Showcasing Who We Are

Group photos continue to fascinate me. From the earliest days of photography, capturing images, not just of ourselves but of our groups, has been so important in documenting who we are. Over time, these photos time stamp so much more than just our expressions. These group images reflect our clothing styles and our mannerisms as we crowd together, often in front of carefully choreographed settings. These photos are time capsules, revealing in broad brushstrokes our unique world.  I recently browsed an old album and lingered on a class photo from the 19^th century. The students were posed with their arms on each other’s shoulder; in front, two students causally leaned in towards each other. It struck me that our club photos this year are also vivid reminders of our unique COVID-19 era.  

         Our club meeting photos, of course, are now screenshots, a nifty way to group everyone together. Right at the end of the meeting seems to work best. The Presiding Officer does a short countdown, and on cue, we smile and wave. Unlike the staged settings of yesteryear, now each one of us displays our own choice of background. Hawaiian beaches, executive boardrooms, exotic mountain vistas, and even science fiction drama. Some of us simply put a corner of our homes on display.

         Lark Doley appreciates the creativity of club screenshots. As the keynote speaker of our Spring Conference a few weeks back, Lark asked that we make a clarion call to clubs for their images from across the District. Her long involvement in Toastmasters, including as International President in 2018 – 2019, has given her a unique perspective on the power of club photos. On short notice, many of our D6 clubs responded to her call. She sprinkled as many of your images as possible throughout her address, often expressing delight at the creativity on display.

         In a recent webcast presented by Brian Matson, a leading digital marketing expert (thanks to the Burnsville Chamber of Commerce), I learned another perspective on the value of group shots. Matson explained that organizations need to showcase their experiences, what is happening now. Our club screenshots are a testament to each of us overcoming the challenges of the pandemic. Our meetings are energized and we are finding ways to connect and achieve our goals in Pathways.

         The best way to publicize your clubs via social media or your internal corporate channels? Use those screenshots of each and every member. This pandemic won’t last forever, but our images will.