href="mailto:mcbenmore@saltspring.com">mcbenmore@saltspring.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Fernwood Café:</b></p>
<p>Jen is booked for 2014, except for Dec/Jan --- MCB is orchestrating a winter festivity show and would welcome images from anyone who would like to share in the Spirit of the Season… Let’s (the Club) send a Happy Holidays, Best of the Season to the Island… Let me know if you are interested in contributing a framed image to the show… <a href="mailto:mcbenmore@saltspring.com">mcbenmore@saltspring.com</a> love to hear from you…</p>
<p><span style="font-size: 13px;">Jen is looking for people for 2015 – this is wonderful place to show your work the light is terrific and the goodies and coffee are pretty darn good too… and people really take notice of what is on the walls…</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>If you know of other shows in town… add them on to this blog or better yet post it on the event section of our website… Let us all know what you have found and enjoyed…. </i></b></p>
<p><b><i> </i></b></p>
<p><b>5. Call for Harbour House slide show…</b>Wendy will be sending an email with the specs shortly… send in your great island images, lets stutt the island... </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>6. Bob Davidson Thanks</b>… Bob Davidson wanted to thank Wendy, Gwen and Doug..for being so supportive and entertaining during his recent adventures with the Medical System… It is great to have you back with us Bob... always entertaining... </p>
<p><span style="font-size: 13px;"> </span></p>
<p><b>7. Educational Segment:</b> Doug Wahlston presented on … <b>How large can a print can you get from a Digital image… ???</b> That is the challenge Doug has set from himself… and WOW that challenge has taken him on a wonderful journey as is witnessed in the super large prints he has been producing: the Cougar, the Collector (at EV’14), and his seashore show at the Fernwood Café…</p>
<p>Doug’s supremely scientific mind was fun to watch juggling pixels, spinning endless wonderful equations, graphs, tables, alogrithms and all sorts of mysterious things… You can’t argue with his results… If this is an area that interests you I am very sure that Doug is the man to talk too… He is your GO TO man for BIG !!!!! Thanks Doug… that was fun and interesting and totally incomprehensible to this poor brain… but endlessly fascinating to think that people can actually think like you do… I really admire that…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>8. Evening Show/Challenge</b>… <strong>“BLACK & WHITE”</strong> … B&W presents and interesting challenge for Photographers… of course initially that was pretty much all there was… now it is seen largely as a somewhat artsy sophisticated type of Photography by some…</p>
<p>B&W challenges you to look at other components of the composition of your image, suddenly lines, textures and shadows take on a more active of a role… The evening’s show was a great collection of some striking images, some very expressive images showing aging, dignity and cute. Someone commented that B&W brought out the Soul of a picture… an interesting observation…. Architecture and landscapes provided a strong palette for the our photographers… some to the point of abstraction... </p>
<p>Good work all - it is always fun to see what people are doing… keep the work coming in to Doug --- our master of the Slideshow and Shifting Deadlines… Thanks Doug, you are just Super… Please have your pictures to Doug by September 8<sup>th</sup> midnight… he will be sending out reminder and nudges… <a href="mailto:djmcmouse@gmail.com">djmcmouse@gmail.com</a> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>9. Next Meeting:</b> Wednesday, September 10,</p>
<p> Portlock Portable… 7:00 pm</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>10. The Challenge</b> for next month: </p>
<p><b>“ Try Something New and Wild with Your Camera or your Photography “</b> Stretch yourself out of your comfort zone... play, experiment and show us what happens… have lots of fun… now remeber to keep it tasteful folks… What have you always wanted to do with your camera, your digital editing or just your own creativity being recorded... take it out there and then go one step more -just for the hell of it... Try it... and have fun... and<span style="font-size: 13px;"> remember to keep it tasteful folks, we have a sensitive audience at these slide shows...</span></p>
<p></p>
<p><b style="font-size: 13px;">11. Editorial aside:</b> <span style="font-size: 13px;">If you have any comments, corrections or additions please feel free --- all help is welcome…</span></p>
<p>I would like to encourage all club members to take part in the conversations on the website --- they are interesting and endlessly informative… Share your pictures with the club on the site – you know we all love to look at images and it would give us a chance to get to know a little bit about you … let’s participate…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>Thanks for your patience...</i></b></p>
<p><b><i>Cheers… MCB </i></b></p>Minutes June 11, 2014tag:ssphotog.ning.com,2014-06-20:3859646:BlogPost:2257652014-06-20T06:00:00.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p align="center"><b> SaltSpring Photography Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>June 11, 2014</b></p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p>Apologies for the delay in the Minutes... I am sooooo guilty of being Delinquent, but I got seriously caught up in…</p>
<p align="center"><b> SaltSpring Photography Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>June 11, 2014</b></p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p>Apologies for the delay in the Minutes... I am sooooo guilty of being Delinquent, but I got seriously caught up in SSI summer do-Nothing syndrome combined with OCD Closet cleaning… What can I say… sorry… MCB</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u>Opening Remarks:</u></b> Chris ably jumped in for El Prez, who was stuck in the Vancouver Airport … Thanks Chris for so nobly stepping up… you did good…</p>
<p>The Club would like to welcome a new member <b>Dilmun</b> and <b>Davia Dombro</b> who showed us some beautiful work from their travels… welcome to the Club --- we look forward to getting know you… come on out a play with us….</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u>Recycling:</u></b> Chris also offered a copy of Wooden Boat --- which of course was snatched up very quickly to go to another appreciator of fine craftsmanship and great design….</p>
<p><b><u> </u></b></p>
<p><b><u>Club Business:</u></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Mentorship Program with GISS/Agricultural Alliance:</b> this project is working well with the herding and photography skills of Don Romanchuk, Anna McColm, Wendy Rosier - great job guys… I understand it is now down to the choosing of images and there is a wonderful selection to work with… and it is on to the next stage – the production of calendar showcasing farming on SaltSpring in all it glory and variety… stay tuned this is going beautiful…</p>
<p><a href="mailto:don.romanchuk@me.com">don.romanchuk@me.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u> </u></b></p>
<p><b><u>Upcoming Events:</u></b></p>
<p><b><u> </u></b></p>
<p><b><u> </u></b></p>
<p align="center"><b><u>ATTENTION ALL !!!!</u></b></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p align="center"><b><u>ECLECTIC VISION IS FAST APPROACHING…</u></b></p>
<p><b><u> </u></b></p>
<p>Avril gave an update of the EV activitiy…<b><u> </u></b> all is going along as planned… excellent work by all involved… don’t you just love it when a plan falls together…. Well done all… and thanks…</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Don’t forget</b> to email all of your friends, neighbours and relatives to let them know about EV… Wendy has sent out an invitation that you can use – just forward it on… invite them to the reception… there will be food…</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Eclectic Visions 2014:</b> <b>June 26 – July 9<sup>th</sup>, 2014 –</b> <b>(NEXT WEEK!!!!)</b></p>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li>EV will be a 14 day run in the ArtSpring Gallery. </li>
<li><b>27</b> members will be showing…</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li>See Website for details about EV, image restrictions, rules, etc… by the way no images over 36” please… </li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li>Bring your images on <b>Wednesday, 25<sup>th</sup></b> <sup>between</sup> <strong>5</strong><b> & 7pm...</b> </li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li>You will soon be given detailed instructions on what is required for Check In --- See EV Blog on our site…</li>
<li>It was strongly recommended that if you are submitting cards for sell that you enclose them in plastic sleeves (cystals) – available in varying sizes from Dragonfly Art Supplies in town… Prints should also be matted and in plastic sleeves…</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li>Don’t forget to identify you cards, prints, books with the appropriate labeling…</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li>The show will be hung by Bob Rogers and Wendy Rosier and helpers on <b>Thursday</b> the <b>26<sup>th</sup></b> …</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li><b>Friday June 27<sup>th</sup></b> will be our Opening Reception… and you will receive details and instructions for that event shortly…</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li><b>Volunteers</b> needed to assist Fifi with the reception, please, give her a call she is making a list… She will be sending out an e-plea for help,</li>
<li>Also all contributions of figure food (sweet or savoury) are Welcome… we do have a reputation to uphold for the best food at an Art Opening… let’s show them what we can really do…</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li>Come on out… you won’t want to miss it… great food, fun company and wonderful photography…</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li>EV runs until Wednesday <b>July 9<sup>th</sup></b>… you will be able to pick up your work between <strong>4</strong><b> and 6 pm in the afternoon</b>…</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li>Avril circulated show sitting schedule – we need volunteers to sit the show through the run… we find that opening night and the weekends are easier with two people sitting… again the detail will be forth coming, but let Avril know when you can sit – it is fun and you get to talk to some very interesting people and watch their reactions to various images… Give Avril a call/email…</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p>Avril Kirby is managing <b>Eclectic Visions</b> and would love to hear from you if you wish to participate… <a href="mailto:avek@teleus.net">avek@telus.net</a> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u>Now Showing: </u></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Roasting Company:</b> <b>Ross MacLeod</b> spoke of the Roasting Company’s commitment to show the work of the Photography Club on their large screen projection system… Thanks Ross for the opportunity to showcase our members work and also showcase SaltSpring through the eyes of Locals…</p>
<p> </p>
<p> <b>Country Grocer Café:</b> <b>Curt Firestone and Gwen MacDonald</b>… for those of you who missed or those who want to linger over their <b>“ <u>Images of Africa “</u></b> : six of those images will hang in Country Grocer's Roaster's cafe for the month of July.</p>
<p>This location is co-ordinated by Cliff Kelly --- thanks Cliff for doing such a great job over the years… <a href="mailto:gykelly2@hotmail.com">gykelly2@hotmail.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Harbour House:</b> <b>Sam Lightman and Maureen Milburn</b> are showing at HH until the end of June… be sure to drop in and see this wonderfully innovative twist on painting/photography and the beautiful relationship between the two… both the two media and the two artists… beautiful work you guys… thanks for sharing it…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> ArtCraft: Judy McPhee</b> has been accepted to participate at ArtCraft this year, an honour indeed and certainly well earned… Good going Judy, wishing you all the success over the summer…</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> Embe’s Art Centre & Café: </b> Doug assures us that the discerning audience would be welcoming of some new participants in the rotating show… The space will take 5 images… If you would like to join the ranks of renowned photgraphers educating the masses at Embe’s give Doug or Avril a call… In the meantime Avril and Doug have an endless supply of photo to keep the walls busy… but join the fun of showing around town…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Pemberton Homes Real Estate…</b> June 1 to August 1 will be the work of <b>Avril Kirby</b> and <b>Anna McColm</b> showing all those potential SaltSpring homeowners the beauty of Saltspring… Thanks team… </p>
