President's Statement:April 2026

First let me thank you for being a member of the Villages Camera Club. I've always felt that photographers see the world differently than anyone else. We constantly look for the art in our everyday lives, exploring light and shadow and then capturing the story to share with others. That shared experience makes us a community unlike any other. We are photographers.

Let's remember what we're here for: our bylaws state "The purpose of our Club is to promote an interest in photography, develop friendships, and to help one another improve our photographic skills." What a fabulous goal. So, let's talk about how we do this.

"Promote the interest in photography": Presently our program committee is assembling a wide-ranging set of programs to help all of us understand the art better.

"Develop friendships": During the pandemic this goal was difficult. Hard to develop friendships when nobody is seeing each other. However, in the last couple of years we have started to remedy this with in person meetings, outings and even a party or two! Stay tuned to our website, check the "Calendar of Events" and look for those activities that appeal to you.

"Help one another improve our photographic skills": Traditionally we do this through competition and workshops, but each one of us can learn more from one another. New to photography? Find a mentor. Some of our members have won awards at the regional and national level and they love to teach what they know. Ask questions, attend workshops and put some of your prized images into our club competition. Believe me - you will become a better photographer.

Our leadership board is working hard to make this a meaningful and fun club and I truly look forward to this year as your club president.

Rich James, President The Villages Camera Club