Hayley Halpin

Northern Ireland’s oldest camera club, the Central Photographic Association, is working to preserve the tradition of printed photography amid declining membership and the rise of smartphone imagery. President Vittorio Silvestri highlights concerns that the decline in print images risks losing historical records, prompting the creation of a photobook featuring contributions from past and present members. The club continues to supply print photographs to the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland, ensuring long-term preservation. Members encourage younger photographers to join for mentorship and hands-on experience, while an exhibition linked to the anniversary photobook is currently on display at Belfast Central Library.

Northern Ireland’s oldest camera club, the Central Photographic Association, is working to preserve the tradition of printed photography amid declining membership and the rise of smartphone photography. President Vittorio Silvestri highlights the loss of historical record as print submissions fall and digital images dominate. To mark the club’s 120th anniversary, members past and present contributed images and written histories to a new photobook, with additional prints archived through the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland. Former chairman Robert Sergeant and others emphasize the lasting value of physical prints and encourage younger photographers to join the club for mentorship and hands‑on learning. An exhibition of members’ work is currently on display at Belfast Central Library.