<p>Team PH welcomes new members, the Boardrooms are a fun place to share some of your Island images, if you are interested in participating please contact Avril <a href="mailto:avek@telus.net">avek@telus.net</a> or Margaret C. Benmore <a href="mailto:mcbenmore@saltspring.com">mcbenmore@saltspring.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Fernwood Café:</b> <b>Margaret C. Benmore</b> will be showing at Fernwood Cafe from July 12 to August 16 – the show is a further exploration of the <b><u>“ Goddess Series “</u></b> she has been playing with… Come on out, have a coffee & treat by the beach and see where some of the Goddesses appeared on a foggy day at the Fernwood dock…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Art Barn:</b> will be host another event on <b>Saturday evening June 28<sup>th</sup> and Sunday afternoon June 29<sup>th</sup></b> … This is a Show/Sale of work by local SSI artists (photographers, painters, sculptors, etc.)… All work is the same price $200 --- it is a great opportunity to see a rather unique show of island work…</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> Penny’s Pantry:</b> Willow Sky MacDonald will be hanging a showing there in July so stay tuned for more details and drop by for a peek…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Ernie Westlund</b>: 1000 days and counting… did you see the article in the Driftwood about Ernies quest, a photo a day… wonderful Ernie… keep it going and keep having fun with it…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>If you know of other shows in town… add them on to this blog or better yet post it on the event section of our website… Let us all know what you have found and enjoyed…. </i></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u> </u></b></p>
<p><b><u>Evening Educational session</u></b>… Wendy Rosier gave a demonstration of some of the attributes of Lightroom… that girl can do magic with the technology --- turning a beautiful shot of a Rhodo that anyone would be proud of into a JUMPING Rhodo… that just popped off the screen…</p>
<p>Wendy recommended <u>lightroomqueen.com</u> as a good source of information about Lightroom… she will also be emailing some other references … Thanks Wendy –</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Each time we do another of these techno sessions, I get both inspired and overwhelmed… it is like magic and I really want to play with it… Thanks to all of you that have demonstrated the wonders of this brave new world for us…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u> </u></b></p>
<p><b><u>Evening Slide Show:</u></b> the challenge for the evening was to show us the <b>images that didn’t make the cut for EV or shots you really just love</b> and haven’t shown it to anyone… and <b>BOY</b>!!!!!! did we see some wonderful images… </p>
<p>From Romantic windows with sun and lace, to bookshelves stuffed with a cornucopia of artifacts of a life of interest… ghostly profiles in the forest, to Columbian stove…</p>
<p>All of the images were of a very high quality, in composition, light, - timmi’s ethereal white rose and Tom Gilligan’s abstract were polar opposites, yet both beautiful and outstanding… We had Brinkworthy teapots and the plaza of the Grand Mosque in Casablanca… </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Do yourself a favour go to the website and look at them all again --- slowly… really look at them --- they are beautiful… Well done all </p>
<p> </p>
<p>By the way if you do not want your image shown on the website – just let Doug know and he will gladly take it out for you…</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u>Slideshow Challenge</u></b><b>:</b> The challenge for the July meeting is <b>“ Festive “</b> – anything to do with Festivals, festivities, celebrations, let the good times roll... Food, decorations, people, music… anything to capture Festive…</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Send you submissions to Doug ( Master of the Show) McMillan at <a href="mailto:djmcmouse@gmail.com">djmcmouse@gmail.com</a> Thank you Doug --- you do come up with wonderful intro/title shots… you are wonderful… </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u>Next Months Meeting:</u></b> <b>Wednesday, July 9,</b> 2014. Portlock Portable... 7-9 pm… see you there… It’s going to be interesting and it is always entertaining…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u>Editorial aside:</u></b> If you have any comments, corrections or additions please feel free --- all help is welcome…</p>
<p>I would like to encourage all club members to take part in the conversations on the website --- they are interesting and endlessly informative… Share your pictures with the club on the site – you know we all love to look at images and it would give us a chance to get to know a little bit about you … let’s participate…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>Cheers… MCB</i></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p></p>May 14 Club Minutestag:ssphotog.ning.com,2014-05-19:3859646:BlogPost:2242782014-05-19T23:46:52.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p align="center"><b> SaltSpring Photography Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>May 14, 2014</b></p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p><u> </u></p>
<p><b><u>Opening Remarks:</u></b> Curt opened the meeting of about 20 eager and chatty photographers ---…</p>
<p align="center"><b> SaltSpring Photography Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>May 14, 2014</b></p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p><u> </u></p>
<p><b><u>Opening Remarks:</u></b> Curt opened the meeting of about 20 eager and chatty photographers --- what a friendly group… a great deal of laughter and chatter... a good sign... </p>
<p>We would also like to welcome Jana Zacharious … come on out and play with us… </p>
<p><b><u> </u></b></p>
<p><b><u>Club Business:</u></b></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> Tom Gilligan: </b>several members of the Club made the voyage up to Gabriola to visit Tom and check out his new work and new home… it was a wonderful day of beautiful photo ops, and good company… Hi to all from Tom ---- by the way his work is also beautiful --- though I am told he has taken off in a new direction entirely…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Education Co-ordintor Position still open:</b> Nag Nag Nag --- Surely out of almost 100 members there must be someone who would like to pick up this role for the Club… maybe even a pair or small group… It’s a fun opportunity to help the Club… Still awaiting some help in this area…. PLEASE Someone or someones ????</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Mentorship Program with GISS/Agricultural Alliance:</b> Club members and their students are running all over the island taking Farm pictures… it is a very busy time down on the Farm these days… there have been some amazing results and the Show at Harbour House will definitely be something to see… as will the product/s produced to raise funds for Agricultural Alliance work…</p>
<p><a href="mailto:don.romanchuk@me.com">don.romanchuk@me.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> CRD's Economic Development Commission</b> is developing strategic plans for the economic future of Salt Spring Island. One of the economic drivers of the island is tourism. Among ideas being discussed is an Arts Festival. Or maybe an Arts & Music Festival. As one of the largest and most active arts organizations of SSI, we have been asked for our input. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>How would you visualize an Arts Festival? Use you imagination. Any ideas sent to me will be forwarded without comment. Just let me know if I should or should not include your name as author.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>One other question: As the Southern Gulf Islands are all part of the CRD, if the arts and/or music festival were held on another southern gulf island, would you likely participate and/or attend?</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Your comments are appreciated and requested over the next ten days. Thank you, Curt <a href="mailto:curtfirestone@gmail.com">curtfirestone@gmail.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u> </u></b></p>
<p><b><u>Upcoming Events:</u></b> Avril gave an update of the EV activitiy… all is going along as planned…</p>
<p> </p>
<p>There was much discussion about the idea for “People’s Choice “ --- it is seen by some to be too Competitive for a Club that takes pride in being non-Competitive… The goal of the exercise was not so much to be a competition, but as to be a way to get the viewers involved and thinking about what they are seeing… The discussion went back and forth and was very lively… ending in true SSI manner with EV committee tasked to go away a think about it again and come back with some other options… and that they will do… happily…</p>
<p><b> UPDATE: </b></p>
<p><b> Eclectic Visions 2014:</b> June 26 – July 9<sup>th</sup>, 2014 –</p>
<ul>
<li>It will be a 14 day run in the ArtSpring Gallery. </li>
<li>30 members have paid </li>
<li>Forms are to be completed and sent in before June 17<sup>th</sup></li>
<li>See Website for details about EV, image restrictions, rules, etc… by the way no images over 36” please… </li>
<li><span style="font-size: 13px;">Fee payment $60 is due at the end of May – please give your money to Pat Page,</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 13px;">Bring your images on</span> <b style="font-size: 13px;">Wednesday, 25<sup>th</sup></b> <sup>between</sup> <b style="font-size: 13px;">4 & 5pm...</b> <span style="font-size: 13px;"> You will soon be given detailed instructions on what is required for Check In --- See EV Blog on our site…</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 13px;">The show will be hung by Bob and Wendy and helpers on</span> <b style="font-size: 13px;">Thursday</b> <span style="font-size: 13px;">the</span> <b style="font-size: 13px;">26<sup>th</sup></b> <span style="font-size: 13px;">…</span></li>
<li><b style="font-size: 13px;">Friday June 27<sup>th</sup></b> <span style="font-size: 13px;">will be our Opening Reception… and you will receive details and instructions for that event shortly… Volunteers needed to assist Fifi with the reception, please, give her a call she is making a list… She will be sending out a e-plea for help, come on out you won’t want to miss it…</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Theme of Eclectic Visions 2014 as chosen by those who participated in the vote will be</span><b style="font-size: 13px;">: NO THEME</b><span style="font-size: 13px;"> --- let’s see your best most creative stuff… have at it…</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 13px;">EV runs until Wednesday</span> <b style="font-size: 13px;">July 9<sup>th</sup></b><span style="font-size: 13px;">… you will be able to pick up your work between</span> <b style="font-size: 13px;">3:30 and 4:30 in the afternoon</b><span style="font-size: 13px;">…</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 13px;">Avril circulated show sitting schedule – we need volunteers to sit the show through the run… we find that opening night and the weekends are easier with two people sitting… again the detail will be forth coming, but let Avril know when you can sit – it is fun and you get to talk to some very interesting people and watch their reactions to various images… Give Avril a call/email…</span><span style="font-size: 13px;"> </span></li>
</ul>
<p>Avril Kirby is managing/cordinating and generally doing a wonderful job for <b>Eclectic Visions</b> and would love to hear from you if you wish to participate… <a href="mailto:avek@teleus.net">avek@telus.net</a> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u>Now Showing: </u></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Roasting Company:</b> I think they are playing old ones… there are some wonderful shots, and the names of friends keep flashing up there… well done all who are appearing</p>
<p> </p>
