Jen Bebb
Without a doubt, DWF was one of the smartest investments that we made in our business. Your head will explode with the amount of knowledge that is just behind the curtain...explode!
Dave Cheung
It's not hype. This is the real deal.
I would probably still be shooting film and struggling to charge more than $2000 for a wedding if it weren't for this fabulous forum.
David A. Williams
Membership fee? Puleeeeassse! I got my value out of that amount the first time I connected.
Chris Crawford
DWF has been the best thing that I came across for my career. It actually frightens me thinking about what if I hadn't come across it..... It's completely changed my life in the 10 months I've been a member. I've met some amazing people made life long friends my knowledge has shot up and it's given me the confidence to think more like a pro.
I'm not made of money I work full time in a fairly mundane job to pay the mortgage and feed my wife and kids so really like everyone else I would rather not pay. But believe me I will beg borrow and sell a body part to renew my subscription here because the people and resources are so important.
Knowledge is power as they say. I would not be where I am today had it not been for DWF and that is fact, as I say it actually scares me to think where I would be right now had it not been for people here.
Bobster
Just checked out DWF U, fantastic!, I was debating about going to the Pro side for a while, yes this has given me the push to go that extra yard, ya get what ya pay for! as togs we should know this. Online vids and help from the top guys in town, is gotta be worth it.
For me it's a new year, fresh start, in the UK the financial climate is very bad at the moment, I'm a year into this and still struggling big time with bookings, but I'm so in love with photography I know it will come eventually, any help I can get, I take with open arms.
Seminars are mega expensive and cashflow is limited, this forum has already provided hours of informative reading for me, much to my wife's annoyance!! I'm here for the long haul hopefully, fingers crossed I'll get there, so I for one will be subscribing.
David Pearce
It is simply insane to think that that amount of money is too much to pay for what is on offer. I would pay $100 a month and I am sure many others would too. $6 - if you cannot afford that then you should not even be in start as you are way off being a pro. Being a pro is not only about the quality of your work it is about your equipment. Not how good it is but how much you have. 3 bodies minimum, assortment of lenses, computers, back up drives etc. The list is endless. If you cannot afford $6 a month then how will you pay for a new spindle of DVD's or back up hard drive? Jeez - it cost far more in fuel to drive to a local wedding than that! It is the price of a coffee!
Perhaps you will do your own accounting as well instead of paying someone £50 a month to do it for you and SAVE you money. DWF is a business expense as well and deductable.
I needed someone to cover for me last year. 3 weddings had been sorted in about 30 minutes from superb shooters. No money can pay for that friendship all made on here.
No money in the UK? Well I will tell my clients who have just wired over £1700 to my account for an album UPGRADE that. I leant how to get that sort of money from threads in the Pro side of DWF.
Professional education is not free. If you really are unable to see the value that DWF brings then you will not likely to survive in business. Best stick to the amateur forums and learn amateur techniques. I prefer to learn the professional ones....
Andrena
If I had known about this forum in the early days of my wedding career, it would have saved me a lot of trial and error.
Lou Korell
I never realized before that as a poster put it above, I haven't picked up a photo magazine since joining DWF. The info available here is way more useful. Just taking one section - gear & software. I always used to look at the photo magazines for info on the latest gear. Either it is way behind the release of the gear or way to early to get anything but a promotional blurb. Even then the gear is never honestly reviewed.
Here on DWF actual pro photographers in the field are using the cutting edge gear in real world situations and reporting back in great detail about the quality and quirks of almost everything out there you could consider using for shooting weddings, portraits, etc. For a lot less than subscribing to a bunch of magazines, you can get better access to info.
And that's only one small category - but an important one for us.
Elizabeth Ann
Purchasing a Pro membership is like opening a bank vault and having all that wealth at your disposal. I've found information there that I now use each and every day in my business. You just really have no idea how much there is until you see it. Then you'll wonder why you didn't upgrade sooner.
And, yes, the Hideout is another very good (and addictive) reason to pay the membership fee.
Paolo M
Best money I've ever spent on my business, PERIOD!
Mia
I think anyone that ask if PRO is worth it, they should be denied entrance!
Oh, wait! this is NOT the Hideout.
LOL!
It is worth it!
Humza Yasin
Actually I would respectfully say, don't invest in the Pro Account or the DWF... If you're asking this question then you've missed the mark.
You should be investing in yourself and your business.
The DWF is nothing more than a tool, like your camera, only this tool is not a unitasker like your camera, it is a multi-tasker (Thank you Chef Brown) and it can be used for art inspiration, information on album companies, networking and simply at times it can save your ass... How cool is it to have reps from some of the coolest album companies here, I know the owner of atleast five companies are on here (probably more) and have at times helped people out.
