The YPU Clubs and the lockdown situation - From YPU President

Dear YPU Club Member

I hope you and your family are all keeping well amidst these difficult times.

The current lockdown has been an unexpected upheaval and disappointment to YPU clubs happening at one of the busiest and most enjoyable times of the year.
This coming weekend should have seen the Assembly and the opening of the YPU Exhibition in Pontefract, we still hope that will occur at a future date.

Until then we know that some clubs are managing to stay in contact with their members using the 'Zoom' platform or similar.
It is fairly straightforward to use and there is plenty of information about using this on their website: https://zoom.us/signin

The simplest format maybe an internal club critique night, or already we know some speakers have started to do zoom talks for clubs.  We are contacting all our YPU listed judges and lecturers to compile a list of all those willing to continue using the zoom platform.  We will be sending this out in further briefings.

Beating the lockdown- PAGB e-news 253 had some good ideas on how clubs around the country are creatively holding meetings.  If you don't already subscribe to PAGB e-news you can contact Hon. Editor  Rod Wheelans email: rod@creative-camera.co.uk  and organise a bulk sign up list for all your club members.

Another good reference for club programme secretaries is the Facebook group: UK Club Photography - Lots of suggestions coming through each day on how to stay in touch with club members. Plus numerous speakers coming forward willing to do online zoom talks. One advantage during the lockdown is that you don't have to pay excessive travel expenses!

The PAGB has a number of recorded lectures available at http://www.thepagb.org.uk/services/recorded-lectures/

The YPU Awards for Photographic Merit mentoring scheme is still ongoing for those thinking about applying for C,D & M distinctions.

Stay safe and best wishes to you all,

Colin Williams
YPU President.