Frequently Asked Questions for Future Members

1.  What does the club offer to new members?

We offer educational programs, presentations and demonstrations by guest speakers, monthly digital and print competitions, members critiques, all of which can help you improve your images.  In addition, you might enjoy our two weekend field trips and multiple field shoots throughout the year.  We also offer opportunities for members to display their work at galleries and help to prepare work for display. Please feel free to downlaod a copy of club trifold pamphlet for additional information. 

2.  Do you meet in person or are you an online (virtual) club?

While BCC most often meets in-person at Mount Washington United Methodist Church (5800 Cottonworth Ave., Baltimore, MD 21209), some meetings are conducted via Zoom only, and other meetings are offered in a hybrid format, allowing participation either in person or via Zoom. Please review the club calendar for full details about each meeting.

 You do not have to attend every meeting to benefit from your membership. Choose the programs, competitions, outings, exhibitions, and social activities that fit your interests and schedule.

3.  This all sounds exciting; what is the membership fee?

Membership fees are:

• $65.00 for individuals
• $75.00 for joint membership of an active club member and one household member residing at the same address.
• $30.00 for students. (Must be between ages of 16 to 22 and enrolled for a minimum of 20 hours).
• $32.50 for new members and returning members (not active since 2025/26 club year) who join after January 1st, 2027.

Our fees are due in August at the beginning of the club year. Membership must be current to enter competitions.

4.  Where can I find you on social media?

BCC has two groups on Facebook, one for Members only and a public group. We are also on LinkedIn.

5.  I do not own a camera; can I still join the club?

Yes! Baltimore Camera Club welcomes photographers at every level—from people learning the basics to experienced and professional image-makers. Many of our current members only use smartphones.

6.  What programs does the club offer?

The club holds weekly program meetings on Thursday nights (September–May) and biweekly meetings in the summer. Programs include presentations, critiques, educational sessions, and guest speakers. We recently announced an Artist-in-Residence program, where members may apply to participate in a year-long program to create a significant photographic project.  We also offer opportunities for members to display their photographs in gallery settings. All winning images from the monthly and End‑of‑Year competitions are displayed on the Club’s website.

7.  Can my participation in the club help me improve my photography skills?

Yes! The more you participate, the more your skills can grow. By attending expert presentations, submitting your photos in competitions and critiques, and going on field shoots, you will have plenty of opportunities to receive guidance and experience that will enhance your photo-making and photo-processing skills. For example, during ‘Member Critique Nights’, you will receive feedback from other members on how to improve your photography and post-processing skills. In addition, the experts in the field who judge our twice-monthly competitions offer great advice that can really help you hone your skills and develop an eye for what makes a great photo. 

8.  Describe a typical meeting agenda.

A typical meeting includes:

• Socializing at 7:30 p.m.
• Announcements at 7:45 p.m.
• Program or competition at 8:00 p.m.

9.  Does BCC hold photographic competitions?

Yes. BCC holds regular competitions including color print, monochrome print, and digital categories, plus year‑end competitions with awards such as the Graham Cromwell Award (Best image in all categories). We are also a member of the Maryland Photography Alliance, and our members get discounts to participate in MPA events.

10.  Are there any other discounts available to members?

Yes, once you join the club, you will have access to discounts at various local partners. You will receive the details when you join.

11.  Do you invite guest speakers?

Yes, guest speakers present regularly during the meeting programs. Please check the calendar for upcoming presentations

12.  Do you offer photographic trips and outings?

Yes, BCC organizes at least two weekend field trips - including one in Spring and one in Fall. There are also multiple field shoots, museum visits and other events arranged throughout the year.

13.  Do you have a newsletter?

Yes. The club publishes Focal Point, a quarterly newsletter featuring articles contributed by members, a report from the Club president, a new member spotlight, Light Room processing tips, a display of all photos that have placed throughout the quarter, and other articles of interest to those who are passionate about photography.

14.  Are there interesting facts about the club?

Yes — the most notable fact is that BCC is the oldest continuously operating photographic society in the United States, founded in 1878.

15.  What are the club’s goals?

• Advancing photographic knowledge
• Providing education and critique
• Encouraging artistic growth
• Building a supportive photographic community

16.  Any past "Notable Members"?

A. Aubrey Bodine and Edward L. Bafford were both past members.

17.  I am at Mt Washington-Aldersgate United Methodist Church at 5800 Cottonworth Ave, which entrance do I use to attend the club meeting?

Please go up the ramp to kitchen entrance (the side of the building facing the parking lot). Always check the club calendar to make sure the meeting is going to be held in-person on the day of your visit.

FAQ for Members

The links in the following section require you to login on to BCC website.

1.  How do I access member‑only content on the BCC website?

Member‑only content, such as competition uploads, galleries, newsletters, and internal documents, requires logging in with your BCC account credentials. If you have trouble logging in, contact the Website Administrator at waikar.shailesh@gmail.com.

2.  Where can I find the competition rules?

The BCC competition rules are located HERE.

3.  How do I submit images for a digital competition?

Members can upload their image(s) to upcoming digital competitions HERE.

4.  How do I submit images for a print competition?

On the day of competition, just bring the mounted prints to club meeting. Please make sure you follow these rules to prepare a print image.

NOTE: If your image places in a print competition, you will receive an email with instructions on how to upload a digital copy for display on the club’s website. 

5.  Is there an archive of past winning images?

Yes. Please select a competition date here to review past winning images.

6.  I want to submit an image for an upcoming Member Critique Night, where can I find the gallery location?

Under the "Member Programs-Critiques" gallery, look for the gallery that includes the date you wish to submit an image for in the title. (Useful hint: Click on the triangle on the left to expand the gallery menu).