Flagpole Photographers Camera Club will kick off its 2018-19 season this month with an ice cream social followed by a discussion on using camera raw.

Digital cameras and many smartphones support saving the unprocessed image sensor data, which is known as “raw.” Flagpole member Sandy Schill will talk guests through how raw fits into the digital workflow and how to process them for printing and sharing.

The program will be Thursday, September 13, at Newtown Senior Center, 14 Riverside Road. It will start at 7:30 pm, and those planning to attend should bring a laptop so that they can practice along with the presentation.

The club’s first competition of the season will be on Thursday, September 27, at 7:15 pm, also at the Senior Center. The assigned subject for this competition is nature.

Members compete in a different assignment each month, as well as in three additional categories: Open Digital, Open Color, and Open Monochrome. While the competition is only open to members, the public is invited to listen to critiques and learn about photography.

There is no charge to attend Flagpole Photographers Camera Club competitions. Flagpole Photographers is a local nonprofit group that enables members to share their images and expertise, to learn and grow in their photography, and to enjoy the camaraderie of fellow photographers who come from diverse backgrounds, with photographic skills ranging from beginning novices to professionals.

New members are always welcome to join the club and may enter their work in monthly club competitions, participate in workshops, take field trips, get involved in community programs, and take part in annual exhibits. Dues are $35 per person or $55 for a family. Students may join at no charge.

Additional club information and meeting dates, including calendar of events, member galleries, and workshop information, can be found at flagpolephotographers.com. For more information, contact info@flagpolephotographers.com.