Island Photo Group Captures the July Buck Moon

Photo: Fred Greco

For more than twenty years, the Island Photo Group has been bringing Long Island photographers together to learn, share ideas, and capture some of the region's most spectacular sights.

Founded in 2003, more than two decades later, several of the original founding members still remain active in the club — a testament to the friendships and dedication that have helped the organization thrive. 

Today, the Island Photo Group consists of approximately 45 members who meet on the second and fourth Monday of each month 7:30 p.m. at the Community Center in Ellsworth W. Allen Park, 45 Motor Avenue in Farmingdale. Whether you're just learning the basics or have years of photographic experience, visitors are always welcome to attend a meeting and discover what the club has to offer. Annual dues are just $40, providing members with educational workshops, guest presentations, field workshops,  image critiques, and the opportunity to learn from fellow photographers throughout the year.

That spirit of learning and camaraderie was on full display during the evenings of July 30 and 31, when club members gathered at Captree State Park to photograph the July Buck Moon rising over the Fire Island Lighthouse—one of Long Island's most iconic photographic alignments.

 

Photo: Fred Greco                                               Photo: Jim Rapp            

The outing was organized and the moonrise alignment plotted by Membership Chairman Fred Greco using specialized astronomical planning software. Although rain and heavy cloud-cover blanketed much of Long Island throughout July 30, conditions began to improve just thirty minutes before moonrise. Members, along with several local photographers, remained optimistic, and their patience was rewarded as the skies gradually cleared, revealing a beautiful moonrise over the historic lighthouse.

Encouraged by the success of the first evening, many members and other local photographers returned the following night for what photographers like to call "another go at it." With even clearer skies on July 31, participants enjoyed a second opportunity to capture the dramatic scene while exchanging ideas, techniques, and plenty of stories along the beach.                                                                 

     

Photo: Nick Masselle                                                     Photo: Russ Popeil

While memorable photographs were certainly the goal, the evenings served as a reminder that photography clubs are about much more than cameras. They are about sharing knowledge, encouraging one another, and building friendships through a common passion.

Anyone interested in improving their photography is invited to attend a meeting and see firsthand why the Island Photo Group has remained a Long Island favorite for more than twenty years. 

"Twenty-three years after its founding, the Island Photo Group continues to prove that photography is more than creating beautiful images. It's about learning, sharing experiences, and forming friendships that last a lifetime. As the moon rose over Fire Island Lighthouse on two memorable summer evenings, so too did another chapter in the club's history."

By Fred Greco — Editor / Photojournalist  ––  Island Photo News