What do you mean by “nature photography”?

Our members have a wide variety of interests. Many members shoot landscapes. Others choose animals, from dragon flies to mammals to birds. Some specialize in flowers and other plants. You shoot what you like! Shoot where you like! Nature is nature, no matter your location.

Do I need to be really good photographer to join?

Not at all. The almost 150 members of MONEP have a wide range of skills and interests. Our members’ skills range from beginning photographers to professional photographers. You will find cameras ranging from phones to professional level DLSR’s.  Your skill level isn’t what’s important; it’s your interest in nature photography and the environment.

What does it cost to join?

First of all, you are welcome to attend our meetings just to see what goes on. If you wish to become a member, our current yearly dues are $30 for one person, or $40 for two people in the same household.

How often does the group meet?

MONEP members gather once a month on the third Tuesday of the month. We normally meet at the Powder Valley Conservation Area Nature Center 6:30PM-8:30PM. Due to the pandemic, we are meeting virtually.

What happens at a meeting?

We have a speaker at each meeting. We try to present a variety of topics. One month may deal with a photography related topic and the next may focus more on an environmental topic.

I have some interesting pictures I’d like to share. Is there a way to do this?

Definitely!  At most meetings we encourage members to share up to five images with the club.  We call this “Show and Share”. We are doing this in a digital format. Information for submitting images is found on our web page and in our monthly newsletter, Close Up. If they wish, members may share a little about each image as it is shown.

How can MONEP help me improve my photography skills?

One way is through the speakers at our meetings. We also schedule a monthly field trip from spring through fall. You’ll find that most of our members are only too happy to answer your questions. Don’t ever be afraid to ask! We try to go to a various locations to give participants a variety of subjects to photograph. Some of our field trips focus on improving a particular skill, i.e. composition, macro photography, lighting.