Why Your Work Deserves Community And A Space To Flourish
Sometimes we’re a bit too close to our work to see what others see. Sometimes we doubt our validity, or fear that our work isn’t up to par. Just because we feel those things, that doesn’t mean they’re true.
The best way to break out of that mindset? Talk about it. Seriously! Pull it out of the dark and into the light.
Your work deserves to be discussed and everyone needs support to shine! It’s time you stop storing your passion in a camera bag in your closet and start giving yourself space to grow.
IT TAKES A VILLAGE
Whether it’s connections through networking, a second set of eyes on an edit, or moral support when you’re in the clutches of imposter syndrome- the importance of a community can’t be stressed enough.
Think of some of your favorite big artists. Though their name may be stamped on their work, they wouldn’t be where they are without support from those that they surround themselves with. Not to mention the constructive criticism they received from trusted eyes that helped sculpt them into who they are.
A secret reward for being a part of a community? You get to share your knowledge and support with others! There’s nothing better than watching someone grow as an artist and witnessing their craft transform over time.
Photo from Alex Mendi’s “La Ilusión de Permanencia” exhibit. Photo by Evelio Castillo.
2. Your creativity is precious
Ever tried working on edits in a cramped, busy, and surprisingly noisy coffee shop? Nothing kills creativity faster than distractions.
Renting an hourly space for a shoot might fit the vibe visually, but sometimes shooting in a borrowed, rushed, or makeshift space can quietly drain your creativity. Plug the holes in the ship by identifying and limiting what drains your creativity.
Get visually distracted frequently? Try shooting in a private space that you’re familiar with.
Feel more inspired to work alongside others? Take up a residency at a studio or artist collective and let their creative energy fuel yours.
Need to change up your location to stay sharp? Plan ahead by prepping multiple stops in a photo walk, book multiple studios to change the vibe, or make it a point to step outside for some fresh air every now and again.
Photo by Selah & Bloom.
3. client perceptions matter
It’s time you treat your work like it’s the real deal. Scrambling to find an indoor space to sneak in some frames or post up at a friend’s aesthetic home is a quick way to feel out-of-place or out of control of your photoshoot’s environment.
Clients also notice this! If it’s a casual shoot with a friend it might be no big deal, but if it’s a client that found and booked you on their own, they’ll likely feel even more out of place when they sense your discomfort in the environment.
Instead, honor your creative process and your client’s need for comfort by having your own studio space. And I know, I know, that’s much easier said than done. But whether it’s a spare room in your own home, a frequented hourly rental studio, or studio membership like our Wonderland Society, your client will be more likely to see you as the professional that you are.
Plus! Clients are more likely to book another session with you or refer you if they know they can return to the same studio they’ve grown accustomed to.
Even should they choose to shoot outside, they can rest easy knowing the studio is always available as a back-up rain plan. It serves as a great “home base” to start and end the shoot at as they’ll have easy access to a dressing room, bathroom, and water to stay hydrated!
4. You deserve to play
When we pay per hour to rent a studio, we’re less likely to book a session to just play around with the lights, try some self-portrait photography, or push ourselves out of our comfort zone.
But the important thing is— play is a vital part of the process. You’re more likely to discover new ideas, techniques, or tricks when you remove the pressure of performance for a client. There’s no need to feel embarrassed if the new lights you’re trying aren’t doing quite what you wanted. Instead, you have the space to breathe and play around until your practice meter feels full.
Ultimately and truthfully? If we’re not having fun when we’re engaging with our passions, then what are we even doing it for?
What drew you to your craft initially? If you’re feeling disconnected, lean into that and allow yourself to discover, rather than control.
Photo by Kristin Marie Photography.
If you’re local to Savannah and looking for a community of creatives and/or a space to engage with your craft, definitely check out our Wonderland Society! We’re the only co-creating studio around and we’re member-focused, dedicated to fostering a collaborative community that puts creativity first.
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Yes, it’s really unlimited. Book your studio(s) ahead of time and rest easy knowing you’ve got a clean, creative space to work your magic.
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Free workshop tickets, a community of passionate fellow entrepreneurs, and a complimentary business coaching session. Need we say more?
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Settle into a studio or common area for co-working or editing, network with local photographers and artists, and make new friends that are just as eager to see you succeed as we are!
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Book a studio to batch social media content, host clients, or use your yearly event booking to exhibit your work! (Podcast studio coming soon!)
