The Shutterbugs Photography Club aims to help members improve on their camera skills, share ideas for photoshoots and events, serve their local community and learn new ways to express themselves through photography and art.
The only requirement to join: an interest in photography.
The Shutterbugs have been growing their network this semester, especially through collaboration with other clubs. Alpha Sigma Psi, Marywood Players, Women in Architecture and Design, Fashion Club, among others, took advantage of the Shutterbugs’ skill set for both headshot and fashion show events.
However, a never-ending challenge for most photography clubs is how to share content and keep activities engaging without being too repetitive.
Conchita Rivera, a sophomore photography major, who currently serves as the Shutterbugs’ vice president, shared the club’s ideas for how to tackle just that.
“The board and I have spoken about bringing back Shutterbugs’ spotlights on Instagram… no matter the skill level. While we do keep our most enjoyable activities like light painting or our annual ghost photoshoot, we have a whole list of new activities for the upcoming year,” Rivera assured.
Junior photography major Antonia Summa, president of the Shutterbugs, organized her first gallery this fall semester, a first for the club, which usually only hosts one in the spring. Summa is also assistant photography editor for The Wood Word.
“We encourage members to show their creativity through their photos,” Summa said. “Members of the club don’t have to be photo majors or have cameras to be in the club. Our goal is to help people find their love for photography and [to] grow their photography skills.”
Rivera noted an important difference with how the Shutterbugs operate compared to other schools and organizations.
“Rather than being completely run by advisors or those doing it as an obligation, having students who are well versed in the discipline of photography and are around the same age as their peers creates a comforting environment for any student,” said Rivera. “The club really values seeing what everyone else observes within the world in photos, and that’s what I really appreciate about the Shutterbugs.”
For any new photographers interested in joining the club, or photography in general, Summa recommends taking lots of photos.
“I know it’s a basic response but it truly does help. Always have your camera or phone with you because you never know when the perfect opportunity to take a photo comes,” Summa explained.
Follow the Shutterbugs on Instagram to stay informed on gallery dates and photoshoots or for more information including business inquiries, send an email to [email protected].
Contact the writer: [email protected]
