Are you feeling stuck in your photography journey, unsure of how to take that next big leap? You’re not alone. In the latest episode of The Glow On… Podcast, we’re chatting about a topic that’s crucial for every aspiring photographer: how to choose the right mentor.

Let’s face it – the world of photography education can be overwhelming. With countless courses, workshops, and self-proclaimed gurus out there, how do you know who to trust with your precious time and hard-earned money? That’s exactly what we’re going to unpack today.

The Power of the Right Mentor

“You’re rewarded for what you DO … not what you dream of doing,” Charla reminds us in the podcast. This simple truth underscores the importance of finding a mentor who can guide you from where you are to where you want to be. But before you start your search, there are a few key steps you need to take.

1. The Art of Self-Reflection

Before you can find the right mentor, you need to know yourself. Honest self-reflection is the cornerstone of growth in any field, especially in a creative pursuit like photography. Ask yourself:

• What are my strengths and weaknesses?
• Where do I want to be in 18 months? In 5 years?
• What specific skills do I need to develop to get there?

2. Setting Clear, Achievable Goals

Once you’ve assessed your current position, it’s time to set some goals. But not just any goals – they need to be clear, specific, and achievable. As Jenn points out, “If you don’t have a goal, then you don’t know who you’re looking for.”

For example, instead of a vague goal like “improve my posing,” try something specific like “master large wedding party poses in under 15 minutes.”

3. Identifying Your Skills Gaps

With your goals in mind, take a hard look at the skills you need to develop. This step is crucial in finding a mentor who can truly help you grow. Are you struggling with lighting techniques? Business management? Client communication? Pinpoint these areas so you can seek out mentors who excel in them.

4. Creating an Action Plan

Now that you know where you want to go and what you need to learn, it’s time to create an action plan. This should include:

• Actionable steps towards your goals
• Realistic timelines
• Milestones to celebrate along the way

Remember, as Jenn advises, “Give yourself flexibility and adaptability.” Your plan should be a guide, not a rigid set of rules.

5. Building Your Network

Photography might seem like a solo pursuit, but success often comes through community. “Don’t be an island,” Jenn emphasizes. Networking with other photographers can lead you to potential mentors, collaborators, and lifelong friends in the industry.

Choosing Your Mentor: Red Flags and Green Lights

Now that you’ve done the groundwork, it’s time to start looking for a mentor. But how do you separate the wheat from the chaff? Here are some things to watch out for:

Red Flags:

• Promises of overnight success
• Lack of transparency about their own journey
• No verifiable credentials or portfolio

Green Lights:

• A proven track record in the areas you want to improve
• Transparency about their experiences, including failures
• A teaching style that resonates with you
• The ability to admit when they don’t know something

Remember, a great mentor isn’t just someone who’s achieved success – it’s someone who can effectively guide you on your unique path to success.

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The Importance of Community in Your Growth

While one-on-one mentorship is invaluable, there’s also immense power in being part of a supportive community of like-minded photographers. That’s where programs like In the Glow come in.

In the Glow: Your Photography Growth Accelerator

If you’re looking for a combination of expert mentorship and a supportive community, In the Glow might be just what you need. This exclusive community of photographers and solopreneurs offers:

• Access to upcoming Glowup challenges and monthly deep-dives
• Live Q&As with industry experts Charla & Jenn
• A supportive Facebook community
• Members-only in-person events
• Major discounts on additional educational content

But don’t just take our word for it. Here’s what Lauren Baker, one of our members, had to say: “Sharing a BIG win: I just booked my first ever 5-figure wedding collection and it’s with a planner I’ve been hoping to work with. 🙂”

Ready to accelerate your photography journey? Click here to learn more about In The Glow & join the waitlist! →

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Your Journey Starts Now

Choosing the right mentor is a crucial step in your photography journey. By following the steps outlined in this post – honest self-reflection, goal setting, identifying skills gaps, creating an action plan, and building your network – you’ll be well-equipped to find the guidance you need.

Remember, the key to growth is not just in finding a mentor, but in doing the work. So whether you decide to join In the Glow or seek mentorship elsewhere, commit to putting in the effort. Your future self (and your future clients) will thank you.