Most of us will agree that it’s nice to have friends. As a photographer, however, it’s even better when you have friends which are fellow photographers.
Whilst you may occasionally experience a pang of jealousy over their superior Photoshop skills, there’s no question that my camera companions have made me a better photographer.
Here I reveal the top three benefits of having photographer pals and how to go about forging new photography friendships for those new to the game!
1. Increased Photoshoot Opportunities
When I first decided that I wanted to be more involved in photography, I didn’t really know where to begin. I wanted to take pictures of beautiful brides and adorable newborn babies BUT HOW?! Just where are these brides and babies and how do I get them to let me snap them?! This is where the photographer friends come in handy.
I decided to call upon my pal, Louise, who has been doing photography as a side hustle for a number of years. I asked her if I could tag along to one of her photoshoots and act as a second photographer, free of charge. Within a few days, she arranged for me to accompany her to a wedding she had booked in Lincoln. This was an excellent opportunity, where I discovered just how exciting (and mildly stressful) being a wedding photographer can be!
If you are ever struggling for photoshoot opportunities or think you could benefit from further experience in a particular field of photography – call upon your photographer friends! Unless they’re complete meanies, i’m sure they would love to help you.
2. Get Honest Photo Feedback
This is something Louise and I do frequently – particularly when it comes to photo editing. Sometimes you can spend what feels like hours, editing a photo and you’re not even sure if it looks good or ghastly.
In times like these, forward the photos to your photographer friends. They will no doubt be able to offer you some constructive criticism, highlighting what they think works well and what could be improved. Sometimes it takes a second pair of eyes and an extra creative mind to perfect an image.
3. Develop Your Photo Editing Skills
So, the Photoshop jealousy comment in the intro was directed at my friend, Sam. Over the years, he has worked immensely hard perfecting his photo editing skills and is able to create amazing images of giraffes walking through abandoned cities, giant pears taking over the countryside etc…
Louise and I often struggle with the photo editing process and have called upon Sam’s expertise on a number of occasions. I had no idea how to create a sun flare before Sam’s guidance!
We also sometimes get together and do practice photoshoots in the woods (why does that sound so creepy?) Either way, using the knowledge of your photographer friends and practising with them, really is invaluable!
Everyone has different strengths and weaknesses. Whilst some may be lacking in the photo editing department, others may have an eye for composition or conjuring up crazy photoshoot ideas. If we all share our knowledge with one another, we can continue to develop our photography skills and become a community that champion one another.
How Do I Make Photographer Friends?
All of the above perks are all well and good. But what if you’re a photography newcomer and find yourself with a distinct lack of photographer friends? Well, it’s all very simple, thanks to the internet.
Social Media Photographers
There are literally thousands of likeminded snappers on social media who would love to connect with you. Search for photographers on Instagram, follow and engage with them. If you DM them a question or ask for advice, i’m sure they’d be more than happy to give their twopence.
Checkout popular photography hashtags (#lensbible, #agameoftones,#throughthelens, #instafocus) and start liking and commenting on their work. The most important thing here is to boldly go forth and INTERACT with others! You’ll find that engagement with your own work will grow as a result.
Local Photography Groups
The Main Focus
The moral of the story is, make the most of your photography connections and be resourceful. Allow yourself to be open to feedback, share your knowledge with others, be available to offer assistance to those who need it and put yourself out there!
Happy snapping, folks!
Check out Louise’s work here:
www.louiseivoryphotography.co.uk
Check out Sam’s work here:
