Minutes of GSACC Meeting - April 6, 2023
Minutes of a meeting of GSACC on Thursday, April 6, 2023 at 7:30 PM by Zoom
Attendance:
You Can Expect When You Do.” The presentation included reasons members might
want to participate in club photo competitions. It then discussed aspects of judging
photo competitions in some detail. These aspects included subject, focus, exposure,
lighting, color, composition, background, clutter and distracting elements, depth of
field, emotional content, impact, and story telling. Some examples of not useful critique
were given and a few photos with useful critique were also shown. Peter Florczak
pointed out that none of us in the club is a professional judge but we all do our best to
score fairly and give helpful constructive comments on entries when we are serving as
judges.
Next photos were shown from club members to show progression of photographic
ability. Marie Plummer, Peter Florczak, Jack Smith and Charles Freeman each showed
three photos and discussed their personal photographic progression.
The above meeting was recorded and is available for viewing on the club website at: https://www.gsacc.org/gsacc-meeting-videos.html.
At that point the meeting transitioned into a business meeting. Maria Plummer left and
Rowdy Stone participated in some of the discussion to follow.
Trish Stone discussed “chain of command” in the club as well as procedures for
submitting images for competition both digital and print so they can be shown on the
club website if they place. Who in the club keeps digital copies of those images was
also discussed. Peter Florczak and John Kain have been keeping digital copies of
images that placed for several years back. The digital and print chairmen also keep
digital copies of images that place in their respective competitions.
Trish asked for members of the club to provide her with cell phone numbers so she can
contact members quickly and effectively regarding upcoming club events.
Trish also asked if anyone would be willing to be Education Chairman. No one at the
meeting volunteered. Trish will send out an email to all members asking for a volunteer
to be Education Chairman.
he comes in person and we could pay for it. For a place to make the presentation
Denise suggested the club room at her condominiums. This suggestion sounded like a
good idea.
Discussion of doing UTSA sports photography was brought up. Jack Smith will talk to
someone he knows about getting to photograph sports action shots of UTSA teams.
There was some discussion about the competition categories of Assignment and
Creative. Several people expressed dislike for assignments. Some don’t like being
told what to take pictures of and would rather choose their own things to photograph.
Others enjoyed the challenge of the limited time frame and trying to get photos that
fulfill the assignments. There was also concern that some of the assignments are vague
and needed more clarification. In response to the last concern it was said that part of
the appeal of the assignments is that they are vague and, therefore, open to creative
interpretation. Regarding Creative category it was said the members who are really
good with photo editing software such as Photoshop (PS) seem to consistently get the
highest scores. The discussion that ensued included the idea that anyone who wants
to become good at software like PS can do it as well as the idea that not everyone has
the time or inclination to become good at this type of software. It was also pointed out
that some images that were not edited using PS type software have scored well in
Creative category although they seem to be the exception. This discussion about
Creative category included the idea that those who are good at PS type software have
a distinct advantage when it comes to receiving end of year (EOY) awards. There were
suggestions to remove one or both of these categories from club competition but no
consensus was reached. The discussion was tabled for further consideration at a later
meeting.
Steve Manchester
GSACC Secretary
Attendance:
- Trish Stone, President
- John Kain, Vice President
- Steve Manchester, Secretary
- Robert Moreno, Board Member
- Ernie Clyma, Board Member
- Marie Plummer
- Jack Smith
- Denise Bridges
- Peter Florczak
- Mark Ling
- Charles Freeman
You Can Expect When You Do.” The presentation included reasons members might
want to participate in club photo competitions. It then discussed aspects of judging
photo competitions in some detail. These aspects included subject, focus, exposure,
lighting, color, composition, background, clutter and distracting elements, depth of
field, emotional content, impact, and story telling. Some examples of not useful critique
were given and a few photos with useful critique were also shown. Peter Florczak
pointed out that none of us in the club is a professional judge but we all do our best to
score fairly and give helpful constructive comments on entries when we are serving as
judges.
Next photos were shown from club members to show progression of photographic
ability. Marie Plummer, Peter Florczak, Jack Smith and Charles Freeman each showed
three photos and discussed their personal photographic progression.
The above meeting was recorded and is available for viewing on the club website at: https://www.gsacc.org/gsacc-meeting-videos.html.
At that point the meeting transitioned into a business meeting. Maria Plummer left and
Rowdy Stone participated in some of the discussion to follow.
Trish Stone discussed “chain of command” in the club as well as procedures for
submitting images for competition both digital and print so they can be shown on the
club website if they place. Who in the club keeps digital copies of those images was
also discussed. Peter Florczak and John Kain have been keeping digital copies of
images that placed for several years back. The digital and print chairmen also keep
digital copies of images that place in their respective competitions.
Trish asked for members of the club to provide her with cell phone numbers so she can
contact members quickly and effectively regarding upcoming club events.
Trish also asked if anyone would be willing to be Education Chairman. No one at the
meeting volunteered. Trish will send out an email to all members asking for a volunteer
to be Education Chairman.
- Several ideas for education night activities were discussed including the following:
- High speed photography
- Solar eclipse observation and photography
- Studio shoot
- Member profiles
- Russell Briggs—Trish mentioned this professional photographer would be happy to
he comes in person and we could pay for it. For a place to make the presentation
Denise suggested the club room at her condominiums. This suggestion sounded like a
good idea.
Discussion of doing UTSA sports photography was brought up. Jack Smith will talk to
someone he knows about getting to photograph sports action shots of UTSA teams.
There was some discussion about the competition categories of Assignment and
Creative. Several people expressed dislike for assignments. Some don’t like being
told what to take pictures of and would rather choose their own things to photograph.
Others enjoyed the challenge of the limited time frame and trying to get photos that
fulfill the assignments. There was also concern that some of the assignments are vague
and needed more clarification. In response to the last concern it was said that part of
the appeal of the assignments is that they are vague and, therefore, open to creative
interpretation. Regarding Creative category it was said the members who are really
good with photo editing software such as Photoshop (PS) seem to consistently get the
highest scores. The discussion that ensued included the idea that anyone who wants
to become good at software like PS can do it as well as the idea that not everyone has
the time or inclination to become good at this type of software. It was also pointed out
that some images that were not edited using PS type software have scored well in
Creative category although they seem to be the exception. This discussion about
Creative category included the idea that those who are good at PS type software have
a distinct advantage when it comes to receiving end of year (EOY) awards. There were
suggestions to remove one or both of these categories from club competition but no
consensus was reached. The discussion was tabled for further consideration at a later
meeting.