<p> <b>Country Grocer Café:</b> <b>Rachel Page</b> is showing some new work in the busiest café in town… a very opinionated and appreciative audience… but also very supportive… <a href="mailto:gykelly2@hotmail.com">gykelly2@hotmail.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Harbour House:</b> <b>Gwen MacDonald and Curt Firestone</b> have a show coming up at Harbour House starting May 1<sup>st</sup> – it will be a selection from their adventures in Africa, Mexico and Italy – It will be fun to see the life of the Jet Set… A beautiful show Curt and Gwen --- you both have a wonderful eye and a cute sense of humour… I loved it…. Thanks for sharing such lovely adventures and keep travelling…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Trail & Nature Club:</b> Gwen McDonald presents a photo journal of her visit 2012 visit to East Africa. She will also touch issues around poaching and environmental impacts on the animals. The photos will highlight some of the differences within species and between different national parks in Kenya and Tanzania, the two countries visited. And the photos of the ethnic groups will hopefully add a human dimension. Some artifacts will be on display as well.</p>
<p>Hosted by SS Trail and Nature Club. Open to public. Free</p>
<p>United Church Lower Hall, Ganges<b>. 7:30PM Thursday May 22.</b> All welcome and a wonderful opportunity to see some great pictures and hear some great stories… good going Gwen…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Embe’s Fresh Baked (Embe’s café)</b> this is another collection of the work of Doug and Avril and as always they are worth a side trip for goodies and coffee… These guys have and endless supply of great images --- but they would welcome anyone who would like to join their circuit --- (Team Embe) it is great exposure with another kind of islander as an audience --- Have you ever noticed that each of the coffee shops has it’s own following, it's own special culture with their own shared characteristics... --- a very interesting study, try tailoring your images to your audience… </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Pemberton Homes Real Estate…</b> June 1 to August 1 will be the work of <b>Avril Kirby</b> and <b>Anna McColm</b> showing all those potential SaltSpring homeowners the beauty of Saltspring… Thanks team… </p>
<p>Team PH welcomes new members, the Boardrooms are a fun place to share some of your Island images, if you are interested in participating please contact Avril <a href="mailto:avek@telus.net">avek@telus.net</a> or Margaret C. Benmore <a href="mailto:mcbenmore@saltspring.com">mcbenmore@saltspring.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Fernwood Café:</b> <b>Peter Luckham</b> is showing us what it looks like right there off our shores… there is magic of these shores --- take your camera out and play in the tidal flats… it is a wonderful way to spend a hour or two… just do it…</p>
<p>Jen is booked for 2014 but is looking for people for 2015 – this is wonderful place to show your work the light is terrific and the goodies and coffee are pretty darn good too… </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Penny’s Pantry:</b> Willow Sky MacDonald will be hanging a showing there in July so stay tuned for more details and drop by for a peek…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>If you know of other shows in town… add them on to this blog or better yet post it on the event section of our website… Let us all know what you have found and enjoyed…. </i></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u> </u></b></p>
<p><b><u>Evening Educational session</u></b>… Well did we get a presentation on Lightroom --- thank you Don Romanchuck… my heavens there is a lot to learn about these Applications… They are so wonderful and the things they can do is amazing… Don focused mainly on the file management capability of Lightroom… how to set up systems that will allow you to systematically work with your images and find them again… However he also showed us many of the other things that can be done… form editing, special effects, book publishing, webpage design --- it is overwhelming but it looks like a whole lot of fun once you get a little know how… </p>
<p><span style="font-size: 13px;">Don also recommended</span> <u style="font-size: 13px;">Lynda.com</u><span style="font-size: 13px;"> as a source for good training programs for most applications including Photoshop, Lightroom and other photography and non photography courses… check it out… </span></p>
<p><b><u> </u></b></p>
<p><b><u>Evening Slide Show:</u></b> It is amazing to see what our group can do with a challenge --- “TIME “the subject this month and boy did we score on that front… the various of approaches to such a huge topic as Time was wonderful we had: artful Clocks. Broken clocks, sawdust hour glass and sundials. We had vintage Fulford Inn 3 min. Parking sign, a church window, Tammi’s skull & feathers… Cliff gave us a beautiful portrait of himself as a child, young man and proud senior Soldier in dress uniform (talk about the passage of time… beautiful Cliff… Thanks.. )… There were flowers budding, dying, the image of “How Long is Now”, old cars swallowed by Blackberrys on SSI (ever think about how many house, cars and who knows what are eaten island blackberries – scary isn’t it)…</p>
<p>It was a beautiful show and you can enjoy it again on our website Doug has posted it in a Blog… By the way if you do not want your image shown on the website – just let Doug know and he will gladly take it out for you…</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u>Slideshow Challenge</u></b><b>:</b> The challenge for the month was <b>“ ALMOST MADE THE CUT “</b> this is your opportunity to show case the image that you couldn’t put in EV because of limited # of submissions… if you had to pick another this would be it…</p>
<p>Or if you haven’t had to make <strong>that</strong> particular difficult decision and you didn’t enter EV… what would you have submitted to <strong>if</strong> you had chosen to participate… strut your best stuff…</p>
<p>Send you submissions to Doug ( Master of the Show) McMillan by June 8th... at <a href="mailto:djmcmouse@gmail.com">djmcmouse@gmail.com</a> Thank you Doug --- you do come up with wonderful intro/title shots… you are wonderful… </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u>Next Months Meeting:</u></b> Wednesday, June 11, 2014. Portlock Portable... 7-9 pm… see you there… It’s going to be interesting and it is always entertaining…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u>Editorial aside:</u></b> If you have any comments, corrections or additions please feel free --- all help is welcome…</p>
<p>I would like to encourage all club members to take part in the conversations on the website --- they are interesting and endlessly informative… Share your pictures with the club on the site – you know we all love to look at images and it would give us a chance to get to know a little bit about you … let’s participate…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>Cheers… MCB</i></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>April 9 Meeting Minutestag:ssphotog.ning.com,2014-04-14:3859646:BlogPost:2222622014-04-14T22:07:24.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p align="center"><b> SaltSpring Photography Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>April 9, 2014</b></p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p><u> </u></p>
<p><b><u>Opening Remarks:</u></b> Gwen has brought El Prez (Curt) back from Mexico – both looking rested…</p>
<p align="center"><b> SaltSpring Photography Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>April 9, 2014</b></p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p><u> </u></p>
<p><b><u>Opening Remarks:</u></b> Gwen has brought El Prez (Curt) back from Mexico – both looking rested and fit… welcome back guys…</p>
<p>We welcome two new members: Jason Beaumont and Davia Dombro – come on out and have fun with us…</p>
<p>Our fond wishes go out to Ernie Westlund who is happily on the road to Recovery and back in Action… keep well Ernie…</p>
<p><b><u> </u></b></p>
<p><b><u>Club Business:</u></b></p>
<p><b><u> </u></b></p>
<p><b> SaltSpring Centre School Art Lottery... </b> Curt has posted a Blog on our site with regard to a request from the SaltSpring Centre School and details in you are interested in contributing… Tax receipts will be issued for contributions…</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> Tom Gilligan</b> (former Photo Club member) is having a show of his work” Parallel Horizons” – the Art of Abstract Photography at Gabriola Artworks on Gabriola Island – his new home… Curt is organizing a field trip to Gabriola and Tom will show us the Photographic gems of the island… contact Curt Firestone at <a href="mailto:curtfirestone@gmail.com">curtfirestone@gmail.com</a> or look at Blog on our Site… </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Education Co-ordintor Position still open:</b> Surely out of almost 100 members there must be someone who would like to pick up this role for the Club… maybe even a pair or small group… It’s a fun opportunity to help the Club… Still awaiting some help in this area…. PLEASE Someone or someones ????</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Mentorship Program with GISS/Agricultural Alliance:</b> Club members and their students are running all over the island taking Farm pictures… it is a very busy time down on the Farm these days… there have been some amazing results and the Show at Harbour House will definitely be something to see… as will the product/s produced to raise funds for Agricultural Alliance work…</p>
<p><a href="mailto:don.romanchuk@me.com">don.romanchuk@me.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Addition to the Website Disclaimer statement</b> as submitted by Sam Lightman… <i>It was voted to have this statement posted on our Club Website…</i></p>
<p><b>"</b><b><i>Works of individual artists remain the intellectual property and are copyrighted by their respective authors. No unauthorized reproduction, all rights reserved."</i></b></p>
<p><b><u> </u></b></p>
<p><b><u>Upcoming Events:</u></b></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> Eclectic Visions 2014:</b> June 26 – July 7<sup>th</sup>, 2014 –</p>
<ul>
<li>It will be a 14 day run in the ArtSpring Gallery. </li>
<li>36 members have so far expressed interest</li>
<li>Fee payment $60 is due at the end of May – please give your money to Pat Page, $30 is due in May to reserve your space and the other $30 is due by the June meeting… However if possible please pay the whole $60 at once it just makes it simpler for Pat and yourself actually… you don’t have to remember to do it twice.. And remembering is Hard these days …</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li>The EV show will be hanging on the June 26, sooooo…</li>
<li>We will need your images on <b>Wednesday, 25<sup>th</sup></b> <sup>between</sup> <b>4 & 5pm...</b> You will soon be given detailed instructions on what is required for Check In - in the near future…</li>
<li>The show will be hung by Bob and Wendy and helpers on <b>Thursday</b> the <b>26<sup>th</sup></b> …</li>
<li><b>Friday June 27<sup>th</sup></b> will be our Opening Reception… and you will receive details and instructions for that event shortly… Stay tuned – our Club opening’s are the talk of the ART/Social Scene – for months to come… and brings out the classiest people on SaltSpring and others too of course… You won’t want to miss it… and the food is always great while you wander around looking at the images of your friends…</li>
<li>The Theme of Eclectic Visions 2014 as chosen by those who participated in the vote will be<b>: NO THEME</b> --- let’s see your best most creative stuff… have at it…</li>
<li>EV runs until Monday <b>July 7<sup>th</sup></b>… you will be able to pick up your work between <b>3:30 and 4:30 in the afternoon</b>…</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p>Avril Kirby is managing <b>Eclectic Visions</b> and would love to hear from you if you wish to participate… <a href="mailto:avek@teleus.net">avek@telus.net</a> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u>Now Showing: </u></b></p>
<p><b><u> </u></b></p>
<p> <b>ArtSpring Lobby: Sam Lightman and Maureen Milburn</b> is presently showing their “ Shoreline Project “ a beautiful collection by two individuals with lovely solo’s and beautiful collaborations… Well done folks – Thanks you for sharing your work… The Shoreline Project runs until the end of April so be sure to drop by – it is a feast for the eyes and heart…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Roasting Company:</b> The Club Monthly Slideshows are again showing for the coffee crowd… I think they are playing old ones… there are some wonderful shots, and the names of friends keep flashing up there… well done all who are appearing</p>
