The article examines the emergence, organizational forms, and development of photography clubs in Uzbekistan during the Soviet period based on historical sources. It identifies the key factors underlying the transition from individual engagement in photography to collective activity and examines the role of photography clubs in this process.

In particular, the study analyzes the formation of the organizational foundations of amateur photography in the 1920s and 1930s through the activities of the journal Sovetskoe Foto, various public organizations, clubs, and educational institutions. Using photographic activities in Tashkent and Samarkand as examples, the article demonstrates the links between local amateur photographers and photography processes at the all-Union level. It also examines the activities of photography clubs in the 1950s–1980s at palaces of culture, Young Pioneers’ palaces, schools, and other institutions, highlighting their significance in developing photographic knowledge and practical skills among young people. The study provides a scholarly assessment of the influence of photographic technology, specialized training, exhibitions and competitions, as well as mass media, on the development of photography clubs.

photography, photography club, amateur photography, photographic culture, Sovetskoe Foto, Tashkent, Samarkand, Young Pioneers’ Palace, photo club, photojournalism.

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