How cool is it to have folks like David Williams, peggy bair, rob rife and others who have been at this for a long long time give real world and rock solid advice to people just starting up.
How cool is the critique section where you can post (anonymously if you want) your work so others can critique you and give you constructive advice as well as a once in a while "pull your head out of your ass, genius!!!" reality check.
The positions available section let's you fill up any empty date you might have and actually put money back into your pockets. You can pick up paid second shooting gigs (if you want) and just one gig might give you 2X to 3X the money you paid for the membership..
Petra Hall
But I can tell you that joining this forum has not only given me many great friends, I've also grown a lot as a photographer and stepped up my game since I joined. I have also learnt a lot of stuff I can't find elsewhere, and not in threads like "tell me all you know about xxx" but small tidbits here and there that is increasing my workflow and technique.
If you want to grow and invest in your business, the price for the Pro is very cheap, and if you pay attention, read, ask and learn, you'll think nothing about the cost next year when it's time to renew.
Samantha DePoy-Warren
If you want to think in terms of dollars, if you join the PRO forum, you'll have access to available weddings that are posted. Say you charge $3000 for a shoot, the membership fee is paid for 30 times over if you book a wedding from a lead on the classified.
That said, the benefits extend far beyond the dollars...
Joe Hegyi
Absolutely worth it. I'm a relatively new pro member and I've already picked up a ton of information. The ideas I've gotten through several threads have already saved me more than 10x my membership fee.
Go for it!
Ed Taylor
This is one of those "Duh" answers.
Travis Hill
Creativity spawns Creativity. And there is a Ton of it on DWF.
Patricia Stuever
Yes, this is my 2nd go around.
Richard Gorremans
Well worth the price of admission. You get the occassional nut, but the crazies like Prevost and Timothy make up for it.
The information on available on the Pro side of the forum is unmatched (IMHO), the critiques are very honest and more often than not have excellent suggestions for how to improve, and the conversation side (people who are willing to help you improve your trade skills) is priceless.
One of the really cool things I found is the archives. It is really something to take someone (like Chuck Arlund) and read their history to see how they have changed and improved since joining DWF.
Steven Frischling
The information you can get from the DWF is unmatched in any photo community I have been a part of since 1993. There is much to be gained on the DWF.
From a networking stand point, direct referrals from photogs on the DWF has resulted in a few bookings for me , in both US and the UK. I have also referred weddings out, where I confirmed another DWF photog got the job a few times, in the US and one in France.
Well worth the money.
Chris Hoopes
What made me want to join was the fact that there is such a warmth to the community - a place where people ask questions and actually get honest opinions from many different viewpoints. How should I reply to this e-mail? What am I doing wrong? What is your opinion? The responses I've seen show how professional the people here are, as well as how receptive people have been to others who enjoy the same field of interest.
AmyPS
This is my very favorite forum to visit. It is mind boggling how willing everyone here is to help. I know that whenever I have a question, and most of mine are not "wedding" specific, I have an answer so fast I can hardly believe it. It astounds me to get expert help so quickly, with no "attitude" except for being supportive. I have such respect for the other photographers here, and the respect they all have for each other is clear immediately. When I joined, I was made to feel welcome right from the start and it has been consistent ever since. If there was one site that I would pay for, this is the one it would be. I can't begin to list the things I've learned here that would have taken me forever (or never) on my own. And not once has anyone made me feel that my questions are "dumb". I would not have improved as quickly as I am without DWF. I love DWF!
Owen Kassimir
The sharing of knowledge among members is the greatest benefit of the DWF. Whatever level of photography you are, you can be a contributor to this great forum. The exchange of ideas and answers to peoples problems that everyone gives without a second thought is what this forum is about. If you are only a taker then don't join. You have to be a giver of information. One who loves to teach. This forum is about learning and getting better at our craft. If all photographers were on the same playing surface, don't you think that everyone would benefit. I do!
Seth Kaye
The DWF provides access to resources I otherwise wouldn't have. The range of experience, expertise and business acumen on display daily by photographers of all levels is, for me, more than worth the price of admission.
This online community of, by and for photographic professionals is truely the best of its kind.
Richard Bublitz
The DWF was one of my resources when I started with digital photography 3-1/2 years ago. Today it is the only on-line resource I feel is worth the time I spend looking for information. I didn't think twice when the forum went to private membership and I find something new with every visit.
I have been totally digital with my studio portraiture for over two years now, and totally digital with my weddings for a little over a year. One of the businesses I network with recently told me that I was light years ahead of others in my area.
Tony Bisson
Many of the most talented and innovative photographic businesspersons that I know are right here on the DWF.
If a problem arises during my workday, I can start a post and move on to a different task. After 20 minutes or so, I check back and see that a group of people have posted their experience on the topic. I save so much time and money this way. I pay back the community with my own answers to a post when I have a solution.
