I would like to begin my first message of the new year by saying “THANK YOU” to all of the wonderful members of this club. Many of you have been in touch with either another Board member or myself, with comments and suggestions. We really do want to know what you want, so keep the comments coming! The Board and I look forward both to continuing with initiatives already established, as well as developing and implementing new programs to take the Club forward in 2008.
Speaking of 2008, it is bringing its share of interesting events, topics, subjects and viewpoints. The shift in the method of recording of images is becoming rapid, with prominent film processors either cutting back or eliminating film processing completely. In my work, I hear the lamenting of many people about the fundamental shift from film to digital. But then I ask them, “what are you REALLY afraid of?” Of course, it really comes down, for a lot of people, to the investment made in their equipment. Or, should I say, the investment they will need to make to go digital. Let’s face it, many people just don’t want to spend money on a new body plus editing software.
Or, they simply fear change.
Like it or not, change is inevitable. As I type this, Kodak has announced the discontinuation of some of their Portra and Ektachome film lines. Agfa is gone, and Ilford is just about the only firm now making B&W paper. Digital has taken over most camera shops and the bulk of the inventory for major mail-order and Internet suppliers.
Yes, the times, they are a-changing! (Thank you Bob Dylan!)
The Club’s Annual Banquet will be held January 12th in the Social Hall of the Church. Once again, Flo has put together a nice program of food, photos and fun for everyone; we have some door prizes and other goodies for attendees, including Sensor Cleaning Kits, some coupons for free digital printing, some photography books and more. Make sure you contact Flo for tickets at the January meeting!
And once again, THANK YOU for your trust in me and the Board, your support and participation in Club activities - the Virginia Beach Photography Club is no more than what you put into it - and it looks like this will be a banner year for events and participation!
Tom McElvy, VBPC President