Discover the world through a lens with Athlone Photography Club

Have you ever looked at a stunning photograph and wondered, “How did they capture that?” Or perhaps you’ve bought a camera that’s been sitting on a shelf, waiting to be used.

This September could be the perfect time to change that.

Athlone Photography Club is opening registrations for its new season on Wednesday, September 2,, at 7.30pm, welcoming anyone with an interest in photography, whether you’re picking up a camera for the very first time or have years of experience behind the lens.

With more than 50 members representing different ages, backgrounds and nationalities, the club has become a vibrant community where learning, creativity and friendship go hand in hand.

Throughout the season, members explore a wide variety of photographic styles, from landscapes and portraits to macro photography, sports action, street photography, wildlife and even the wonders of the night sky through astrophotography.

But photography isn’t just discussed, it is practised. Members regularly head outdoors for practical sessions, beginning this season with a Mystery Night on Wednesday, September 9, followed by weekend landscape outings and many other opportunities to put new skills into practice.

To welcome newcomers to the club this year, Athlone Photography Club is offering one new member the chance to win a year's membership completely free.

Entering couldn't be easier. Anyone interested in joining simply needs to email their favourite photograph, along with a title for the image, to hello@athlonephotographyclub.com.

Last year's competition was won by Stephanie Reddan, who joined the club as a complete newcomer after winning her year's free membership.

A year later, Stephanie says joining the club has given her not only more reasons to pick up her camera, but also the confidence to use it in situations she might previously have avoided.

“Since joining, I've found myself photographing everything from landscapes and wildlife at photography hides to portraits and local community groups,” she said.

“I've particularly enjoyed the practical side of the club, getting out with the camera, learning from demonstrations and shoots, and having the chance to put new techniques into practice.”

Stephanie also highlights the variety of people within the club as one of the things that makes it special.

“The club brings together a diverse mix of nationalities, personalities and levels of experience. There is a wealth of photographic knowledge among the more experienced members, but it's shared in a relaxed and approachable way.

“For me, the past year has been about trying new things, stepping outside my comfort zone and becoming much more confident behind the camera, with plenty of good company and fun along the way.”

For anyone who is unsure where to begin, the club will also hold a Beginner Photography Course on Saturday, September 12, which is free for all club members.

The course will cover the essentials of getting to grips with your camera and understanding the basics of photography before moving into practical areas including landscape and portrait photography. It is particularly suited to people who are new to photography, or those who own a camera but would simply like to learn how to get more from it.

Chairman Liam Kidney believes the club’s greatest strength is its welcoming atmosphere.

“Photography is about seeing the world differently, and you certainly don't need an expensive camera or years of experience to join us,” he said.

“If you've bought a camera and aren't really sure how to use it, that's exactly the kind of person we'd love to see coming through the door. Our beginner course will help people get started, and from there the club is all about learning from each other, trying new things and enjoying photography in good company.

“Many of our members joined knowing very little about photography, and today they're producing images they're genuinely proud of.”

Everyone is welcome to attend the registration evening on Wednesday, September 2 at 7.30pm and discover what Athlone Photography Club has to offer.

To enter the competition for a year's free membership, simply email your favourite photograph, together with a title for the image, to hello@athlonephotographyclub.com.