Squidoo is an ideal platform for showcasing quality photographers. Squidoo lenses (websites) are
built by using a wide range of modules that are added with a simple click. There are a number of
modules that make it easy for you to showcase a photographer..
But firstly here is a word of warning. Do not proceed to build a Squidoo lens dedicated to a
single photographer unless you have their explicit permission (you may be in breech of copyright).
I would get the agreement in writing by email so you have a record.
There are a number of things that you should do to gain their permission. You should ensure that
your lens has a non-commercial focus or your selected photographer is likely to refuse you
permission to use their photographs. I would also recommend that you stipulate that your direct
income from the lens will go 100% to charity (this requires only a click of a button on Squidoo).
Once you have made this stipulation, you have the right to opt out of the more visible advertising
on your Squidoo lens, as this can detract from the photographic art you are showcasing.
Here are some hints on how to create your Squidoo lens to showcase a photographer.
1. Have a clear focus for the Squidoo lens
You can develop your lens around a single theme (for example, a location) or a group of
sub-themes (for example, waterways such as rivers, lakes, oceans). Make sure that what you choose
shows your photographer's work in the best light.
2. Provide introductory notes to each module
To break up the images on your lens, it is useful to have introductory notes that explain the
module that follows. This can be done by way of the "sticky note" widget, the "black box" module or
any other module that suits your planned purpose, proposed layout and desired effect.
3. Use different modules to showcase the photographer
The Flickr module on Squidoo creates a montage of hyperlinked, thumbnail size images. This is
very suitable if you want to create a grouped effect and the photos have a narrow focus (for
example, birds or flowers). However, this module does not show landscape photos in the best light.
In this case it is best to use a text/write module where you can embed a hyperlinked photo using
some basic html code.
4. Acknowledge the photographer’s consent
It is important to publicly acknowledge the photographer's consent to your Squidoo lens. I would
give the photographer the opportunity to suggest changes, additions and deletions and invite their
feedback in the "Guestbook Module".
Photographs on platforms such as Flickr do not show a photographer's work in the best light. You
can use Squidoo to create a single display or multiple showcases to bring into sharp relief the
nuances and distinctive features of a photographer's work. However, this has to be a collaborative
endeavour to protect the photographer's interests.