FocusPoint Photo & Video Expo 2026!

by Tom Goldberg
FocusPoint Photo & Video Expo 2026!

2000 Buchtel Blvd SDenver, CO
Friday, September 11-Saturday, September 12 • 9 AM-6 PM
Overview

FocusPoint Photo & Video Expo is the regional forum for all hobbyists and professionals interested in photo, video, or content creation!

You will not want to miss the 2026 FocusPoint Photo & Video Expo! Come visit us for:

• Exceptional learning opportunities to perfect your skills in photo, video, and content creation, with renowned presenters and talented creators;

• The leading brands in the photo/video industry, with manufacturers bringing their sales and tech reps onsite to educate you on the latest technology and help you choose the best gear for your individual needs;

• FocusPoint Photo & Video Expo only deals and exciting giveaways, as well as opportunities for trade-in/trade-up, used gear purchases, clean-and-check stations, and many other offers making this a can’t-miss experience for all photo and video enthusiasts;

• Networking with other professionals and enthusiasts.

FocusPoint Photo & Video Expo is the regional forum in the Greater Colorado Front Range for all hobbyists and professionals interested in photo, video, or content creation!

See full Details at www.focuspointexpo.com!

URGENT CALL TO ACTION: Protect Your Photography Rights in Colorado

by Ellen Nelson
URGENT CALL TO ACTION:  Protect Your Photography Rights in Colorado

A Colorado Department of Wildlife employee has proposed a yearly fee for anyone selling photos or art depicting Colorado wildlife (see attached documents). If passed, other states may follow suit, severely impacting workshops and photographers who sell their work.

This is in the proposal stage and is slated to be reviewed by the commission in September so it’s up to you to get your opposition comments logged by August 21st, 2026 to be included in the record. The meeting will be in LaJunta, but submitting comments is good enough. We need to make sure that this proposal is not going to work or be received well by the public.
Again take 5 minutes to complete the comment form stating your objections to this proposal. Since this is still at the proposal stage, it is not a done deal.
I suggest sending objections to the contacts below to provide a substantial amount of opposition so the proposal gets thrown out:

Take 5 minutes to MAKE SURE this does not get past the proposal stage.

YOUR ACTION STEPS COMPLETE THIS BEFORE. NOON AUGUST 21ST, 2026

1. – Public Comments: CLICK ON THE SUBMIT COMMENTS BUTTON https://engagecpw.org/pwc-public-comment/surveys/pwc-public-comment-form

2. – Link to Opposition Letter – you can open copy and paste into the comments area on the form, feel free to add your comments

3. SUBMIT YOUR FORM

4. FORWARD THIS TO OTHERS WHO WOULD BE INTERESTED IN PROTECTING THEIR PHOTOGRAPHER RIGHTS IN THE STATE OF COLORADO

The Serengeti: A Nature Photographers Paradise by Russ Burden

by Ellen Nelson
The Serengeti: A Nature Photographers Paradise by Russ Burden

Hosted by Bob C.
Photo of Metro Denver Photography Group group
Metro Denver Photography Group

I just spent 21 days on a photo safari in Tanzania and can actually say it was one of the best experiences I have ever had doing photography (so much for landscapes). We are now lucky enough to have the opportunity of having Russ showcase one of his latest presentations. Hope you join us. Presentation will be recorded and shared to those you who register and attend.

Learn more and register at https://www.meetup.com/metro-denver-photography-group/events/315763190/

Women’s Immersive Photography Retreat

by Ellen Nelson
Women’s Immersive Photography Retreat

September 1-4, 2026 ~ Bailey, Colorado
Early Bird Discount for $100 off Expires June 15th
Grow your craft through the lens and beyond

This one-of-a-kind Women’s Photography Retreat is thoughtfully designed to welcome photographers of all levels, from curious beginners to seasoned professionals. Nestled in Colorado’s serene forest at the base of the Rocky Mountains, we will take you into an immersive space focused on developing your skills, building connections, and inspiring creativity, while forging lasting friendships and sharing a few laughs along the way.

For more info, go to https://www.outdoorphotoalliance.com/womens-photography-retreat-2026

Comedy Wildlife Photo Competion open til June 30th

by Tom Goldberg
Comedy Wildlife Photo Competion open til June 30th

This is a funny wildlife photo and video competition, free to enter and open to everyone around the world (not just Nikon camera users) whether you are a professional or amateur photographer. There is a fabulous prize of a Kenyan safari for the over-all winner plus Nikon camera kits and ThinkTANK back-packs for selected category winners, including Junior and Young Photographers, we want everyone to get involved!

The aim of the competition is to raise awareness of wildlife conservation through a joyful and positive message and to raise a smile too.  We support an amazing charity called Born Free Foundation  protecting wild animals from exploitation and we donate 10% of our profits to them.    

We would be really grateful if you could share this with the rest of your camera club if you think it might be up their street, I’ve added links and details of the Awards below just in case and a PDF you can share easily.