I have made several friends through the DWF and have booked three weddings for 2004 through referrals from forum members.
I am a frequent contributor the forum and my participation continues to reward me day after day.
I would encourage any serious photographer to join the group, with the hope that they too would contribute and not merely lurk.
Rob Miracle
I've recently gotten back into wedding photography after a long absense. So many things have changed.
Its very hard to talk to a local photographer about starting up your own business since in the end, you will be their competition.
The DWF has given me access to a grand knowledge base of wedding photographers who ARE willing to help make me a better wedding photographer and a better businessman. I can now be inspired by the best. I can learn new techniques to improve my product and when I get in a bind, answers are minutes away, not hours or days.
This is one very special community!
Kevin Wilson
So many photographers striving for perfection; always an answer to your problem.
Sacha Hrabar
Simply put the DWF is an bottomless pool of amazing resources. Talented and inspiring people from all over the world collaborating to help each other on basically everything photography related. Aside from all of the connections you make with photograhers new and old, near and far you have this place you can turn at any hour with any dilemna and usually get it solved in hours (and many times minutes.) I have visited many photography forums and the biggest thing that keeps me coming back to the DWF is the professionalism, passion, and dedication to the job I find behind the posts. On other forums I've seen many people who claim to want to be wedding photographers because it seems to be this ideal glamorous job, but here I am surrounded by people who are serious about wedding photography and (from what I can tell) in it for all the right reasons.
David Murray
For a newcomer to wedding photography, DWF is a dream. The talent here is incredible. Yet that same talent is willing to share, guide and support without patronizing.
Kaye Helminen
After scouring the Internet for information on the ins and outs of wedding photography, I stumbled on the DWF. I soon discovered that this place has more information on wedding photography concentrated in one place than you will find anywhere. This forum is what made it possible for me to develop from stumbling amateur to a professional photographer..
Aside from the vast amount of information, DWF feels like a family. I cannot say enough about the people here – they are kind, helpful, and amazing people. I feel lucky to be a part of this.
James Hodgins
Over the years I have been an extremely avid forum participant, checking in everyday no matter where I was. Out of all the forums online at this moment, the most beneficial has been DWF. It's amazing how fast you become "one of the family", and start conversing with people from all over the world. I made my admission fee back in the first 20 minutes of joining.
Everything about my photography has changed, and changed for the better. The way I converse with my clients, present my images, my website, my shooting style, my digital techniques and my marketing have all been affeted by people on this forum. AND THIS IS A GOOD THING! I am still amazed at the amount of professionalism that is practiced on this open forum.
In my mind, one of the best photographic online resource in the world. |
Jesh de Rox
DWF is a wonderful place to network and learn from photographers around the world : ) i've met so many amazing friends here.
purely business wise - the investment has paid for itself many times over : )
Bruce L. Dorn
I feel that The Digital Wedding Forum is a model of what all cyber-communities should aspire to become...
The Digital Wedding Forum is a distillation of the finest that the Internet has to offer to the serious and dedicated Photographer.
No where else can you find the camaraderie, positive support, and up-to-the-second musings of the most enthusiastic shooters on the planet.
This does, however, come with a price. A membership fee, and the expectation that you, too, will be a positive and generous participant.
Opinions welcomed, and cheerfully debated. Attitude and anger? Please move along...
Brian Mullins
I also belong to a couple of free photography forums. While those forums are great, you also don't have very well known and respected photographers giving "lessons" on how to use bounce flash, PS weight reduction, etc. While you may get some tips on how to do things, it's almost always a text based walkthru and rarely does anyone take the time to walk you thru it, step by step, and "show" you what they are talking about.
Dennis Larkin
Now is a good time to consider a pro membership. The difference in price is worth it. 1 hour of overtime at a wedding pays for the year! AND you can pay with paypal! I haven't looked back since going pro.
R D Henderson
I made the switch to the pro side about six months ago - I can't begin to tell you how much it helped shape my desire to work harder and to really understand what that hard work would encompas. I honestly beleive the difference between those who think they could have and those who do it are those who invest in themselves. If I could I would spend 50 times more than DWF asks on my growth.
Scott Caffrey
So I did the 1 week free thing and within the first 2 days I had read a thread in the business section on marketing our business that had me changing my tune on the spot. What I learned in that one thread would have cost me much more in money and time to learn than the entire cost of the DWF pro membership. I never regretted it and now for information that is much more pertinent to what I do as a photographer I look to DWF. It is a resource that is worth the fees charged.
My thoughts are, if you are serious about being a wedding photographer, either part time or full time, then the fee for the pro membership is worth it. I saved more in one purchase with the member discounts than it cost to join. For those of you on the fence and serious about your business, this is an expense you shouldnt have any trouble with. I am actually happy that I wasnt accepted in the start section. My photography and my business is better because of it. If your serious about this then you business will be better by going ahead and joining the pro section as well.
