I just saw on the news some cherry trees are in bloom at Ault Park. I am going to move up our event to this coming Sunday morning, March 22nd at 9:30 AM
REGISTER: ovccrs@gmail.com with interests.
Credit: Ault Park Advisory Council
Meetup Location: At the east end of Observatory Ave, you will enter Ault Park. We will park on Observatory Ave on the hill by the Weeping Cherry tree grove. I drive a silver Nissan sedan. We will take our first images here. Then we will continue up the hill by car and turn left onto Observatory Circle. Then proceed approximately 400 feet to the parking lot on the left for park layout info. There will be much more to capture, including the three-part Gardens, and the Pavillion overlook from the top.
Equipment: Bring your tripod. Lenses: mostly will use your zooms or fixed focal length lenses: 24mm, 55mm, 75mm, tele: 24 – 70mm, 100 – 300mm.
Shooting: Besides the usual head on shots of trees in blossom, think outside the box – what about laying on the lawn and shooting up through the tree branches? Shoot a blossom close-up or with a telephoto lens. Fill the camera frame with close-up of several blossoms. Tilt your camera.
SHOOT AND DEBRIEF Learnings – Tuesday, February 24th, 7:00 – 7:45 PM ONLINE.
HOST: Rich Sears and Eddie Bihl ll
INFORMAL HELPFUL FRIENDLY DISCUSSIONS OF OUR IMAGES,
HERE YOU WILL LEARN THE “WHYS AND HOWS” OF OUR PHOTOGRAPHS
Theme: WINTER. Any image depicting either the beauty of winter – people or our animal friends enjoying or in misery over winter and shapes.
The meeting will be an open group discussion about the photos captured with the goal of encouraging and helping improve our work.
Register your attendance at ovccrs@gmail.com and submit your images per directions below.
RESIZE YOUR PHOTOS to fill the screen during the Zoom session else your image may appear small. If using Lightroom use Export / Imaging Sizing / Resize to Fit and enter preferably 1820 pixels for landscape images or 1080 pixels for portrait images. Enter a resolution of 72 pixels per inch. In Photoshop open your image, click on “Image”, then “Image Size.” Set the Resolution to 72 dpi. Then reset the longest dimension to the requested number of pixels as requested. NOTE: If your image is smaller than requested, you could use Lightroom or Photoshop to increase your size.
Upload up to three imagesfor discussion by SATURDAY FEBRUARY 21ST at: https://ovcc.smugmug.com/upload/w9BhT7/Debrief
Rename your image files: #1 for priority, #2 for second priority and #3, for third priority First and Last names, and Image Title, as in this example #1 John Smith Downtown Cincinnati.jpg
As you can, be prepared to discuss camera setting information.
NOTE: most of the above will already be in the meta-data if you check Lightroom to In Photoshop go to File Info / Camera Data
Lens used (e.g., 70-200mm) AND focal length of shot (e.g., 90mm)
ISO, aperture, shutter speed, exposure compensation, filters, if used
Date: Wednesday, February 18, 2026 Time: 6:30 – 8:30 PM
Location: Streaming Only
PRESENTATION: “LEARN TO SEE” Presented by Sharon Milinkovich
When we come upon a scene that stops us dead in our tracks, the next question is discerning what it.
was that stopped us. The one thing that often fails us is the inability to see, to really see, what it was.
that stopped us in the first place. So how do we learn to see? How do learn to move from taking a
snapshot to take an expressive photograph? Join us as we explore the process of learning to see.