Steve Manchester
GSACC Secretary
Minutes of GSACC Meeting - January 19, 2023
A meeting of the GSACC was held at Casa Sol Mexican Restaurant at 9938 San Pedro Ave, San Antonio, TX at 7:30 PM on Thursday, Jan 19, 2023.
Attendance:
Changing club officers had been discussed previously in multiple settings over a period of time with Trish Stone volunteering to be president. There were no other volunteers. Robert Moreno has served as president for the last 48 months. At this meeting it was decided that Robert Moreno would step down as president and Trish Stone would become president. As president Trish will also serve as Chairman of the Board of Directors.
Article V of the club constitution provides for a Board of Directors with the incumbent president serving as Chairman, the immediate past president as second member and the third member elected at-large by the club membership. The at-large member is currently Ernie Clyma. Club members are grateful to Robert for his dedicated service as president. He will continue to serve on the club board as immediate past president replacing Charles Freeman. John Kain volunteered to be vice president (on Jan 22 by text). All other officers and chairmen will remain unchanged.
Steve Manchester
GSACC Secretary
Jan 23, 2023
Attendance:
- Robert Moreno, President
- Trish Stone, Vice President
- Steve Manchester, Secretary
- Susie Kain, Treasurer
- Rowdy Stone
- John Kain
- Peter Florczak
- Ernie Clyma
Changing club officers had been discussed previously in multiple settings over a period of time with Trish Stone volunteering to be president. There were no other volunteers. Robert Moreno has served as president for the last 48 months. At this meeting it was decided that Robert Moreno would step down as president and Trish Stone would become president. As president Trish will also serve as Chairman of the Board of Directors.
Article V of the club constitution provides for a Board of Directors with the incumbent president serving as Chairman, the immediate past president as second member and the third member elected at-large by the club membership. The at-large member is currently Ernie Clyma. Club members are grateful to Robert for his dedicated service as president. He will continue to serve on the club board as immediate past president replacing Charles Freeman. John Kain volunteered to be vice president (on Jan 22 by text). All other officers and chairmen will remain unchanged.
Steve Manchester
GSACC Secretary
Jan 23, 2023
Minutes of GSACC Meeting - August 04, 2022
A meeting of the GSACC was held by Zoom on Thursday, August 4, 2022 at 7:30 PM
Attendance
Robert Moreno, President
Trish Stone, Vice President
Steve Manchester, Secretary
Peter Florczak
John Kain
Ernie Clyma
Jack Smith
Neal Williams
Dave Finell
Mark Ling
Donna Vaughn
Peter Florczak hosted the meeting.
1) A warm welcome back was given to Donna Vaughn who had previously been an active member of the club who joined us for the first time in several years. Donna agreed to be added to the list of members who serve as judges at club competitions.
2) A discussion about judging, ie, scoring and commenting, was led by Peter Florczak. Because some judges tend to score high and some judges tend to score low, for the purpose end of year (EOY) awards, it was previously decided EOY awards will be determined by using the following scoring method:
First Place 5 points
Second Place 4 points
Third Place. 3 points
Honorable Mention 2 points
With this method a person who gets first place with a score of 21 will get the same number of EOY p0ints as someone who gets first place with a score of 27 and so on.
There was some concern expressed that the comments aren’t always consistent with the scores. It was acknowledged that we’re all amateurs in this club and we all do our best at judging in both scoring and commenting. Even though a judge might think he/she knows who the photographer is for a given entry we all try to be objective in scoring. Someone mentioned that he had gained a lot of insight into the judging process from Donna Vaughn a few years ago.
It was acknowledged that when a judge scores a zero for his/her own entry and the other two judges give different scores that give a total that is an odd number the averaging and rounding up process gives that judge a 1/2 point advantage. (When the total of the other two judges scores is an even number there is no rounding needed and, therefore, no advantage given.) A suggested way to eliminate this advantage was to have a designated fourth judge ready with cards who will give a score in lieu of the regular judge whose entry is up for scoring. The fourth judge would also score for in-and-outs and rescores when there are ties that include at least one of the regular judges. The fourth judge would be cued by the score keeper when that judge needs to give a score in lieu of one of the three regular judges giving a score. The score keeper will also make sure the regular judge understands he/she is not to give a score. Not sure what would be done if more than one of the regular judges is involved in a tie unless we also have a 5th and 6th designated judge.
3) There was some discussion of photo walks that are available. There are some sponsored by Scott Kelby that are local such as one in Fredericksburg on Aug 13, in Austin and Bastrop also. They are part of Scott Kelby’s World Wide Photo Walk. More info can be found at worldwidephotowalk.com. Peter Florczak is going to participate in the photo walk in Fredericksburg on Aug 13.
4) In this half of the year we have Creative category at our monthly competitions. Related to creative photography Peter Florczak wanted to show a short video by Sebastian Michaels at Photoshop Artistry. We didn’t have time to show the video clip so here is the link https://www.myphotoartisticlife.com. Peter says, “I and a few fellow GSACC members have taken some of (these) courses and they are simply just the best.”
Steve Manchester
GSACC Secretary
Attendance
Robert Moreno, President
Trish Stone, Vice President
Steve Manchester, Secretary
Peter Florczak
John Kain
Ernie Clyma
Jack Smith
Neal Williams
Dave Finell
Mark Ling
Donna Vaughn
Peter Florczak hosted the meeting.
1) A warm welcome back was given to Donna Vaughn who had previously been an active member of the club who joined us for the first time in several years. Donna agreed to be added to the list of members who serve as judges at club competitions.
2) A discussion about judging, ie, scoring and commenting, was led by Peter Florczak. Because some judges tend to score high and some judges tend to score low, for the purpose end of year (EOY) awards, it was previously decided EOY awards will be determined by using the following scoring method:
First Place 5 points
Second Place 4 points
Third Place. 3 points
Honorable Mention 2 points
With this method a person who gets first place with a score of 21 will get the same number of EOY p0ints as someone who gets first place with a score of 27 and so on.
