Behind Every Photographer: the Photography Influencer

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Whether a professional or simply passionate about the hobby, there’s a support system that allows us to grow and improve each time we’re behind the lens.  This support system can include the influencer, the mentors, the camera experts, the photography buddies, and of course, your partner.

Surround yourself with people that feed and encourage your addiction!

The photography influencer – who do you know that is “in” to photography?  The friend that has a camera with them always – either a smart phone or actual camera.  You watch them taking pictures while standing beside them thinking, “I wish I had my (or ‘a’) camera”.  If this is you, let the influencer do their job.  Either pull out that camera sitting in the box or go buy one!

The mentors – in today’s social media world, there are many fantastic photographers networking on Facebook pages, Instagram, Twitter and other platforms.  Popular #hashtags on Instagram categories share popular posts with high levels of engagement and fans. There are also social media pages and private groups that provide platforms for sharing artists’ works.  Your local camera club is filled with tons of knowledge.

The camera experts – your camera’s website is the most accurate place to go for the latest specs.    Even with all the great information on the web, the best advice may come from your local camera dealer.  Talk to their experts, show them your work, ask for feedback – you’ll get invaluable tips and ideas. 

Photography mentoring buddies – similar to the influencer and the mentor, you’ll find a few go-to mentoring buddies that are great to go out with in the field with and observe their perspective on subjects.  I have a few that I haven’t met face to face but if I need help, they serve as a faithful ‘how-to’ lifelines.  These are photographers who share subject interests. They reciprocate feedback, ideas and conversation.  

Your partner – you’ve been in the cold, the wet, the hot, the dry.  All the while, your partner showed patience until the bitter end when you’ve become a bit snap-happy.  Our partners show intense interest in our work, witness our progress and serve as a tie-breaker when deciding which image to use.

Are You the Next Photography Influencer?

You are the artist behind the camera.  That image was not a result of ‘having a camera that takes good pictures’.  Your images are personal, they share with others your eye of your subject.  They are a result of your work, study, patience and perseverance. Keep up the great work and keep shooting! You may be the next photography influencer.

For a travel moment, you can visit a quaint little hidden treasure in Arkansas. Hint: Go Greyhound.