Please join the Arundel Camera Club at 7pm on March 20th in person at the Severna Park Baptist Church or on FaceBook Live for a program by our very own club president John Milleker, Jr. titled “Capturing Light: A Journey Through the History of Photography.’”
From silver and glass to paper and prints, the evolution of photography is a story of discovery, innovation, and artistic expression. In this engaging presentation, we’ll explore key milestones that shaped the medium—from the earliest camera obscuras and the groundbreaking experiments of Niépce and Daguerre to the golden age of film.
Along the way, we’ll examine the techniques, processes, and tools that defined each era, including wet plate collodion, albumen prints, and the advancements that made photography more accessible. The talk will conclude with a rare live indoor demonstration of the 1850s Wet Plate Collodion process, offering a firsthand look at how photographers of the American Civil War created images with silver, glass, and light.
Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or a curious enthusiast, this talk will illuminate photography’s fascinating journey and inspire new perspectives on the art of capturing light.
John is a full-time, classically trained professional photographer with over 25 years of experience in film, digital, and alternative process photography, he is passionate about practicing, teaching, and demonstrating nearly every aspect of the art, from traditional techniques to modern innovations. Throughout the year, John and his wife Christine conduct private portrait sessions, workshops, and lessons, while captivating thousands of spectators with their presentations and demonstrations on various photographic processes. Their sessions are featured in classrooms, clubs, events, and historical locations, where they share their deep passion for photography with others. Together, John and Christine cherish the history, processes, and artifacts of photography and find joy in inspiring others to carry forward the legacy of this timeless art. Whether behind the camera, in the darkroom, speaking to a group, capturing a wedding, or hanging out of an airplane for a shoot, John knows he’s chosen the right path and loves every moment of it.
