The Santa Maria Camera Club held its annual Awards Reception for members on Jan. 24 at Lake Marie Valley Club. The evening recognized outstanding photographic achievement and service to the club.
Jim McKinnis was named Photographer of the Year. Elaine Calvert received the Shepard Award in recognition of her dedicated service and leadership as vice president.
The event also marked the formal installation of the Camera Club’s new Board of Directors.
“We invite local photographers to join our fun-loving group,” said SMCC President Jeanne Sparks. “A love of photography is all that is required. We have members with varying levels of expertise, some using their phones to take photos and others using sophisticated equipment and editing programs, some even displaying at galleries or selling their artwork online. It’s all about sharing our joy of taking pictures, showing them to each other, learning more about photography and just enjoying being with others who share our passion for photography.”
SMCC meets once a month in person in Santa Maria for a program meeting, once a month online for a competition, once a month on a Saturday for breakfast, and various times each month for field trips. Members can choose the level of activity that they prefer.
“Whatever they choose, they will find friendly members who will receive them warmly,” Sparks said. “We treat each other with respect and kindness. We have become like family and are always happy to welcome new members to our group.”
For more information, visit the SMCC website at http://santamariacameraclub.org or email santamariacameraclub@gmail.com.