Flagpole Photographers Camera Club will be kicking off the 2013-14 season on Thursday, September 19, with a general meeting and photo competition. It begins at 7:30 pm in the meeting room of C.H. Booth Library, 25 Main Street.

The assigned subject for this month is Nature. There will also be competitions in Black & White and Open Color.

The public is welcome but only members can enter the competitions. Light refreshments will be served.

On Thursday, October 3, the club will host a Camera Basics and Photo Critiquing Workshop. This will be an opportunity for individuals wishing to learn how to use their camera on settings besides Auto.

All levels, from novice to professional, are welcome. The evening will begin with an overview of the basics of photography including shutter speed, aperture and ISO. White balance, composition, and depth of field will also be discussed. Then there will be an opportunity to critique photos and discuss how to improve photography.

This is a hands-on workshop, so guests should bring their camera and questions.

The workshop starts at 7:30 pm in the meeting room of Booth Library.

The club’s third annual “Newtown and Beyond...” photography exhibition at Newtown Municipal Center, 3 Primrose Street, will start with an opening reception on Sunday, October 6, from 2 to 4 pm. There will be refreshments and live music.

The public is invited to meet the photographers with works on view, hear the stories behind their images. The exhibit will showcase over 100 photos by members of the Flagpole Photographers Camera Club, many available for purchase, and will be on view the month of October during regular Municipal Center hours (generally Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 5 pm).

Flagpole Photographers is a local non-profit group that enables members to share their images and expertise, to learn and grow in their photography, and to enjoy the camaraderie of fellow photographers. Members are from diverse backgrounds, with photographic skills ranging from beginning novices to professional photographers.

The season runs annually September through June, with monthly print competitions at the town library on the third Thursday of the month, except where otherwise noted in our schedule. Meetings start at 7:30 pm. All dates, assigned subjects, and programs are included in the schedule online at FlagpolePhotographers.com.

Additionally, the club offers hands-on learning programs at the library, also free and open to the public.

In April the club presents an annual photography exhibit at the library, where Images of the Year Awards are designated. Many members also participate in community service outreach projects.

Dues are $30 per person or $50 for a family membership. Students may join at no charge.

For additional information send email to flagpolephotographers@yahoo.com, visit the club’s website, or join the club on Facebook.