In some ways it's about technical things like composition and lighting. But more than anything else, Morton Photographic Society is about sharing.

Chairman Gerald Chamerlin says: "The sharing of information is key, rather than 'I'm not telling you, because you might turn out to be better than me!'"

The society was founded in 1965. Several members have won awards and, as Gerald says, are happy to share their expertise with newcomers.

There are plenty of those. A recent recruitment drive attracted about 10 new members, bringing the current total to 35.

"We had a stand at Dalston Show in August. That worked well. And we got some members when we attended an exhibition by photographic societies at Rheged in May. We're on the up. It's always helpful to have new people and new ideas."

Gerald believes the society is benefiting from local authority funding cuts for evening classes.

People who want to learn photography are turning to clubs instead.

Photography enthusiasts of all abilities are welcome to join the Morton society.

From September to April it meets weekly at Morton Community Centre - also known as Morton Manor - on Wigton Road.

All year round there are also group outings.

"Once a month we try and have a trip out," says Gerald.

"This Sunday we're in the Lakes doing autumn colours.

"You can sit there and teach them all the theory. You've got to go out and try and put that theory into practice. The social side is a big thing as well.

"The standard ranges from the total beginner who wants to improve their work: 'Oh right, is that what I'm doing wrong?'

"We're constructive with feedback. We say to them 'There's areas in that you can improve.'"

The weekly meetings take place on Thursdays at 7.30pm. Once a month there's a competition. On other weeks guest photographers show and discuss their work.

The society also runs a monthly study group for anyone wanting to improve their skills.

This covers topics such as black and white portraits and long exposure shots, and meets on the first Tuesday of the month.

Not all members live in Carlisle. Gerald has been involved for about 20 years. Some members have been here for even longer.

"It's mainly people aged from the 40s upwards," says Gerald. "Young people tend to be too busy with family and work commitments."

Photography has been transformed by the switch to digital. But Gerald has noticed some recent moves back to more traditional ways.

"There's a resurgence in black and white. And there's increasing interest in producing prints.

"In the last two competitions, the print section has had more entries than the digital.

"People like something physical to hold. You can connect with a print. You can't connect so much with a projected image on a screen."

* For more information visit www.mortoncarlisle.photography