On Thursday night 2 October 2025 we will host a Hands On Night at the Severna Park Baptist Church starting at 7:00 PM. Due to the nature of this activity, we will not be live streaming to FaceBook.
The objective of Hands On Night is for club members to bring their cameras and practice, to get some practical experience. More experienced club members will assist newer club members to share tips and tricks to improve their photography. If you are lucky, you will come away with some images that are good enough to enter into contest. Many images from previous Hands On Nights have gone on to win contests.
For this Hands On Night we are combining two of the club contest themes for the year Macro (October) and Abandon/Decay (December).
Macro: The photograph should be taken from a position very near the subject. Generally, this means that the lens should be focused at or near its closest focusing position. The use of screw on close up filters, extension tubes and macro lenses is permitted.
Al Kok gave a great presentation on Macro Photography last week. Here are links to the presentation.
Abandon/Decay: Abandoned photography, focuses on capturing images of derelict buildings, abandoned and decaying properties, often highlighting the beauty and stories within these forgotten spaces. Decay can be defined as to decline from a sound or prosperous condition, to fall into ruin, or to decline in health, strength, or vigor. The image should focus on any subject, or subjects, that document or convey the sense of abandonment or decay. We had a question from one of the club members asking if this theme was only for abandoned buildings or if decaying fruit would fit the theme. While the final decision is up to the judge, we intentionally try to make the themes broad, so rotting fruit would fit.
Equipment: Bring your cameras, batteries, and memory cards. If you have them bring lights, tripods, cable releases.
Props: Flowers and food are always popular. Backdrops and tablecloths can be useful. What can you bring for the theme of macro or decay? Use your imagination.