BIO: SUSAN MILINKOVICH
Susan Milinkovich began photographing with her father when she received her first Brownie camera in elementary school. Her dad gave her the gift of “seeing” a photograph and both parents gave her a love of nature and an appreciation for the beauty to be found in our everyday world. Susan has attended workshops with nature photographers John Shaw, Charlie Waite, Charlie Cramer, John Barclay, Tillman Crane, Kathleen Clemmons, Bill Lea, and Will Clay. While Susan enjoys capturing the larger landscapes, it is the intimate details of a landscape, structure or flower that draws her attention and tells a story. Susan has participated in exhibits at galleries around the Cincinnati area and has been a part of Cincinnati’s PhotoFocus. Susan leads photo walks, teaches classes and workshops, is president of one of the camera clubs she attends, and is an ongoing instructor at the photo workshops at the Great Smoky Mountain Institute at Tremont. You can see Susan’s photography at www.susanmilinkovich.com
CRITIQUE THEME: Geometric Shapes
The geometric shape/pattern can be made of anything. Lines, circles, squares, triangles, etc. Abstract works are not allowed, the geometric shape must be something present in the real world, something that we’ve seen and shot. It must be a characterizing element of the picture but doesn’t need to be the only subject of it. The trick is in learning to find objects with appealing shapes and to capture them in an equally appealing way. Organic shapes occur frequently in nature (hence the name). They include curves, such as those you might see in the petal of a flower, and irregular shapes such as those you might see on a rock face. Geometric shapes, on the other hand, are straight and symmetrical. As you might have guessed, geometric shapes are found more often in the man-made world than in nature–they include things like buildings, roads, and bridges. Samples: Examples: https://www.google.com/search?newwindow=1&espv=2&biw=1920&bih=1067&q=Geometric+shapes+Photography&oq=Geometric+shapes+Photography&gs_l=img.3..0j0i8i30.3037.8655.0.9887.21.19.2.0.0.0.149.1085.18j1.19.0.ekpsrh…0…1.1.64.img..3.18.983.qL3PQEYAP-Q&udm=2
Exposure: Montgomery, the area’s longest-running amateur photo competition and awards presentation – now in its 38th year – takes place on Sunday, April 26, 1:00 p.m – 4:00 p.m (awards presentation at 2:30 p.m.) in Montgomery. Note: Time above is incorrect. The event is presented by the Montgomery Arts Commission and is open to beginners and serious amateurs alike.
Get your photos ready!
Photographers may submit up to three photos from March 9 – April 17, 2026
Entry Form is attached (2 pages)
2026 Judges are:
Allie Blankenship, Cincinnati Art Museum
Arabeth Balasko, Cincinnati Museum Center
H. Michael Sanders, Professor Emeritus, University of Cincinnati, Blue Ash
The judges look for photos that capture technical brilliance, originality, or a unique point of view and are chosen from both adult and student (high school or below) categories.
Up to 10 winners in the student category and up to 10 winners in the adult category are awarded $100 each.
In addition to the exhibit and awards presentation on Sunday, April 26, the public is invited to a preview reception on Saturday, April 25 from 12 to 4 p.m.
The Montgomery Arts Commission is a group of citizen volunteers who support and foster an appreciation of the visual and performing arts by producing community-wide arts events offered year-round for all ages, most of which are free.
Please join us! We would love to see your works of art!
Please pass this along to others who may be interested – students, teachers, friends, colleagues, club members etc.
Have a great day!
The Montgomery Arts Commission, Julie Machon, Staff Liaison
Enjoy some holiday themed photography at Clifton Mill. The Mill have been putting on a massive Christmas display for the past 38 years and claim to use over five million lights. The Mill itself, river gorge, bank, bridges and trees are all lit up. There is even a 100 foot “waterfall “of twinkling lights and new for this year is a 20 foot tree with 7,000 lights. The event has made national and regional media. It’s quite a spectacular display. There is a $15 per person entry fee (cash preferred apparently)
We have chosen a weekday to try to avoid the worst of the crowds and plan to be there ahead of “lights on” at 6pm to try to ensure we can find spots for some impressive images.
Meeting details:
Where: Clifton MIll, 75 Water St., Clifton, OH 45316
Date: Tuesday 23rd December (backup date Dec 22nd)Time: Meet at 4.30pm at the pay station/entrance (gates opening at 5pm)
Cost:$15 per person to enter – cash quicker and free of credit card fees
Parking can be difficult, so allow some time to find a spot and walk to the entrance for 4.30pm. In the event of very bad weather, I will check with Clifton Mill and cancel if there is likely to be an issue. We can then utilize the 22nd as an alternative. Please confirm attendance to me via email (muirrob1@gmail.com)
Enchantment truly unfurls with the 2025 Holiday Show, A Festival of Ferns! From towering tree ferns to delicate maidenhairs, this exciting assortment of ferns perfectly complements the crimson, scarlet, and ruby hues of the poinsettias. Watch as trains weave in and around the botanical architecture created by Applied Imagination and look for scenes of Cincinnati constructed with only natural materials. This holiday show seamlessly blends nature with tradition – so grab your friends and celebrate with us among the fronds!
