To celebrate local photographers in the CSRA,  the Arts and Heritage Center of North Augusta had a reception for the Eyes Wide Open Photography Invitational and book signing by local photographer Mark Albertin April 18.

The exhibit, which has been on display since April 4, gives local photographers a chance to display their work. 

“Here they can showcase their talents,” said Cassie Bear, who serves as the Arts and Heritage Center treasurer for the board of directors.

Local photographers Patrick Krohn and Susan Igel had some of their work on display. Krohn said his photography focuses on intentional camera movement, which is when you move the camera up and down.

Igel said she loves landscapes and internal camera movement and it her first invention exhibit

Jim Bevins came out to support Ellie McGuire’s photography, which is like retro pin-up style. In addition to McGuire’s work he has enjoyed art that is local to the area, such an image of the downtown Augusta skyline. 

“I like it because I know where it’s at. It’s something that I can relate to,” he said.

Photographer John Dean said he came to the event to meet with other photographers like himself, become a better photographer and get his name out there. His first photography exhibit will be displayed in May.

“I kind of got into photography to do stuff like this, present my work, and have people appreciate how I see the world,” he said.

Attendees had a chance to get a signed copy of Albertin’s book, “Along The Fall Line.”

“I feel really overwhelmed, and it feels really wonderful to be here with other photographers,” he said

Albertin said the photos in the book were processed in a dark room.

Albertin said a grant from Porter Fleming made his dream of making a book possible. 

“That was kind of the push to make me do it,” he said.

Watercolorist Laurie Cordaro was the first person to stop by to get her book signed.

“I came out to see Mark Albertin, a wonderful writer, photographer and a former neighbor,” Cordaro said.

Cordaro said she takes time to get to know people with his work and was glad to have her book signed by him.

Albertin said he hopes his work will interest other photographers to get back into film photography.

“I think it so interesting to look at all these different photographs and beautiful work,” he said

The Eyes Wide Open exhibit will be on display until April 26. Albertin will talk about his photographs at the Morris Museum of Art April 27 from 2-4 p.m. The free event will include a reception.