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Darkroomers Member Handbook

Darkroomers Member Handbook

Welcome! We’re thrilled to have you join our community of passionate photographers.

At Darkroomers, we believe photography is both a technical craft and a creative art form – and there’s always more to learn, explore, and share. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience behind the lens, you’ll find opportunities to grow, be inspired, and challenge yourself here.

We’re a competitive club with a strong focus on print photography. Our members take pride in submitting their best work for critique and competition, not just for the awards, but to refine their skills and connect through shared feedback. As part of the Southern California Association of Camera Clubs (SCACC), we also have the chance to compete with other clubs across the region.

This handbook is your quickstart guide to all things Darkroomers—how we operate, what to expect, and how to get the most out of your membership.

Welcome aboard. We can’t wait to see what you create!

When We Meet

Darkroomers holds regular meetings on the first, third, and fifth Wednesdays of each month at the Photographic Arts Building in Balboa Park.

  • First Wednesdays are typically presentations—inspirational and educational sessions led by guest speakers or members, covering a wide range of photographic topics, techniques, and creative approaches.
  • Third Wednesdays are our Exhibitions, where members bring printed images to be reviewed by a guest judge. These sessions provide constructive feedback in a supportive environment, helping members grow through thoughtful critique.
  • Fifth Wednesdays, when they occur, are Member Spotlights—a chance for members to share recent adventures, ongoing projects, or personal photography journeys. It’s a great opportunity to get to know each other and celebrate the diverse perspectives within our club.

In addition to our regular meetings, we host:

  • Local meetups and photo walks for casual shooting and community building
  • Hands-on workshops focused on skill-building and experimentation
  • Out-of-area photography trips to explore new locations and shoot together

There’s always something going on—so keep an eye on our calendar and email updates to stay in the loop!

In This Handbook: