In the digital age, where smartphone cameras have become ubiquitous, the Central Photographic Association (CPA) camera club in Belfast is a beacon for those determined to preserve the art of print photography. With a rich history dating back to 1906, the CPA is Northern Ireland's oldest camera club, and its president, Vittorio Silvestri, is on a mission to keep print photography alive. Despite the decline in membership from over 70 to around 30 in four decades, Silvestri remains steadfast in his belief that print photography is not just about the past but also about the future.
One of the key challenges, according to Silvestri, is the perception that smartphone photography is just as good as print. However, he argues that the quality and technology of phone cameras simply cannot match the precision and depth of print images. This is a critical point, as the decline in print photography threatens to erase a significant part of our history. Silvestri emphasizes that print images are not just about aesthetics; they are a tangible record of the past, a physical connection to our history that smartphones cannot replicate. The club's efforts to preserve print history through the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland (PRONI) further underscore the importance of this medium.
The CPA's 120th anniversary celebration is a testament to the club's resilience and commitment to its mission. Silvestri's initiative to compile a photobook featuring contributions from past and present members is a powerful symbol of the club's dedication to preserving print photography. By including written histories alongside the photographs, the book not only showcases the club's work but also provides a comprehensive record of the members' journeys. This project is a personal passion for Silvestri, who sees it as a way to ensure that the images are not just preserved but also shared and appreciated by future generations.
The photobook launch at Belfast Central Library, accompanied by an exhibition, is a public acknowledgment of the club's efforts. It serves as a reminder that print photography is not a dying art but a living, breathing form of expression that continues to captivate and inspire. Robert Sergeant, a member of the CPA, echoes Silvestri's sentiment, highlighting the value of physical prints in a world dominated by digital screens. He believes that camera clubs provide a unique learning environment, offering mentorship and guidance that is essential for photographers of all ages.
In conclusion, the CPA camera club in Belfast is a shining example of how a community can come together to preserve a dying art form. Through their dedication to print photography, they are not just saving images but also saving history. As Silvestri and Sergeant emphasize, the club offers a supportive environment for photographers, providing the tools and knowledge to enhance their skills. In an era where digital technology is ever-evolving, the CPA's commitment to print photography is a reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage in tangible, physical forms.
