Since starting this venture into photography I have come across a paradox. Photographers have a reputation of being rather stingy with information. I have been told over and over again that it is a highly competitive business and that most photographers hold their knowledge very tight to the chest. That is why it has shocked me again and again how many photographers are more than willing to share and teach what the know to newbies. There are people like Chase Jarvis, Scott Kelby, Scott Bourne, Joe McNally… I could go on and on… who are constantly giving of themselves to help others with their work. These are people who have already “made it” in the world of photography. People who don’t need to share anything, could easily just go along on their merry way, take the time to teach others.
I have learned from watching these people (and others like them) that we are in a community. That worrying about “competition” or someone else stealing your ideas gets you nowhere but alone. We need others. Period. That’s one of the reasons I’m so excited to be a part of a new project called Faded and Blurred. Right now it is just a website, but we are hoping it turns into so much more. It is going to be a resource for photographers by photographers. A place we can come and talk about everything to do with photography. There will be tutorials, workshops, and photowalks. (Actually, the first photowalk is this Saturday at Venice Beach so if you live anywhere in the Southern California area make sure you sign up. There will be give-aways!)
One of my favorite aspects of Faded and Blurred is the giving back (read HERE). We don’t want to just be there to feed off of each other. We want to share with the people around us. I know all of us who are photographers feel very lucky to be able to look through that lens everyday and if we can help other while doing it all the better.
So, if you are a photographer by profession or by hobby or just enjoy looking at photography please check it out. It’s going to be a great adventure.
