Anywho, my latest goal has been to polish up my in person communication skills. To be honest, I am awkward as heck when it comes to meeting new people and part of it is because I have such a hard time concentrating for long periods of time....ohhhh something shiny!
Where was I? OH! So in an attempt to get myself out there and meet new people, as well as bring other local and nearby photographers together I have started a bi-monthly gathering at my favorite local coffee shop where I invite female photographers of all levels of experience and specialties to come and chat.
There is no pressure to take notes, there is no requirements of any sort. We simply meet up, buy a coffee and maybe a muffin, and talk about the things that make our wheels turn. Whether it be from balancing family with our passion, or trying to figure out a better business model that will benefit our clients the most! So far I have hosted two gatherings and although they have been low in attendance it is incredible how helpful and extremely fun they have been.
So, I encourage YOU...yes you photographer (or even another form of artist/business owner) sitting at your computer screen surfing Facebook looking at other photographers pages and either judging or hopefully interacting with them... Get out there and reach out to another photographer. We have all been guilty of blaming others for our "industry being in the state that it is in" but have you ever thought for a second that you should stop judging others and start helping them out? Granted, some people may not want help, some may not even want to network with other artists...but it WILL NOT KILL YOU to try. Make the connection, share your knowledge, and receive others knowledge as well. It is an incredibly uplifting feeling to give to each other rather than spectate.
Besides, we could all use a break with a yummy Vanilla Latte and a raspberry muffin that supports a local small business. [Insert shameless Ane' Mae's plug here! ;) I can't help it they are my guilty pleasure!]
Get out there and join us! Or even better if you are nearby start a meet up of your own! We are all here to create, not compete! Checkout the info on my next meet up below or if you decide to start one of your own in your neck of the woods, enjoy a free download .PSD of my web flyer!
Thanks for following me and enjoy your weekend!
Love, Shelby
