Learn photography for pleasure with u3a
The u3a movement champions people no longer in full-time work to explore learning just for fun – and u3a Eye encourages people to explore photography

Since its founding in 1982, the u3a movement has provided opportunities for people no longer in full-time work to explore learning for pleasure. With over 1000 u3as and around 400,000 members across the UK, the organisation offers an impressive range of activity groups covering subjects from art to zoology. For an average annual cost of under £20, members can engage in activities that are both practical and creative, photography being one of the most popular.
A Learning Community Without Exams
The u3a model operates on peer-to-peer learning, where members share their knowledge and experience with one another. There are no qualifications, tests, or pressure, just the enjoyment of learning and discovering new passions. Photography perfectly captures this spirit, as it encourages members to observe, interpret, and creatively express the world around them.
Members Get Involved in u3a Eye
One of the most engaging initiatives is u3a Eye, a bi-monthly photography feature that invites members to submit photos based on a chosen theme. This is not a competition; it’s an open call for interesting, thoughtful, or imaginative photographs that reflect each individual’s unique perspective.
Each cycle, up to 15 selected images are featured in an online gallery, celebrating the diversity of creativity within the u3a community.
An Eye for Capturing Beauty
The latest theme, ‘Unfolding’, has inspired some truly extraordinary submissions. From the emergence of spring to symbolic interpretations of change and awakening, the images showcase both talent and imagination.