Re: [Leica] ASMP questions

[Donal Philby <donalphilby@earthlink.net>]

Mary & Stan Kephart wrote:

> Are any of you out there members of ASMP?  Do you find it
> helpful?--worth the cost??

Several, Mary.  Worth the cost depends most, I think, on the local
chapter.  For a while I was wishing I could ONLY be a member of the
local chapter, since I disagreed strongly with national politics and
decisions.  The best part is the local connections.  Many people I can
call up and ask questions, borrow gear, have a beer with, etc.  Also,
when traveling, I have looked up local member and asked advice on labs,
assistants, etc.  And I have had people call me to return the favor.

It is the only organization doing serious representation of
photographers in Washington.  PPofA throws in a few bucks and makes
claims, but they really don't care.  APA I don't know. The chapter in LA
is very strong, more than ASMP, and a better bet if you are an
advertising shooter.  I find that I have more in common with NPPA
members, frankly, who talk more about the stories they are involved with
rather than how much a day rate they are getting.  

We recently had the ASMP national meeting (the Biennial) here in San
Diego and I was in charge or organizing all the speakers.  It was
wonderful to chat with people from around the country, people whose work
I have admired, or not.  One thing I heard again and again:  we're all
in the same boat, struggling along, loving what we do, pissed at
business conditions, willing to learn, often lonely for company while on
the road, full of stories.

I would attend a few meetings of local chapter(s).  Then try APA in NY.
Or NPPA.  See where you are comfortable.  

donal
- -- 
Donal Philby
San Diego
www.donalphilby.com