There’s an interesting thing that happens in the photography space (well, in many businesses I’m sure): some photographers work together, collaborate, and share their knowledge to grow together. Others go off on their own and are afraid of opening up or working together.
I’d like to think I’m in the former category. I value photographer collaboration.
I enjoy chatting with other photographers. Sometimes we get together and play around with light and lenses and experiment with various effects. Occasionally it leads to nothing, but usually something fun happens. Here’s Portland photographer Joe Wilson when we were messing around with light at his studio.
It’s not all play; some of my photo assignments and projects require assistants or other photographers to get the job done. When I need a second shooter, or a photographer to help me light a big assignment, I have a trusted network of friends and colleagues whom I can call upon. Networking with others is one of the reasons I remain involved with the Oregon Professional Photographers Association.
The ability to work with others is one of those skills that can be as helpful as understanding light and shutter speeds.