As your club progresses, be sure the members re-evaluate the direction it's going from time to time. Give everyone a chance to express their opinions on what they want out of the club to see if you're achieving the goals you set out in the beginning. If your club has a large membership and you have a membership fee, discuss with the members how they would like to see the fees used.

If your meeting place isn't free that might be a non-issue. But if you're lucky enough to meet somewhere for free, then you can consider options of how to use the club fees for things like local scholarships or donations. Consider perhaps hosting your own photography show as a club, or participating in photo competitions, regionally or nationally.

Having a group of people that share your passion in photography is a great thing to be a part of. Whether you're thinking of joining a photography club, or find yourself at the point where you're going to be the one creating a new club, be sure to take advantage of all the resources your area has to offer in helping new clubs get up and going. Hold an information night and be prepared. Go on photography outings, share your photos and learn from each other.

Michael Oliveri is a sysadmin for a small ISP, a writer, a Linux geek, and an amateur photographer. More information on his work can be found at http://www.mikeoliveri.com.