There was some concern expressed that the comments aren’t always consistent with the scores. It was acknowledged that we’re all amateurs in this club and we all do our best at judging in both scoring and commenting. Even though a judge might think he/she knows who the photographer is for a given entry we all try to be objective in scoring. Someone mentioned that he had gained a lot of insight into the judging process from Donna Vaughn a few years ago.
It was acknowledged that when a judge scores a zero for his/her own entry and the other two judges give different scores that give a total that is an odd number the averaging and rounding up process gives that judge a 1/2 point advantage. (When the total of the other two judges scores is an even number there is no rounding needed and, therefore, no advantage given.) A suggested way to eliminate this advantage was to have a designated fourth judge ready with cards who will give a score in lieu of the regular judge whose entry is up for scoring. The fourth judge would also score for in-and-outs and rescores when there are ties that include at least one of the regular judges. The fourth judge would be cued by the score keeper when that judge needs to give a score in lieu of one of the three regular judges giving a score. The score keeper will also make sure the regular judge understands he/she is not to give a score. Not sure what would be done if more than one of the regular judges is involved in a tie unless we also have a 5th and 6th designated judge.
3) There was some discussion of photo walks that are available. There are some sponsored by Scott Kelby that are local such as one in Fredericksburg on Aug 13, in Austin and Bastrop also. They are part of Scott Kelby’s World Wide Photo Walk. More info can be found at worldwidephotowalk.com. Peter Florczak is going to participate in the photo walk in Fredericksburg on Aug 13.
4) In this half of the year we have Creative category at our monthly competitions. Related to creative photography Peter Florczak wanted to show a short video by Sebastian Michaels at Photoshop Artistry. We didn’t have time to show the video clip so here is the link https://www.myphotoartisticlife.com. Peter says, “I and a few fellow GSACC members have taken some of (these) courses and they are simply just the best.”
Steve Manchester
GSACC Secretary
Minutes of GSACC Meeting - May 27, 2022
A meeting of the GSACC executive committee was held at La Fogota Restaurant at
2427 Vance Jackson Rd on May 27, 2022 at 12:00 PM.
Attendees
paid for by the club. The banquet is to be held at Chester’s Burgers at 1006 NE Loop
410 on June 2, 2022 at 7:00 PM.
Also discussed was the way scoring is done to determine end of year (EOY) awards.
Our bylaws state the scores from each competition are to be totaled to determine
place for EOY awards. It has been noticed that some judges give relatively low scores
and some give relatively high scores. In order to even out these differences in scoring
by judges a change was proposed. The proposal is that we change the method of
scoring to the following:
in that place no matter what the score was at the competition. At the end of the year
whichever member has the most points will be Photographer of the Year for Print or
Digital competitions except that the club Photographer of the Year is not eligible to be
Print or Digital Photographer of the year.
The proposal was accepted by the committee. The bylaws will be amended to reflect
this change.
Susie Kain made a financial report for the club.
GSACC Secretary
2427 Vance Jackson Rd on May 27, 2022 at 12:00 PM.
Attendees
- Robert Moreno, President
- Trish Stone, Vice President
- Steve Manchester, Secretary
- Susie Kain, Treasurer
- Peter Florczak
- John Kain
- Denise Bridges
paid for by the club. The banquet is to be held at Chester’s Burgers at 1006 NE Loop
410 on June 2, 2022 at 7:00 PM.
Also discussed was the way scoring is done to determine end of year (EOY) awards.
Our bylaws state the scores from each competition are to be totaled to determine
place for EOY awards. It has been noticed that some judges give relatively low scores
and some give relatively high scores. In order to even out these differences in scoring
by judges a change was proposed. The proposal is that we change the method of
scoring to the following:
- first place gets 5 points
- 2nd place gets 4 points
- 3rd place gets 3 points
- honorable mention gets 2 points
in that place no matter what the score was at the competition. At the end of the year
whichever member has the most points will be Photographer of the Year for Print or
Digital competitions except that the club Photographer of the Year is not eligible to be
Print or Digital Photographer of the year.
The proposal was accepted by the committee. The bylaws will be amended to reflect
this change.
Susie Kain made a financial report for the club.
- Dues collected for 2022—$570
- Current balance— $4,393.59
GSACC Secretary
Minutes of GSACC Meeting - April 7, 2022
Minutes of a Meeting of GSACC by Zoom on April 7, 2022
The meeting came to order at 7:30 PM. The Zoom host was Peter Florczak.
Attendance:
Robert Moreno, President Steve Manchester, Secretary Peter Flroczak, John Kain, Ben Luna, Ken Ramsey, Tammy Ramsey, Jack Smith, Ernie Clyma
There was a discussion about awards for 2021.
Steve Manchester
Secretary, GSACC
The meeting came to order at 7:30 PM. The Zoom host was Peter Florczak.
Attendance:
Robert Moreno, President Steve Manchester, Secretary Peter Flroczak, John Kain, Ben Luna, Ken Ramsey, Tammy Ramsey, Jack Smith, Ernie Clyma
There was a discussion about awards for 2021.
- Ken Ramsey sent digital images that had placed from digital competitions in 2021 to the Corpus Christi Camera Club (CCCC) for judging. He has the results. There was some speculation that print competition images that placed in 2021 might have also been included with those digital competition images sent to CCCC. However, Ken Ramsey is pretty sure they were not. He will double check to be sure. Ken will report his finding to Peter Florczak and Steve Manchester. If print images were not sent to CCCC, it was suggested we proceed as follows. Peter Florczak has scoresheets for the three print competitions the club held in 2021. There were print competitions in June, August, and October. The scoresheets show which print images placed. It was suggested that we give an award for print photographer of the year based on total points. It was suggested that points be given to images that placed based on the following scheme. First place-5 points. Second place-4 points. Third place-3 points. Honorable Mention-2 points. This system would be used instead of totaling up the scores given at the competitions. Peter Florczak will total the points. The photographer with the most points based on this system would be awarded the Print Photographer of the Year award. There was consensus agreement on these suggestions.
