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History of the Club

The Peak Digital Imaging Society (PDIS) was established in Colorado Springs, November 8, 2000. Co-founders Bill Young and Mark Kirkland, both photographers, established this club.

In August of 2000, Bill was searching for the best digital camera to meet his needs. He walked into Shoemaker’s camera store, Colorado Springs, where he was greeted by Mark. Together they tried out many different cameras, practicing various lighting situations with the same shot. Bill remarked: “I bet I am not the only one who wants to learn about different cameras before purchase.” After this challenging practice session, Bill purchased a Nikon D-990 camera.

A bond formed between these two photographers, resulting in a camera club with monthly meetings. Here they started their journey in photography. Eventually, two PDIS members were honored as “Colorado Professional of the Year” recipients.

Meetings started in Old Colorado City, with a small room, sponsored by a bank. Within six months, the group grew from three members to fifty, relocating to various venues until approximately 350 members were on the mailing list – including photographers from Egypt, Spain, Germany, Switzerland, Canada, and Mexico. Club dues were never initiated by leadership teams to pay for speakers or various meeting places. All participants volunteered their time. Meetings continued through the years, including Zoom support with PDIS President Cas Foste during the Covid-19 pandemic.

PDIS hosted some well-known photographers and speakers, such as John Fielder, George Lepp, Dan Burkholder, David Munch, John Paul Caponigro, Hal Gould, and others.

Bill Young – former president, and Mark Kirkland – former chairman, promoted education with seasoned photographers, competitions, instructional workshops, and framed photographs shown in galleries. These co-founders were guided by a simple mission: “To interact with others who want to bring joy to their digital imaging experience.” Result? Local art galleries, stores, and meeting places were graced with extraordinary fine art by PDIS members.

Because of this balanced approach, PDIS attendees developed their knowledge, skills and understanding within the expanding world of photography – leading to the process of digital imaging, editing, and printing. So, amateur camera buffs emerged into their own specialties as photographers.

Some members sold their artwork, started clubs of their own, rented art studios, pursued outdoor adventures, matted and framed their own artwork, established websites, created their own careers, and became mentors in leadership positions. For example, PDIS member, Robert Gray served as president of the Pikes Peak Arts Council.

Throughout PDIS history, competitions are held three times a year. Selected judges are invited to critique photo print entries and volunteer their expertise, opinions, and time. Once a year, PDIS members learn how to think like a judge by choosing winners through collaborating and scoring based on photography criteria. Recognition is awarded to PDIS members who display exceptional examples of artwork.

This club looks forward to quarterly field trips as ways to practice their skills. Most of these field trips are local, but sometimes extend south to Pueblo or north to Denver. We have enjoyed “shooting” trips to the Paint Mines, Garden of the Gods, Hudson Gardens, Fountain Creek, The Space Foundation HQ Discovery Center, Cherokee Castle, Carnivorous Plants, and the Gabriel Foundation Bird Sanctuary. Just to name a few!

PDIS proudly exhibits a Black and White Show in a local gallery each year. This show, initiated by Cas Foste many years ago, continues to be a favorite among our artists. She curates these shows and encourages photographers to learn specialized techniques of black and white digital images or illustrations. These exhibits have been seen at places like the Red Brick Wall, the Manitou Art Center, Dream Catchers, Plaza of the Rockies, Cottonwood Center for the Arts, and Shutter and Strum.

During the past 25 years, there have been four presidents – Bill Young, Cas Foste, Linda Case, and newly elected Diane Stewart. Each change of leadership brings a new perspective to the club, while maintaining the original mission and values of the founders. Currently, the club meets at Library 21C for monthly meetings, held on 4TH Thursdays, Colorado Springs, CO.

PDIS history would not be complete without noting our Community Outreach Program: “The Children’s Library Project.” Members mount approximately 100 prints on butcher paper in June and display them at Library 21C – Children’s Library during July and August. These prints are later donated to Hope & Home, a foster care children’s service in Colorado. This program was initiated in 2023, by Linda Case. Academy Art & Frame Company sponsors this project.

Our PDIS Communications Officer Larry McGough designed our website and established a rhythm of information. PDIS sends out a monthly newsletter, along with flyers as reminders for meetings and field trips. Additional resources are often added in preparation for our educational programs and special speakers.

PDIS continues to welcome new digital artists — from amateurs to experienced photographers and illustrators. The current Monthly Calendar is available on the PDIS website: [https://pdis.club]. Check out the menu bar for detailed information of coming events. CONTACT US on the website with questions or free newsletter subscription requests.

 

Original Interview given by Bill Young, Co-Founder and former President of PDIS
Interview also given by Cas Foste, former PDIS President
Written & updated by Linda C Case, former PDIS President
Posted 10/05/2024.