<p> </p>
<p> <b>Country Grocer Café:</b> <b>Rachel Page</b> will showing some new work in the busiest café in town… a very opinionated and appreciative audience… but also very supportive… <a href="mailto:gykelly2@hotmail.com">gykelly2@hotmail.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Harbour House:</b> <b>Gwen MacDonald and Curt Firestone</b> have a show coming up at Harbour House starting May 1<sup>st</sup> – it will be a selection from their adventures in Africa, Mexico and Italy – It will be fun to see the life of the Jet Set… looking forward to it you guys…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Embe’s Fresh Baked (Embe’s café)</b> this is another collection of the work of Doug and Avril and as always they are worth a side trip for goodies and coffee…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Pemberton Homes Real Estate…</b> April 1 to June 30 will be showing <b>SaltSpring Spring</b> images by <b>MCB and Sylvia Beech</b> – you should see Sylvia’s seals, they are wonderful… Team PH welcomes new members, the Boardrooms are a fun place to share some of your Island images, if you are interested in participating please contact Avril <a href="mailto:avek@telus.net">avek@telus.net</a> or Margaret C. Benmore <a href="mailto:mcbenmore@saltspring.com">mcbenmore@saltspring.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Fernwood Café:</b> <b>Avril Kirby</b> is showing this time at the Fernwood Café until the 18<sup>th</sup> of April… A Tribute to Granny “ is a lovely display that is a loving tribute to Avril’s Granny’s photography and a very interesting peek into that period of history and photography… Beautiful show and very well hung… Nice work</p>
<p>The next show at Fernwood will be work by Jennifer – the café’s owner --- her work is always lovely --- go out and enjoy the treats and the show… and the view…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Penny’s Pantry:</b> Willow Sky MacDonald will be hanging a showing there in July so stay tuned for more details and drop by for a peek…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>If you know of other shows in town… add them on to this blog or better yet post it on the event section of our website… Let us all know what you have found and enjoyed…. </i></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u>Evening Educational session</u></b>… the evening presentation was given by Bob Roger’s – he presented an overview to “ Aperture “ a MAC software which has amazing image management system as well as editing and bulk editing/change features… way cool… Thanks Bob for the presentation it was very informative ---</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Curt and Don will be looking at the needs assessment and feedback and plan accordingly… it is always fun to see what they come up with – Thanks guys for doing this for all of us…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u> </u></b></p>
<p><b><u>Evening Slide Show:</u></b> The evening slide presentation was on “Vacant” and that certainly stirred up a lot of thing for a lot of people… everything from Grace Point’s empty Parking lot, to a Cemetery, chair installation, vacant playground, Chris Dixon’s wonderful hat… Island gone missing (fog) and so much more… Doug has posted the show on the site so go and have a look – it was wonderful and imaginative… well done all… </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u>Slideshow Challenge</u></b><b>:</b> The challenge for May is really a challenge… an image that captures or expresses <b>“ TIME “</b> … So don’t waste time get out there and capture Times… and have fun…</p>
<p><b><br/></b> Send you submissions to Doug ( Master of the Show) McMillan at <a href="mailto:djmcmouse@gmail.com">djmcmouse@gmail.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u>Next Months Meeting:</u></b> Wednesday, May 14, 2014. Portlock Portable... 7-9 pm… see you there… It’s going to be interesting and fun…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u> </u></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u>Editorial aside:</u></b> If you have any comments, corrections or additions please feel free --- all help is welcome…</p>
<p>I would like to encourage all club members to take part in the conversations on the website --- they are interesting and endlessly informative… Share your pictures with the club on the site – you know we all love to look at images and it would give us a chance to get to know a little bit about you … let’s participate…</p>
<p></p>
<p>Don't forget to read the comments below for corrections to the minutes... </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>Cheers… MCB</i></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>Minutes March 12, 2014tag:ssphotog.ning.com,2014-03-17:3859646:BlogPost:2201362014-03-17T00:00:00.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p align="center"><b> SaltSpring Photography Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>February 12, 2014</b></p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p><u> </u></p>
<p><b><u>Opening Remarks:</u></b> Chris Dixon (VP) nobly opened the meeting - his huge OWWEEE !!!!…</p>
<p align="center"><b> SaltSpring Photography Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>February 12, 2014</b></p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p><u> </u></p>
<p><b><u>Opening Remarks:</u></b> Chris Dixon (VP) nobly opened the meeting - his huge OWWEEE !!!! is on the Mend and he is nobly carrying on… Thank you Chris…</p>
<p>We welcomed back Ken for his one meeting a year and hope he will be tempted to join us more often… Others too – come out and share the fun with us and were learning stuff too…</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Had Greetings from the Prez in the South – hiding out in Mexico I hear…</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Greetings from Trudy Sloan in Courtney – she is having a wonderful time, but she misses us… and we miss her too… Come visit for a meeting Trudy… </p>
<p><b><u> </u></b></p>
<p><b><u>Club Business:</u></b></p>
<p><b><u> </u></b></p>
<p><b> Club Membership dues Due:</b> If you still have Outstanding dues… come on fork it over – it is little enough for all the fun you could have with us – if participate…. <a href="mailto:patssi@shaw.ca">patssi@shaw.ca</a></p>
<p> <span style="font-size: 13px;"> </span></p>
<p><b> Webmaster:</b> Wendy Rosier has taken on the post of WebMaster --- thus I think We have a WebMistress… she will be working with Bob Rogers and anyone else who would like to help develop the Club Web capability and presence… <a href="mailto:wrosier@gmail.com">wrosier@gmail.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p> <b style="font-size: 13px;"> Education Co-ordintor Position still open:</b> <span style="font-size: 13px;"> Still awaiting some help in this area…. PLEASE Someone or someones ????</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Mentorship Program with GISS/Agricultural Alliance: </b> Don Romanchuk has taken on the coordination/liaison role for the Club in a cooperative project between the Club, GISS Gulf Islands Senior Secondary and the Agricultural Alliance Group… the aim is to have club members mentoring the students in photography while producing images of farms on the island for fundraising activities… Hearing from both the kids and the mentors already in place, it sounds like a great deal of fun is been had by all… There is promise of great things to come… There will be group shoots throughout the spring, so it is a chance to explore farms at a wonderful time of year, lots of action, lots baby critters and Spring in the air… it just doesn’t get any better than that on SSI…. <b>Don is still looking for a few more mentors – so if you are interested in some great photo-ops give him a call… </b> Thanks Don, he can be contacted at <a href="mailto:don.romanchuk@me.com">don.romanchuk@me.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u> </u></b><b style="font-size: 13px;"><u>Upcoming Events:</u></b></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> Country Grocer Café:</b> Wendy Rosier and Chris Dixon are presently showing at the Café… lovely work you guys… <a href="mailto:gykelly2@hotmail.com">gykelly2@hotmail.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> January Lobby Show at ArtSpring:</b> is now down and maybe Bob could give us some Stats/feedback/comments on it at the next meeting… I personally heard from lots of people that the Club work is just getting better and better… well done all…</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> Eclectic Visions 2014:</b> June 26 – July 9<sup>th</sup>, 2014 –</p>
<ul>
<li>It will be a 14 day run in the ArtSpring Gallery. </li>
<li>30 members have so far expressed interest</li>
<li>The cut off for registration (Club Blog) is the end of March - so don’t put it off too long…</li>
<li>Fee payment $60 is due at the end of May – please send your money to Pat page…</li>
<li>The show will be hanging on the June 26, we will need your images by the 25<sup>th</sup>. </li>
<li>The Theme of Eclectic Visions 2014 as chosen by those who participated in the vote will be<b>: NO THEME</b> --- let’s see your best most creative stuff… have at it…</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p>Avril Kirby is managing Eclectic Visions and would love to hear from you if you wish to participate… <a href="mailto:avek@teleus.net">avek@teleus.net</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u>Now Showing: </u></b></p>
<p> <b>Roasting Company:</b> The Club Monthly Slideshows are again showing for the coffee crowd… I think they are playing old ones… there are some wonderful shots, and the names of friends keep flashing up there… well done all who are appearing</p>
<p align="right"></p>
<p><b> Harbour House:</b> Don’t forget that Harbour House has a wonderful space for displaying Photograph’s so if you are looking for a venue – you might want to talk to them….</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Embe’s Fresh Baked (Embe’s café)</b> this is another collection of the work of Doug and Avril and as always they are worth a side trip for goodies and coffee…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Pemberton Homes Real Estate…</b> April 1 to June 30 will be showing Spring images by MCB and Sylvia Beech… This is a fun show and a wonderful opportunity to show some of your island images, if you are interested in participating please contact Avril or Margaret C. Benmore… we welcome the company….</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Fernwood Café:</b> Avril Kirby is showing this time at the Fernwood Café…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>If you know of other shows in town… add them on to this blog or better yet post it on the event section of our website… Let us all know what you have found and enjoyed…. </i></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u>Evening Educational session</u></b>… the evening’s session was presented by Don Romanchuk , he was giving us a survey of some digital manipulation software --- Basically he was also assessing where we all were with photographic technology in the computer dark room… I think he probably found that we ranged from Wizards to – not so much… Don did give us some things to think about when we are determining what we need/want in a software to work with photos…</p>
<p>It will be interesting to watch what develops as a program… Don is a very experienced instructor who obviously has a great deal of knowledge and experience to offer… and enthusiasm… So come on out and learn stuff… it doesn’t hurt, it is kind’a fun… Sometimes you might even remember it… Thanks Don and Curt for starting the ball rolling…</p>
<p><b><u> </u></b></p>
<p><b><u>Evening Slide Show:</u></b> The challenge for the Evening was to find <b>Found Art, Primitive Art, Quirky Art…</b> etc.. well we certainly rose to the challenge and produced a whimsical look at SSI and surrounds… we found ART (Arthur Black), we found the Dentists gate, Mexican sink still life, Scarcrows, Fairy Doors, Buddha with mitts, Library art, Bubbles, a new Copper Pictograph.. and many many more wonderful photos… well done all…</p>
<p> </p>
<p>It is always fun to see other people’s take on the world, what they find interesting and the angles they see it from…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u>Slideshow Challenge</u></b><b>:</b> The challenge for April is really a challenge… an image that captures or expresses <b>“ VACANT “</b></p>