- Plaque awards will be given for Photographer of the Year, Print Photographer of the Year, Digital Photographer of the year, and Best of Show Image. For other awards a certificate will be given.
- Steve Manchester will arrange to get plaques and print the certificates. Ken Ramsey and Peter Florczak will send their results to Steve Manchester.
- It was decided we will have an awards meeting/banquet at Chester’s Hamburgers, 1006 NE Interstate Hwy 410 on June 2, 2022 at 7:30.
Steve Manchester
Secretary, GSACC
Minutes of GSACC Meeting - November 18, 2021
A meeting of the GSACC was held Thursday, November 18, 2021 at 7:30PM by Zoom.
Attendance: Robert Moreno, Pres, Trish Stone, VP, Steve Manchester, Sec, Peter Florczak, John Kain, Jack Smith, Ben Luna, Denise Bridges, Ernie Clyma, Ken Ramsey, and Tammy Ramsey.
Attendance: Robert Moreno, Pres, Trish Stone, VP, Steve Manchester, Sec, Peter Florczak, John Kain, Jack Smith, Ben Luna, Denise Bridges, Ernie Clyma, Ken Ramsey, and Tammy Ramsey.
- The 3rd Thursday meeting is usually a competition meeting but preceding competition a business meeting was held. The following items were discussed.
- The question of whether to return to the Lions Field (LF) facility was brought up. A vote was taken and it was decided not to return. Since we have equipment and other things in the closet at LF there was a discussion on what to do with those things. There is some urgency to clear out the closet because LF wants it emptied if we aren’t going to return. It was decided the club will donate the wide screen TV to Robert Moreno for his mother to use. No decision was made about the disposal of the other items in the closet which include some refreshment related items like canned soft drinks, cups, plastic ware, napkins, bottled water.... A decision needs to be made about the disposition of these items and who will be in charge of that disposition. The other result of the decision not to return to LF is that we will continue to hold first Thursday meetings by Zoom and print competitions at Photo Pro Lab. In 2022 print competitions will be held on odd numbered months. John Kain suggested we not call first Thursday meetings education meetings since we haven’t had formal education for some time and we don’t have an education chairman and he doesn’t wasn’t to be in charge of coming up with something for these meetings.
- A related item to the above; it was suggested we talk to Amanda at Photo Pro Lab to be sure we can continue to hold our print competitions there just to be sure. Robert Moreno will make contact with Amanda.
- For our competitions next year we will have assignment category for the first 6 months (Jan-Jun) and creative category for the second 6 months (Jul-Dec). The assignment categories were discussed and the following 6 were agreed upon:
- Transportation
- Street Photography
- Hands
- Blue
- Self-Portrait
- Leading Lines
- A suggestion for a first Thursday meeting in 2022 was to have a meeting at a photo studio to see how studios work, learn to use their lighting and to take photos there. Two studios were suggested one near the intersection of Rt 1604 and Rt 90 and the other is off Nakoma Dr in San Antonio. Several members expressed an interesting in seeing how Robert Moreno shoots his action figure photos hoping a demonstration might be done at one of the studios.
- The club Christmas party will be held Dec 2 at Chester's Hamburgers at 1006 NE Loop 410 at 6:00 PM. The club will pay for dinner. Susie Kain will be accepting dues at the party. Dues are $30 per person and $40 per couple for the year. Dues must be paid before entering competition in 2022. An alternate to paying dues at the party is to mail them to Susie Kain at her home address. Credit cards will not be accepted. If you are going to attend the party, be sure to let Trish Stone know if you haven’t done so already.
- A digital competition will be held Dec 9 by Zoom at 7:30 PM with scoring by judges on Dec 8 at 7:30 by Zoom. Entries for competition must be sent in by Dec 6th to be included in the competition.
- The regular third Thursday competition was held following the business meeting. The judges were John Kain, Peter Florczak and Steve Manchester.
- If you have additions or corrections to these minutes please email or text me.
- Steve Manchester GSACC Secretary
GSACC Information - November 04, 2021
A meeting of the GSACC was held at 7:00 PM by Zoom on Thursday Nov 4, 2021.
Attendees-Robert Moreno, Pres, John Kain, VP, Trish Stone, Sec, Jack Smith, Steve Manchester, Eric Bowden, Ernie Clyma, Peter Florczak, Ben Luna, Ricky B
Attendees-Robert Moreno, Pres, John Kain, VP, Trish Stone, Sec, Jack Smith, Steve Manchester, Eric Bowden, Ernie Clyma, Peter Florczak, Ben Luna, Ricky B
- John Kain is frustrated and needs a break. As Vice President he has been preparing for and running the education meetings on the first Thursday of each month. He has also been the Zoom host for all/most of our Zoom meetings since approximately March 2020. He has also been score keeper at the 3 print competitions we have had this year (June, August, October) at Digital Pro Lab. He initiated a new process for entering digital copies of print entries that also produces an electronic score sheet that can be printed for use at the print competitions. He hasn’t had a chance to get out and take photos and really wants to do that. John also runs the club website and email which are in his name only. No one else seems to be able to run them.
- Trish Stone will resign as club secretary and perform the duties of club Vice President as well as keep score at print competitions.
- Steve Manchester will assume the duties of club secretary. He will also continue to be print chairman and arrange for judges at each competition.
- Peter Florczak will host the club Zoom meetings.
- Robert Moreno will continue to serve as club President. He will also pick up the lights and old scoring device from John Kain’s house.
- Susie Kain will continue to be club Treasurer (I asked John about that)
- There will be a club Christmas party at Chester’s at 1006 NE loop 410 at 6:30 on Dec 2nd. There was some discussion about having a slide show during this party. Nothing specific was decided.
- There will be digital competition by Zoom on Dec 9 at 7:00 PM. Judges will score entries by Zoom on Dec 8 at 7:00 PM.
- If you have additions or corrections to these minutes, please text or email me.
- I’d be happy to prepare agendas for future business meetings. Send items for discussion to me by text or email. I will coordinate with Robert.
