Photography Community

A challenge of learning any new skill set is one of access to information.  I remember the amount of time, energy and money I spent obtaining my Engineering Degree and while it was the single best investment I have ever made, it highlighted the cost of obtaining knowledge.  

Hobbies work the same way.  Regardless of what you choose to enjoy, it will cost you time and possibly money to learn how to follow your hobby.  With Photography we have a wonderful group of people who are happy to help.  All you need to do is reach out and ask.

Here are some of the places I have used to some information and have found the people associated with them to be very friendly.  This is not an all encompassing site, and does not include the pay for education sources available.  

Facebook Group:
Vintage Camera Collectors is a great source of wonderful information.  I used to log into FB once a week and since joining this group I have been going in everyday to get my fix on cameras.  Very friendly, no trolls and a great source of information and people.

Olympus OM 35mm is dedicated to Olympus Cameras.  I happen to think that the OM-1 is one of the best cameras ever made and these people tend to agree.  Thanks to them I spent the money to buy a 85mm f/2 lens which is one of the best lenses I have seen.  It rivals and surpass some of my better Zeiss glass.  

Websites:
Pinhole Photography is an awesome site!  Everything you need to know about Pinhole Photography can be found here.  Reach out and they are happy to help!

Most recently I found Mike Eckman Dot Com site.  I sent Mike a question regarding a new vintage camera I bought and he came back with the solution very quickly.  The site is filled with great reviews, something I should learn how to do.  The reason his reviews stand out is that he goes into the history of many of the cameras.  Clearly a knowledgable guy who is willing to help out.

35hunter is a site that is great feed for your muse.  I use it less for knowledge gathering and more to get inspired.  I love that they challenge what a 'good picture' is.  So they are not afraid to cut people's heads off or other supposed no-no.  Sometimes they miss but more often then not, they nail some amazing shots.  

Forums:
Photocamel.com is a great site.  I have been a member for years and get a great deal of support from the community there.  Most of the support is digital related but still a great place to go.  

Film and Darkroom User....ok these guys are AMAZING.  They support all analog photography.  The only drawback is that they are in the UK and many of their events are UK focused.  They have a system where you can exchange darkroom prints with other hobbyists which gives you an avenue to get some critiques or just share your work with people who appreciate it.  

​While not a complete lis, these are my main go to site for information and inspiration.