Exhibition, reception a chance to learn about photography

Maxine Walker views the different photographs on display at Sunday's Jefferson City Photo Club reception in the Missouri River Regional Library Art Gallery. Twenty club members submitted 29 photos for the event, which gave the public a chance to discuss the photos, and photography in general, with club members.
Maxine Walker views the different photographs on display at Sunday's Jefferson City Photo Club reception in the Missouri River Regional Library Art Gallery. Twenty club members submitted 29 photos for the event, which gave the public a chance to discuss the photos, and photography in general, with club members.

George Albright, a member of the Jefferson City Photo Club since 2005, has won numerous awards for his photography. But he gets even more satisfaction from sharing his knowledge about the art with others.

On Sunday, the public had a chance to talk with Albright and other club members about their photos, and photography in general, at a reception held by the club in the Missouri River Regional Library Art Gallery.

"A big part of the fun is trying to help people get from where they're at (with photography) to be better, and not be self-conscious about it," Albright said. "I get more enjoyment out of that than the ribbons I've taken."

His advice: Take lots of pictures and experiment. If the exposure is too dark or light, make adjustments.

He had two works on display. One was a close-up of a bald eagle that he shot on Hayselton Drive with a 600mm lens. The other was a blue bird captured in mid-air that appeared to be almost flying by the camera lens. He shot it with a 1/8000 shutter speed and a 300mm lens, then digitally replaced the background with a striking blue-dominated nature scene.

Bob Protzman, a retiree who joined the club three or four years ago, said he has learned "everything" from Albright.

"He's the club's mentor," Protzman said, adding Albright has taught him persistence and patience.

Protzman said his goal this year is to shoot the Milky Way galaxy, which will require him to find an area in the country to avoid the "light pollution" that otherwise affects the shots.

Some photo contests allow digital manipulation, while others don't. The photographs in the reception weren't limited by any restrictions, other than they had to be between 8x10 inches or 16x20 inches. All were framed except for aluminum or canvas prints.

Twenty club members had a total of 29 photographs on display. They ranged from nature photographs to old barns to pets and even whirling rides at the fair.

Club Chairman Janet Waer said club members range from beginners to professionals. The works will be on display in the library's Art Gallery, on the second floor, through July.