Manifesto
What good is a collective if rules are not established?
i. Never hinder another photographers progress; instead, further it.
In the wide world of photographers, there’s always someone that has done it better, faster, and longer than you. Conversely, there’s always someone who could use your advice. Answer their questions patiently, and with karma on your side, yours will be answered equally. Unless you’re mean about it.
ii. Leave no aspect of your camera unexplored
No matter if you have an entry level setup or the newest mega pixel-jammed professional body, explore each aspect of the camera with intrepid curiosity. Leave no menu unturned. Knowing your camera intimately lets you change your shutter speed from 1/320 to 1/200 on the fly.
iii. Follow the rules. Then make your own.
Rule of Thirds. Depth of field. Leading the viewer’s eye. Your grasp of fundamentals will make your pictures good. Knowing when to cast them aside will make your images great.
iv. Post Processing is a tool, not a crutch.
Though Photoshop is a powerful weapon, save yourself a hundred mouse clicks and just make sure that tree branch isn’t ruining your picture before pressing the shutter.
v. Shoot. And then shoot more. Then keep shooting.
Even the garbage frames may have gotten something you’ve missed at first glance.