Glasgow University Photo Society

Photosoc: A History

The Glasgow University Photo Society is a society shrouded in mystery. Some say that we were founded in 1839, the year that photography as we know it began. Others have said that previous members invented colour film and have been Tsars of Russia. Can we verify any of this? No, but we like to believe.

Nowadays, the GUPS tries to cater to all manner of photography enthusiasts. We welcome amateur to advanced users who shoot film, digital, both or anything in-between as long as you have an interest in taking pictures (or even if you’re not sure but want to find out) you’ll probably fit right in.

The Society has a business/tutorial/art meeting on Mondays at 7 PM. This is sometimes held in the Food Factory at the Queen Margaret Union, sometimes in a lecture theatre. For up-to-date information on meetings please sign up for the mailing list. At meetings we’ll discuss upcoming events, give tutorials or screenings on anything related to photography, or hold sessions where you can submit a photograph to be critiqued by all the members (you can submit it anonymously if you want). If you want to be doing something that you don’t see us doing, let us know and we’ll work to accommodate you.

On Wednesdays we usually go out and shoot! The location and type of shoot are discussed during the Monday meetings. Shoots can range from portrait work with models to architectural photography to just going to the park for a stroll and then heading pubwards for a pint. Anything is an option on a Wednesday shoot!

Meetings & Events

Meetings take place during term time in the Food Factory on the 2nd floor of the QM Union on Monday evenings at 7pm. Tutorials, screenings and photoshoots will be held throughout the year; see the calendar for more information or turn up to a meeting to see what’s in the procrastination pipeline.

If you’re interested in planning something under the auspices of the photosoc or are aware of an event that might be of interest, come along to a meeting or contact us.

Questions

“Do I need a camera to be a member?”
No! We can give you advice on what camera to buy – or if you want, we can show you how to build a camera! We can help you find a cheap one online or around town. Even if you’re not up for either of those and just like talking cameras, you’re welcome with us.

“Can you tell me what camera to buy?”
We can offer our two cents on what we think are the best cameras out there today and what are the best values for your money, just come along to any meeting and dive into gear talk. If you’re considering purchasing a camera, feel free to talk with us about what we think are good deals and features you should look for.

“Can you fix my broken camera?”
Maybe. Bring it in and we’ll see; some of our members know a thing or two about camera repair, but a lot of problems are very intricate and we don’t have the tools or skills to fix them.

“Can I get cheap film from you guys?”

Yes. We generally bulk buy any film we can get at reduced prices… and pass the savings on to you! What we have is subject to availability, so be sure to come along to meetings or send us an e-mail to ask us what we’ve got.

“Do you have a darkroom I can use?”
At the moment, no. We’re on the lookout to work with the SRC and the University to secure a room for use as a darkroom and a Photoshop station. Check back to see where we currently stand!

“Isn’t digital better than film?” and “I can’t take good pictures unless I have a really good camera, right?” and all other gear related questions…
A camera is just a tool, remember that. You don’t ask a great writer what typewriter she or he uses, do you? Be proud of your photos, not your kit!