This is a great display! Let’s get together for some fun and get a few great shots! We’ll meet in front of the Conservatory at 6. There is also a Live Nativity scene! Tripods, monopods and flash are prohibited.
Tickets will only be available for purchase at the door. Check our event calendar for special event tickets. Adults are $10, Children ages 5-17 are $7, and under 5 are free.
Welcome to our Archives Photos – 20 Years page, showcasing a curated video slideshow of exceptional artistic photography work from our esteemed members. This collection highlights the evolution of our craft over two decades, celebrating the artistry and dedication that have defined our community. Each photograph serves as a testament to the growth and skill development of our photographers, and we are proud to share the stories behind these images.
We have gathered exceptional examples of artistic photography that represent the creativity of our members.
Through artistic photography, our members express their unique visions.
Our journey through artistic photography has been marked by creativity and exploration.
Our exploration of artistic photography offers new perspectives and inspiration.
Each year, our club showcases the best in artistic photography.
The friendships formed through artistic photography enrich our club.
Reflecting on our artistic photography journey reveals our shared achievements.
Through artistic photography, we connect with our communities and share our stories.
Exploring different genres of artistic photography enhances our skills.
The narratives conveyed through artistic photography resonate with audiences.
Advancements in technology continue to shape artistic photography today.
Workshops on artistic photography help foster our community’s growth.
Exploring the World of Artistic Photography
Join us as we continue to explore the world of artistic photography and push the boundaries of our creativity.
As we celebrate this milestone, we are excited for what lies ahead. The future of photography is bright, with endless possibilities for creativity and exploration. We invite you to join us on this journey, to share in our passion, learn from one another, and celebrate the art of photography together. Thank you for being a part of our story as we continue to inspire each other for years to come.
As we commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Ohio Valley Camera Club (OVCC), it is essential to reflect on our journey and the evolution of photography itself. Over the years, the club has served as a sanctuary for photographers of all skill levels, fostering a supportive environment where creativity thrives. This page is dedicated not only to showcasing our members’ work but also to celebrating the friendships, mentorships, and collaborations that have flourished through our shared passion for photography.
Reflecting on the past 20 years, we are reminded of the countless memories created within our community. From local exhibitions showcasing our members’ work to annual competitions that spark friendly rivalry, each event has contributed to the tapestry of OVCC’s history. These experiences have not only enriched our skills but have also strengthened the bonds between us. The friendships formed here are invaluable, providing us with inspiration and support throughout our photographic journeys.
We also encourage our members to engage with their local communities through photography. By participating in community events, charities, and collaborative projects, we not only showcase our talents but also contribute positively to society. Photography has the power to raise awareness, document important issues, and inspire change. As a club, we strive to harness this potential, using our art to make a difference.
The beauty of photography lies in its ability to capture a fleeting moment and freeze it in time. Our members have learned to embrace various genres, including wildlife, street, and architectural photography. Each genre presents unique challenges and rewards, pushing photographers to experiment and expand their skill sets. For instance, a wildlife photographer might spend hours in the field, waiting patiently for the perfect shot, while a street photographer captures the candidness of urban life amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.
As you dive deeper into our visual narrative, consider the storytelling aspect of each image. Photography is not just about the technicalities of exposure or composition; it is about conveying emotions and narratives. A powerful portrait can evoke feelings of joy, melancholy, or nostalgia, while a landscape might inspire wanderlust or tranquility. The stories behind our photographs are as diverse as the individuals who capture them, reflecting personal experiences, cultural backgrounds, and unique perspectives.
As we look to the future, the landscape of photography is constantly evolving. With advancements in technology, such as smartphone cameras and editing software, anyone can become a photographer. However, the essence of photography remains unchanged—the pursuit of capturing life’s moments. OVCC thrives on this spirit of exploration and innovation, encouraging our members to embrace new tools and techniques while honoring the traditional foundations of our craft.
In addition to showcasing our members’ work, we also aim to provide educational resources for photographers looking to enhance their skills. Through workshops, guest speakers, and hands-on sessions, OVCC encourages a culture of continuous learning. Topics range from mastering camera settings and post-processing techniques to exploring the art of composition and storytelling in photography. Our goal is to empower each member to develop their unique artistic voice and approach.