Ginger
All I can say is "Thank goodness for DWF". If my friend has not told about this site last fall, I don't know where my business would be today!!!! If I wasn't a pro I would so totally pay the student fee. :-)
Norris Carden
Even if I don't consider the access to great minds and eyes inside, there's direct monetary savings abound.
A few months ago, one of the web site vendors offered a $150 discount at exactly the time I needed a new web site. I'm about to order some samples for my next show booth with a discount that I otherwise would not know about.
In my opinion, the amount invested in DWF provides a positive return even if I never ask a single question. Of course having access to the collaborative learning and sharing inside is worth the money all by itself.
Michelle Newell
3 Starbucks Lattes at $3.50/ea a week OR DWF Pro Membership.
Make your own lattes and buy the Membership! Has Starbucks infected the UK yet?!?!
You won't regret it! I just got mine about a month ago and can't even begin to tell you the oodles of info I've already learned that you miss out on just being a Start Member.
Paul Glavin
Best money I've spent ever.
There is so much information to take in, the Art and Portrait sections are a world of inspiration. You'd be mad not to!
James Burns
Your membership will pay for itself in the first month... I can pretty much guarantee it. The skills, knowledge and expertise that you've got available to you on pro is second to absolutely none.
Graeme Brown
No better way to spend your money in my opinion. Thanks to DWF I have met some fantastic people and learned more than I thought possible.
Rich Bahret
The first time you F something up or can't figure something out and you post looking for an answer and within 10 minutes you have it fixed.....Priceless! (Not that I ever F things up
Clive Blair
I can't same much more than what has already been said. But you ask what's unique? Everything is unique about DWF! Unlike some of the many other photo forums around (and we won't mention any names as it's not fair to pick on the likes of DPReview ) You'll find some of the world's greatest photographers on board and your well earned cash will tap you into how and why they shoot and work in the way they do, which will help your work come on in leaps and bounds.
Also, one day you'll have a problem and think "how do I solve that?" It may be to do with Photoshop, or what equipment should you buy? Your computer hard drive has just crashed with all your work now gone!!! What do you do?? How do you deal with those customers who don't pay on time? How do you get to the higher end brides? etc. Having probably hundreds of years of combined experience between us all, you're bound to find the subject already discussed and a quick search will produce the answer, or a quick post and you'll have your answer before you can say "Robert is your father's brother".
But to full benefit don't forget to share what you have, as nobody likes the lurkers who only take and never give back. We all have something to add, you'll be surprised what you know and how that may just be the right bit of info for someone at the right time, and it's great to be able to share and share alike.
So come on in the waters fine.
Nicole Miller
Benefits I've gotten from goin PRO:
great advice (duh!)
good recommendations on equipment, software, albums, etc etc etc
support and empathy when I was dealing with a difficult client
booked a job from the classifieds
technical help when I had a computer issue
met fellow local photogs
Josh Murray
You gain a ton of info on the forum and there are discounts available to you from vendors that basically makes the membership free if you take advantage of them.
Joe Ciarcia
It's $0.35 per day. No brainer.
Thea Dodds
Oh my god, yes. It's easily paid for itself in referrals and networking not to mention knowledge....Definitely the best return on investment there is in professional development.
see you behind the curtain...
Cole Bogar
I LOVE THIS PLACE!
Danielle Richards
As others have said--no brainer. I've been a member a little over a year now and have picked up a bunch of second-shooting opportunities and solo gigs as a direct result of this forum and networking with other DWF folks. IMO this is one of the best online communities going...the willingness to share is refreshing. I enjoy the support and exchange of information, and hope to give back as much as I've received.
Tao Zhang
yes and yes. yes, i said yes.
Carl Simpson
LOL, duh... Being a member here pays off in so, so many ways.
Nathan Simmons
My goal for 2008 is to post more, but there is SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO much info for me to learn from that I can add very little. As it's been said well worth the cost of admission
Stacie Lech
yes! for the information AND the friendships
.
Gill Taylor
DWF changed my life.
Yep, I do realise that is a very strong statement, but it is absolutely true.
I was sitting in my 'cubicle' in November 2006, I had shot 11 weddings solo at that time, at an average of $1000, when a new member of DWF, someone who had worked at the same company, told me about the DWF. I was hoooooked ! I paid my money and surfed to my heart's content.
During the winter down-time that followed, I took on board all sorts of advice and revamped my website, thought about my marketing, etc etc etc ... WEALTH of information ... I like to think I gave something back at this early stage, but that was probably only in the Hideout
Long story short. I went full time in July. I will finish this year on 24 weddings and a raft of other photography work I would not have been able to take on had I still been in employment, I have opened a town centre studio and have 20 weddings booked for next year, with bookings into 2009.
