[Lightstalkers] Lightstalkers on Google+

Lightstalkers on Google+

Fri, 28 Dec 2012 16:36:52 +0000

As you all know, Lightstalkers is an incredibly useful ressource for us. Either journalist or fixer, the community allows professional media people to communicate with each other. However, the plateform hasn't and won't be updated (as I heard). Why not enjoy the power of Google+ to continue what was launched on the website? The conversation goes on here https://plus.google.com/communities/104614649325262192830

Re: Lightstalkers on Google+

Mon, 17 Dec 2012 17:01:50 +0000

I think you've definitely got the right idea, Simon — keeping LS alive by perhaps shifting platforms. But perhaps another platform… I don't really like Google's anti-privacy policies, and Facebook, of course, is worse. Perhaps something else? I wonder if anyone has any other suggestions.

Re: Lightstalkers on Google+

Tue, 18 Dec 2012 02:56:04 +0000

It would be a shame if Lightstalker's Platform isn't nurtured. I only recently discovered it and am very impressed with it-- especially its simplicity and independence. It is a great place to discover real world talent-- without being forced to buy the fries with it. Elsewhere, I am working to sever as many links as possible which I already have with Google and other megalithic web platforms. I do not like them and do not trust them. They lack the "sincerity" quotient that used to appeal to Linus of Peanuts. I no longer even "google" as others do: DuckDuckGo.com is more smartly coded and less capitalistically mercenary. There are other alternatives-- look around and free yourselves! I hope the internet stays diverse with many independent platforms-- and free! Best wishes, Robert B. Livingston San Francisco

Re: Lightstalkers on Google+

Tue, 18 Dec 2012 03:06:39 +0000

Robert, I agree with everything you said. However, unfortunately, the sad situation is that Lightstalkers platform isn't being nurtured. One personal example: Ever since The Great Meltdown, I have been unable to post new messages in the main message list. Just today I tried to post a new message:
https://www.lightstalkers.org/posts/calibrated-print-lab-in-mexico
but it doesn't show up in the main list. And I don't know who's in charge anymore, so whom can I ask for help?

Re: Lightstalkers on Google+

Tue, 18 Dec 2012 03:33:27 +0000

Clear-- understandable... and a shame. Asking questions is a good way to prod for new opportunities. I wish photographers would fight for independence. I read a lot about photographers and photography and am disturbed that "stars" are created based on the ability to pump social media. Most of these stars strike me as forgettable. The photographers that truly stand out most do so because they consistently produce unforgettable art. Quality is universal and timeless. Thanks for starting a conversation. Robert B. Livingston San Francisco

Re: Lightstalkers on Google+

Tue, 18 Dec 2012 05:39:30 +0000

Simon, Clearly, as a community, we have a serious issue that needs to be fixed. However, other than what you mentioned about the site not being updated, I do not know what the reasons are for this. If the challenge is of a financial nature, maybe we could fundraise to keep this wonderful site going. It might also be nice if we could hear from the admin. Would be very sad if this site went down. Let's do something. Moses

Re: Lightstalkers on Google+

Tue, 18 Dec 2012 07:38:46 +0000

Yes-- I like this idea, Moses.

Re: Lightstalkers on Google+

Tue, 18 Dec 2012 09:27:39 +0000

Glad to hear that Robert. If we can get more members on board then perhaps we could approach admin for leadership with the campaign. For now though, I think knowing what the problem is would be a step in the right direction. Moses

Re: Lightstalkers on Google+

Tue, 18 Dec 2012 09:40:32 +0000

Re: Lightstalkers on Google+

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 03:33:53 +0000

The thing is that LS is the only website of its kind that I trust. Look at the scandal of the moment with Instragram where they want you to accept an agreement that would allow them to sell your photos and to use them for advertising without any compensation to you. I think we can trust LS to allow us to represent ourselves and not to use us for its own enrichment.

Re: Lightstalkers on Google+

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 12:45:39 +0000

yes, LS isn´t maintained since a long time. As far as i remember older posts here it´s a matter of money and volunteering operators too busy to work on it constantly. Well, this community is just great. unfortunately the site is from a technical point of view pretty overaged. I for myself could post an endless list of features doesn´t work at all. I expect this site won´t survive another 3 years if nothing changes. I´m concerned about it, because LS is a reliable resource to socialize with photogs and fixer around the globe. A helpful tool I don´t wonna miss! And I won´t switch to facebook, Google or anything else like this. LS must remain an independent platform as it is!!!!!! It´s a lot of work to relaunch LS. New content management, new site architecture and design and all member accounts need to get tranfered to a new site. And all that needs to get funded - creation process and daily operating... I guess that can´t be possible free of charge for members anymore. But the very first step is all founders and recent operators have to say if they would collaborate for such a new LS. And second is to set up a group with members willing to start things rolling! Despite the fact I coundn´t help out in terms of technical support/creation a new site I´m ready to work on LS´s future. Waiting for some posts from LS operating team members.

