Llorekeeper's List: PhotoGuestSpeaker

"I am saying that guest speakers, workshops and specialized advise dealing with specific technical issues might be a reason to seek out advice or when a guest lecturer has come in to speak of his or her experiences, as I did at the Orleans School of Photography in France. Do your research. Read, experiment, take tons of photos inspire yourself and grow as a human. Build up your vocabulary in all disciplines and your life shall be richer as a result. It has been proven that the greater the vocabulary the richer ones life. Take a deep breath and do what comes naturally. If you get stuck creatively, take a short break. If you need some technical advice, just ask questions."

From my experience being a mentor, we've found it works best if the mentoring also involves a good chuck of field time. It can be difficult to find that kind of arrangement outside of some amateur groups and camera clubs. That can be fine, but there are other paths if you really want to take your work to the next level. I tell people skip the urge to buy all types of new gear, and take a workshop or three.