Can I say this all came about because of DWF? Partly. Partly DWF and partly me taking on board the relevant advice I got here.
Peggy Bair
I am a seasoned photojournalist who re-entered the market as a wedding and portrait photographer. I was looking for an informational board to discuss business and technical aspects regarding digital photography as it relates to weddings and portraits. I not only found what I was looking for but I also found truly professional behavior and demeanor in an online format -- a rare find in the cyber-world.
Jeff Greene
DWF has become my professional community. Having started my own wedding and portrait business 18 months ago I have progressed to the stage where I'm no longer losing money but making it.
I put much of my development down to knowledge gained from the wonderful members here. The discussion is always robust, always to the point and invaluable to my business. Sitting here working from home, there is always help just a few key strokes away.
David Guthrie
The DWF has helped me to develop my style as a photographer more than any other source of knowledge in over 30 years as a professional photographer.
Steve Barnhart
Thinking of a membership? Be careful - the DWF is addictive! Your family life may suffer from all the time you will spend plugged in to this community. You will find no end to the fountain of information contained within this site - techniques, business advice, equipment, and friendship all in one place.
I got a fresh start back into wedding photography a year ago, and scoured the web for forums and other useful sources of information. I was reading every board I found until I stumbled on DWF and new I was home. My business is already full-time, and I could double-book many weekends if I were a split personality! I credit DWF with a significant part of my success. I have one link now for professional wedding photographer now, and this is it.
Mike D
Money saved by heeding the advice of forum members: $100's Efficiencies incorporated into my business by learning from the best of the best in this forum: lots Advice and encouragement found here *every day*: priceless. This place is *the* place for our profession.
Sandra Johnson
I signed up for a trial membership at the end of January. This board moved SO fast at first that it overwhelmed me! But now I take what I need out of it and sometimes it doesn't move fast enough!
I have learned so many new tips, techniques, etc. I have also learned that I am not alone with my problems and issues. (At first I thought my D2H was only giving ME messed up color!)
My trial membership expired the day I flew home from WPPI and I was freaking out that I might have been cut off...but I was able to pay the $60 in time. It is well worth it!
And of course meeting all these inspirational photographers from around the world is by far the BEST part!
Carol Darby
I initially joined when there was no cost involved. When it changed to an annual fee I had no hesitation in paying. I have found the DWF to be the best place to help with technical questions, info about the best equipment and much more. Occasionally I can return the favour if I have information to share.
Here in Western Australia we feel as if we are at the far ends of the earth. Indeed Perth is the most isolated capital city in the world - as in distance to another capital. But being a member of the DWF has made me feel a much closer part of the International wedding photographers community. I feel I have many "friends" out there. Without my regular "fix" on the Forum I would be lost.
Heather Whiting
so many other have already said this. But here it goes.
DWF has become the place that I go to first. If I need some inspiration, there are so many amazing photographers that inspire me and motivate me to create something beautiful and new.
If I need help, there is a plethora of information on this board. From color management, lab referals, camera settings, lighting...anything.
Community. Every photogrpher that I have contacted or meet through these boards had been wonderful. There is no fighting over territory or ideas, its a fantasic community that I feel honored to be a part of. I've learn so much in the few months since I've joined.
Kim Sayre
I can't imagine my day without the DWF! Where else can you get good, honest advice, feel a part of a great community, and have such a vast wealth of knowledge and business at your fingertips? It's giving and sharing, and the best place to go when you want a reality check on how to handle a tricky situation - either in a technical world or a personal customer service world. As many have said, I have learned more here than I have in many seminars I have attended, and have enjoyed getting to know people in our world-wide community, both online and off line!
David Primm
When deployed overseas, it quickly became apparent none of my fellow Soldiers could understand, let alone discuss, the stress of owning a business, how to stay on the cutting edge both technically and tactically, and forget discussing improving photographically.
My DWF community was there for me. Their growth and lessons helped me continue to grow professionally while sitting in a huge sandbox. And now that I am home and reworking my business structure, I can (and do) call community members to discuss thoughts and ideas. Should I be honored enough to be sent back overseas, the DWF community will be with me again.
Just when you think you know photography, DWF will show you a whole new level.
Allegra
I lack the eloquence of the other photographers here but let me just say this; as a film photographer making the (sometimes) difficult transition to digital, the DWF was an invaluable source of help, information, advice and support. I now am a "hybrid" photographer photographing in both mediums and I find that every day I learn something either about the business, marketing or techniques of photography. You won't regret spending the money!