<p><b><br/></b> Send you submissions to Doug ( Master of the Show) McMillan at <a href="mailto:jdougmac@shaw.ca">djmcmouse@gmail.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u>Next Months Meeting:</u></b> Wednesday, <strong>April 9 , 2014 7:00 </strong>Portlock Portable... see you there… It’s going to be interesting and fun…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u>Editorial aside:</u></b> If you have any comments, corrections or additions please feel free --- all help is welcome…</p>
<p>I would like to encourage all club members to take part in the conversations on the website --- they are interesting and endlessly informative… Share your pictures with the club on the site – you know we all love to look at images and it would give us a chance to get to know a little bit about you … let’s participate…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>Cheers… MCB</i></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>Meeting Minutes Feb. 12 2014tag:ssphotog.ning.com,2014-02-17:3859646:BlogPost:2182132014-02-17T23:00:00.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p align="center"><b> SaltSpring Photography Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>February 12, 2014</b></p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p><u> </u></p>
<p><b><u>Opening Remarks:</u></b> Chris Dixon (VP) nobly opened the meeting sporting a huge OWWEEE…</p>
<p align="center"><b> SaltSpring Photography Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>February 12, 2014</b></p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p><u> </u></p>
<p><b><u>Opening Remarks:</u></b> Chris Dixon (VP) nobly opened the meeting sporting a huge OWWEEE !!!! sustained in the name of the Arts… true sacrifice… Get well soon Chris…</p>
<p>He brought greetings for El Prez in Mexico and welcomed a whole bunch of new members: Noelle Quinn, Ian Carmichael, Willow Sky MacDonald, Bridgette Hayes, Kathryn Floercke ---</p>
<p>Welcome all – we are delighted to have you join our club of friendly folk… Don’t forget the way to have fun is to participate as much and as often as you possibly can…</p>
<p><b><u> </u></b></p>
<p><b><u>Club Business:</u></b></p>
<p><b><u> </u></b></p>
<p><b> Club Membership dues Due: </b> Please – there are still a few members that have not paid their $15 to Pat - it is a small price of admission for the best fun and exposer on the island --- the photo club members are showing everywhere on the island…</p>
<p>If you can’t come to the meetings please contact Pat to make arrangements for payment… <a href="mailto:patssi@shaw.ca">patssi@shaw.ca</a> … Chris has Guido the enforcer is on standby… yeah right ???</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Webmaster:</b> Thanks to Ernie Westlund for his very capable creation and management of the Club website for all these years… it is very much appreciated by us all and we wish you the best with all your new time… maybe now you will have time to play more with your camera… Hope you will still have time for the Coffee Clatch on Monday morning’s at Harbour House…</p>
<p>Bob Roger’s has volunteered to take on the management of the site… He insists on being called “WebMaster” Sir… now if you please… Bob will be working with Wendy Rosier to look at alternatives in the design, platforms and all sorts of techy stuff I don’t understand, but I know it is good hands with those two… Don’t expect big changes immediately – this will take a bit of time. Anyone else who would like to help out contact either of them…</p>
<p>Thanks Bob – you are a trooper… and Wendy too… Thanks again Ernie…</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Education Co-ordintor Position still open:</b> We are still lacking someone to take on the role of <b>Education Coordinator…</b> Is there anyone out there willing – it is an interesting and rewarding job… This year is unfolding with the Exec picking up the slack – however someone to share that workload would be greatly appreciated as they already have a big enough workload with their own individual roles…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Mentorship Program with GISS/Agricultural Alliance: </b> Don Romanchuk has taken on the coordination/liaison role for the Club in a cooperative project between the Club, GISS Gulf Islands Senior Secondary and the Agricultural Alliance Group… the aim is to have club members mentoring the students in photography while producing images of farms on the island for fundraising activities… Hearing from both the kids and the mentors already in place, it sounds like a great deal of fun is had by all… There is promise of great things to come… There will be group shoots throughout the spring, so it is a chance to explore farms at a wonderful time of year, lots of action, lots baby critters and Spring in the air… it just doesn’t get any better than that on SSI…. Don is still looking for a few more mentors – so if you are interested in some great photo-ops give him a call… Thanks Don, he can be contacted at <a href="mailto:don.romanchuk@me.com">don.romanchuk@me.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Disclaimer Discussion:</b> Again there was a very lively discussion of the final draft presented to the membership. This draft was developed from the input of Club members and photography experts, photography instructors, professional working/publishing photographers. There has been discussion with a lawyer and much backing and forthing among the Executive… Tonight it was once again presented to the membership and stimulated yet more discussion and a suggested edit (the dropping of the copyright issue)… The Vote was unanimously YES to the adoption of the Statement of Disclaimer (edited) to be implemented on the website and the adoption of Photographers ethical statement be attached to the membership form…</p>
<p> </p>
<p>To be posted on the Club Website: <b><i> “ The SaltSpring Photography Club does not accept responsibility for the content of this website, including all comments, images and links posted here. Each member/photographer who has generated and posted an image, comment or link on this site assumes full legal and other responsibility for their posting and agrees to indemnify the SaltSpring Photography Club for any liability arising there from. The member/photographer further assumes all responsibility for ownership, permissions and right to post or publish their images, comments and links. Questions or concerns regarding use of an image, comment or link must be directed to the member/photographer responsible via the webmaster. “</i></b></p>
<p></p>
<p>To be added to the application form<b><i>: “ The SaltSpring Photography Club recommends to its members that they use good ethical judgment and when appropriate obtain permission to take or publish photographs of persons. Members are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the Canadian Copyright Modernization Act passed in 2012. The act speaks to photography and copyright issues. “</i></b> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> There has been an astonishing amount of time, words, efforts, blogs, discussions and input by many people to get us to this point in the process… Thanks you all who got involved and spoke up… It has been a very educational experience for all involved and I am sure that we all look at our photography and our responsibilities as a Photographer, as well as the rights of the subject through a much more sensitive and knowledgeable framework… Greg Elieh told us back in November the three words he, as a professional photographer, uses for guidance for his work - <b>common sense, manners and respect…</b> <b> </b>That will always work… Keep shooting and keep enjoying it…</p>
<p> </p>
<p></p>
<p><b><u>Upcoming Events:</u></b></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> Country Grocer Café:</b> Cliff Kelly coordinates this show for the Club he now has a full schedule for 2014… thanks all… Wendy Rosier and Chris Dixon will be showing during the month of March so take a peek while you are at the deli… If you want to schedule 2015 contact or join the sub list for 2014 Cliff at <a href="mailto:gykelly2@hotmail.com">gykelly2@hotmail.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> January Lobby Show at ArtSpring:</b> The Lobby Show was held over for the month of February by popular demand… or… they didn’t have anything else to fill the space… Let’s go with “ <b>Held Over by Popular Demand”</b>…. It is a fabulous show !!! If you or your friends haven’t seen it yet, give yourself a treat… It is up till the end of February and well worth the side trip… Those that have work in the show please pick it up February 27<sup>th</sup> anytime after 10:00 am … just find Bob… Thanks Bob for the opportunity to show, the town is humming with talk about the work…</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> Eclectic Visions 2014:</b> June 26 – July 9<sup>th</sup>, 2014 – This will be a 14 day run in the ArtSpring gallery. Avril Kirby is managing Eclectic Visions and would love to hear from you if you wish to participate… she is taking names on the Club Blog site --- so be sure to sign up fast – the space is limited and there is lots of interest… </p>
<p> Avril would also like to hear from anyone who is interested in helping with the show – so give it some thought – it is fun hanging the show, working on the reception, helping thing set up and take down… It is also great to do a shift or two sitting the show during the run… It is interesting to watch and talk to people who come in to see it… so come on out and participate… call Avril – she will find just the right job for you… <a href="mailto:avek@teleus.net">avek@telus.net</a></p>
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<p><b><u>Now Showing: </u></b></p>
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<p> <b>Harbour House:</b> Don’t forget that Harbour House has a wonderful space for displaying Photograph’s so if you are looking for a venue – you might want to talk to them….</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Embe’s Fresh Baked (Embe’s café)</b> this is another collection of the work of Doug and Avril and as always they are worth a side trip for goodies and coffee…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Pemberton Homes Real Estate…</b> Jan 6 - Mar 6’ish is Anna McColm and Avril Kirby showing scenes from SaltSpring to tempt the real estate shoppers… This is a fun show and a wonderful opportunity to show some of your island images, if you are interested in participating please contact Avril or Margaret C. Benmore… we welcome the company….</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Fernwood Café:</b> Doug Walston’s show entitled “ At the Beach “ at Fernwood from Feb. 16 to March 12, 2014. Doug is seeing the extraordinary in the ordinary and then blowing it up in beautiful 26”x40” visuals that will knock you socks off…. Take a trip out to the wild side of the island and enjoy the treats and coffee while you look at some amazing images… Just got rave reviews in while I was writing this… Well done Doug…</p>
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<p><b><i>If you know of other shows in town… add them on to this blog or better yet post it on the event section of our website… Let us all know what you have found and enjoyed…. </i></b></p>
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<p><b><u>Evening Educational session</u></b>… Wendy Rosier gave us a summary of that is happening at the “Doors of Perception” Seminar series with Greg Klassen, Bill Gardam and Simon Henson… She did a wonderful job of summarizing both the content and the process of the Series…</p>
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<p>The free seminar/assignment analysis are every second Sunday of the month 2 pm – 3:30pm at the Library, the next session March 9<sup>th</sup> will be a seminar, the following month (April) a formal analysis of the work assignment, and will it proceed through the year in that fashion seminar/assignment analysis… This is a very interesting way to learn about photography/image, its impact, its meaning, it’s structure, your style and/or habits…</p>
<p> </p>