Click to enter: www.comedywildlifephoto.com
Free to enter
Open to all
Nine categories including Young and Junior Photographer
Top prize is a one-week Kenyan Safari
Closing Date: 30 June 2026

The Masters: Iconic Images from the past

by Ellen Nelson
The Masters: Iconic Images from the past

The Image Critique Show with Rick Avalos & Jeff Johnson on February 26th.

For our first show of the year, we’re bringing you iconic images from world-renowned photographers and diving into why they work. Not just what makes them famous, but what makes them lasting.

We’ll explore:

~ Composition choices that quietly do the heavy lifting

~ Visual decisions that guide the eye ( and the heart)

~ Why some images linger long after you’ve looked away

~ What you can borrow and apply to your own work

All served up with thoughtful insights, honest observations, and the comfortable, conversational commentary you’ve come to expect from The Guys at The Image Critique Show. Whether you’re a working photographer, a passionate image-maker, or simply someone who loves great visual storytelling, this show is for you.

Go to https://www.theimagecritiqueshow.com/the-masters-iconic-images?cid=ca466693-dac5-49cb-9d5c-08408faa6db8 for more info.

Monthly Contest Themes for 2026 Announced

by ecc
Monthly Contest Themes for 2026 Announced

For the remainder of this year, the following topics will be what we are shooting for in our monthly contests. This list may change as we progress through the year, so be sure to check the meeting announcement before submitting.

March: Travel

April: Street Photography

May: Macro

June: Black and White

July: No 4th Wednesday meeting

August: No 4th Wednesday meeting

September: TBD – check back later

October: Landscapes

November: Reflections

December: Year-end contest

ECC DUES INCREASE – membership will be $40/yr starting January 1 2026

by Tom Goldberg
ECC DUES INCREASE – membership will be /yr starting January 1 2026

Dues are going up at the beginning of next year because we need to make this increase to cover our costs. Renew your membership now to get in on our current rate of $30 before the end of the year to extend your membership for one year beyond your date of expiration (no matter when that is).

We get quality speakers every month who expect an honorarium for their time and effort, and these speakers provide unique insights all year long. We still always encourage guests and students at no charge, but if you find value in our monthly meetings, you really should pony up and contribute to the cause. Thirty dollars was a hell of deal and fourty is still an excellent value for the speakers you get to hear at our monthly meetings. Additionally membership lets you join us on field trips as well as fun and educational club events throughout the year. Membership also lets you participate in our montly contests where you can hear experienced judges critique your photos to help you improve your photographic chops.

Renew your membership now to enjoy our current low rate until the end of 2025.

Latest Events with Cheryl Opperman

by Ellen Nelson
Latest Events with Cheryl Opperman

Hi Everyone,

I’ve been dreaming of organizing an Arctic photography expedition for years to photograph polar bears and other arctic wildlife and scenery. I’ve finally found the perfect operator who, amazingly, has space available for a private charter this coming May. It’s a rare opportunity, and I’m thrilled to finally be able to offer this trip. There is plenty to do and a flexible schedule, so non-photographer partners are welcome too.
I know it’s relatively short notice, but if there’s any chance you’d like to join me, I’d truly love to share this experience with you.
Because of the tight planning window, I’d appreciate it if you could let me know as soon as possible whether or not you’re interested. Even a quick yes, no, or “maybe in the future” would be really helpful. If you can’t make it next year but would like to be considered for a future trip, just let me know what year would work best for you.

We already have 6 people confirmed, so we have 6 spots still available.
You’ll find a description of the trip below.

I also have some other trips I’m releasing to my lists and photo clubs first, so if you have any interest in those, please let me know so you have the chance to sign up before they go public. They include:

Alaska for Auroras – October 22-28, 2025
Bosque del Apache, New Mexico – December 8-12, 2025
Yellowstone in Winter – Feb 17-22, 2026 (only 1 spot left)
Costa Rica – April 5-16, 2026 trip and a Feb 2027 trip
Patagonia – October or November 2026
Botswana, Africa – April 2027
Tanzania, Africa – September 2026 & 2027
Australia – November 2027
Antarctica – I have several others who want to go, so I’m working on the interest list before I arrange actual dates.

Other destinations, such as Mexico for the butterflies, Texas birds, and Nebraska for the Sandhill Cranes, are listed on my website at www.cherylopperman.com

If you haven’t joined my Patreon page (link below), I’m trying to convert people over to that as I think it does a better job with notifications than social media. You can join for free. There will be some paid tiers so I can start offering online instruction, but for trip notifications, there is no cost.

I hope to see many of you on a future trip. I’ve been really lucky to meet so many wonderful people over the years, so in any case, thank you again for your support of my small business.

Warmest Wishes,
Cheryl
patreon.com/CherylOpperman

Explore the High Arctic: Svalbard by Sea | May 17–24, 2026
Join us on an extraordinary 8-day voyage deep into the heart of the Svalbard archipelago. From May 17–24, 2026, we’ll follow nature’s lead as we explore this remote and wild corner of the Arctic during the height of spring.
Our route is intentionally flexible, allowing us to take full advantage of wildlife sightings and shifting ice conditions. Possible stops include iconic sites such as Alkhornet, the walrus colony at Poolepynten, the ice edge (prime polar

Evergreen Camera Club