From the outset, the club has been affiliated to N.I.P.A. (Northern Ireland Photographic Association).
An important element of this has been the league competitions with the other associated clubs. Such competitive involvement helped raise the standard of photography and has certainly raised the profile of the club within Northern Ireland.
CompetitionsWe begin the 2026/27 season on the back of another excellent year in the NIPA Inter-Club Competition, achieving second place in the Principal Competition for the second consecutive year, behind Catchlight.
This was helped by an outstanding achievement from our President, Terry Hanna. The standard Terry has set should inspire us all and show what we can aspire to achieve.
Competition is important, it gives us structure and challenges us to try different genres, but it is not the be-all and end-all of club photography.
For me, the club is built around friendships and a shared passion for photography. That is what makes Ballynahinch Camera Club special.
We are fortunate to have a dedicated committee and many members who give their time behind the scenes, from our weekly Mourne Observer articles to our exhibition in Down Cathedral. Our Secretary, Treasurer, Webmaster, Competitions Secretary and Events and Social Media Officers all contribute to keeping the club moving forward. Unlike many clubs, the responsibility here is shared, and that collective effort is something we should be proud of.
As I begin another year as Chair, my hopes are that we maintain our strong position within NIPA, introduce a mentoring programme for newer members, and explore accreditation through organisations such as the PAGB, RPS and IPF.
I would also like to see more photography happening outside our Thursday meetings. We need to get out with our cameras, create opportunities and, most importantly, enjoy ourselves.
Here’s to another successful year for Ballynahinch Camera Club.
~ Keith