- Steve Manchester, GSACC Secretary
GSACC Information - June 04, 2020
Click on the link below to open up John Kain's wonderful tip on "Photographing Fireworks" that he presented at the June 04, 2020 Education ZOOM meeting.
| fireworks_presentation.pdf |
GSACC Information - April 16, 2020
I think that everyone felt that the ZOOM meeting was a success. Even though we only had 13 members show, I think that the participation will definitively grow over time as the members become more comfortable with an online meeting. The meeting not only had the judges comments to all of the digital entries, but it also hosted a pretty lively discussion which lasted until 10:30 PM! This even might even be something we continue even after the social distancing is lifted. What do you think?
GSACC Information - April 10, 2020
Please remember that next week we are having our first virtual competition. We practiced last night and think we have it down. Please have all your images submitted through the web site submittal page by Monday, 13 April. We will judge them Wednesday night and show and discuss them on Thursday. Please watch your email for an invite.The entire voting and presentation will be done through Zoom. The meeting will start at 7:30 on 16 April.
There are a lot of new safety precautions built into Zoom now so don't worry about hacking. I highly recommend you go to the Zoom website and register, https://zoom.us/ It makes it a lot easier to get into the meetings. You do not have to but it makes less complicated if you run into problems.
Lastly, make sure you go into our computer settings and turn on your camera and microphone. We have had a couple of preliminary tests and folks did not have their cameras turned on. The judges will comment in your photos, and if you have a question or comment you will need to raise your hand and I need to be able to see you. All participants will be muted by me at the start of the meeting. If you raise your hand to ask a question, I will un-mute your microphone. I hope to see everyone on Thursday the 16th.
If you have any questions, please feel free to email me.
Thanks
John
There are a lot of new safety precautions built into Zoom now so don't worry about hacking. I highly recommend you go to the Zoom website and register, https://zoom.us/ It makes it a lot easier to get into the meetings. You do not have to but it makes less complicated if you run into problems.
Lastly, make sure you go into our computer settings and turn on your camera and microphone. We have had a couple of preliminary tests and folks did not have their cameras turned on. The judges will comment in your photos, and if you have a question or comment you will need to raise your hand and I need to be able to see you. All participants will be muted by me at the start of the meeting. If you raise your hand to ask a question, I will un-mute your microphone. I hope to see everyone on Thursday the 16th.
If you have any questions, please feel free to email me.
Thanks
John
GSACC Information - April 2, 2020
April 04, 2020 We had our first successful meeting using the Zoom software. There were 12 members in attendance. A few more tried unsuccessfully to sign on. We now have a paid version that allows us to have unlimited meetings, and more importantly, have some controls over the security concerns.
Our next virtual meeting will be our April 16th competition meeting. You can submits your entries as you always have using our "Digital Competition Photo Upload" page. All entries must be submitted on or before April 13th to allow enough time for setting up the judging.
The Assignment this month is: "View from the top---an image taken from above the subject"
The judges will meet before the start of the meeting to judge and score the entries. Then at 7:30 all of the members can join the meeting for scores and comments. I hope that you will all give it a try. John Kain will send out invites, but if you don't get one, email him directly and he will send you one. Remember that you do not have to be a member to attend a virtual meeting, but only paid members can compete in the competitions
Our next virtual meeting will be our April 16th competition meeting. You can submits your entries as you always have using our "Digital Competition Photo Upload" page. All entries must be submitted on or before April 13th to allow enough time for setting up the judging.
The Assignment this month is: "View from the top---an image taken from above the subject"
The judges will meet before the start of the meeting to judge and score the entries. Then at 7:30 all of the members can join the meeting for scores and comments. I hope that you will all give it a try. John Kain will send out invites, but if you don't get one, email him directly and he will send you one. Remember that you do not have to be a member to attend a virtual meeting, but only paid members can compete in the competitions
GSACC Information - March 12, 2020
IMPORTANT NEWS:
In response to the concerns over the current Corona virus pandemic and our desire to not expose vulnerable people needlessly our meetings for March and April at Lion's Field have been cancelled. Any further activity will be reconsidered as news of the virus is available.
Further discussion is continuing about how or if competition is going to take place. I will share any decisions as soon as they are made.
Be healthy and safe.
Trish
In response to the concerns over the current Corona virus pandemic and our desire to not expose vulnerable people needlessly our meetings for March and April at Lion's Field have been cancelled. Any further activity will be reconsidered as news of the virus is available.
Further discussion is continuing about how or if competition is going to take place. I will share any decisions as soon as they are made.
Be healthy and safe.
Trish
GSACC Information - February 12, 2020
As spring, and later, summer, nears plans start being made to get out and do some landscape photography. Perhaps its vast fields of bluebonnets or maybe the vistas of a foreign nation. To get the sharpest images the following suggestions will help.
Good luck making excellent , sharp images.
Tim Kirkland
- Use a tripod and a cable release. This is especially important in low light situations near dawn and dusk. If your camera does not have a provision for a cable release, the self timer can be used to click the shutter.
- Choose the sharpest lenses you can afford. A good report published in photography magazines can help find them. The online source , DPReviews, is a good source for information and links to other reviewers. Even the "kit" lenses today are better than the ones used by Adams and other famous landscape photographers.
- Try to shoot at the middle range of your lens' aperture,. Most lenses will peak in sharpness in the f/8 -5.6 area. Shoot images of the same object at the range of apertures of your lens and compare them side by side to find your lens' sweet spot.
- Set your shutter speed to stop movement from blowing grass provided it does not compromise the sharpest aperture , depending on your personal concept of the image.
- Use a polarizing filter to keep textures sharp and clear by cutting glare.
Good luck making excellent , sharp images.
Tim Kirkland
GSACC Meeting NOTES - December 06, 2019
Just want to make sure that everyone has the latest from our meeting last night. We saw some great digital images and also concluded business for the year. Three things in particular that you might want to be aware of:
1. We have voted to fill the following positions for the next two years
2. Our first meeting in 2020 will be an education night and Peter Florczak has agreed to spend the time showing us his editing process.
3. To ease confusion, we have decided to handle the Assignment & Creative categories in competition as such:
Jan-June will be assignment months. The six categories are listed on the web page and will remain the same.
July-Dec will be creative months.
Finally, thanks to those of you who have responded to our EVITE for the annual dinner. There is a sign up sheet included for any sides you would like to bring. If you haven't seen it, please check your SPAM or just send me an email and I will count you in. DON'T FORGET: There is a $10 fee for dinner that will be collected at the beginning of our evening. Please try to bring exact fees as to make collection easier for our treasurer.
