Our objectives are to advance the knowledge of, and interest in, the history of photography, particularly Canadian photography and to undertake and encourage the collection, preservation and exhibition of photographic equipment, literature and images.
The PHSC was established in Toronto in 1974 by and for people interested in photographic history. We were incorporated as a non-profit organization in Canada four years later (1978). This means we are authorized to provide Canadian federal tax deductible receipts for all donations of money or “goods in kind” of $15 or more. Goods in kind must be evaluated by two experts knowledgeable of current prices.
Unpaid volunteers perform all activities necessary for the smooth operation of the society. We help camera and image collectors and others interested in the diverse aspects of photographic history share their enthusiasm and knowledge. We promote a wider public interest in photographic history through talks, awards, publications, fairs and auctions.
The majority of our 300 or so members are camera or image collectors. In fact, our membership includes many of the leading collectors, photographic researchers and writers, and professional photographers in Canada, plus many libraries, archives, museums and other photographic societies.
You would benefit from joining if…
- You collect antique cameras, old photographs or photographic ephemera
- Are excited about discovering the lore and history of photography
- Are intrigued by stereotypes, daguerreotypes, calotypes and other old processess
- You spend days searching for antique equipment and images in garage sales, auctions, flea markets
Come and share your interests and knowledge with a group of friendly and enthusiastic fellow collectors. If you live in the Toronto area, come out and meet with fellow collectors and enthusiasts at one of our monthly meetings. Or take in one of our fairs or auctions. Share information with other collectors through our journal and here on the internet.
Our membership year runs from May 1 to the following April 30. Each member receives Photographic Canadiana. Toronto meetings are held the third Wednesday of each month except July and August beginning at 7:00 pm.
How Do I Join?
It’s easy. Just download our membership form and mail it to us with your payment. Canadian members pay $35.00 Canadian for a National or Toronto membership which brings you Photographic Canadiana four times a year (or $100.00 for three years). Meetings in Toronto include speakers, presentations, and member buy/sell sessions. Personal cheques or money orders are accepted for membership. Members outside Canada are requested to pay $35.00 US or $45.00 Canadian. Money orders, or cheques drawn on a Canadian or US bank are accepted. You can also use PayPal on this website.
But, We Are A Group…
Great! We have a limited number of exchange memberships available. Like-minded groups of collectors or historical groups may be accepted as an exchange member. Copies of our respective journals are exchanged in lieu of any fees.
How Can I Contact You?
Easy, just e-mail or write us at the address shown at the top of the side bar.
How Do I Change My Membership Information
Email us your address changes, or download an interest form here to fill out and email it back to us. Please include the word Membership in the subject area of your email message.
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