While not a camera club in the traditional sense (we meet monthly, all year round and don’t do competitions), we have a similar ethos in a shared interest in photography, mutual improvement and socialising with like minded photographers. We choose our keynote speakers from photographers, photojournalists, publishers and curators who are passionate about what they do. These twice yearly keynotes take place on Sundays and allow insights into the work and practices of our speakers.

Although many members of Lancashire Monochrome work digitally, there are also a number of film and darkroom workers. Indeed, many in the group started photography in the darkroom and there is a wealth of knowledge in both digital and what is now referred to as analogue photography.

Solo exhibitions by members in the Lancashire Monochrome gallery space at the Mercure Georgian House in Bolton

Irrespective of medium and process, it is the print that brings the group together. The format of the monthly meeting is based around members 5-10 minute presentations of between 5-15 prints. They discuss their creative and photographic processes used to achieve their final prints and the floor is open to discussion and feedback with the group. In between presentations is the opportunity to view prints close, speak to other photographers and exchange thoughts and advice on technique, locations, equipment, materials, books, exhibitions, etc. It should be noted that there is absolutely no obligation to stand up and present your work!!

As of April 2020, we have been meeting virtually on Zoom and this has allowed us to continue our dialogue and sharing of work until such time as it is feasible to meet again in person,

Anna Douglas (Curator) – Keynote Speaker March 2018

Tom Stoddart (Photojournalist) – Keynote Speaker November 2017

Richard Denyer (Photographer) – Keynote Speaker March 2015

Exhibitions are an important part of what we do with several members having solo exhibitions recently. Each year, members submit work for our annual exhibition, held in the Leyland Museum, which is a two week showcase of the groups best work from the previous year. In addition, there is a year round display of work in the Georgian House Hotel in Bolton, where members can have solo or joint exhibitions using the 18 frames we have access to.

Lancashire Monochrome Annual Exhibition 2019

New members are always welcome – annual membership is £50 and we meet on the first Monday of every month at the RAFA Club in Leyland, please see the ‘Meetings and Events‘ page for more details, or contact us for more information.