“I learned that the right mentorship is capable of cementing our passions and giving us each an invaluable well to draw from until we click our final frame.”
Photo: 'Mentor Ron' Amsterdam 2010
There is a rich history of mentoring. In Homer's Odyssey, Mentor is a trusted friend to whom Ulysses leaves the care of his household when he departs for the Trojan War. Mentor was entrusted with the development and education of Odysseus's young son; he educated him in the ways of the world, providing the knowledge and support he required. Thus, Mentor's name – with a lower-case "m" – has passed into our language as a shorthand term for a wise and trusted counselor and teacher.
Acquiring a ‘photography mentor’ isn’t an easy task, yet it is truly rewarding and learning from the best always advances one’s study of photography. I strongly believe that mentorship is very important in all aspects of life, whether it be for business, education, sports, faith or personal. A mentor exchanges their own knowledge and experience; lessons they have learned first-hand. The ultimate payment of a mentorship is the exchange of knowledge.
My mentor is my most favorite photographer, he is my truest confidant, and has been my partner in business and in life for forty-six years. Not everyone can have a live-in mentor; but those I know who are experienced and passionate about photography are always willing to give of their time and share their knowledge.
When one finds a mentor that is right for them, the next step would be to determine what they want from their mentor (critiques about images, post production, lighting, or composition, etc).. Working with a photography mentor is inspiring, challenging and frustrating at times, but so rewarding. Also, being a ‘mentee’ has its responsibilities too. Being respectful of a mentor’s time, their critiques and the information they share is so important. Practicung the art of listening, having an open mind and being patient is the key to a successful mentor relationship. Most importantly, one should enjoy and have fun with the experience!
I have been a mentor and discovered that when teaching another person I sometimes find details that I didn't completely understand myself. I love mentoring; I learn more about myself, I get energized developing trust, creating personal relationships and observing the mentoring process and accomplishments. I have also been a mentee (professional and personally); I feel that there is no greater gift than to be the recipient of such generous good will of sharing time and knowledge. Being a photography mentee gives me a ‘personalized’ opportunity to acquire new skills and expertise; and to receive objective perspectives. Having a mentor has truly enhanced my knowledge and has continuously stirred my passion for photography.
I am a big believer in the pay-it-forward methodology – giving can be an even greater joy than receiving.
Mentor On!
. . . photography - the art of capturing life, culture, and humanity