Re: Lightstalkers on Google+

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 14:16:24 +0000

Very true. I mean, I've found this platform so useful I will go with anything to keep it thriving. If annual membership will help, let's do that. If a the problem is bigger and a fundraising drive is necessary, am still in. But like everyone seems to be suggesting, please, admin, say something. Is Teru still on the board? He is a regular contributor and feel would be well placed to guide us. Over to you Sir! Moses

Re: Lightstalkers on Google+

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 15:10:28 +0000

The problem isn't the platform, it's that nobody uses it anymore. Going elsewhere is just moving a ghost town to a different address.

Re: Lightstalkers on Google+

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 15:47:46 +0000

DPC, can you specify why do you believe to know that "nobody uses it anymore". I don´t think you´re right with that. And if less people (not nobody!) actually use it that might be a result of this old-style-not-always-propperly-working website... And would you tell us in what alternative platform you´re believing in?

Re: Lightstalkers on Google+

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 17:49:09 +0000

I signed up!

Re: Lightstalkers on Google+

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 18:17:31 +0000

If someone or some people really want to keep LS alive as LS, please make a specific proposal for doing so. Then, if you need money, you could fundraise here or on Kickstarter to make it happen. (Better here, I'd think, since Kickstarter eats about 8% of the money raised.) I agree with Barry — I trust LS more than the big, commercial platforms.

Re: Lightstalkers on Google+

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 18:33:37 +0000

Peter, yes, there is a strong desire to 'preserve' LS BUT we are yet to hear from the administration. I feel that it's only fair to first hear from them and if possible let them lead the campaign even. Otherwise, as soon as concrete plans are underway, I have my pledge ready for the fundraising basket! Moses

Re: Lightstalkers on Google+

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 21:20:09 +0000

@randbild - There's virtually no activity and most of what there is is of no interest. At least compared to what LS was in its heyday. Look at the members directory and then at how many people you see posting. Lots of people who used to post here went to Facebook, presumably because the potential audience is greater. Some have probably changed profession, others are maybe doing video, who knows. And I suspect that those who are really working don't have time or good reason to participate. There are other "community" websites with equally unattractive platforms that seem to thrive nevertheless. The Creative Cow forums, for example. I don't believe in platforms. I believe in content and services. LS was at its best when good, informed content from working, experienced and talented photojournalists brought more of the same from others.

Re: Lightstalkers on Google+

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 10:21:53 +0000

Postings on LS aren´t a reliable scale on how much LS is being used or useful. And surley 50% of registered members won´t get activated in future. But anyway I think there´s a great sleeping potential. If I look around how many colleagues use LS location tool for instance. That´s a pretty inactive role they play by that, but most of them could get motivated to use LS more if there would be an easy (and at least technically working..) access to tools at LS. But of course if somebody knows a much better independent platform where pro photogs can get connected post it now please!! I really would like to know what LS admin´s think about their own project? What can they tell us about user activity, their willingness to keep it going or how much they welcome another group which would like to take it to make it?

Re: Lightstalkers on Google+

Sun, 23 Dec 2012 02:56:15 +0000

I just joined today, I heard great things about this site. Im a young and hungry photographer trying to find a resource that could point me in the direction of how to get involved in combat photography. I came here today, and unfortunately it seems dead. It saddens me that it appears that i may have missed the LS train. Perhaps a fundraiser for the site, or a bunch of people come together to mod a new forum? Vbulletin is a cheap forum platform yet very effective. Would anyone be interested in taking the reins?

Re: Lightstalkers on Google+

Sun, 23 Dec 2012 05:56:35 +0000

I figure I'd throw my voice into the mix - LS was, and still is, a great source of information for those like myself who are just starting out in the industry. It's rare to find a place with professionals chattering and it's one of the few places on the web that I find I've got a finger on a pulse. I can only suspect that there are many more 'lurkers' like myself who are getting invaluable snippets of information as well as having a place to seek advice when needed - because of that I'd happily pay for the service provided it's still active. Perhaps donation drive might work better though, a paywall seems to have a nasty habit of killing online communities. Just a thought.

Re: Lightstalkers on Google+

Sun, 23 Dec 2012 12:29:39 +0000

I was Zero before joining Ls...but i am a hero now after joining Ls...I don't ve the website of mine...but i am always on Top when you Google Fixer in India..I will be always thank full for Ls..which has given a platform to explore your work without paying a single penny....Around 90% Client see my profile in Ls & contact me for the work ..not a single client ask for reference letter after seeing my Profile in Ls...I ve already singed up in Google+ after this post....but still i will go for Light stalkers.....a reliable website...

Re: Lightstalkers on Google+

Fri, 28 Dec 2012 14:41:17 +0000

'Lightstalkers. From zero to hero'. Dinesh you're the best

Re: Lightstalkers on Google+

Fri, 28 Dec 2012 16:08:58 +0000

"Reduce yourself to zero and you become irresistible." -M. K. Gandhi

Re: Lightstalkers on Google+

Fri, 28 Dec 2012 16:36:52 +0000

encouraging anorexia is not a good thing, Barry.