David Tucker
One of the things that makes DWF so wonderful for me is that I have an instant community that I can ask advice, and really get down to the brass tacks of day to day operations. How great is that, just to jump on the computer and ask the world community why is this crashing, how do you do this, which one to buy, etc?
It's an incredibly supportive and friendly bunch as well, where a free exchange of ideas is truly honored.
Tom Doran
As an aspiring professional I have spent significant resources on equipment, books and seminars. DWF is my most valuable resource for training on technical, artistic and business issues. It has given me the confidence to run my business as a professional and to deliver a quality product to my clients.
A big thanks to the entire DWF Community.
Bob Summers
I am making the big leap from film to digital, and the DWF has become my preferred on-line resource for real world advise from working professionals.
All relevant topics are discussed, including cameras and computers and software, business decisions and ethics, product evaluations and advise, creative inspiration, and marketing. If it's about digital (and film) wedding photography, it's here.
This is a very helpful group of pros and enthusiasts who are glad to share. These folks are straight shooters - no trolls or aggressive troublemakers like on many public boards.
I think it's the best digital wedding photography board on the Internet.
Stuart Bebb
As far as I'm aware the DWF is unique in a nutshell you have access to a world wide seminar on-line 24/7 and the subject is ???? well anything that springs to mind. You never stop learning at this game, the forum is fun you make new friends, its the ultimate world wide network.
Keith Curtis
In todays digital age the software is almost as important as the camera and with so many people here at DWF costantly reporting back with new and up to date software ideas it is a great resource for finding little diamonds of information about what is new in this ever changing part of the photography process.
If you are looking for something specific then there is a fair chance that you can get a link to just the program you are looking for by just asking the question.
Mia Schnaible
Where else can you. . .
Get advice on your business card or website in minutes? Get business help from MBAs, 20 year veterans, and industry leaders? See award winning photos and albums from around the world? Bond with other newbies in the business and famous wedding photographers?
Only at DWF! All of this and more, without leaving the comfort of your chair! DWF is truly a miracle that inspires everyday!
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Michelle Turner
Joining DWF several years ago was one of the best things that I did for my business. It helped me to take my business to another level. In addition, I have met some really wonderful people. I highly recommend that if you qualify, you at least check it out.
David Beckstead, Arizona
As you read the great threads that are posted daily or even hourly, you start to feel you are part of a borderless community of photographers.... This ‘give and receive’ psychology is wonderful to watch, and even better to dive into head first.
What you learn can save you money and make you money. My business would not have grown and evolved as fast if I had not joined the Digital Wedding Forum.
Howard Kier
The Sallees, John Michael Cooper, Joe Buissink, Bambi Cantrell, Ray Prevost, Huy, the list just goes on and on. There are many other lesser known photographers who also contribute. Where else can you find this level of talent making themselves available to answer questions and even critique your work? Most of us pay $129/year in order to have access to these individuals. As I understand it, "students" will pay $6 per month or $72 per year. That is about $1.40 per week or $.20 per day! The opportunity to learn here is unsurpassed. Yes, there are free forums but they don't have the level of talent like DWF.
What other forum would jump in and cover a season's worth of weddings for a sick member? That happened at DWF! Not only that but a collection was taken up to assist that photographer too. What other forum has members fly cross country at a moment's notice to cover a wedding? How about lend gear to people that you've only met on-line. Or the Chicago photographer who called NC photographers to cover a wedding when another NC photographer had a heart attack? Those stories too can be found here at DWF.
People value DWF. People are willing to pay for DWF. Not just the ordinary people but the rock stars too. To me that speaks volumes about the value of DWF
J Serrano
I, too, visit other free photography sites. In many instances what I find is the blind leading the blind. That's not to say that they're completely useless. There's lots of great information to be found there, even if a lot of it is second-hand. However, on those free forums I also have to filter through an aweful lot of unproven, questionable, wishy-washy advice from other beginners. It's nice to communicate and share ideas with other beginners; it helps to know that I'm not the only one struggling to get started. However, I find it much more valuable to get advice and information from professionals working at a level where I want to be. DWFPro offers the highest level of information from working pros, but the Start/Student forum also has lots of DWFPro members (and DWFStart members who are also working professionals) that contribute. Add to that access to DWF U, and I'd say the price of DWFStudent is a steal! The fact that there are "big names" here is secondary or tertiary, if that matters at all.
Tracy Brennan
Could someone please tell me where to find these free forums that offer what is offered here at DWF, because I can't find any! (could it be such a place doesn't exist?) I feel like I have been getting away with something by not paying for this forum before now.
I don't post much, but I read and read and read, and I learn and learn and learn. I am not ready for pro, but I have been wanting to learn more than is offered on the start forum. DWF U is the answer to my prayers! I will gladly pay $6 a month, and when I am ready I will certainly go pro.
