Jim Lennon wrote:
I am one who joined the list for the purpose of learning (so I am what some derisively call a "lurker"). At present, I don't have the knowledge or experience to answer anyone's digital questions. My background in this general area is split between 20 years of magazine publishing and 15 years of photography.
I think I read that this thread will be closed on Monday. Thought I'd weigh in before it is too late:
I, too have been guilt of lurking - only occasionally posting. I used to monitor the digest version to get a compilation of the topics of the day, but have switched because I enjoy the occasional banter that is tossed in around the great information. Generally, by the time I've read the posts, the subject has been pretty well beaten into submission. If not, I'll contribute what I can, when I can
Jim notes his experience above - mine is similar - 30 years in graphic design, and over 25 years as a commercial photographer. (yes, it is possible to marry the two disciplines, a BS in visual communication with areas of concentration split between photography and graphic design did the trick for me - and 25 years of running a successful design firm and commercial studio wrapped into one organization rounded off the rough corners.
The main thing that keeps me pursuing this avenue of work after so long is the requirement that I learn something new nearly every day. The forums I monitor help in that. The clients I serve require that I know a little about what they do as well - and that keeps the flow of information coming at sometimes an alarming rate.
Having gone digital in our studios over 6 years ago now, and having pressed a digital workflow on the design side for a few years longer, I can tell you that sharing knowledge is the surest way to grow as a professional. If you lose a few clients to those who gleaned something from you, so be it - there are more out there where they came from. Go find them - the experience will benefit both you and your business.
Professionals and amateurs alike sharing information and experiences allow everyone who participates at whatever level to achieve higher goals and better images.
The concept that amateurs have little to share with this group is way off the mark. Most of the major developments in the history of photography were introduced by what we would call amateurs today. Mannes and Godowsky - the inventors of Kodachrome were, as I recall, professional musicians and amateur chemists to cite just one example.
Over the years, I've found that for every problem there is a whole range of solutions available - some good, some bad, but it's always a good idea to know more than one way to skin a cat. That's not to say that seeking answers in the archives first should be required of everyone seeking specific information.
For my part - this forum should stay the way it is - I look forward to the unwieldy block of emails that filter into the folder on my desktop labeled Pro-dig.
-- Jeff Smith
Smith/Walker Design and Photography
P. O. Box 58630 Seattle, WA 98138 ph: 253-872-2111 fx: 253-872-21400
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