Mentoring

Covey

It has been mentioned somewhere in another thread and it's something I'd be interested in exploring.

We're all trying to improve ouselves and having tried a number of sites I've found C&C has very limited use imo. Most people comment only when they like the shot and even then you don't know why. Others sometimes mistakingly thrive on this, but I'd like something more geared to improvement and progession. I've seen so many people believe the faint praise and stand still or go backwards.

So I'm looking for (and offering to be, see later on) a Mentor.

I'll lay out what I'm trying to achieve, progression wise (and accept input here as well) and am looking for the following.

1. Someone to commit to maybe a nine month cycle (Sept - May)
2. Review once a month or thereabouts.
3. Critique no holes barred (I'm thick skinned ) and where positive tell me why.
4. End of cycle review vis a vis attaining targets/progression.
5. No payment, but maybe a few free jars here and there as we "discuss" things and a few free photos along the way (if wanted).

The Mentor can be anyone with an interest in photography.

a. ) Doesen't have to be a "great" photographer (their evaluation) or a photographer at all. Appreciation and application don't neccessarily go hand in hand imo.

b.) Does not have to take similar style photos to mine (mainly street, people, kids etc ). Though I may well add to that if I'm pushed a bit

c.) I would estimate it would take maybe 1/1,5 hours per month or thereabouts.

d) I will only be putting forward a small selection of shots, so not every shot I've ever taken type of thing. I don't "machine gun" in any case.

e) Your choice as to how you do it, either by mail or online Flickr or Pixie.

Naturally, I'll offer the same to any Boards member. It doesn't have to be specifically with someone who will "Mentor" me.

Any interest very much appreciated.

T.

*Dallas

hey Covey

i wouldnt have the experience to be a mentor.. but just a thought, you should always have your pix or flickr link in your sig.

I find I get some really good comments through Flickr

Covey

Your right.

Can't access at work, but will add them later on.

bernard0368

Covey this is a good idea, I have been both a mentor and mentored, in my other hobby. It can be hard work but the gain in knowledge and experiance is invaluable.
I always liked photography and always try to better myself at it, be it here on the net through books etc.
However there is no substitute to an experianced person directing you.
I would love to spend time with someone who can point you in the right direction and help improve your skills.

Covey

Sorry,

In case it wasn't clear, I'm not looking for someone to teach me how my camera works, photoshop or whatever. Thats up to me.

Review of the end product is all I'm on about.

T.

CabanSail

If someone wanted to do this, the way to go would be to look at the images others post & their comments. Then if you like what they do & feel you could learn from them, send them a PM & ask if they would be ineterested.

Covey

CabanSail wrote: »

If someone wanted to do this, the way to go would be to look at the images others post & their comments. Then if you like what they do & feel you could learn from them, send them a PM & ask if they would be ineterested.

Well maybe, but I've gone with the thread rather than put someone under pressure. We'll see how it goes.

stcstc

covey

what about joining a camera club?

I was a member of a club and learnt sooo much

a bunch of us are starting a new club at the moment, part of the plan is to give people good ops to learn and develop.

Covey

I would join a club and would certainly be interested in what you're looking to do, Steve. PM me.
Problem for me is probably regular attendance.

However, I've seen Mentoring work spectactularily well in a number of non photography situations. You form a relationship and it's not a problem to say

" Tommie your losing the plot here, thats s**te."

Try saying that on a thread here or on Flickr or the like.

T.

stcstc

covey

i sent you a PM, but thought some other people may benefit too so heres some of what i said


if you develop relationships with people who are keen like yourself you can gain that mentoring too

for example there is a bunch of 5 or so of us that have met through a club and now pass stuff to each other, meet for a drink etc go out and shoot. and discuss ideas

we now can say to eah other hey not sure about that or thats great, what about trying this etc

i know i gain a lot from this type of discussion

kjt

I really like the idea Covey. In layman's terms it's an ongoing C&C from one person? I'm very interested in this!

Dragan

Covey wrote: »

However, I've seen Mentoring work spectactularily well in a number of non photography situations.

Mentoring is largely what has made my photography improve over the last 6 months since i got into it. I'm very lucky in that i would consider my flatmate my main mentor, so they are always on hand to offer me advice.

Then i have friends and access to other great photographers who know they can be flat out honest about my work and the feedback from them always helps me.

Personally i think you're on to a good idea here.

Paulw

brilliant idea. I know I've done some sports shoots with people and if anyone is interested in that, I can certainly help and share the lessons I've learned.

Phototoxin

Technichally I could on the technical side (ie shutter speed in relation to light in relation aperture and ISO etc and other such things. Or on developing film though I've not done that for some time.).. but thats the easy part which most people know or pick up easily. I am about as artistic as a fly on speed.