Creative Eye

Understanding composition and learning to view a subject from different perspectives are essential to creating interesting and distinctive photographs. This interest group focuses on discussing innovative ways to photograph a variety of subjects, with an emphasis on approaches that add color, depth, and visual interest to images that might otherwise seem ordinary. If you want to strengthen your ability to see your subject through the viewfinder, this is the group for you.

• Click here for a list of Creative Eye Challenges for September 2026 - May 2027.
• Click here to join this SIG and view the current list of members.
• Meets 1st Thursday @ 3 - 5 P.M.
• Facilitator: Mel Whaley

Seekers and Sojourners: Creative Expression

Creative Expression: Putting More “You” in Your Photographic Images – Through a series of topics on developing personal creativity, we will explore, discuss, and practice different approaches to personal expression. This format includes a slide presentation featuring the views of recognized past and current photographers for consideration (or rejection). Planned topics include Vision: What Is It and Do I Need One, The Illusion of the Exotic, Shoot What It Feels Like?, Applying Elements of Storytelling… Robust discussion is encouraged. Planned photo projects on each topic for class sharing are an integral part of each session.

• All levels of photographers and camera gear are welcome.
• Click here to join this SIG and view the current list of members.
• Meets 2nd Wednesday @ 12:30 - 2:30 P.M.
• Facilitator: Pam Careau

Wildlife

This SIG focuses on wildlife photography and capturing compelling images of animals in their natural settings. The group is informal, and topics vary from meeting to meeting. Discussions explore how to create unique photographs of birds, mammals, and other wildlife encountered in everyday life, travel, and outdoor experiences. Members share images, discuss camera equipment and exposure settings, and exchange techniques for creating beautiful wildlife art.

• Click here to join this SIG and view the current list of members.
• Meets 1st Thursday @ 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM.
• Facilitator: Bill Stuart

Photo Shoots

Studio Lighting

The Studio Lighting SIG is a hands-on group dedicated to exploring how creative lighting can enhance portrait and still life photography. Members experiment with a variety of studio lighting techniques, backdrops, and equipment typically found in a professional studio. Whether you are just getting started or looking to refine your skills, you will find a welcoming environment for learning through demonstrations, experimentation, and practice. Experienced members are glad to share their knowledge and help others learn how to shape, control, and position light for a range of creative effects. Join us to discover new ideas, try different techniques, and build confidence producing more compelling photographs in a supportive studio setting.

• Click here to join this SIG and view the current list of members.
• Meets 1st Monday @ 12:30 -5 P.M., September - May
• Facilitator: Mel Whaley

Micro 4/3rd

The Micro 4/3rds SIG explores the compact, versatile mirrorless camera systems introduced by Olympus and Panasonic in 2008. Designed to offer a smaller, lighter alternative to DSLR cameras while still delivering excellent image quality, Micro 4/3rds systems use interchangeable lenses and share many compatible features between the two brands. Whether you already shoot with Micro 4/3rds equipment or are simply interested in its size, performance, and flexibility, you are welcome to join us. Meetings include open discussion, hands-on learning, and practical tips on camera features, accessories, upgrades, and troubleshooting. Members are also encouraged to share recent images using a thumb drive or by mirroring from iPhone or Android devices.

• Click here to join this SIG and view the current list of members.
• Meets 2nd Thursdays @ 3:00 – 5:00 PM, October - April.
• Facilitator: Larry Lindner

Sony Mirrorless Cameras

If you've purchased a Sony mirrorless camera, this SIG will be entirely devoted to your needs. Participants will cover the various operating characteristics and advantages of this new entrant to the camera market. The principal group meeting format will be information exchange and experiences with their cameras.

• Click here to join this SIG and view the current list of members.
• Meets 2nd Thursday, @12:30 - 2:30 PM, year-round.
• Facilitator: Micheal Schatz

iPhone

Your iPhone is one of the most powerful cameras you own—and Apple keeps making it better. Whether you're just getting started or have been taking iPhone photos for years, this SIG will help you get more from your camera.  Members are encouraged to share ideas, ask questions, and help one another learn. We will try to answer or find an answer to any Iphone photo question.  We'll explore every aspect of iPhone photography, including: 

• Taking better photos with tips and tricks you can use right away, 
• What photo features you have on your phone (including new ones on latest IOS), 
• Using your iPhone for special situations such as night photography, close-ups (macro), portraits, panoramas, and action shots, 
• Discovering new and often-overlooked camera and Photos app features, 
• Organizing, storing, finding, and sharing your photos, 
• Editing and enhancing images using both Apple's built-in tools and popular third-party apps, 
• Helpful accessories and apps that can take your iPhone photography to the next level, and
• Other subjects the SIG members want to explore Iphone
  
  
  • Click here to join this SIG and view the current list of members.
  • Meets 4th Wednesday, @12:30-2:30 PM, October - May  Either in the studio or as announced.
  • Facilitator: Bill Becker, Ira Simmons

Getting to Wow with Lightroom and Photoshop

Pressing the shutter release is just the first step in creating a great image – you have to finish the job in post-processing. Share your images with other members of the group as we discuss how editing can deliver the vision you had when you took the picture. Demonstrate your favorite editing applications/software/tricks. We may show successful images from recent PSA/ACCC competitions as we discuss what makes a good image. Watch as we go through the editing process with “problem” photos.

• This SIG is a virtual meeting; the current Zoom link, meeting ID, and password are on the event calendar.
• Click here to join this SIG and view the current list of members.
• Meets 3rd Wednesday @ 1:00 – 3:00 P.M.
• Facilitator: Shel Wecker

Creating Slideshows SIG

Have you ever wanted to create a short slideshow for family and friends, or a longer presentation for celebrations, weddings, memorials, reunions, travelogues, and more? Then the Creating Slideshows SIG may be for you. Beginners and experienced users alike are welcome to discuss slideshow programs, learn how to use them, share tips for organizing photos and videos, and explore ways to present and share their work. More advanced members can also exchange ideas about additional features and effects. You are welcome to join us.

• Click here to join this SIG and view the current list of members.
• Meets 3rd Thursday @ 10 AM - 12 PM - October through April.
• Facilitator: Gary Jann

Image Sharing

The Image Sharing SIG is open to all Grand Photos members who enjoy sharing their photographic creations with other club members.  The casual atmosphere and interesting programs presented provide a learning environment for all levels of photographic expertise.   All skill levels, cameras/phone types, topics, and presentation formats are welcome. Presentations are often narrated slide decks or “stand-alone” videos.  Most presenters use thumb drives or mirror with Apple / Android phones and tablets.

• Click here to join this SIG and view the current list of members.
• Meets 3rd Monday @ 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM, year-round.
• Presentations of 10 minutes or less (including discussions) are scheduled to allow time for all participants.
• Facilitator Larry Lindner