<p>For those of you who can’t attend - the backbone/outline for the series is John Szarkowski’s <b><u>“The Photographer’s Eye”</u></b> a staple in the Photography literature; it is a very interesting easy/short read… with a multitude of insights into the world of the photographer and the art of photography… Greg, Bill, and Simon will be building and embellishing on this framework from their individual perspectives… each of which is highly individual and very different.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The next <b>“Doors on Preception”</b> seminar is Sunday, March 9<sup>th</sup>, The Library… There has been very good crowd so be sure to arrive in plenty of time to get a good seat… see you there…</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Thanks Wendy for the summary --- you did good girl !!!!!</p>
<p><b><u> </u></b></p>
<p><b><u>Evening Slide Show:</u></b> The challenge for this month was <b>“ Street Photography “</b> - once again the Club members shone brilliantly… It is amazing to see the quality of the photography, the content, the points of view, the imaginations and the sense of humour of our Club… What a group of people… well done all… We had pictures of – literally the Street/road/avenue/pavement, pictures of people, dogs, buildings, elephants, machinery… We had the streets of SSI, Victoria, Tasmania, New Delhi and even a very English Village… it was a wonderful evening of talent and great images… Thanks all who participated by sending in their work… it was great… Doug will be posting the evening’s show on the website – so go have a look… thanks Doug your are indeed wonderful…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u>Slideshow Challenge</u></b><b>:</b> the Challenge for the March meeting is <b>“ ART on SaltSpring “</b> not art in the galleries, studios and such, but rather the people’s art, folk art, found art, decorative art in the community, in the countryside, in people’s gardens, in the woods, driveway signs, mailboxes, farmstands, graffiti… Wherever you find something that strikes you fancy or tickles you imagination… Let’s see if SaltSpring really is an ART haven… is ART in our everyday vocabulary, is it in hidden places… find the treasures… old or new… have fun… Send you submissions to Doug ( Master of the Show) McMillan at <span>djmcmouse@gmail.com </span><a href="mailto:jdougmac@shaw.ca"><br/></a></p>
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<p><b><u>Next Months Meeting:</u></b> Wednesday, March 11, 2014. Portlock Portable... see you there… It’s going to be interesting and fun…</p>
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<p><b><u>Editorial aside:</u></b> If you have any comments, corrections or additions please feel free --- all help is welcome…</p>
<p>I would like to encourage all club members to take part in the conversations on the website --- they are interesting and endlessly informative… Share your pictures with the club on the site – you know we all love to look at images and it would give us a chance to get to know a little bit about you … let’s participate…</p>
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<p><b><i>Cheers… MCB</i></b></p>
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<p> </p>Minutes Dec. 12 Meetingtag:ssphotog.ning.com,2013-12-18:3859646:BlogPost:2121832013-12-18T17:45:44.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p align="center"><b> SaltSpring Photography Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>December 11, 2013</b></p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p><u> </u></p>
<p><b><u>Opening Remarks:</u></b> Well about 25 happy people gathered together have an election of the…</p>
<p align="center"><b> SaltSpring Photography Club Minutes</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>December 11, 2013</b></p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p><u> </u></p>
<p><b><u>Opening Remarks:</u></b> Well about 25 happy people gathered together have an election of the Executive and talk about the club and it’s future… it was nice to see such a good turn out….</p>
<p> <b>Curt Firestone</b> (el Prez) read a prepared statement from Bill Gardam on the much-anticipated seminar series “ <b>Doors on Perception… “</b> ( the full Text of Bill’s email is at the end of these minutes “ ) Starts January 12, at the Library from 2-3:30 pm. </p>
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<p>The instructors have now advised us that there will be no formal 30 minute summary presentation at the Club meetings… To fill this gap we have asked a few members who will be attending to take really good notes and bring home some tidbits, for those of us who couldn‘t make it for one reason or another… At our regular meetings following each new seminar topic (six for the year), we plan to spend 1/2 hour discussing the seminar presentation.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>It is SSI after all and we do like to share… Everyone is very excited about this series… enjoy and learn lots folks… The Club is very proud to be a co-sponsor of the series held in the lovely new library and is open and free to everyone on the island… Good work guys…</p>
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<p><b><u>Club Business:</u></b></p>
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<p><b> Club Membership dues Due: </b> Please have your $15 to Pat as soon as possible for the 2014 membership… so she can finished with the club finances before her busy tax season starts… was available at the end of the meeting to collect dues and she will be available at the January meeting too… those of you who have joined since October – your $15 membership covers next year completely...</p>
<p>If you can’t come to the meetings please contact Pat to make arrangements for payment… <a href="mailto:patssi@shaw.ca">patssi@shaw.ca</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Club Elections: </b> Chris Dixon canvassed the network for candidates for the PhotoClub Exec. finding no willing candidates he called for nominations from the floor… silence… The present Exec has agreed to serve one more year, with the exception of VP Bob Rogers…</p>
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<p>All were elected by acclamation… Chris Dixon was nominated from the floor to the position of VP --- he accepted the nomination on the understanding that it would only be for one year… </p>
<p> </p>
<p>So the new Executive looks very much like the old Executive… Curt Firestone for President, Chris Dixon for VP, Pat Page for Treasure, Wendy Rosier for PR, Margaret C. Benmore for Secretary… </p>
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<p>Bob Rogers has since agreed to attend Exec meetings and offer his sage advice as needed as Past President.. See you can’t get away that easily Bob… we still need your wise counsel…</p>
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<p>Welcome aboard Chris… nice to have new blood…</p>
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<p>We are still lacking someone to take on the role of <b>Education Coordinator…</b> Is there anyone out there willing to take this on – it is an interesting and rewarding job… you have control of the minds of the membership --- think the power of the position… no it is really a fun thing to take on…</p>
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<p><b> Mentorship Program with GISS/Agricultural Alliance: </b> Curt introduced new member Don Romanchuk who has really jumped into the club and photography on SaltSpring in a big and beautiful way --- WOW – well done Don… Don has taken on the coordination/liaison role for the Club in a cooperative project between the Club, GISS Gulf Islands Senior Secondary and the Agricultural Alliance Group… the aim is to have club members mentoring the students in photography while producing images of farms on the island for fundraising activities… Many of the members have come forward to mentor and work with the kids and they are having a great time… thanks Don… welcome to SSI and the PhotoClub…. Don still needs one more mentor if anyone is interested contact Don Romanchuk…</p>
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<p><b> Disclaimer Discussion:</b> This was a very lively discussion of the issue of with lots of backing and forthing and speculating… the basic outcome of the discussion was:</p>
<p>That we need to obtain legal advise in this area; re the Club/Site/Exec/Members – position re posting of unacceptable or disputed images or comments… a few members have expressed a desire to seek legal/final opinion – this will be done and once again brought to the membership in the form of a body (lawyer) to speak to the Club or a written statement addressing the issues of concern.</p>
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<p>There was concern about the cost of a lawyer’s opinion…</p>
<p>It was noted that the Club (?) has no legal existence…</p>
<p>The disclaimer given to us by Gregg Elign was put on hold with only a few word- smithing changes until a legal opinion as been given…</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Some members felt comfortable with the Executive dealing with the matter and bringing forth a solution/action… The Executive of course will do the follow-up and bring forth something to the membership for approval… we will not make unilateral decisions --- this is a SaltSpring club…</p>
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<p>It is also interesting to note that this topic has been very lively on our Forum site… <b>690 hits</b>… that is a lot of people at least viewing or the same person reading and rereading it a lot… so there is obviously a need for more discussion … keep the conversation going and maybe some clarity will appear – it certainly seems to be a tangled web (sorry about that) … but interesting…</p>
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<p><b> Discussion of the Future of the Club:</b> Curt facilitated a discussion about examining future directions and some of the things we need to consider in going ahead: things like filling the needs of the membership, what are those needs, what changes do we want to make and how we can go about doing that with the resources we have to work with. </p>
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<p>There have been suggestions that we pattern ourselves after other clubs and several models have been presented, Vancouver Island, Gabriola, Cowichan, Comox.</p>
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<p>Do we want bylaws, policy/regulations, terms or reference, job descriptions for the officers, competitions… ???</p>
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<p>Do we want competitions ???</p>
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<p>The basic outcomes from the discussion were pretty straightforward…</p>
<ol>
<li>Don’t change our SSI model – we like the informality, the no rules, regulation or structure… this was the overwhelming response not to the formalization of the PhotoClub… keep it SaltSpring…</li>
<li>If people want to belong to other PhotoClubs that can give them what they are looking for such as competition, structure – go for it… of course you can belong to more than one Photography Club…</li>
<li>Pierre will help us look into the introduction of competition that is not competition SaltSpring style, honourable mentions, picture of the month,</li>
<li>There was a request to change the venue for the Club Coffee Klatch once a month – I’m not sure where that was left, I will leave it to David Bartel to wrangle those guys out of their cozy corner at Harbour House… good luck… </li>
</ol>
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<p><b><u>Upcoming Events:</u></b></p>
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<p><b> Country Grocer Café:</b> Cliff Kelly coordinates this show and is calling for people who would like to have a show in the café in Jan., Mar., May, July, Sept, Nov. You can contact Cliff thru his blog posting GVM Deli Hanging… if you are interested… go for it – it is much appreciated by the café audience and it is fun to see your images on a wall…</p>
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<p><b> January Lobby Show at ArtSpring: </b> Bob Rogers is coordinating this show. It is an opportunity for everyone in the Club to show their work to the community… There is no fee involved and Bob will let us know how many pieces we can each submit (2 or 3). He does suggest that you keep in mind that this is a very large space and larger images show best… If you do small works Bob suggests doing them as a composition/collection/series – framed/displayed as a unit… The show will run from January 2-31, Hanging will happen on the 2<sup>nd</sup> – so please drop of your work between 9-10 am at ArtSpring.. </p>
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<p>This is a chance to really strut your stuff --- show us what you can do… details are available on the website – under events… or contact Bob Rogers --- he is the mastermind… Thanks Bob for the opportunity…</p>
