This past Tuesday night I headed up to Orange County to once again play a little poker with Becker and a few other photographers. I’ve been playing in Becker’s home game for a while now, and have only won once, and placing only a couple of times. So, this time I told myself to play patient and smart to try to bring it home. While I did not win, I did come in 2nd, taking home a little cash.

Even when I donk out early, I really enjoy being there as it’s a great chance to hang out and network with some of the industries most talented photographers. Don’t get me wrong… winning is always better, but the company is what makes the trip more than worth while. And while I have the topic of networking on my mind, i thought I’d post some info on a couple of great opportunities for photographers to get together and network in the near future. I’ll post that stuff below, but first a few shots from poker.

Me, hiding behind my big stack:

Photographer and digital media guru Lan Bui doing a little card ruffling trick:

At one point during the evening there was poker on the TV, poker being played on the table, and Becker playing poker online from his laptop AT the table:

The lovely JC doing some dealing with her stylin’ pink Full Tilt hat:

And I must give props the winner and man who took me out, Mr. Joe Latter. Joe is an amazing photographer, and super nice guy:

Now… onto the networking opportunities!

I mentioned this earlier, but now that I have firm details, I thought I’d post it here again one last time to remind everyone. I’ll me doing another photographer’s lunch this Friday (tomorrow) at Pei Wei’s in Mission Valley at 12:30. You’re all welcome to come hang out. All I ask is that you send me an e-mail to let me know you’re coming. If you’ve already sent me an RSVP, there’s no need to do so again.

Victor Sizemore will be holding a BIG networking party at his place on Wednesday, March 5th at 6pm up in Ladera Ranch. This is going to be a fantastic place to meet other photographers, and get your name out into the community. I will definitely be heading up there, so if there are any San Diego photographers that want to ride along with me on the way up, just let me know. I have room for 3 people in my car. I saw Victor on Tuesday night, and it sounds like it’ll be awesome! If you want to go you MUST RSVP first. To do so, simply send an RSVP e-mail to Caitlin by March 2nd. You’ll then receive a response with info and directions.

Another great opportunity… Becker will be doing a Happy Hour gathering in Irvine on Monday, March 10th. This will be a great chance to meet a bunch pf photographers in a laid back atmosphere. If you’re unable to go to WPPI, the would be a great chance for you to network! And by the way, the Happy Hour is promoted by The [ b ] School. If you aren’t aware of The [ b ] School, where the heck have you been?? If you’re a photographer, you need to be checking out the daily video’s on The [ b ] School Blog.

You’ve heard me go on and on about the importance of networking in our industry. These are 3 opportunities to do so. Do yourself a favor and try to get to at least one, if not all. Happy almost Friday everyone!