I am amazed that anyone who has been a start member could walk away. This is a site I visit daily, and now with even more valuable info at my disposal, I fear I may never leave. I have already filled 2 pages in my notebook with notes from DWF U, and I've only been there once so far!
Steve Ramsden
I'm a Yorkshireman and I renewed my membership. There are even Scotsmen on there who renew. Must be something in it.
Tim Lucente
No question about it. I've found the free forums to be chock full of trolls while this place is teeming with pro's of all levels that are willing to share.
No doubt the best $100 I've spent this year
Nick Furnari
I'm the kind of person that just likes to "absorb" information. This place is really great for that and covers a wide variety of topics and useful info.
Seth Mondragon
I would say it's definitely worth it. A lot of good advice and information. My membership actually paid for itself before i even became a member as I was hired by Jeff to create a slideshow for last years convention. Then I've also booked a couple gigs from the positions available category.
I also like that DWF is closed off everyday viewers. Some other forums are available to anybody to see. For example, a bride might do a Google search on a photographer and come up with a result that takes them directly to another forum and maybe that thread is about pricing and stuff like that. Our clients don't need to be in on those kinds of conversations. DWF threads are not accessible by just anyone...and that's good! So, definitely worth every penny.
Angela Cardas
Worth every penny. I find myself challenged to be a better photographer and business person every day. The connections and real life friends I have made here in the few short months I have been a member are priceless. Not to mention the fact that I have basically tripled my prices since joining...
Will Paredes
yes, and yes ... and yes .. all worth it.
Mike Broadwater
All I know is that I got a 7-day pass and it's REALLY hard to walk away from the screen!! Sweet Nibblets! There's so much great stuff here!! To all the start members that see this, you must see it to believe it! I know I'll be forking over the cash to upgrade to the pro membership. I really like the "Best of DWF" forum, lots of great threads.
Rob Hooper
I don't think anyone really needs to convince you, sounds like you already know you want it. Really, nobody is 'selling' the DWF forums, we're all here for the same reasons and we all had to pay, just like you will (if that's the way you decide to go).
I don't know of anyone who bought the full membership then said they wish they hadn't. I read about people saying how really glad they are that they bought full membership all the time. No arguement really!
FWIW, I joined right after I first went full time - money was real tight. I don't regret it at all, and have renewed since. I read much more than I post, and that knowledge is absolutely invaluable and I can't quantify how much money it has either saved me, or earned me.
For the money, it's not worth the arguement, but if you don't join you'll never know
Neal Jacob
If I wasn't on DWF, I would have never had the opportunity to have Fish N' Chips with Jerry "I sing the songs the whole world sings" Ghionis!
Yes, it is definitely worth the price of admission! (just to hear Jerry sing.... he's soooo dreamy!!!)
David Purslow
Yes, yes yes and very much yes. If you think the free forum is good, wait till you get on the others. - The free canvas more than pays for your membership, the downloads are great, the pro boards are amazing and the items I have sold on here, if it had been ebay would have almost paid for my membership alone, so all in all YES !
Anne Griffin
Without a doubt----yes! I've learned so much about customer relations (uh-oh, the Brits will have a field day with that one), post production, running the business, and how to solve technical problems.
yesyesyesyesyesyesyes
Audra
Hands down one of the best (and cheapest!!) investments I've made in my business. When I can't sleep and I need advice at 2:00 in the morning I post it here, check in 10 minutes later and there's already a half a dozen replies.
Bradley J
I am newbie as well and can't be happier with the decision to finally join. I wish I did it long ago. I am also looking forward to this convention more than I have looked forward to one for a long time.
Erik Vogel
I agree that this has been one of the best investments I have made for myself and my business.
Olaf Siebert
You do not only learn on DWF, you can also get lots of inspiration... If you're serious about WF, you join and you stay ...
Patti Miller
I havn't been around as long as most, but I have decided already that I'm a lifer, have learned SO much here!
Melissa Bitter
Absolutely!
I got an assisting job through DWF in the "Positions Available section"
that paid back the initial investment 2 months after I joined. And the business advice is priceless.
Besides, these guys are pretty funny and awesome and who wouldn't want to hang out with them? (Online that is...)
Lorenz Crespo
Yes! The DWF has been a big influence in my business model. You can get out as much as you want, plus you keep pace with the latest tends in the industry. The choice is yours.
Paul Tedrick
a big yes!
Dave Phares
We would like to just echo the many sentiments from the members of DWF. This is truly a remarkable investment at $60. We are learning so much in a friendly, helpful environment. We have had a studio for many years but digital is changing all the rules. We joined last month and found it to be a place where we could grow in our business and learn from others techniques and information shared that are just invaluable. Thank you Jeff for making it a really great forum for education, for the sharing of ideas and what is going on outside of own studio. There are some really nice people here and the range is from part time photographers to full time well known photographers. All of them share and join in this community atmosphere of people helping other people to get ahead in life and enjoy what you are doing. You will love it and really like the people. If you want help, its here, if you need a question answered, its here, if you want some business strategy information- its here. It will be the best investment you make this year.