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<p><b> Eclectic Visions 2014:</b> June 26 – July 9<sup>th</sup>, 2014 – This will be a 14 day run in the ArtSpring gallery. We are delighted to announce that Avril Kirby has assembled a team --- though there is always room for more, if you want to be part of the fun… At the January meeting there will be some discussion about whether to have a theme or no theme… To theme or Not To theme that is the question… bring your thoughts…</p>
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<p><b><u>Now Showing: </u></b></p>
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<p> <b>Harbour House:</b> Bob Roger’s has his work on display in the lobby and restaurant at Harbour House… it is a wonderful show full of line and colour… Bob has turn reflections in to high level ART… well done Bob… the show runs till Dec. 31…</p>
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<p><b> Bakery Folks (Embe’s café)</b> another show by the team of Doug and Avril --- these guys are amazing, so prolific and exposed… well done guys…</p>
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<p><b> Pemberton Homes Real Estate…</b> Jan 6 - Mar 6’ish will be Anna McColm and Avril Kirby showing scenes from SaltSpring to tempt the real estate shoppers… This is a fun show and a wonderful opportunity to show some of your island images, if you are interested in participating please let Avril and Margaret C. Benmore know… we welcome the company….</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b> Fernwood Café:</b> Margaret C. Benmore is sending a festive message through her photographs to everyone on the island – come, enjoy a treat and coffee and look at the festive photography… Merry Christmas and Season’s Greetings to all… up until Dec. 31</p>
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<p> <b>TJ Bean’s Café</b>: Judy H. McPhee is showing at TJ’s and she has been producing some lovely innovate work lately so looking forward to searching out this show…</p>
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<p><b><i>If you know of other shows in town… add them on to this blog or better yet post it on the event section of our website… Let us all know what you have found and enjoyed…. </i></b></p>
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<p><b><u>Evening Educational session</u></b>… we had no educational event this evening as the election and discussion of the future directions and the site disclaimer took up the whole time…</p>
<p><b><u> </u></b></p>
<p><b><u>Evening Slide Show:</u></b> the challenge for this slide show was “LIGHT “ – and this proved to be an interesting challenge in that - no light - no photograph… Bill Gardam produced a mass of blogs on the subject (thanks for that Bill – I am sure many found them interesting and useful) The Club members again rose to the challenge and produced some amazing images… with light as the main character and light in a more supporting role… the light through frost, through beer bottles, and sunsets framed in architecture, woman-made flowers in icy surrounds, resort man-managed environments, stormy surf capturing air, light and water… It was a beautiful show with lots of inspiration to temp us all… Well done all who participated… thanks…</p>
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<p><b><u>Slideshow Challenge</u></b><b>:</b> the Challenge for the January meeting is <strong>“ TEXTURE ‘ </strong> - this provides lots of scope for creativity… so go for it… strut your Texture… find it in wonderful places, work with the light and show us what you can do…</p>
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<p><b><u>Next Months Meeting:</u></b> Wednesday, January 8<sup>th</sup> 2014 ( Happy New Year all ---- it is going to be a Magical Year ). Portlock Portable</p>
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<p> </p>
<p><b><u>Editorial aside:</u></b> If you have any comments, corrections or additions please feel free --- all help is welcome…</p>
<p>I would like to encourage all club members to take part in the conversations on the website --- they are interesting and endlessly informative… Share your pictures with the club on the site – you know we all love to look at images and it would give us a chance to get to know a little bit about you … let’s participate…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>Cheers… MCB</i></b></p>
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<p><b>The notice for</b><b>: “ Doors on Perception ”</b> --- as emailed to us by Bill Gardam and read to the members in attendance of the Dec.11 meeting…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>The seminar series: ' Doors on perception'.</b> Coming up in the new year.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>When Simon and I, later joined by Greg, first visualized a separate educational evening for the club it was to fill what we perceived as a gap in the learning component of our club's purpose for being. There was always the potential for inserting more basic learning about camera and composition into the general meeting, but for those photographers who felt a need for more advanced learning there was nothing available. This is how the seminar series began and over time it has developed into a separate entity open to the community at large. Our club has agreed to jointly sponsor this, at no cost to itself, together with the library, as a service to the community at large.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Starting in January and continuing for the whole year we three will be presenting, on the second Sunday of each month, a series of FREE seminars and workshops at the library, from 2:00 to 3:30 PM., starting January 12<sup>th</sup>. There is no pre-registration, just arrive at the door, and the first fifty, the room's occupancy limit, will get in.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>These will not be the usual 'how- to' presentation which attempts to capsulize complex ideas into simple steps, but will ask the question' What is photography?', and then guide participants into an examination of their own processes. We supply the question and set about opening many doors of perception so that all can choose their own way, but this time do it with a knowledge of the bigger picture. That view will have three interlocking components, the craft, the art and how these are related through the history of ideas .</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Every time we take a photo we have technical camera and compositional concerns, beyond that we may be using our craft to express an aesthetic idea ( art) and behind all that we have a set of often unexamined ideas about what a photograph is and where it fits into the practice of photography. While we know that the great mass of images produced around the world in the past and at the present time are documentary or special purpose in nature (' we were here', 'the party', 'the war', advertising, magazines, facebook etc.), the ideas about visual communication that are found within art photography provide a grounding that can then be applied in other speciality areas. That is where we will focus our efforts.</p>
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<p>A high degree of skill is not required to benefit from this series of seminars and workshops, but an openness to new ideas and personal responsibility for one's own journey is important. Adaptability and positive attitude can carry us all down a long and very productive path.</p>
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<p> </p>Legal and Ethical Issues - Gregg Eligh Presentation. Nov. 13 2013tag:ssphotog.ning.com,2013-11-29:3859646:BlogPost:2112702013-11-29T06:35:00.000ZMargaret C. Benmorehttps://ssphotog.ning.com/profile/MargaretCBenmore
<p align="center"><b> The SaltSpring Photography Club</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>Educational Event</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>November 13, 2013</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Presenter: Gregg Eligh</p>
<p>Topic<b>: Legal and Ethical Issues of Photography…</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u>Bio:</u></b> Gregg Eligh is a working commercial photographer based in Victoria, after more than 30 years working in Vancouver and Toronto. His range of clients includes magazine editorial, corporate…</p>
<p align="center"><b> The SaltSpring Photography Club</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>Educational Event</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>November 13, 2013</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Presenter: Gregg Eligh</p>
<p>Topic<b>: Legal and Ethical Issues of Photography…</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u>Bio:</u></b> Gregg Eligh is a working commercial photographer based in Victoria, after more than 30 years working in Vancouver and Toronto. His range of clients includes magazine editorial, corporate publications and websites, major advertising agencies and accounts, and book publishing. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>While in Toronto Gregg was on the National Executive of the Canadian Association of Professional Image Creators (CAPIC) for 7 years, including a term as national President. CAPIC was formed as a lobby group to represent the professional photography community to establish copyright laws and effective business practices in the photography profession. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Also, while in Toronto, he designed & taught the photography component of the Graphic Design Program at George Brown College. This included large components of business direction, including contracts, copyright, model releases, and image usage. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Currently in Victoria, Gregg teaches the Advertising elective of the Professional Photography Course at the Western Academy of Photography. Again, contracts, invoicing, rights & usage are prominent components of this course. Commercial photography, teaching and seminars, and personal gallery exhibitions are his current focus. And Gregg assures us he is still have FUN… </p>
<p><u> </u></p>
<p><b><u>Alternate Sponsor:</u></b> Gregg shared his love of… Painter’s Photography Retreat Weekend – first weekend of May --- this will be the 9<sup>th</sup> year --- it is a weekend for photographers to mix, play, learn, eat and learn some more, from instructors and from each other --- they also have a tremendous amount of fun… He encourages our membership to think about attending --- guarantees you will love it and it will change your photography for life… If you would like to hear more about it contact Gregg at <a href="mailto:Gregg@elighphoto.com">Gregg@elighphoto.com</a></p>
<p></p>
<p><b><u>Presentation:</u></b> Gregg’s talk was very much about the balance between the rights of the subject and the rights of the photographer. He repeatedly said he is <b>not</b> a lawyer, but is familiar with the area from the viewpoint of a professional working in the field… He spent very little time on the legal specifics. It is very clear that while there are very specific legal rules: the interpretation seems somewhat murky, and a multitude of shades of gray…</p>
<p> </p>
<p>There are very specific laws with regards to:</p>
<ul>
<li>publishing recognizable images for commercial purposes,</li>
<li>invasion of individual’s privacy,</li>
<li>demeaning to an individual </li>
</ul>
<p>Unless:</p>
<ul>
<li>the image is deemed to be Newsworthy or in the Public Interest… this is often an argument used by professional photographers for their own protection and is truly ambiguous</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p>Gregg reiterated repeatedly that he is not a lawyer or legal authourity and he is personally guided by the principles of: </p>
<p align="center"><b>Common Sense, Manners and Respect</b></p>
<p><u> </u></p>
<p><b>Legal Responsibilites:</b></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>A. <u>Publishing Recognizable Images:</u></b> Gregg stressed that to be totally correct and legally responsible to always good to have a signed Model Release Form (the form he suggests as a model attached below) – this gives the subject the opportunity to reject the idea outright… their legal right…</p>
<p> </p>
