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IMAGES AT SHUTTERSPEED

A large number of photography enthusiasts treaded the pathways of the Jumeirah Primary School (JPS) on Al Wasl Road yesterday, drawn by the avenues of learning that lie ahead of them, as UAE-Photo,

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the country's premier photography club, opened its doors to the public via 'Get The Picture', an Open Day that invited the public and members of the club to share their experiences with others.

Henk Bos, who initiated UAE-Photo says, "We had three operational portrait studios during the course of the event, starting from the very basic to the advanced. There were demonstrations on Macro Photography too."

The philosophy of the club, Bos says is: 'Free for all!' While Bos plans on running UAE-Photo as an informal organisation, he is also aware that many people, interested in the subject (of photography), would like to see the club offering more defined services.

"I prefer to keep it the way it is, an informal club, to avoid all kinds of hassles and formalities, that will force me to take time away from my hobby.

Instead of filling out forms and balancing the cash book, I would rather spend my time in the studio.

This approach might disappoint people, who are looking out for a structured approach to photography with lessons and a courseplan, but there is no reason for that as members can request topics that need to be addressed.

I think our approach is working though and there is a core group of members who have achieved a high standard in their photogrpahs, within a short period.

Taking pictures and sharing them with your friends for comments and critique is the most valuable learning tool there is."

A sort of structured approach is in existence though, especially if you consider the manner in which the club conducts its affairs. "The club exists by the combined efforts of a few dedicated people, who take the initiative to organise monthly meetings and field trips. Trips are organised on a regular basis and it is usually left to the members to organise a trip, place it on the club's event calendar and encourage other members to join," says Bos, who began this 280-member-strong club in 2003.

The club caters for beginners and advanced amateurs, people with point-and-shoot cameras and digital SLRs.