Networking at photography conferences has played a big role in making professional connections for photographer and photographer’s assistant Erin DeGroot. She recently sat down with Nikki Closser on The Portrait System Podcast to share her tips for networking and relationship building in business.

De Groot’s main piece of advice while networking at conferences is to “go in mindfully and intentionally — that you’re going to connect with the people who resonate with you the most.” DeGroot doesn’t advocate for trying to meet as many people as possible but rather suggests, “you can develop quality relationships versus quantity.” DeGroot recommends finding out what people need in their businesses as a way to build connections that are both personal and can lead to profitable partnerships. In addition to meeting in person at conferences, DeGroot also recommends networking in online communities like The Portrait System and other photographer groups.

Hear more networking tips from DeGroot in her podcast appearance — The Value a Photographer’s Assistant Brings. In the Q&A below, she shares how she knew photography was the field for her, advice for new photographers, her inspiration, and how she sees her business growing.

Most artists had a point in their life when they knew this was meant for them. Do you have that moment?  

When women began approaching me to let me know that my self-portrait work had resonated with them and helped them feel less alone in their own experiences, I knew I wanted to keep exploring that aspect of my art. There is something deeply therapeutic about taking the nebulous emotions that linger around a memory and creating an image out of that feeling, especially when others can then view it and make their own interpretations based on their lived experiences.  

For someone starting out on their photography journey what advice would you have for them?  

Don’t get caught up in comparison. Community over competition. Don’t spend too much time or money on gear. Any digital camera made in the last 10 years is more than sufficient. Get a simple kit together and then get very comfortable using it so you can focus on the things that will have a far bigger impact on your quality of work, like lighting and posing. The best gear in the world won’t make up for shortcomings in those two areas. Also, set up systems and workflows from the beginning so you aren’t drowning or disorganized once you start booking clients. The 12 Month Startup on The Portrait System is a great place to start figuring this stuff out.  

What fellow artists in the industry do you gain the most inspiration from?  

I am deeply inspired by Brooke Shaden. She creates dark, surreal, thought-provoking self-portraits and has built a solid business selling her fine art work as well as mentoring other artists. Plus, she’s just a really incredible human.  

Another artist that has had a huge influence on me is Francesca Woodman. I am obsessed with the haunting imagery she produced during her too-short life and career.  

How has The Portrait System changed your life for the better?  

I joined The Portrait System in January 2017 and immediately dove into the program. I attended my first in-person event later that Spring, where I met a handful of people who have become some of my dearest friends. The community and connections I have made over the years have not only benefited my professional life but have also deeply enriched my personal life. Additionally, the self-value work has challenged me and made me a healthier, stronger person.  

Where do you see your business in the next 5 years?  

On the photography side, I have a couple of projects in the works that blend self-portraits, documentary images, and the written word that I hope to complete and eventually publish.  

For the production and assisting aspect of what I do, I plan to continue to collaborate with photographers and creatives to produce impactful events that reflect their unique voice in the industry. We all have something special to give back, and I love helping photographers create events that make an impact on their clients and attendees. 

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