The Doncaster Camera Club began with a letter to the Doncaster Gazette in November 1893, which led local photographers to join the Doncaster Microscopical Society. However, the arrangement soon proved unsuitable. On Sunday, 14 April 1895, twelve photographers, led by Frank Moat, met at 10 High Street, the home of Henry Percy. There, they formed the Doncaster Camera Club and appointed Moat as secretary.

Early meetings were hosted by members, and all talks were given by them. In 1905, the Club joined the Yorkshire Photographic Union (YPU), gaining access to a wider range of speakers. Several members have since served on the YPU’s Judges’ and Executive Committees.

The Club’s first exhibition was held in 1897 and featured demonstrations of X-rays and cinematography—both cutting-edge technologies at the time. Competitions followed shortly after and, by 1909, included colour prints.

During World War I, many activities were suspended. The meeting place was requisitioned by the military, and many members served in the Forces. The Club revived in the 1920s, reaching a peak membership of 171 in 1922. Exhibitions resumed in 1934 and continued annually until the outbreak of World War II again disrupted operations.

After the war, the Club bounced back, holding exhibitions annually since 1947. Highlights include hosting the YPU Exhibition in 1971, 1987, and 2014, and three international exhibitions in 1958, 1965, and 1969. The South Yorkshire Salon and third international show in 1969 marked the Club’s 75th anniversary.

In the digital era, the Club adapted swiftly, with many members now using digital cameras and sharing their knowledge through instructional evenings. Traditional film methods remain welcome alongside modern techniques.

Today, the Doncaster Camera Club continues to thrive thanks to the dedication of its members. Affiliated with both the Photographic Alliance of Great Britain (PAGB) and the YPU, the Club looks forward to the future with the same pioneering spirit that inspired its founding.