Category Archives: Networking

When you think of others photographers in your area how do you think of them? Do you think of them as competitors who are dangerous to your business? Or, do you think of them as colleagues who you can share creative ideas with?

Too many of us lose sleep and plenty of wonderful opportunities by treating others as competitors and even enemies. We could learn a lot from each other if we just spent constructive time together sharing ideas and what works for us.

I’ve always believed that teamwork is far better than being a lone ranger. Together we can accomplish way more than any one of us could accomplish alone. The old saying was, “Two heads are better than one.” Do you believe this? Then why not get your head together with another photographer? Share what works and where you struggle. Find out what works for your colleague. Pool resources and share shipping costs on bulk orders.

We can learn a lot from each other and have fun along the way. I have a photography colleague who I learn a lot from. We share our ways of thinking, our struggles, and our successes with each other. This serves as a reminder that neither is alone in the process and that we can support each other along the way.

What do you think? Are you willing to be open and share ideas with your fellow photographers? Give it a try!

The word “network” is usually thought of in relation to computers. Computer networks have been around for years. But networking also refers to reaching out to and connecting with people. How big is your people network?

Word of mouth is one of the oldest and best forms of advertising any product. A person of his or her word is one who will be well respected. Are you a person of your word?

A people network, much like a computer network, is only as strong as its weakest link. Identifying weak links is not always an enjoyable task but it is a vitally important one. Today networking can take place in a number of ways–telephone, email, Facebook, Twitter, and so many more ways are available for us to connect with other people.

How strong is your network? Can you find any ways to make it stronger?

Facebook, Myspace, Twitter, and other online networking communities are beginning to get a strong following. There’s something pretty cool about being able to connect with people who share common interests as well as those we haven’t seen in years. I am often amazed how technology makes it easier to connect with people. I remember when email was just starting. Some people said it was just a fad that would soon fade away. Others thought it was ridiculous to think that people would even try to communicate so often without face-to-face contact. And now most of the modern world takes email for granted.

Networking has become easier and more effective with all the technology we have at hand these days. Cell phones, computers, PDAs, email and more allow us to connect with people literally around the world. At first this can seem a little overwhelming or even intimidating. But the more we use the technology and see the advantages they offer the more we realize their value. We can reach out and connect with others through the use of this new technology.

Networking is about more than just computers and technology. Connections, human connections, are important, too, and have been since the beginning of time. So who do you connect with? What circles and groups do you associate with?

One of the things I enjoy about photography is the connections with others. Think about it. Fellow photographers, subjects, associates, and colleagues come into our lives because of a common interest. The way we see the world is unique and yet we have so many common connections and good relationships thanks to photography. I hope you agree that networking is truly a wonderful gift for all of us!