Wow! Search the chatrooms for photography and you find that there are over 11 with more than 2 people in them. There are big ones like iPhotography to small ones like mine, dAmnPhotography. So how does anyone choose between so many? Well, i guess that depends on your needs out of the chatroom.

Now, I know it does look seriously suspicious that I am the owner of a photography chatroom and I am writing this, but as an owner and a once searching for a good chatroom, I have learned a few things I would like to share.

Needs from a chatroom are typically all rolled up into "I want to chat with others and it would be cool if we could occationally talk about photography." That is what I was looking for. But, before you go for only that, ask yourself, truely, what am I looking for.

If you are looking for a good chatsite where you can submit your work for an honest critique of your work, you might not find it on a chatsite that advertises for the biggest or most people. There you might get too many people chatting to care to take a look at your work. I am not saying they wouldn't, just that they might not. Critiquing style may also be a concern to you if that is what you are seaking. Some chatroom critique differently than others.

If you are looking for a chatroom with finding a place to chat about your new purchase of a Nikon and wanting information on which model is better for what, then, obviously, you don't want to be in one that has few chatters. You might look for one with an "expert" on those issues or hit the forums.

With so many chatrooms, how do you pick? I recommend that you go to each one in turn and visit them. Are the greetings friendly? Does anyone notice you right away? Are the chatters knowlegeable for what you need. Are the critiques what you thought they should be? How do you feel about your overall experience in that chatroom. One or two will probably call out to you. Stick with them if you find your needs. Loyalty is a driving force for chatrooms, but also remember that you can change any time you want. It isn't like there aren't anymore.

So, how do you pick a good photography chatroom? I say, go visit each one, ask questions, hang out and then try another until you find one that best fits your needs and your style! Good luck.

dragonphenx
dAmnPhotography