Thanks,
Trish
1. We have voted to fill the following positions for the next two years
- Vice President: John Kain
- Secretary: Trish Stone
- Treasurer: Susie Kain
- Member at Large: Ernie Clyma
2. Our first meeting in 2020 will be an education night and Peter Florczak has agreed to spend the time showing us his editing process.
3. To ease confusion, we have decided to handle the Assignment & Creative categories in competition as such:
Jan-June will be assignment months. The six categories are listed on the web page and will remain the same.
July-Dec will be creative months.
Finally, thanks to those of you who have responded to our EVITE for the annual dinner. There is a sign up sheet included for any sides you would like to bring. If you haven't seen it, please check your SPAM or just send me an email and I will count you in. DON'T FORGET: There is a $10 fee for dinner that will be collected at the beginning of our evening. Please try to bring exact fees as to make collection easier for our treasurer.
Thanks,
Trish
GSACC Meeting NOTES - November 07, 2019
Meeting called to order at 5:38 pm by President, Robert Moreno
Attendees:
Robert Moreno, John Kain, Trish Stone, Steve Manchester, Cari Cline, Tim Kirkland, Jack Smith
Agenda:
Committee Chair Reports
Attendees:
Robert Moreno, John Kain, Trish Stone, Steve Manchester, Cari Cline, Tim Kirkland, Jack Smith
Agenda:
Committee Chair Reports
- Treasurer: $7304.38 current balance.
- Awards: Chair not present, but we need to retrieve winning images from the beginning of the year from James Moseley. Trish Stone attempted to contact by phone, as well as email. Will update as new info is available.
- New judging equipment: see report below
- Competition night awards: At out last meeting we voted to provide tickets for prizes for those attending meetings and/or competing. We have now appointed a committee that will be responsible for obtaining those prizes and making them available at each meeting. John Kain, Steve Manchester and Robert Moreno have agreed to do this. Trish Stone has made a call to Finer Works (10930 Wye St #103, SA, TX 800-567-8594) to solicit prizes. These will be implemented in the New Year.
- Print competition judging: A committee was established to investigate other options for judging competition night, especially digital competition, as we are very limited by time constraints. Thus far it appears there is only one system that really fits our needs and cost guidelines. John Kain is following up by email with the group in England who own it. There is also great interest in new, inexpensive equipment to replace our analog system. The club has also agreed that “previewing” prints on competition night is too time consuming and this will be ELIMINATED in future competitions. Furthermore, we will be asking which competitors are interested in feedback on their scored images and will only provide it to those who are so that we can save time.
- Rummage sale proceeds: Our rummage sale was quite successful! We collected $265 in cash. The club agreed to donate $35 additional from our savings and the funds will go to a local cancer center that focuses on children (John Kain to provide name to Robert/Cari so check can be drawn ASAP).
- Treasurer is moving. Need replacement ASAP!
- Need to nominate for VP, Secretary and Member at Large for vote in Dec, as their terms expire at end of year.
- Are we interested in joining Meetup?
- Are we interesting in participating in the Starving Artist show at La Villita in April:
- Instant images in competition
- Are we interested in participating in Lion’s Field “PhotoSeptiembre” event in 2020?
- Treasurer/VPres/Secretary/Member @ Large: The following were nominated for each position: Treasurer: Steve Manchester. VP: need a volunteer. Secretary: Trish Stone. Member at Large: John Kain. We will need a quorum at December 5, 2019 meeting to vote on these positions. Our current by-laws state that no member may fill more than one position at a time. If we don’t have a volunteer for VP, we may be required to amend the by-laws to reflect a joint position such as Secretary/Treasurer or VP/Treasurer to fill the slot. Everyone should please consider serving.
- Meetup: All present agree that Meetup is a good idea. Trish to establish an account ASAP. Also, it was agreed that we have to make more effort to let people know we exist and are active or the club will die. Trish has agreed to create fliers to place at Lion’s Field, Camera Exchange, SAC and area high school photography classes to increase interest in the club. There was also discussion that we may need to consider moving to an area that will make access to the club easier for more members.
- Starving Artist Show: There is interest in this. Jack Smith will investigate for further info on requirements.
- Instant Images: Members agreed that instant images (such as Polaroids) were welcome to be submitted in print competition, even with their limited size. However, there will not be a separate category for competition, as there are not enough of these images to create a true competition.
- PhotoSeptiembre 2020: The club is interested in participating. More details needed from Lion’s Field.
- Ongoing: Precision Camera, Austin (various classes)
- Nov 29: SA River Authority Christmas Parade
- MUST VOTE on new board members.
GSACC Meeting NOTES - October 18, 2019
Hello all!
Wanted to let you know about our upcoming meeting on Nov. 7, 2019. We will be having a general meeting at 5pm at JIM'S RESTAURANT (BROADWAY AND HILDEBRAND) to discuss any changes we want to make for the new year.
Following that, we will have our regular meeting at the Lion's Field from 7-9 pm. This meeting time is being dedicated to a SWAP MEET. We have opened this up to any photographers in the are interested in participating, so please share this information. If you have any camera gear or accessories that you are wanting to sell or pass on, please bring them.
There may be others who are interested in it.
Also, here are a few events coming to the area soon that you might find fun to participate in and capture some images of:
I have placed details for these events on the FB page.
Also, in the next few weeks I will be sending out details about our holiday party and a signup sheet for side dishes. Looking forward to seeing you all there!
Trish
Wanted to let you know about our upcoming meeting on Nov. 7, 2019. We will be having a general meeting at 5pm at JIM'S RESTAURANT (BROADWAY AND HILDEBRAND) to discuss any changes we want to make for the new year.
Following that, we will have our regular meeting at the Lion's Field from 7-9 pm. This meeting time is being dedicated to a SWAP MEET. We have opened this up to any photographers in the are interested in participating, so please share this information. If you have any camera gear or accessories that you are wanting to sell or pass on, please bring them.
There may be others who are interested in it.
