The Ohio Group Shoot

Ordinarily, I use this space to editorialize. Lately, there has simply been too much to say, so I've taken something of a break. You reach a point when it's not editorial, but preaching. Recently though, I had the opportunity to see grass roots networking in action in our little alternative community, and I saw what can be accomplished if just a few like-minded people work together.

On June 11th, 2005, I was witness to a rather unique event. The Ohio Group Shoot was held in Columbus Ohio, organized by Lady Atropos and attended by amateur and professional photographers alike from all over Ohio and from points as far away as Windsor Ontario, and Virginia.

The Group Shoot was an all day long event, that allowed people with all levels of experience to meet and work together. It's an interesting idea, and I've seen it done before, but its always a little different and the results vary from unimpressive to incredible. In many ways, its the concept of RetroKitten extended into the third and fourth dimensions of space time.

For those of you that know me, I don't consider myself a photographer. I'm an amateur hobbyist, who manages to capture one great photo out of every one hundred I take. This is an average that I'm happy with, and to be honest, I would have said that the group shoot might be able to experience that same average. From the work that I've seen posted so far, the average is much higher.

So was it a success? I think that depends on who you ask. With the Group Shoot, as in all things, we often take away what we put into it. People were a little shy about approaching or working with others. There wasn't really an organized way to meet people, etc, but these are all little complaints. For some people I met, this was a wonderful opportunity. For others, it was a colossal waste of time. In the end, I personally think this was a great event. Beyond the simple photography that took place, a much greater service was provided. That of networking. Many people who didn't know each other, now do.

There are so many people, even in our community, who think that simply the idea is enough. Unfortunately, it takes more than just a good idea. It takes action to make that idea a reality and the drive to carry it to fruition. Hard work pays off, and there is no easy path, but for those willing to walk the distance, for those who know where they want to get, there is satisfaction in every step taken. For many people, this was just one of those steps.

If you would like to take a look at some of the images captured, be sure to check out the Ohio Group Shoot Gallery. While you are looking at the photos, think about what you can do. The largest flood starts with a single drop of water.

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