5 Tips for Building Your Photography Network

("Cheesin" with Dan Bullman, photo by Daniel Nova Jr.)

Most of the friends and contacts that I've made so far in photography is through Instagram. However, there are certain strategies that you can utilize to expand your network beyond liking posts and following people. If you want quality contacts and a supportive network, you've got to make it happen. I'm a firm believer in that everyone has something special to offer for us to learn from. This can be in the form of a skill, talent, experiences, personality, or even kindness (utmost importance!). And yes, that means going against the "no new friends" idea and really putting yourself out there.

Did you know that the type of information you learn is far more diverse from your acquaintances than the members of your close knit group? This makes sense because likely the same type information travels between your close friends, but the people that you have weaker ties with bring in fresh perspectives or information that you wouldn't have known otherwise.

Tip 1: Align yourself with inspiring people in your area

I probably spend half my time browsing photos and the other half finding people who are inspiring to me in Boston. It's likely that many great photographers live nearby already and are also on social media. You want to identify those who push your own limits and makes you excited to go out there and take photos. A good way to do this is find the @IG+city accounts for your geographic area and see who they feature.

In my experience, since I like to photograph fashion in addition to portraits, I will find out who a fashion blogger's photographer is and reach out to to see if they would like to meet up and exchange ideas. This is how I met Katie Salerno (@katieasalerno), who is an awesome portrait photographer by the way.

Tip 2: Personalize your introduction to others

(Can you tell that I like ROM-COMs? #sorrynotsorry)

The truth is, it's hard to just follow someone on Instagram or any other social media platform and expect them to notice you. The likes and follow do get lost in the notification feed as we are bombarded with information every day, fighting for our attention. Sometimes, it just takes a personalized message saying why you like their work or gallery to really enhance your interaction with someone. I usually followup with some questions about their editing or how they achieved something in their photos that I liked.

Tip 3: Utilize photowalks and get-togethers to build closer ties

(A squirtle squad is the best kind of squad. The real question is how are they wearing sunglasses with no ears??)

This is a chance to take the interaction offline. Digital messages can only get you so far, but meaningful interactions in person go a long way. I usually like to attend events where I know many photographers will be in attendance so I can get to know as many people as I can. If you feel that there aren't events around you, create one! Reach out to several photographers and see if they just want to walk around for an hour or two to take some street shots. You'll be surprised how many people say "yes" if you just ask.

Tip 4: Highlight and encourage others' work

(Oh, by the way, I love puns. I have been told to have dad humor.)

I think it's easy to get wrapped up in your own work and start thinking that you are very talented, creating a sense of entitlement. To mitigate the risk of adopting a holier-than-thou personality, find goodness in other's work. Giving a shoutout to someone that you find inspiring and telling them why you think their work is awesome is a great way to stay grounded. Everyone has been inspired by someone else at one point in their photography journey so make sure you show some love to those that put out content you like.

Tip 5: Bring something to the table

Building a network is a two way street. It's important that you contribute something to the relationship for it to thrive. Your experiences, knowledge, and viewpoints are just as meaningful and it takes effort to communicate that. If someone else shares the way they edit photos with you, perhaps you can share some of your favorite locations to shoot at. The healthy balance of idea exchange creates a bond that is stronger in the long run.

So, take your photography to the next level and make some photography buddies. I promise you won't regret it!

Cheers!

Icy

#Advice