Networking – Episode #33, Networking with Other Photographers

Summary: How Important is Networking? Networking? Really? Yeah, believe it or not, a lot of photographers (the three of us included) are firmly of the opinion that our art, skills, and techniques can only improve when we're willing to talk to other photographers. Whether we are giving/receiving critiques, asking/answering questions, or just shooting the shit with other people behind the lens, networking is where we grow. We've bitched (a lot, actually) about those shooters who keep everything to themselves and refuse to share their "secrets". To those guys (and, yeah, they're almost always guys) we say, "spoiler alert - your secrets are nothing more than cobbled-together tricks you read in widely available books." So get over yourselves. As Rob points out, this podcast only exists because Tony believes in networking with other photographers and Rob believes in the same. Think about some of the great guests we've had on the show: from Ted Forbes to Giulio Sciorio to Steven Chappell: all great photographers who also understand the importance of collaborating. I could go on, but you get the point! BTW, speaking of collaborating, don't forget to leave a comment or call our line and leave a message. Our Artists With two of the three guys being Trekkies, it's a good thing that the third (Rob) is writing the show notes - that's how we've avoided the obvious Star Trek references when we look at our highlighted photographer, Leonard Nimoy. Tony and Rick are both wrong when they guess that Rob's main attraction to Mr Nimoy's photography is the dance section. Nope, gotta check out Shekina. It's his interpretation of the feminine nature of God. With a fine art twist, of course! Like his work or not, Rob is completely entranced with his photography! Rick, keeping with his "Seriously, WTF?!" artist theme, chose the director David Lynch as the featured artist. From Twin Peaks to Blue Velvet, Lynch's non-traditional approach to film making is a real inspiration not only to the three guys but should be to all photographers (and artists) looking to work outside of that proverbial "box". Nimoy and Lynch, as artists, may be too famous for networking with but there are plenty of artists who are following their paths. We just have to find them and learn to trust their vision.