120 years in the frame

A selection of past and present images taken by members of Hull Photographic Society

The first members of Hull Photographic Society used cameras that captured photographic images on glass plates.
But 120 years on, despite moving with the times into the digital age, dwindling membership means it now faces an uncertain future.
The society owns its own building in Grey Street, which contains a photographic studio and is open to anyone who wants to develop their skills behind the lens.
The members' eye-catching results can be seen on this page.
"It would be a shame if the society folded because we are certainly one of the oldest camera clubs in Yorkshire and possibly one of the oldest in the country," says club secretary Bill Ayton.
"Membership has fallen to about 35 people, but we had well over 100 in our heyday so we need people to join us.
"Unless things improve we may have to sell the building.
This has been hovering over us for a few years, but somehow we manage to survive either by donations or members putting more of their own money into the society."
The society arranges creative photographic sessions with live models at outdoor locations such as Victoria Pier, portrait photography workshops, and advice on experimenting with different techniques to get the best results from photographing still objects.
Members usually meet on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings at 7.30pm, and the building and studio can be hired by members for personal use.

History file

The first annual meeting of Hull Photographic Society took place at the Royal Station Hotel in 1884, and the first president, Dr A K Rollit, was also the Mayor of Hull.
In May 1902, the then president, Major R Ethelbert Johnson, signed a bond to buy the plot of land in Grey Street which has been the home to the society ever since.

For more information call Bill Ayton on 634118.