Old Tucson, by James Savage
Ken Duquaine
The East Valley Photo Club (EVPC) held its first meeting of the new season on Oct. 2. Our guest speaker was JoAnne West. JoAnne is a fine professional photographer and a thoroughly engaging speaker who has a gallery in Gold Canyon and exhibits her work widely. This was Joanne’s second appearance for EVPC, as her first appearance two years ago was so enthusiastically received by our members.
Following is an article by our education director Dan Dragoon concerning our Digital Photography Fundamentals class, which will be offered to both members and non-members beginning in January of 2026.
“While sales of dedicated cameras continue their steady decline, photography as a pastime continues to grow. Indeed, the number of photos has grown exponentially with the economy of digital capture and online sharing platforms.
“Since their introduction, phone cameras have replaced the traditional Kodak Instamatic and disposables of the late 20th century with astonishing image quality. Notably, smartphones continue to increase sensor size and pixel density, with some optics furnished by giants like Zeiss and Leica. Most phone image quality enhancements are performed through manipulation of the original optical capture (computational photography) with results that rival professional equipment and techniques. And with new software downloads, improvements are made almost daily.
“Yet, many of us enjoy producing images in a more traditional manner, understanding the capture process and history of this almost 200-year-old medium. We like dedicated cameras that require forethought and attention to detail—not unlike the pride we may take in our cooking or baking, even though it is more convenient to eat out.
“The equipment choice is not financial. High-end phones cost more than traditional cameras and must be replaced more often. Beyond gear considerations, our photographs can benefit from better technique. Ansel Adams said, ‘The part of the camera that takes the picture is two inches behind the viewfinder.’ Indeed, it’s the photographer’s vision.”
Better photographs respect Perspective, Light, and Exposure. A good photographer guides the viewer’s eye through the image and elicits an emotional reaction. This is the focus (pun intended) of our Digital Photography Fundamentals course. This season will add a track for smartphone photographers while addressing the complexities of traditional cameras. Classes begin in January. Stay tuned for further details. If interested, contact Dan Dragoon at dan.dragoon@yahoo.com.
The East Valley Photo Club meets on the first and third Thursdays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Navajo Room of Sun Lakes Country Club from October through April. For more information about the EVPC and its activities, contact President Ken Duquaine at 248-342-0790 or kduquaine@hotmail.com or past President Samantha Rose Palmatier at 907-727-0334 or totsie1954@yahoo.com and visit our website at www.eastvalleyphotoclub.com.