The Angelina Photographic Association (A.P.A.) was founded in 1979 in Lufkin, Texas. The stated purpose of A.P.A. were, and continue to be, to provide a forum for the photographic talent of its membership and to promote an appreciation for the art of photography by the public.
A.P.A.'s membership represents amateurs as well as professionals who have a common interest in photography. That common interest is the only requirement for membership.
A.P.A. meets monthly in the Museum of East Texas in Lufkin each third Thursday at 7 o'clock p.m. These meetings include bi-monthly slide and print competition where members vote for the top three winners who receive prizes and recognition for their talent. The meetings also include educational programs with the purpose of informing the membership and improving their photographic techniques.
The Museum of East Texas hosts annual black and white and color exhibits in which at least one photo is chosen from each member's submitted photographs. The black and white exhibit is in the spring and the color exhibit is usually hung in the fall.
Members are kept informed about club activities, open contests, photographic publications, and area exhibits by the A.P.A. newsletter, published monthly.
A.P.A. is recognized by the State of Texas as a non-profit public service organization and is affiliated with the Gulf States Camera Club Council. The Association's activities include photographic service projects for various non-profit organizations and civic clubs.