Robert Wolfe
Contributor
The Branford Library recently received a cash donation in honor of Skip Weigel, a well-known professional photographer and supporter of the library. Donna Koon, head librarian, decided to use the donation to buy photography studio equipment in Weigel's name and put it to good use. Their first project involved the Branford Camera Club.
Several of the camera club members joined forces to take Christmas photos and give them to participating families as a gift. The studio lights and backdrop were set up and tested on Friday, Nov. 17. On Saturday morning, Nov. 18, club members Rob Wolfe and Ellen Query took photos of their first family. From then on, families arrived approximately every 15 minutes throughout the day.
The project was a great deal of fun for both parties, as several families wore matching costumes. Some took photos dressed as Grinches, while others wore matching pajamas or plaid outfits. A couple even dropped by to take pictures with their new baby.
The families were pleased to have their photos taken, and thanked the club and the library staff for holding this project. On Monday, Nov. 20, a second photo session was held with club members Bill Kosty and Mary Bowman doing the photography. The library personnel performed the photo touch-ups and, when desired, added a Christmas theme backdrop to the photo.
The Branford Camera Club was established years ago and is still active in the community at events such as the Christmas on the Square, the Catfish Festival and the Fourth of July. The camera club holds its meetings on the third Thursday of each month from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Branford Public Library unless otherwise stated. There are no dues, and it is open to amateur and advanced photographers as well. The meetings also feature guest speakers. Some are professional photographers who share their photos and teach members how to become better photographers. Some of the club's activities besides community events are field trips to places such as Manatee Springs, Sweetwater Park, Micanopy, the Jacksonville Zoo and more.
About the Branford Camera Club
The Branford Camera Club offers the opportunity to interact with other photographers in an informal, friendly environment of sharing and mutual acceptance. Together, members strive to expand their knowledge of photographic equipment, skills and techniques, and especially their creative and artistic vision.