Throughout the years, our members have captured stunning landscapes, intricate portraits, and spontaneous moments that beautifully illustrate the diversity of our experiences. As you explore these remarkable images, you will witness the changing styles and techniques employed by our artists. From the early days of film photography to the current era of digital innovations, the journey has been nothing short of inspiring.
We invite you to take a moment to immerse yourself in this visual narrative, reflecting on how photography has evolved and how our club has adapted to new challenges and opportunities. The images represent not only technical skill but also the heart and soul of our community, where each click of the shutter tells a unique story. With every photograph, we celebrate the passion and commitment that drives us to excel in photography.
Our Archives Photos section is not just a gallery; it is a rich tapestry of memories, showcasing the bonds formed through shared experiences and a mutual love for the art of photography. Join us in reflecting on these moments and envisioning the future of our craft as we continue to inspire one another in our photographic journeys.
REGISTER YOUR ATTENDANCE IN PERSON AT ovccrs@gmail.com before 3:00 PM, October 15th for our session on post-processing tips.
LOCATION: EVENDALE BELL TOWER ARTS PAVILION -LOWER LEVEL. Located at 3270 Glendale Milford Rd (TURN ONTO KINGSPORT DRIVE) near Reading Rd (US 42) to discuss post-processing techniques.
THOSE ELIGIBLE TO VIEW BY STREAMING: ONLY MEMBERS LIVING MORE THAN 40 MINUTES AWAY FROM EVENDALE WILL BE ELIGIBLE TO VIEW ONLINE. IF THIS CAUSES SERIOUS DIFFICULTY, WRITE, I AM HUMAN. During this session, we will explore the importance of post-processing.
NO CRITIQUE SESSION, DUE TO LENGTH OF MAIN PRESENTATION.
Zoom Presentation
Understanding the Role of Post-Processing in Photography
DESCRIPTION:
Editing is more than just moving sliders or applying presets. Truly effective post-processing starts with understanding why each adjustment is being made and how those decisions shape the final image. In this unique and highly interactive session, Lisa Langell takes a deep dive into the psychology, strategy, and intention behind strong edits—while working live on photographs submitted by members of your own camera club.
Using real images from participants, she will demonstrate how small but thoughtful adjustments can dramatically improve composition, storytelling, and visual impact. She’ll explain how visual psychology affects the way viewers experience an image and why certain edits guide the eye more effectively than others. More than just showing “how” to adjust contrast, color, sharpness, or cropping, She explains “why” those choices matter—and how they change the emotional tone and message of an image.
Throughout the session, she’ll work in real time using a range of tools and techniques to enhance your club members’ photos. This hands-on approach provides valuable insight into creative decision-making and shows a variety of editing styles that can be applied across genres, from nature and wildlife to portraits and abstracts.
Whether you’re just starting to explore editing or you’ve been processing your work for years, this session will give you fresh ways to think about your post-processing choices. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of how to make your images not only look better—but feel more intentional, impactful, and complete.
BIO:
A nature photographer and birder from the age of eight, she loves creating nature photography and art that is inspired by her background in psychology and design. When she isn’t having fun making photographs, she’s thriving on teaching photography—both via engaging online/webinar-based classes and in her in-the-field sessions. She specializes in Alaska, Florida, Arizona and beyond. Her humility and passion for teaching and photography shines through! She provides photographers with memorable, fun, and caring experiences that enrich, invigorate and expand photographers’ skills and portfolios in wonderful ways.
Join us for the Symposium on Artistic and Fine Art Photography, an event designed to motivate and inspire advanced amateur and professional photographers. Attendance is free, but participants must create an account to register.
Please visit the Evendale Cultural Arts Center’s website to set up your account:
For your convenience, a map is available to assist with navigating the short walk from the main parking area to the rear of the Cultural Arts Center
Exploring the Symposium on Artistic and Fine Art Photography
On November 22nd, 2025 : from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM. Engage with fellow photographers and share your unique perspectives during interactive workshops and discussions. Prepare to be inspired by keynote speakers who have made significant contributions to the world of photography.
Don’t miss this chance to expand your creative horizons and network with like-minded individuals. Mark your calendars and bring your passion for photography to this enriching experience!