Also, here are a few events coming to the area soon that you might find fun to participate in and capture some images of:
- Oct 19 San Antonio Zoo with Capture SA
- Oct 26-27 Gruene Clay Festival
- Oct 26 Comfort Harvest Moon Celebration (includes birds of prey on display)
- Nov 1-2 San Antonio Dia de Los Muertos Events @ Market Square
- Nov 2 Austin Pow Wow
I have placed details for these events on the FB page.
Also, in the next few weeks I will be sending out details about our holiday party and a signup sheet for side dishes. Looking forward to seeing you all there!
Trish
GSACC Meeting Agenda - September 2, 2019
GSACC Open Meeting Thursday, September 5, 2019
Meeting called to order at 7:07 pm by President, Robert Moreno
Attendees: Robert Moreno, Neil Williams, John Kain, Trish Stone, Steve Manchester, Cari Clune, Ben Luna, Ken Ramsey, Tammy Ramsey, Eric Bowden, Tim Kirkland, Kevin Esparza
Agenda:
Last Meeting Business Follow-up
Meeting adjourned at 8:10pm. Floor opened for discussion about equipment.
Meeting called to order at 7:07 pm by President, Robert Moreno
Attendees: Robert Moreno, Neil Williams, John Kain, Trish Stone, Steve Manchester, Cari Clune, Ben Luna, Ken Ramsey, Tammy Ramsey, Eric Bowden, Tim Kirkland, Kevin Esparza
Agenda:
Last Meeting Business Follow-up
- New Post Office Box: Our previous box has closed due to confusion over payment. Recent mail has been returned to sender. Robert Moreno has opened a new PO BOX: GSACC, 2400 McCullough Ave, PO Box 120036, San Antonio, TX 78212.
- Print competition judging: A committee was established to investigate other options for judging competition night, especially digital competition, as we are very limited by time constraints. Committee volunteers Ken Ramsey, Tammy Ramsey, John Kain, Eric Bowden, Steve Manchester, Trish Stone will investigate options for judging digital images PRIOR to meeting time so that we can use our limited time for feedback and announcing winners. Tim Kirkland suggested we also elimate the “preview” of images on Print night to save time and render better judging. This was met with very positive feedback
- • Suggestions for catering for holiday dinner.
- • Parties needing notification of new PO Box
- • Prizes for competition night
- • Swap meet night/print swap
- • Transfer pertinent docs to Robert as President
- • Lion’s Field Bargains on Broadway Rummage Sale
- • Reminder of events in the area
- Holiday dinner: Rudy’s BBQ chosen. Head count will be established by EOM November, and sign-up for side dishes, and desserts. Trish Stone will chair event.
- New address update: Robert Moreno to contact PSA to update our address so we can receive future correspondence. Also need to make note of it on our webpage.
- Prizes for competition night: Many members have expressed interest in prizes for competition night. Suggestion made to give tickets to each club member who attends the meeting. Additional tickets to be given to those who enter images for competition. This encourages others to attend, as well as compete, but reduces odds of the same folks winning prizes every month. Suggested prizes from Finer Prints and Digital Pro labs. Members will vote on this in future meeting.
- Gear swap meet/print swap: Club agreed to dedicate November education night (November 7, 2019) to a gear swap meet. Also agreed to include a member print swap as part of Holiday Party.
- Transfer of pertinent docs to Robert Moreno as President: Robert Moreno has club credit card and bank account has been changed to reflect Robert and Cari as signatories.
- Rummage on Broadway: The club has agreed to participate in the Rummage sale at Lion’s Field on Saturday, October 12, from 8-2 pm to sell any prints members have to raise funds for a charity of the clubs choice. Robert Moreno has agreed to sign up with the Center and to provide the cash box for the day. Any member prints welcome for donation to the sale. Please bring your prints any time before 10-12. Volunteers needed to help for hour long slots throughout the rummage sale. Please see Robert Moreno to sign up.
- • Oct 5: Urban Grind 2, location TBD. Follow their FB page!
- • Oct 13: TX Photo Festival, Texas A&M University-San Antonio Campus
- • Oct 12: TX Photo Festival, Smithville, TX
- • Ongoing: Precision Camera, Austin (various classes)
- • Nov 29: SA River Authority Christmas Parade
- • Raffle tickets/prizes on competition nights
- • Continue discussion on print competition judging-report from committee
- • Determine Meeting time for Next Year
- • Discuss Meet-up as replacement/supplement for webpage.
Meeting adjourned at 8:10pm. Floor opened for discussion about equipment.
GSACC Meeting Agenda - August 9, 2019
AGENDA
GSACC Open Meeting 9/5/19
A) Call to order, reiterate that everyone should have signed in.
B) Treasury Report
C) Old Business:
D) New Business:
E) Camera gear swap meet? Schedule a date and place! (on Education night?
F) Old Business:
G) Open discussion on cameras and gear. Bring your gear! Ask your fellow members your questions!!!
GSACC Open Meeting 9/5/19
A) Call to order, reiterate that everyone should have signed in.
B) Treasury Report
- a. Current balance of approx. $7000
- b. Need to open new PO Box (expenses involved, approx. $130 yearly) Set up autopay.
- c. No other upcoming expenses except holiday dinner and awards next spring.
- d. PSA not due for another year.
C) Old Business:
- a. Create committee to investigate options available to judge digital images prior to the normal competition time. Committee chair + members to report to club at future date to discuss and vote on options to implement.
- b. Remind people to update contact info.
- c. Reminders of upcoming events:
- Oct 13: TX Photo Festival, Texas A&M University-San Antonio Campus
- Oct 12: TX Photo Festival, Smithville, TX
- October 5: Urban Grind, Volume 2 Photo exhibition, 527 El Paso St, San Antonio
- Ongoing: Precision Camera, Austin (various classes)
- Nov 29: SA River Authority Christmas Parade
D) New Business:
- a. Open floor for suggestions on catering for holiday dinner.
- b. Photo scavenger hunt idea and suggested dates. Set a tentative date.
- c. Identify who needs to be notified of new PO BOX address. (PSA needs new address) Identify who will be responsible for notifying. Change details on webpage.
- d. Discussion on prizes for those ATTENDING meetings, such as small gift cards. 1 giveaway on “education/open” night. Also consider large prize at club expense to photographer at yearly award party. Photographer of the Year, Most improved photographer, Most helpful member, etc.