<p>It allows you the freedom to use your image <b>respectfully</b> in print, on the net, stock image galleries, hanging in photography shows and other visual vehicles for commercial or personal interest. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Another important feature of the Model Release Form is as a talking tool/ice-breaker and informal contract between you and the subject… It is a sign of worth/respect for the person, and opportunity to share the experience with… It might even brighten their day and that is a very good thing… You have valued them both by taking their picture and by seeking their permission. Sometimes it is appropriate to offer a payment of sorts: cup of coffee, glass of wine, money, tokens or even an email of the image when it is complete…</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The whole area of “publishing” starts getting murkier (questionable) when you are talking about putting images on the Internet, self-publishing photo books for your own use (not for commercial gain), recognizable images in Blogs, Tweets, Facebook, email and all the other vehicles available today… </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Gregg emphasized – <b><i>you totally lose control of your image and what can happen to it once it enters the Net...</i></b> However he suggested that to foil anyone attempting to use your images the best way to protect them is to post them in the smallest file possible ( 72 dpi) - this will give good image to the viewer but poor resolution for those who would try to tamper with the image…</p>
<p><i>Gregg’s Rule of Thumb:</i> <b>“ Assume on-line image might be taken and used somewhere/somehow/by someone… “</b> He cited several cases where this sort of activity had devasting consequences to the families of those involved…</p>
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<p><b>B. <u>Invasion of Privacy:</u></b> Photography can be a very invasive weapon/tool - especially today with all the modes of taking images..</p>
<p>Gregg shared an incident where he was shooting general park pictures which included some kids playing in the skate park area… the kids asked him <b>not</b> to take their picture… Which he fully recognized as their perfect right and respectfully complied… If you are asked not to take pictures – do NOT take the pictures – everyone is entitled to their privacy, even in public places…</p>
<p> <b>Kids:</b> The whole area of photographing kids these days is much touchier than ever - Kids are often instructed to tell people not to take their pictures and parents often worry about others taking pictures of their kids and where those images will go and how they will be used… So it is particularly important to show <b>common sense, respect and manners</b> in this situation… these are very justifiable concerns given the invasiveness of photo taking these day and the wide reach and nefarious exploitation on the World Wide Web….</p>
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<p> <b>Corporate Restrictions:</b> Another area of discussion was the actions of Corporate entities such as Disney to totally control their public image. Burning Man Festival, you must apply to take camera into the site; images cannot be sold or published. The Washington Vietnam War Memorial forbids the taking of pictures outright, which seems counter to the meaning of a public memorial, but so it is… This is so the organization has total control over public images and how they are used… Gregg related a story about Michael Jackson Corp trying to restrict images by not allowing cameras into the concert site – but 20,000 iPhone images went onto the Web within minutes of the concert beginning… </p>
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<p> <b>Stock agencies:</b> for the most part will not take/use images that are not accompanied by signed Release Forms.</p>
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<p> <b>Group Shots and Street Photography:</b> are considered in the public domain – though if you have want to use them for commercial purposes it is best to get a signed release…</p>
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<p> <b>Hanging Images in a Gallery show:</b> is usually considered okay as it involves a small selected audience, it is only available for the duration of the show and it has a very limited distribution… Any publication of work from the show is another story as it is much more permanent and potentially a much wider distribution…</p>
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<p> <b>Invasion of Privacy a Cultural/situational Consideration</b> - in many countries because of past abuses or potential future abuses people are reluctant to have their pictures taken – this must be respected – you might unwittingly endanger your subject or their family, friends or neighbours… Be aware of your surroundings and the politics of the past and present with regard to photography… (editorial aside: An example I have just learned is that in Southern Italy - people are definitely not pleased to have their pictures taken, because of organized crime networks in the neighbourhood… this is especially true in public markets and cafes… something to keep in mind on the Grand Tour: the Sequel ). In some countries it might be political repression, it might be military or religious – it is just a good idea to use <b>Common Sense, Manners and Respect…</b></p>
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<p>Another area of discussion was rights of Property Owners to refuse photographs; here we were talking about houses, building, cars, boats, products (Arts & Crafts or industrial) – personal property – even when it is in a public setting. Gregg outlined the case of the Mary Tyler Moore home location were under contract and paid $80,000/year for use of the images of their house. They were also constantly harassed by MTM fans, but that was the consequence of their involvement. Fame or infamy ?</p>
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<p><b>C. <u>Demeaning to Individual:</u></b> This is a really tricky area – because the definition of demeaning is very subjective… there is presently work being done to curb inappropriate, obscene, and demeaning images, especially in the Social Media – in hopes of curbing revenge photography, harassment and cyber bullying… the papers and web are alive with this conversation at the moment…</p>
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<p><b>International Responsibilities:</b> Legal and Ethical Issues are very much in the conversation with national and international law and policy makers (public, private and governmental stakeholders). Gregg’s advises to us is <b><i>to assume that crossing a border is a new set of laws and ethics</i></b> – there are gray areas and overlapping and contradictory messages… Let photography etiquette be your guide: <b>Common Sense, Manners and Respect</b>… check on the cultural/situational norms before you travel for the area you are travelling in…</p>
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<p><b>Discussion of the Club Website: </b></p>
<p>Disclaimer to be posted on the Club Website: compliments of Gregg Eligh</p>
<p align="center"><b><i>“ the SaltSpring Photography Club assumes no responsibility for comments or image posted on this site. Any comments or images are the total responsibility of the individual member/photographer who has generated and posted the image or comment. The individual photographer assumes all responsibility for copyright, ownership, and right to post/publish their own images and comments. Any questions or concerns regarding use of an image or comment must be directed to the individual member/photographer responsible “</i></b></p>
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<p>In the discussion of the slideshows, website and Club shows – the goals of the club being interaction, sharing knowledge and feedback seemed to imply that posting is all right. But if asked to remove it the Club has a policy of removing any image upon request by the photographer or anyone else… and it is done as quickly as possible after hearing from the concerned party… </p>
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<p>The question of “do we need a release ? ” –</p>
<ul>
<li>If you have a release – no question as to the use of the image…</li>
<li>If you do not have a release for this image – is it newsworthy or in the public interest … not so much of a problem, but getting murky. </li>
<li>If the image is hurtful or demeaning – the Club members has not used… <b>common sense, manners or respect</b> - the subject has the right to ask that it not be used and the right to expect it to be removed for the website as soon as humanly possible…</li>
</ul>
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<p><b><u>Summary:</u></b> The meeting was laced with wonderful stories from a professional in the field of Photography with a particular interest in the legal and ethical questions of the profession…. Gregg is obviously committed and enthusiastic about the discipline of Photography as a profession…He shared some wonderful ideas about shooting in public places and tips to prevent getting into trouble with your camera…</p>
<p>He repeatedly reminded us to use</p>
<p><b>Common Sense, Manners and Respect</b> as our guide ---</p>
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<p>And to get comfortable working with a Model Release Form --- Below is a copy of Gregg’s release form which he generously shared with us – and encouraged us create our own individual one. He suggested getting them printed on a 4X6 pad to keep in your camera bag or pocket… (editorial comment - maybe add a picture on the reverse of the form of your home area or grandkids… a great talking tool… ) Make it a Win/Win interaction… and offer to email a copy to the subject if you can get an email address or that of a contact/friend of the subject…</p>
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<p>Thanks Gregg it was a wonderfully informative evening that stimulated a lot of questions and discussion, which I am sure will continue well into the future…</p>
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<p><b><u>Another Word from the Alternate Sponsor:</u></b> Don’t forget the Painter’s Photography Retreat – first weekend in May, Painter’s Lodge, Campbell River. Have fun, immerse in photography, eat and drink and talk photography with the professionals and other amateurs… Gregg guarantees a fun weekend will be had by all…</p>
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<p><b><u>Curt’s Closing Questions</u></b> for the Club members on going forward from this evening in the area of Legal/Ethics of Photography… – for consideration by all and discussion at the December meeting:</p>
<p> </p>
<ol>
<li>is there a need to continue the discussion… beyond the forum format currently running on the website… more meeting time devoted to discussion and questions… </li>
<li>Should we get Nancy Brown (a lawyer/photographer) to talk legal specifics … letter of the law as it applies to photography and the use of images…</li>
<li>Whether a formal policy, rules and regulations on this issue is wanted for the Club and who will research, develop, vet and test them, as well as introduce them to the membership… This also encompasses enforcement and penalties for infractions and a system to manage that process...</li>
<li>If the Club has liability of the website and what that looks like…</li>
</ol>
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<p>With regard to # 4 – <b>a website disclaimer</b> was suggested by Gregg and his wording was mentioned previously in the Website section of this document…</p>
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<p><b>A sample policy statement was discussed</b>… and it sounded something like this (as it is still under discussion)</p>
<p> <u>Club Policy Statement:</u> The Work/Images of an individual Club member is the responsibility of that individual, <b>not</b> the Club, Club Exec, administration or website administrator or the general Club membership… “ The Club <b>cannot and will not</b> be responsible for the behaviour of individual Club members. The Club will not be involved in the monitoring of individuals and enforcing punitive actions… This paternalistic approach is totally counter to our Club ethic, culture and environment. Each individual Club member is totally responsible for the outcomes of their behaviours and will deal with them appropriately to reflect: Common <b>Sense, Manner and Respect</b>… “</p>
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<p>It was a wonderfully interactive, participatory and instructive evening…</p>
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<p>Thanks again Gregg… </p>
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<p>If anyone has any corrections, additions or comments feel free to add them… </p>
<p>Cheers... MCB </p>