Winnipeg South Photo Club, Inc. (WSPC) was an idea born from a casual conversation in a local camera store, “Camera Craft”, in 1981. That conversation led to action with Jim Roy and Evelyn Keele agreeing to take lead roles in forming a club. The Winnipeg South Photo Club (WSPC) was incorporated as a nonprofit organization in 1983 to provide an opportunity for persons interested in photography to meet on a regular basis. Those first years established a winning presentation format with club members treated to a variety of professional, highly respected photographers who were guest speakers willing to give freely of their time.  In November 1988, Bill Bremner and Don Berthman were recognized with Lifetime Honorary Membership for their on-going support for WSPC. The main principle established from the very first meeting can best be summarized as “We are photography enthusiasts in a photography club, not a camera club.” Our emphasis and interest is in improving and share our photography. In support of that principle, executives, both past and present, create “an educational and recreational program that benefits the members” in a friendly, non-competitive environment. Although WSPC has never had internal competitions, club members do participate in competitions sponsored by other clubs and organizations.

One of the key features of WSPC since its inception, is the hosting of image reviews in members’ homes. This is an opportunity for members to receive constructive feedback on images, discover new ideas for photography and socialize with other members.  WSPC has remained true to its roots as a small and friendly club.  At the same time, it has grown into a diverse and respected club with photographers from novice to professional levels – all sharing their passion for photography. For more information, visit www.winnipegsouthphotoclub.ca

The Manitoba Foto Friends are photographers of all ages, skill levels and walks of life. Regardless what category your photographic obsession falls under they’ve got you covered. Founded in October of 2011, they were a small group of friends who loved to “Celebrate the Joy of Photography” and that has since become their motto.  They created an online meeting place where they share images, organize events and learn from each other along the way. Their current membership is around 250 photographers and they are a registered not-for-profit group. They accept donations to fund activities and pay for the small costs they have to keep the group running, but all funds collected go back into the group.  In addition to their online community, the Friends meet once a month socially, gather at least as often for workshops and group shoots, and are a wonderful group of supportive and friendly people.  If you are just starting out in photography and want to learn or are a seasoned pro and can help others grow in the field, www.manitobafotofriends.ca  is the place for you!

One of Canada’s oldest camera clubs, the Manitoba Camera Club has been a part of the Winnipeg photography community for over 75 years.  The Manitoba Camera Club meets every Tuesday evening from September through April.  Meetings start at 7:30 pm and are held in the Winnipeg Foundation Auditorium at Lions Place, 610 Portage Ave in Winnipeg.  The Manitoba Camera Club has a varied program including field trips, guest speakers and hands on instruction.  The monthly competitions are very popular and are a great way to get feedback on your photography.  Members of the Manitoba Camera Club are all photography and camera enthusiasts, with experience ranging from the novice level to professional.  For more information, come attend a meeting in person, or visit the club online at www.manitobacameraclub.com