E) Camera gear swap meet? Schedule a date and place! (on Education night?
F) Old Business:
- a. Create committee to investigate options available to judge digital images prior to the normal competition time. Committee chair + members to report to club at future date to discuss and vote on options to implement.
G) Open discussion on cameras and gear. Bring your gear! Ask your fellow members your questions!!!
GSACC Open Meeting - August 1, 2019
Thursday, August 1, 2019, called to order at 7:04pm
Attendees:
Robert Moreno Rick Briscoe Mike Boyd
Neil Williams Peter Florczak John Kain
Trish Stone Brian Douchin Steven Manchester
Cari Clune Ben Luna Ken Ramsey
Tammy Ramsey Eric Bowden John Rudolph
Mr. Skiles
Agenda:
Last Meeting Follow-up
Missing chairpersons: Charles Freeman has stepped down as President. According to by-laws, Robert Moreno has moved from VP to President and recommended Steve Manchester as VP. Motion to accept by P. Florczak, seconded by J. Kain. S. Manchester unanimously approved as VP. Ken Ramsey presented as new Digital Competition Chair. J. Kain stated that website reflects these changes. Still looking for education chair, however the club as a whole expressed eagerness to expand the concept to use “education” night for these meetings, or just as open gatherings where we can share ideas and skills. Furthermore, there was great interest in scheduling field trips, photo walks and photo scavenger hunts to either substitute for education night or as an additional club activity. These could take place on other days of the week or hours as best fit the activity. We still need this chair filled.
Print competition judging: Further conversation about judging print competitions. The suggestion of a rubric was raised once again and there is some interest. A sample rubric was passed around. Further feedback and suggestions solicited. Anybody desiring a copy of suggested rubric can contact Trish Stone.
New Business
Wedding photographer presentation: Mr. Thomas was mistakenly scheduled to do a presentation for the club on 8/8/19. The Lion’s club has made the room available, but most members will not be able to attend. Trish Stone will contact Mr. Thomas and arrange for a presentation the first Thursday evening of September, October or November. Once scheduled, that information will be forwarded to the club by email and posted to the webpage.
Christmas party chair volunteer: Trish Stone has volunteered to chair the Christmas party scheduled for December 12, 2019. Further details to follow.
Identify current and paid members: Cari Cline, club treasurer, will identify current and paid members so that we can clear our email list of unnecessary addresses. This list will be forwarded to Trish Stone.
Member directory: Members expressed a desire to have a directory to make communications within the club easier and more complete. Once our final list of current members is complete, Trish Stone will send a directory all. She will also investigate directory applications that we might find useful.
Transfer of pertinent docs to Robert Moreno as President: Email will be sent to Charles Freeman requesting transfer of club credit card and PO Box key to Robert Moreno. R. Moreno and C. Freeman also to visit bank to create new signature card for Robert as President.
Events in the area: Members suggested a number of events in the area to be explored by the members.
Next Meeting Agenda Items
Attendees:
Robert Moreno Rick Briscoe Mike Boyd
Neil Williams Peter Florczak John Kain
Trish Stone Brian Douchin Steven Manchester
Cari Clune Ben Luna Ken Ramsey
Tammy Ramsey Eric Bowden John Rudolph
Mr. Skiles
Agenda:
Last Meeting Follow-up
Missing chairpersons: Charles Freeman has stepped down as President. According to by-laws, Robert Moreno has moved from VP to President and recommended Steve Manchester as VP. Motion to accept by P. Florczak, seconded by J. Kain. S. Manchester unanimously approved as VP. Ken Ramsey presented as new Digital Competition Chair. J. Kain stated that website reflects these changes. Still looking for education chair, however the club as a whole expressed eagerness to expand the concept to use “education” night for these meetings, or just as open gatherings where we can share ideas and skills. Furthermore, there was great interest in scheduling field trips, photo walks and photo scavenger hunts to either substitute for education night or as an additional club activity. These could take place on other days of the week or hours as best fit the activity. We still need this chair filled.
Print competition judging: Further conversation about judging print competitions. The suggestion of a rubric was raised once again and there is some interest. A sample rubric was passed around. Further feedback and suggestions solicited. Anybody desiring a copy of suggested rubric can contact Trish Stone.
New Business
- Philip Thomas presentation schedule
- Christmas Party chair volunteer
- Identify current and paid members
- Member directory
- Transfer pertinent docs to Robert as President
- Suggestions for events in the area
- Future of the FLASH
Wedding photographer presentation: Mr. Thomas was mistakenly scheduled to do a presentation for the club on 8/8/19. The Lion’s club has made the room available, but most members will not be able to attend. Trish Stone will contact Mr. Thomas and arrange for a presentation the first Thursday evening of September, October or November. Once scheduled, that information will be forwarded to the club by email and posted to the webpage.
Christmas party chair volunteer: Trish Stone has volunteered to chair the Christmas party scheduled for December 12, 2019. Further details to follow.
Identify current and paid members: Cari Cline, club treasurer, will identify current and paid members so that we can clear our email list of unnecessary addresses. This list will be forwarded to Trish Stone.
Member directory: Members expressed a desire to have a directory to make communications within the club easier and more complete. Once our final list of current members is complete, Trish Stone will send a directory all. She will also investigate directory applications that we might find useful.
Transfer of pertinent docs to Robert Moreno as President: Email will be sent to Charles Freeman requesting transfer of club credit card and PO Box key to Robert Moreno. R. Moreno and C. Freeman also to visit bank to create new signature card for Robert as President.
Events in the area: Members suggested a number of events in the area to be explored by the members.
- Oct 13: TX Photo Festival, Texas A&M University-San Antonio Campus
- Oct 12: TX Photo Festival, Smithville, TX
- August 11: Urban Grinds Photo exhibition, 527 El Paso St, San Antonio
- Ongoing: Precision Camera, Austin (various classes)
- Nov 29: SA River Authority Christmas Parade
Next Meeting Agenda Items
- Follow up on education/field trip chair
- Continue discussion on print competition judging
- Plan field trip
Brain Duchin getting an 2018 award plaque from our new president Robert Moreno.
Way to go Brian!