Networking with local photogs - isn't that the "competition" though?

[fofazoju]

I have always heard that it is good business practice to network and to do so with local photographers but I do question this.

How do you go about doing this? Aren't they the "competition"? I am not sure the idea behind it. I'm not saying I disagree with it (at all). I am just not sure I understand the point of it. You wouldn't want them "copying" your ideas and similarly, I am sure the feeling is mutual.

I don't know. Why is it good to network with locals?

[Niresangwa]

I don't really "network" with others around here. I have a few who're 'friends' on FB, but that hardly counts... I have a feeling they just added me to keep an eye on what I was doing etc. I really don't have any interest in joining some Mutual Admiration Society.

Having said that, I did somehow fall into an unspoken referral system with two others in the area, which I initiated both times by replying to an inquiry, BCCing them and lining their site to the client.

Lo and behold, in short order it became a very beneficial way to pick up clients. I assume it's mutually beneficial, as they continue to send people my way, though beyond those referrals, we've never talked or emailed.

I'm sure some people enjoy the networking however, sharing locations and stories and generally just b!tching about the job and client-zillas. Just not for me, for good or bad.

[kingpatzer]

If you compete fairly and honestly, then they are your community and there's great fun and benefit to being well integrated into that community.

Which is better, having a dozen friends who you can call on if you're sick to find someone to cover a gig and share the profit with, or having to call the Bride at the last minute and cancel?

Which is better, having all of your 'competitors' sending customers and leads your way when they have the date booked, or never getting such referrals because they think you're a snob?

Which is better, having a ton of folks you can go borrow a piece of odd gear from if you need it, or having to rent every one-off specialty gear item you need?

Which is better, having a network of people to help and support you and your business, or being entirely on your own?

Yes, they compete against you in the market space you serve. But you know what, either the market is there to support all of the people serving it or the market is not there. The only issue is if the market is too small. If it is too small, instead of being antagonistic towards your competition, you need to demonstrate greater value to your potential customers. Being a pariah to your community won't do that in any way.

[scootermcq]

1. Mutual referrals on days they are already booked.
2. Qualified 2nd shooters when needed (if both parties willing)
3. Coverage if you are sick

[andyw]

Originally Posted by fofazoju

I have always heard that it is good business practice to network and to do so with local photographers but I do question this.

How do you go about doing this? Aren't they the "competition"? I am not sure the idea behind it. I'm not saying I disagree with it (at all). I am just not sure I understand the point of it. You wouldn't want them "copying" your ideas and similarly, I am sure the feeling is mutual.

I don't know. Why is it good to network with locals?

Yes they are the "competition". They can also be your best source of news, leads, assistance, friends, ideas etc etc ad nauseum.

[lonni]

The idea behind networking is pretty much to keep your self in the know, its a great knowledge base and support system. It can help you figure out the market, tech, new ideas etc .as well as leads etc. You learn pleanty from other professionals as well, we are always learning.

Most photographer are not going to steal your ideas,that is unprofessional, but they will comiserate and offer ideas about tough situations, grumpy customers, pricing etc, oh wait.... that sounds a bit like here right? Well what do you know you are networking.

I keep in touch with fellow photographers and feed customers if i dont want the job to some one i know will be right for it, we also use each other as sounding boards and brain storming. Often an idea will grow and we will colaborate on personal projects, which i thouraghly reccomend, you learn heaps.

[Jim Bryant]

Networking is good and can be fun. For all the reasons above.
I get jobs from some photographers and also send work their way, when I'm busy.
It's a scratch my back and I'll scratch yours deal. We have gotten together on occasions over beers and talked about how we bid and approach a job. I don't do this for all photographers, only the ones, who are established and not afraid of sharing tips that will benefit the group.

[candleman]

If i'm booked and have en enquiry, I send them referral.
I in turn have had referrals back too. So it's a win-win

Why?
because one day when i'm deathly sick, and cant shoot.. I'll be calling to them to help.

Not all are OK, photographers move in circles and cliques too.
There are some i talk to and support, and others I consider to be full of sh*t and I avoid them.

Not every photographer is competition.
photographic styles are different,
pricing is different
business images are different.. not every Wedding is the right one for me and I know that.. so there is plenty of room in the market for others to fill those gaps.

[bhursey]

I have found it very useful to network with photographers in my area. We help each other, and it seems we are able to share work with each other. It is very nice being able to say hey Jim can you be my second shooter at a wedding next year and them willing to help out. You know what they can do and what they have to offer. Same way with me I will help them with shoots of they need it. It also has helped in regards to equipment I borrowed a set of reflectors from another photographer on my last shoot worked great....

[Jim Poor]

The more you share, the more you get back - generally. You have to be wise and know who the "takers" are as opposed to the "sharers."

I run a group that is by invite only and pretty strictly limited by a set of requirements for membership as well as a willingness to share. It's going pretty well so far.