About Darkroomers

Founded in 1941, Darkroomers is one of the oldest photography clubs in San Diego and a founding member of the San Diego Photo Arts Society—the original organization behind what is now the Photographic Arts Building in Balboa Park.

In 1950, the San Diego Photo Arts Society was renamed the Southern California Association of Camera Clubs (SCACC) to reflect its broader mission of uniting camera clubs across the region. SCACC, in partnership with the City of San Diego, Balboa Park, the San Diego Department of Parks and Recreation, and other cultural organizations, help maintain the Photographic Arts Building and support the programs of its member clubs.

Today, SCACC includes five camera clubs. As a member of Darkroomers, you’re welcome to attend joint workshops and presentations hosted by any SCACC club. However, exhibition and competition participation is limited to the club(s) to which you officially belong.

Darkroomers is proud to be a non-profit, volunteer-run organization with a strong sense of community and a passion for photographic excellence. We’re also affiliated with the Photographic Society of America (PSA) through our SCACC membership, giving our members access to additional educational and competitive opportunities.

A Few Things to Know:

• We meet on the 1st, 3rd, and 5th Wednesdays of each month.
• Critique Night (Exhibitions) takes place on the 3rd Wednesday (see more in the Exhibition section).
• We rely on member volunteers to make everything we do possible.
• A portion of your annual dues (about 45%) goes to SCACC and supports building maintenance, shared equipment, and supplies for all clubs housed in the Photographic Arts Building.