I don't know what to call it anymore. Mentoring seems so formal.....
First off, the matching up of various photographers is going pretty well, very few complaints so far. Here's the rub: mentors want help with their photography, too, as well as most of the volunteers don't have "glowing" creditials (I've not asked for any -- no insult intended)
How about if I start to call this Photo Friends? Or do you like Big Brother/Big Sister better? In most of the relationships that I've set up, one half does have more experience than the other, but in many cases, the "student" seems to be at least as good of a photographer as the "mentor". Take my case as an example: My "student" has more raw talent (a better eye) than I have any day. Sure, she learns some tricks and techniques that I have to share, but I'm willing to bet real money she "ribbons" before I do.
The pool for both "mentors" and "students" is getting kind of small, so the "matches" I've tried lately have been a bit more of a stretch than the first few. Basically, I'm asking for more volunteers, but I'll stretch this into three basic catagories:
Self proclaimed Knowledgables (either on specific subjects or general)
Self proclaimed Seekers of Knowledge (same)
Sharers (those that would like to help others, as well as get some help, too!)
Give me enough information to "match" you up and I'll do my best. Pick a catagory that suits you. Filling out your profiles helps me greatly.
The benefits are numberous, not the least of which is getting connected with other people with similar interests...who knows, maybe you'll make a new friend or two.
If ANYONE can come up with a name to call this process that suits it better than mentor, I'd greatly appreciate it. (Is anyone still reading this?)
Rob the Swash |
