I've been enjoying the club. I joined primarily for the outings, but I've found the meetings to be worthwhile. The club benefits include monthly meetings with speakers and mini-contests, outings, some web space, and some networking.
The outings are fantastic. We've had privileged photo spots at things like local airshows, the horse track, and sporting events. We get access to interesting subjects like an extensive private car collection, a glass blowing shop, and historic airplanes. We do some community service shoots - like a couple of days doing portraits at a senior center. We do educational outings with naturists (is that the right word? I'm trying to say "people that know about nature" rather than "people that hang around naked"). Some upcoming shoots include WWII planes, a WWII battle recreation, and an exotic animal shoot.
The meetings include a variety of topics. I find some very interesting and others less so. Next month's is on nighttime photography. Last month, we had a great speaker giving tips on nature photography. Other recent topics have included Fotofest, shooting in Africa, shooting in China, and Adobe Lightroom.
There are also contests. At each months meeting, we have a mini-contest. This month's contest is "reflections." Twice a year, we also have professionally critiqued major contests. We're also considering doing an entire night of critiquing.
I haven't gotten too into the networking angle. I've already got some other photography friends (who I've been dragging to the meetings lately). Most of the shooters in the club are wildlife/bird photographers and that's not really my game. Still, I've met some nice people and I've enjoyed shooting with them.
A club is only as good as its members.
