The Photographic Society of Sri Lanka is the oldest amateur photographic society in the country. With origins that go back over 100 years, the PSSL today continues in a mission that has not changed since the days of its founders; "the advancement of the art and practice of photography amongst the people of the island."

Continually reinvigorated by new members, the Society offers a range of photography related activities to participate in. Monthly meetings provide an opportunity to regularly meet fellow shutter-bugs, young and old, amateur and veteran, in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

The Photographic Society of Sri Lanka's origins can be traced back to 1906, whereby the Amateur Photographic Society of Ceylon was formed by Henry Lorenz Wendt, the father of Lionel Wendt; lawyer, artist, pianist and photographer. This was a pioneering venture and the first of its kind in the island.
The Society was reincarnated in 1934 at the residence of Lionel Wendt, who continued the work begun by his father, along with a small group of enthusiasts interested in pictorial photography. The Photographic Society of Ceylon, as it was renamed, included P.J.C. Durrant, B.G. Thornly and B.P. Weerawardena among its members. They met regularly and discussed the merits and demerits of the pictures produced by them.

After the demise of Lionel Wendt in 1944, a complex for the visual and performing arts was constructed with art galleries and theatre facilities and opened in 1954. The complex known as the Lionel Wendt Memorial Art Centre also houses the Society which has a well equipped studio and three dark rooms.
The members of the Society meet here on a monthly basis when the pictures made by them are put up for discussion. International exhibitions have been held throughout since 1954, usually at the end of every year. The Society also holds classes in photography on a regular basis. The next Certificate course in Photography commences on the 18th of September 2010. Additionally, lectures, demonstrations, seminars and advanced courses are held with the support and guidance of senior members and / or specialists, covering special topics.

The administration of the Society and planning of its activities are done by a committee of ten members elected at the Annual General Meeting. These functions are carried out on a volunteer basis, with other members lending a hand during landmark events such as the Annual International Exhibition. The Society currently has a membership of approx. 200, and welcomes anyone interested in practicing the art and craft of photography.

The Society offers the membership a wide variety of activities, facilities and services including a Monthly Print Competition and a Monthly Newsletter. Regular meetings are held on the evening of the first Tuesday of every month and, as need arises at other times, for various group activities such as talks/demonstrations and hands on sessions dealing with a broad spectrum of photography related subjects.

The club gives members the opportunity to network with other people interested in the many facets of photography. Newcomers to the hobby will benefit especially from the opportunity to interact with and learn from experienced members in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere and also by attending the classes the Society conducts. The Society teaches photography, arranges photo opportunities in the studio as well as outside and every genre of photography is pursued with enthusiasm.

An important event in their calendar is the International Print Competition and Exhibition, an event that has been held, successfully, year after year, over fifty years in unbroken succession. The Photographic Society of Sri Lanka invites you to participate in the 55th Annual International Exhibition of Photography 2010. This year eight sections are open to compete in, two PSA gold medals, PSSL medal and awards on offer. Prizes include a Canon EOS 550D DSLR, Colour Printers, Hotel Vouchers, and Print Vouchers. The closing date for Entries is the 24th September 2010. The exhibition and competition is open to all.
You can get further details from the society web site at www.pssl.lk or by sending an email to photosocsl@gmail.com