Mentoring?

[One_Tall_Photog]

I'm not sure if this goes in General Discussion or NPPA, so please forgive me. Anyone here mentor, or have a mentor? I have been thinking about how I can get my shooting and storytelling stronger and better, and I thought about trying to find a mentor. Although I am not currently a member of NPPA, I did attend the workshop and talked to my chief about participating in the Quarterly Clip Contest. I also noticed that they have a mentoring program. Has anyone used this service? Is it worth it? I have been shooting for 6+ years and have seen my shooting improve from year to year, but I want to kick it up to the next level. How did you guys get to where you are today? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

[McColl]

OTP,

Having a mentor can be very helpful, especially if you're not seeing the level of career growth that you would like. Whether you do it in a formal program, such as the one that NPPA offers, or just as a naturally occurring exchange with someone you can learn from, I would encourage you to develop such a relationship.

The NPPA program will automatically point you to individuals who are close to you, are specialized in the type of photography you're interested in, and have at least 10 years of experience. You can also select your own mentor to contact from the database if you prefer. It's like anything, really... you get out of it what you put into it. I can tell you that the mentors who have signed up are volunteers who are more than willing to help out. Feel free to PM me if you have more specific questions.

Matt McColl
Co-chair, NPPA Mentor Program

[JOE TEPOSTE]

This can be different for others, but for me my mentor keeps me in line. And although it seldom happens he's there when I need help. You know those dark days where you have no clue why you do what you do. I met him when he came to my broadcasting class in high school I was a V.I.C.A member with his brother. When I came to his shop he helped me out and showed the ways of the NPPA photog, everything I do and every technique I use with my shooters reflect on his teachings. Why do I have the urge to watch Star Wars huh?