Growing as a photographer: Do forums help?

T

Turtle

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Have forums helped you grow as a photographer?

Where have they helped, how long for and have they ever hindered?

Do you think forums can help a photographer reach dizzy heights, or are forums and true, noteworthy excellence in the field mutually exclusive?
 
Yes, of course.

Chatting and discussing in the forums is a big part of how I learn about photography.

But remember that it applies anywhere that you learn both "what to do" and "what *not* to do" :)
 
I think forums can be useful for those just starting out and those seeking specific information. But to really grow you have to shoot...
 
That was a quick reply Matthew - taking time out from shooting? ;)

Whilst I can't really comment on other forums, I think RFF is very good. There are some very talented photographers here who offer good advice.
Hearing about their projects and approaches is very interesting. The gallery is the best around for both content and constructive feedback.

Shooting is paramount, but the forum community provides great motivation to get out and do it.
 
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Been very helpful to me. Really, in every aspect of the hobby/business. For example, I have been able to ask and understand how to achieve results that I have admired. The gear info is obvious but there's more here than that if you ask for it. I have a wet darkroom and have also learned a good deal about using it more effectively.
 
I think the question could also be put about helping others.
It's a two-way street and the free exchange of ideas, information and yes, images can be of great benefit. Especially to those just starting photography or, like me, who have experience but are new to the rangefinder.

There is a wealth of information and experience among the many members of this forum that I have personally benefited from, and I for one am grateful for those who take the time to give answers and share their work.
 
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I agree Gregory. I think forums are by far the most helpful resource for much of the learning process, from the technical to exposure to more philosophical discussions.

But when things enter the more subjective intangible areas, is the wealth of opinion a bad thing? Does a photographer at some point have to go it alone to find their own feet?
 
Bobfrance said:
That was a quick reply Matthew - taking time out from shooting? ;)
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Unlike some interweb celebrities, I don't shoot film all day every day. ;) I am, however a working professional.

I stand by my assertion that RFF and contemporaries are a distraction as opposed to an independent development medium. I know this and other sites of its ilk are a (sometimes welcome) diversion.
 
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I'd say it all depends on the user. It can be incredibly useful or an incredible waste of time (and money.)
I've learned tons about different types of gear, which has helped me refine the tools that I use for my photography. and it's wonderful to see some great work being done by other photographers.
But you can certainly get caught up in the gear buying and selling - almost to the point where you forget what the gear is really used for.
 
If it were'nt for this forum, it is highly likely that I would not have gotten a Leica or evolved into shooting MF, and I'd just be shooting Nikon SLR's. A lot of information is available in this forum, but the key is to filter and process all the info in a manner that leads to personel growth.

As an artist, I spend a lot of time working alone, but having a sense of community, a voice and many like minded friends does help make me a better photographer. Even though I live in NYC, an art center, its really great to interact with others, because doing the work is isolating.

Over the past two years, I have become a much better shooter and advanced my skills a lot. For me, a lot of inspiration and ideas come from this forum; and I have experimented in ways that otherwise would not have been possible, or would have taken longer to develope.

Cal
 
back alley said:
think about what it was like BEFORE the internet and forums...
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Good point, Joe, we had to rely on ad-heavy magazines or some books. Local clubs were OK too.

Forums are good to a point but can get redundant quuickly. Fortunately RFF has enough variety of talent to keep the interest level up.
 
I think forums can be quite helpful, and not, depending on what threads you choose to read. I many times read threads that have nothing to do with improving my photography but that are interesting to me, or that give me a chuckle. On the other hand I have been helped a great deal by other threads, such as those dealing with film developing. I've picked up some tricks and tips that have not only increased my enjoyment of photography but which have also improved many aspects in terms of quality.

It is what you make it.
 
I don't think they've really helped me grow as a photographer, but I do find them an interesting distraction.

I have learnt what CLA stands for though, and how important it is that every used camera I purchase undergoes one. :rolleyes:

John
 
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