Our History
Capturing Moments Since 1936
The Saskatoon Photography Club—originally founded as the Saskatoon Camera Club—has been a vibrant part of our city’s creative community for nearly 90 years. Since 1936, the club has brought together photographers of all skill levels to learn, share, and grow through the art of photography. From film to digital, and now into drone and smartphone photography, the club has evolved with the times while staying true to its roots: building community through a shared passion for capturing images.
Founding & Early Years (1936–1940s)
The club held its first meeting in 1936 at the Saskatoon Board of Trade with 31 members. Membership quickly grew, and by 1938 the club had already begun showcasing its work to the public with exhibitions at the Bessborough Hotel and Nutana Collegiate.
One of the club’s earliest champions was Dr. Leslie G. Saunders, a University of Saskatchewan biologist and avid photographer, whose leadership helped shape the club’s direction and connection to the broader arts community.
In 1944, the club joined the Saskatoon Art Association and Archaeology Association to co-found the Saskatoon Art Centre. This partnership provided access to exhibition space and a dedicated darkroom, establishing photography as a key part of the city’s cultural landscape.
Growth & Community Integration (1950s–1970s)
During the mid-century, the club expanded its educational programs with workshops, print exchanges, and competitions. As photography evolved, the club adapted—adding color slide clinics and field trips to support members’ development.
In 1964, the club moved into the newly opened Mendel Art Gallery, where it was granted space for two darkrooms. The gallery became home to the club for nearly five decades, and members participated in regular exhibitions and community events. Leadership from photographers like James “Jim” Hogg, known for his black-and-white prints and nature slides, helped establish the club’s strong reputation both locally and nationally.
The club also became an active member of the Prairie Region of Photographic Arts (PRPA) and the Canadian Association for Photographic Art (CAPA), expanding its reach across Canada.
Transition to Digital (1980s–2000s)
In 1986, the Mendel reclaimed the darkroom space, marking the end of the club’s film-based era. But the club continued to thrive, adapting to the rise of digital photography. By the early 2000s, digital images had overtaken film in club competitions.
In 2001, the club launched its first website and began embracing new tools for sharing and showcasing members’ work. Digital editing, printing, and online galleries became essential parts of club life. Despite the technological shift, the club’s core values—education, mentorship, and community—remained the same.
A New Home and Identity (2010s–2020s)
In 2011, the club relocated from the Mendel Art Gallery to Mayfair United Church, where it continues to hold bi-weekly meetings from September to May. The new space offered room to grow and modernize programming.
Recognizing that “camera club” no longer reflected the wide range of photographic styles and tools embraced by members, the organization rebranded in 2024 as the Saskatoon Photography Club. The new name represents an inclusive and forward-looking identity that celebrates all forms of photography—from traditional cameras to smartphones, drones, and digital art.
A Legacy of Leadership
The club’s strength lies in its people. Over the decades, passionate leaders have helped guide the club through change and innovation. Founders like Dr. Leslie Saunders, long-time contributors like Jim Hogg, Len Suchan, and Bruce Guenter, and today’s executive team, led by current president Maurice Vold, have all played vital roles in shaping the club’s vision and values.
Club Milestones
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1936 – Club founded as the Saskatoon Camera Club
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1937–38 – First public exhibitions at the Bessborough Hotel and Nutana Collegiate
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1944 – Co-founds the Saskatoon Art Centre and gains dedicated darkroom access
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1964 – Moves into the Mendel Art Gallery; begins regular exhibitions and programming
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1986 – Darkroom space reclaimed; transition to digital photography begins
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2001 – Website launched; digital images dominate competitions
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2011 – Club relocates meetings to Mayfair United Church
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2024 – Officially renamed Saskatoon Photography Club; new logo and website launched
Looking Forward
The Saskatoon Photography Club continues to thrive as one of Canada’s most respected and enduring photography organizations. Our members range from beginners to professionals, teens to retirees—all united by a love for the craft. We continue to evolve, teach, learn, and create together, celebrating the power of photography to tell stories, spark conversations, and capture the world around us.
Join us—and be part of the next chapter in our story.