How to choose the right photography mentor (no expensive workshop needed)

If you're serious about improving your photography, at some point you'll consider a mentor. But how do you know if it's right for you, and how do you pick the right one? Here's what I've learned.

There’s a big myth that you have to go on expensive workshops to improve your photography

In reality, many workshops are little more than photographic tours that visit nice locations. Guides are on hand to help and give technical advice where necessary. But the emphasis is usually on the location rather than improving your photography. In addition, the leaders have to deal with a number of photographers. Personal time is often highly limited.

And, of course, most workshops are expensive.

My biggest learnings have always been in a 1-2-1 situation

It is really valuable when I receive honest feedback on my work, both what works and also where I could improve. And the biggest steps forward in my creative journey have often been when someone gives me a route forward. Or simply gives me permission to work on what I may have been scared of trying out.

That’s where a photography mentor comes in

A good photography mentor will give you all of the above. They will also give to ideas for the right way to take your creative journey forward. Also, if you need, they will keep you accountable and make sure you progress.

What is a photography mentor?

A photography mentor will work with you on a personal basis and help you achieve what you want for the next stages of your creative photography journey. Importantly, they should help you with your vision rather than just your technical skills.

Some require you to travel and work with them onsite. I work online. This means that you spend less time travelling and can make work where you choose. And you receive a recording of our call so you can revisit again rather than having to take notes during the session. It also means that I can work with people from all around the world. And it keeps your costs down.

Not all photography mentors are the same

Some photographers produce excellent work. But that does not mean that they are good at teaching or mentoring or giving feedback. Sometimes these skills matter more than technical ability.  I have delivered training courses to many clients over many years and have trained to be a brain friendly trainer. I am just as careful about how I teach as I am about what I teach. 

Here are five practical guidelines to choosing the right photographic mentor

• Be very clear about what you are looking for. I always ask people to send me an email that outlines this before the call
• Understand exactly what you are paying and what you are receiving. Does the price include any work before the call or any follow up services?
• Be sure that they approach photography in the same way as you. This doesn’t mean that they have to have the same photographic style as you. Instead, it means that they work with the same mindset. For instance, I am probably not going to be the right fit for someone who values technical skills above all else.
• Ask for testimonials. Written testimonials are good but if you are planning to spend a significant amount of money then it is always worth asking if you can speak with a previous client. I was a little surprised when I tried this and spoke to one client who said how little they had gained from working with their mentor and that they would not recommend them!
• If you plan to work with someone over a longer period, try a single call before committing, just to make sure that the fit is right.

Working with a photography mentor can make a huge difference to your photography

The right person can inspire you and encourage you to produce work that you will be proud of. They should be able to help you with the art of seeing. 

Just remember to do some research and to make sure that you choose someone with whom you believe that you will have a good relationship. That is so much more important than choosing someone who produces exactly the sort of work that you want to create.  

Often working in this way can be so much more satisfying than that expensive photography workshop.

If you’ve been thinking about photography mentoring but aren’t sure, a quick call can often help

I’d be happy to speak to anyone who is thinking about mentoring. This way you can work out if mentoring is right for you and if I am the right person to work with. Just use the contact form here: https://theworldofmattparker.com/pages/contact

Remember, I work with people online from all around the world.

I’d love to hear from you!