20 Communities for Photographers to Connect and Grow (Online and IRL)
Whether it’s through portfolio reviews with industry insiders or long-term mentorship opportunities, being part of a community of photographers, curators, and editors can nourish your career and enrich your practice. That’s why we put together this list of communities, associations, and clubs worth knowing about, from ultra-casual online chat groups to long-standing professional organizations.
Sarah Meister, the Executive Director at Aperture, hosts this virtual book club, featuring Aperture titles as well as independent publications. “Each month, we invite you to join Sarah and an intimate group of artists, editors, designers, and writers to look at and learn from the most compelling photobooks in the field,” the team says. It’s free to sign up, and events take place on the last Wednesday of each month via Zoom.
American Society of Media Photographers (ASMP)
ASMP has been a go-to resource for photographers for decades, helping to foster connections through chapters and events throughout the United States. Membership fees run from $45 to $335 per year and offer tons of benefits, including access to experts who can advise you on any business or legal questions relating to your work. They offer courses on starting a business, practicing anti-racism, protecting your copyright, understanding NFT basics, and more.
National Press Photographers Association (NPPA)
NPPA has been a leader in photojournalism for more than 75 years, representing approximately 5,000 members. “Our mission is to advocate for photographer rights and safety by providing workshops, seminars, and town halls, each with the intent of building community and amplifying voices,” the team shares. “We offer 24/7 legal counsel helping members navigate legal issues that arise while covering news events and other First Amendment issues.” Memberships are available across multiple tiers, starting at $75 annually, with benefits including discounts, job listings, educational resources, advice, support, and more.