Back in the day, actually not that long ago, there were plenty of opportunities for models, photographers, MUAS, hair stylists, wardrobe stylists and designers to network, build their portfolios and just have a good time! The Atlanta Photography Guild, held regular get togethers at the Elliott Street Pub and later at the Goat Farm. There were also Meet & Clicks, Meet & Shoots, and several others opportunities to grow your network. I met a lot of people at those gatherings, I'm still friends and work with quite a few.
The image above was taken at the Photoplex in 2016. The model was, Sarah Murphy, at the time known as "Sarah With an H". She and several other models, brought elaborate costumes and props, while others just wore whatever style they were the most comfortable with. The studio would supply the space and lighting and would sometimes provide themed setups. Occasionally, there would be themed speakers, including experienced models and photographers sharing their experiences, equipment, portfolio building and sometimes providing demonstrations. One had a lawyer speak to discuss copywrite issues, model releases, and the rights of models and photographers.
These are largely unpaid events. I know everyone wants to get paid and I respect that. However, like any business you have to market yourself. I know a lot of you show your work on social media, but nothing beats face to face interactions. I've said this a thousand times, and it upsets people, but it's a fact, modeling and photography are commodities. There are a million models and photographers out there. I've met some incredibly gorgeous models out there and after a short conversation I knew we wouldn't be a good fit. Conversely, there are others I met at these events, that weren't models at all. They were just attending to support a friend who was a model. I asked them if they'd like a few pictures and they not only became models, they became long time friends.
I know there are a few organizations around that offer free or low cost get togethers like Pexels, ATL Shooters, and Beers and Cameras. You should definitely check them out. I've also had discussions with a local studio about putting something together. If you'd be interested in attending let me know.
The image above was taken at the Photoplex in 2016. The model was, Sarah Murphy, at the time known as "Sarah With an H". She and several other models, brought elaborate costumes and props, while others just wore whatever style they were the most comfortable with. The studio would supply the space and lighting and would sometimes provide themed setups. Occasionally, there would be themed speakers, including experienced models and photographers sharing their experiences, equipment, portfolio building and sometimes providing demonstrations. One had a lawyer speak to discuss copywrite issues, model releases, and the rights of models and photographers.
These are largely unpaid events. I know everyone wants to get paid and I respect that. However, like any business you have to market yourself. I know a lot of you show your work on social media, but nothing beats face to face interactions. I've said this a thousand times, and it upsets people, but it's a fact, modeling and photography are commodities. There are a million models and photographers out there. I've met some incredibly gorgeous models out there and after a short conversation I knew we wouldn't be a good fit. Conversely, there are others I met at these events, that weren't models at all. They were just attending to support a friend who was a model. I asked them if they'd like a few pictures and they not only became models, they became long time friends.
I know there are a few organizations around that offer free or low cost get togethers like Pexels, ATL Shooters, and Beers and Cameras. You should definitely check them out. I've also had discussions with a local studio about putting something together. If you'd be interested in attending let me know.
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