Club Photography : Finding my Frame
How Harpenden Photographic Society Became Home
When I first joined Harpenden Photographic Society (HPS), I was hesitant. I had always enjoyed photography, but I worried that my work might not be good enough. Walking into a club filled with talented photographers was a little intimidating.
Those nerves disappeared quickly. The members were welcoming, friendly, and encouraging. I soon realised that the club was not about competing to be the best; it was about sharing, learning, and enjoying photography together.
“Empty Express Trains” was the first image I entered into club competition as a digital image in 2021. It received a Commended award from the judge which boosted my confidence.
Taken on iPhone 13. 1.5mm 1/350sec f2.4 ISO 32.
Being part of HPS has changed how I think about my photography. Before, my images mostly lived on my phone and computer. Joining the club pushed me to start printing, mounting, and presenting my work for competitions. There is something very different about holding a print in your hands. Mounting it on a 50 by 40 centimetre board and presenting it properly makes it feel like art. It gives the photograph weight, permanence, and purpose.
I still remember entering my first competition. I was nervous, but the critique I received was fair and encouraging. That feedback gave me the confidence to keep going, and over time my photography has grown. I have even gone on to win the Mono Print category twice, which is hugely rewarding.
The society has given me more than just confidence. It has given me a community. Spending a couple of hours every other week with people who share the same passion is energising. We learn from each other, we admire each other’s work, and we give honest but constructive critiques. I share my knowledge of street photography, while at the same time learning new skills from others.
As Programme Secretary, I now help shape the club’s activities and schedule. We make sure there is a good mix of guest speakers, competitions, and members’ evenings. One of the best parts of our combined programme is the way we bring in world-class photographers to inspire us. In recent years, we have had speakers join us from the US, Canada, and across the UK, sharing work and insights that you would never normally access in a local hall. It is a real privilege.
“A Miserable Day” was taken as a bus paused by St Paul’s Cathedral in London on a very wet March evening in 2024 and was inspired by Nick Turpin who gave a fantastic talk on Street Photography to Harpenden Photographic Sociey in 2023. I submitted this in the annual set subject competition with the theme “minimal”. This was awarded 2nd place in the mono print category, and was also displayed at our annual club exhibition.
Nikon Z7 70mm 1/200sec f5. ISO2000.
HPS also plays a role in the wider photographic world too. We regularly take part in inter-club competitions, which are a brilliant way of seeing your work alongside that of photographers from other societies. It is always fascinating to compare styles, approaches, and interpretations of a theme. Having your images stand shoulder to shoulder with those from other clubs is both humbling and inspiring.
Another highlight of our year is the annual exhibition. This is when we throw open the doors to the wider community and invite people to see the work of our members. It is not just about putting photographs on the wall; it is about engaging with visitors, talking to them about the images, and sharing stories. It is one of the best ways to demonstrate the power of photography and the creativity within the club. For me, there is nothing more rewarding than seeing people connect with my work in person, and it is equally inspiring to watch others enjoying the variety and quality of images produced by my fellow members.
Our new season begins this September with a talk from Marc Asplan, one of the most inspiring sports photographers working today. It promises to be a brilliant start to the year and a reminder of just how much you can learn when you are part of a club like this.
Looking back, joining HPS has been one of the best decisions I have made for my photography. I have grown in skill and confidence, made great friends, and found a place where photography feels real and alive.
If you have ever thought about joining a photographic club, I would encourage you to give it a try. Whether it is Harpenden Photographic Society or your own local club, you will find it is not just about taking pictures. It is about sharing them, learning from others, and being part of a community that celebrates the joy of photography.