On Feb. 9, the Photography Club hosted its first meeting in sponsor Kendrick Kaufman’s room. The purpose of the meeting was to organize members and discuss the club’s objectives. Approximately 20 students showed an interest and attended. Meetings are held every other Tuesday for photographers at Seminole High School.

Freshman Madison Sepiol and sophomore Adrian De Guzman co-founded the club to create a place where aspiring photographers could share ideas, tips, and pictures, among other aspects of photography. The pair worked and focused on finding a sponsor, areas for photo shoots and the type of cameras to be used as club equipment. They also worked on finding photography scholarships and contests, such as the American Association of Physics Teachers (AAPT) High School Photo Contest and the Rocky Mountain School of Photography Contest.

Regarding his hopes for the Photography Club, sophomore Deven Ramey states, “I’d like it to be a place where everyone can have open conversations about photography and what makes a great picture. So far, it seems like that’s what I’m getting.”

In addition to focusing on in-school events, the Photography Club hopes to acquire club cameras and conduct photo sessions outside of school. However, most clubs are unable to fundraise during their first year of operation according to the administration at Seminole. 

Sepiol, the co-founder, says, “I feel really proud of this club. I wanted to contribute to the amazing amount of clubs that Seminole High hosts, as well as introduce like-minded students to each other. Adrian and I had never started a club before, and worked extremely hard to build it from the ground up. We’re really anxious to see the improvement of this club over the years and the success it has. The initial reaction of the students was better than we could have hoped, so we are really optimistic about our future.”

Since club meetings are open to experienced and new photographers alike, club participation includes a variety of activities requiring different skill levels. The types of activities range from learning the ropes and active participation. Photographs taken by members are displayed in front of their peers to be complimented, critiqued, and submitted to contests.

Kaufman states, “I was recommended by another teacher who couldn’t sponsor the club. So, since I have over 30 years experience photographing the world, I thought that I could give back to SHS by sharing my expertise.”

Students interested in joining the Photography Club should contact Mr. Kaufman in Warrior-217 for more information. The club welcomes students to join.