Gainsborough Snappers’ members are enjoying getting back into something of a more normal routine following the disruption of the Covid lockdowns. There have been a few changes, but the basis of the club remains unchanged.
In 2019 it became a self-help group, with a leader who keeps order but is not a tutor. Membership remains strong and the club continues with a mix of critiques, photography trips and practical sessions with occasional input from a professional tutor or speaker. It is essentially a practical group and members enjoy having the time and flexibility for a strong social element as well as sharing experiences and advice.
Recently they have had a couple of opportunities to go out to take photos and generally socialise. Firstly, they went to see the ‘new look’ Gainsborough Old Hall, now in the ownership of English Heritage. This was the first outside meeting for some time. The building offers endless opportunities for photographers.
In late July the group finally made the ‘much postponed due to Covid’ visit to Papplewick Pumping Station near Nottingham. This was an excellent visit, with the rain helpfully clearing as members arrived. The entire premises was opened for them and, with just around 20 members and friends, there was plenty of room to move and take shots.
Hopefully there will be at least one more visit together to something photogenic before cooler and shorter days arrive and everyone is inside all the time.
Snappers welcome photography enthusiasts of any level of experience who want to join a friendly group and work on their techniques. There are no geographical limits. Many members are also members of Retford and District Photographic Society. At the meetings, everyone is encouraged to take a print or two on the set topic for the general critique, which helps members learn from each other. The group also welcomes anyone with photographic skills or expertise they could offer on an occasional basis. The only cost is a small weekly attendance fee of £3.00 per person, which includes refreshments.
Snappers meets at The Willow Works at Beckingham on the first Friday of the month from 1.30pm to 3.30pm unless otherwise advertised. Please check www.snappers.org.uk to ensure the group is not on a trip before you go along.