We are a group of people who are passionate about photography.
Kilkenny Photographic Society is a member of the Irish Photographic FederationThe Society
Kilkenny Photographic Society (KPS) is a medium sized association of photography fans with skill levels ranging from beginner to professional. The Society was founded in 1983 and we celebrated our 30th anniversary in 2013. We meet every week on Thursday evenings to share ideas, skills and stories. New members (Adults 18+) of any ability are always welcome. If you are interested in joining come along to the Pembroke Hotel, Patrick Street (Kilkenny). Alternatively check our Blog page to find details of each week’s scheduled meeting. Please read our members’ handbook if you wish more details about the club.When visiting the Pembroke Hotel, local street parking on and around Partrick Street is free after 7pm and the Pembroke Hotel has its own nearby overflow car park for guests.
Mission Statement
Our aim is to serve our members by encouraging development of their photographic skills through education, exhibitions of photographic accomplishments, friendship with others who share a love of photography and to share our talents with individuals and organisations in our community.
Our Activities
The society’s programme varies to accommodate the needs of its members, but typically it’s a mix of instructional evenings, group outings, guest speakers, workshops and internal competitions. The society is fortunate to have several full time professional photographers among its members; they are willing to share their knowledge of camera and post processing techniques. These courses are typically run outside of the normal program so that they can be tailored to meet a specific need. Members are encouraged to apply for accreditation in photography from the Irish Photographic Federation (IPF) and / or the Royal Photographic Society
Major Events
KPS Photographer of the Year Competition: Each year we hold a Photographer of the Year (PotY) competition for KPS members. A series of themed competitions, including print and projected, are held and the marks accumulated to find the KPS winning member. The winner receives a PotY trophy and their name is engraved on the KPS perpetual PotY trophy. The competition covers three levels of skill: Novice, Intermediate and Advanced.
Kilkenny Arts Festival Exhibition: In August each year the Society participates in the Kilkenny Arts Festival extravaganza by holding an exhibition of members images as a fringe event.
KPS Transition Year Photography Competition: This is an annual competition for Transition Year students in Kilkenny City, County and surrounding areas. Inaugurated by club member, Donal Byrne, it is increasing in popularity by the year.
Other Activities: More recently the society has been invited by the management of St. Luke’s General Hospital, Kilkenny to provide a permanent exhibition for their arts exhibition area and is currently on display. The society has in the past hosted national photographic competitions in conjunction with the I.P.F. Example of which more recently was the I.P.F Photographer of the year and I.P.F Nature Photographer of the year competitions.