Worldwide Photowalk Update – Texas

Afternoon everyone.

We’re about a week and a half away from Scott Kelby’s 2nd Annual Worldwide Photowalk. I’ve been getting plenty of messages about the event–specifically participation for the Dallas walk–and I thought it best to consolidate my answers here. Before I get into those questions, I thought folks local to the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex should know there are several walks going on. Here are a list of cities, some of which have available openings for participants:

Arlington – 26 spots left. This walk takes place in the morning, with two meeting times – 7AM & 9AM.

Dallas – Full with waiting list. I will be leading this morning walk downtown. Walk kicks off at 8AM.

Dallas/Fort Worth (Frisco) – 19 spots left. Please note this walk is listed as Dallas, but the location will be in Frisco. This is an evening walk scheduled for 6PM.

Fort Worth – Full with waiting list. This is an evening walk starting at 7pm.

Fort Worth Museum District – 46 spots left. This is an evening walk starting at 6PM.

Grapevine – 34 spots left. This is a morning walk starting at 8:30AM.

McKinney – 19 spots left. This is an evening walk starting at 6:30PM.

North Dallas – 46 spots left. Please note the location is by White Rock Lake. This is a morning walk starting at 9AM.

Plano – 42 spots left. This is a morning walk starting at 9AM.

As you can see, many of the locations throughout the metroplex have openings. If you thought you’d miss out because Dallas and Fort Worth were full, now’s the time to register for another city (one that might even be closer to you). Alright, now for your questions:

1. Why haven’t I heard anything?

Speaking to Dallas participants, my apologies. Last year I sent out a number of messages leading up to the walk. The feedback I received is it was too much communication, and therefore I have let the main website FAQ handle any immediate questions. Certainly email me if you would like more information.

2. What if I want to change cities?

If you want to register for another city, please contact the walk leader for the city you originally registered. You must be removed from that city prior to registering somewhere else.

3. What can you tell me about the contest?

I can tell you that only registered participants can enter the contest. Currently, NAPP is working on the official submission process, but many cities are creating Flickr groups or Facebook pages in anticipation of photo submissions. I will have details for Dallas participants the day of the walk.

4. Do I need an expensive “professional” camera to participate?

No. You are welcome to use any type of camera you wish. Last year, I had a student show up and use their cell phone camera.

5. Any suggestions on what lens I should bring?

If you are using a DSLR you may be tempted to bring your entire bag of tricks. I would suggest pairing down to the least amount of gear possible. We’ll be walking through the city, and a backpack or roller bag will feel pretty cumbersome after the first couple of blocks. Does this mean you CAN’T bring lots of lenses & bodies? No. Bring whatever you feel comfortable with. Last year I used a 24-105mm lens, and an 18-55mm lens.

6. What else do I need?

Comfortable shoes. I can’t stress this enough. While this isn’t a sprint, if you’re not used to being on your feet for extended periods of time, you will be sore. Bottled water. We’ll be shooting in the morning, and hopefully beat much of the heat, but you’ll want to stay hydrated. Business cards. This will be an opportunity to network with like-minded folks. Folks who enjoy photography as much as you, but may work in an industry outside of photography. Who knows? You might meet that dentist or attorney you’ve needed. Pen & notebook. If photography is a new passion, might I suggest you keep a photo diary that day. You might jot down what camera settings you used for a particular photo, your thoughts or other anecdotes for reference later. You’ll also have an opportunity to chat with other photographers, and perhaps write down some good information they pass along to you.

7. Do I have to stay with the group during the walk?

No. Last year, we had several folks break off into smaller groups and do their own thing. Every city is different, but the idea of the photowalk is to shoot & socialize. Moving a crowd of 50 people can be quite a task, but it’s not a requirement for the photowalk’s success. Your leaders are there to act as a guide, and I’m sure each city leader will have their own style they bring to the walk. Last year, I handed out a suggested route for participants, and we moved in smaller groups of 3 to 10 people.

8. Where’s my t-shirt?

I’m glad you asked. You can help the Spring Hope Orphanage in Kenya by purchasing the Official Photowalk T-shirt. $5 from each sale goes to help Scott’s philanthropic cause.

Photowalk = Fun.

Regardless of your skill level, the photowalk should be a fun event. If you’re someone who likes to plan, then I encourage you to flip through photo books, visit your favorite photographer websites, chat with your colleagues, and think about what images you’ll try and capture the day of the event. However, don’t get so caught up in the planning you lose the spontaneity of the event.

That’s it for now. Feel free to shoot me a message if you have questions either about the Dallas photowalk or the event in general.

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