Jim Banks
Top 10 Reasons to Join the DWF
10. Wonderful sense of community. 9. Online and offline networking opportunities. 8. Latest technical and business information. 7. Real world experience and advice. 6. Members are accountable for their information and actions. 5. Forum is moderated fairly, and only when needed. 4. Answers to questions available 24/7 thanks to international participation. 3. Always something new to read for those seeking a diversion. 2. British humor, Australian slang, and American politics. 1. Recipes.
Tina Wilson
It's almost overwhelming, really. There is such an enormous amount of knowledge available here. Just the small amount that I have implemented into my business has actually made it a business and not a "what-I-do-on-the-side" gig.
I have increased my sales per customer approx 250.00 and I still feel as though I've only scratched the surface.
I have learned more about PhotoShop in the past 3 months than I have in an entire 4 years trying to teach myself.
I've gained creativity, lighting help and instruction, learned about the latest technology, how-to's all over the place and met a ton of truly awesome people.
The only negative thing I could possibly say about DWF is that it's hard to stay away from and constantly visiting here cuts into my productivity!
I love this place!
Samantha Becker
As a newbie to professional photography, I have found the DWF to be the most valuable tool available to me. I get the opportunity to learn from some of the best photographers in the industry, without the cost and time restrictions of attending a class or seminar. My membership has allowed me to get technical advice about composition, lighting, and posing; business advice about marketing, incorporating, pricing, and setting up valid policies; artistic advice about shooting and editing. Also, this is a great place to meet new people, and everyone is super friendly. Join. You won't regret it.
Paul RG
From the Photoshop Challenge to the Wedshoot challenge and all other posts in between I learn something about digital photography every day on the Digital Wedding Forum. For example, after weeks of looking for suitable backup software, elsewhere, someone posted a link on the DWF 3 days ago. I tried then bought it - just one of the many great things I've found out about by using this forum.
Graham Evans
For me it's a forever increasing circle of knowledge, it's educating me on styles of photography, technical data and business details. The Hideout is soooo compulsive and FUN.
Kristian Olson
Since stumbling upon DWF almost by accident a few months ago, my only regret is not finding it much, much sooner.
Since joining, my business and creative ideas have expanded so fast that it invigorates me to be a better photographer and businessperson. In photography, I've learned numerous new techniques and ideas that have proved an immediate impact upon the quality of my work. In business, its an invaluable tool to hear from other professional businesspeople in your own profession who share with you ideas that not only work, but really set you apart from the mass of "all those other" photographers that you used to be one of.
Best digital wedding photographers resource on the internet or anywhere, hands down.
Fernando Carcamo
The membership fee has been more than justified, and has yielded exponentially; especially when considering the wealth of knowledge I have received regarding the purchase of equipment, and awareness of techniques and processes that have made me a more complete professional. It is unquestionably the very best value and source of information available anywhere. I have received invaluable input from the forum members regarding just about every major decision involving the direction of my business since I joined. It is like having at team of experts at your disposal who are too willing to selflessly share their knowledge to my benefit.
Thank you DWF members for all you've done on my behalf.
Vance Wagener
I have personally benefited financially and professionally since being a member of DWF.
I have literally saved hundreds of dollars by reading opinions on equipment, consumables and techniques from others who have been there and done that. If you don't believe me just look at your own gear and tally up the cost of the trash (things you bought and thought you would use but didn't) you have bought over the year. The DWF has turned out to be a great place to learn and share your experience without being flamed. In a word "Professional" We are professionals working with each other. It's a great place to be!
Jeff Smith
I came to Digital Wedding Forum with the intention of joining! It is a place to keep your finger on the pulse of our industry. After joining I recognized many names of some awesome working professional photographers. I've found many more awesome working professional photographers here as well.
Jeb Blann
I joined the DWF last summer, looking for a place to share and learn. It has become much more. The interaction on this forum has proven to be a never ending source of knowledge and inspiration and the photo critique section is a great place to hone your skills.
Yes, there are an incredible number of some of the world's finest photographers here, but there is also the seasoning of the excitement of "newbies" that help maintain a fresh perspective.
Steve Yates
I owned and ran a lab and shot weddings on film. And I was bored of it. After discovering the DWF and trawling thro its archives, Iopened a fully digital studio 6 months later, and a year after that closed my lab.
Joining the DWF was, without a doubt, the most cost effect thing I have ever done! It is an incredible technical support line and an unparalelled resource of business advice and artistic inspiration. |
