Meeting up with the Grand Rapids, MI Flickr group might seem a little intimidating if you look at the photos in the group pool. There are plenty of people carrying around big equipment, and it's full of quality photos from people who are just going out having fun.

No one should be apprehensive though. The group is full of professionals with Canon 5D Mark IIs, amateurs with point and shoots, and everything in between. The group veterans are always happy to give advice and are just fun to be around. There is definitely no stupid question, and certainly no pretension, everyone is welcome and encouraged to participate.

Outings (photowalks) include weekly events like Blues on the Mall, random meet ups for night photography, and occasionally trips out of town. It's a great way to learn or get inspired. Plenty of attendees barely take out their camera, and just go to socialize or talk about cameras. Most photowalks are very family friendly, too. Some members bring their children along frequently.

The group updates their message boards regularly, letting everyone know when the next meet up is, selling and buying equipment, asking advice, networking, and just casually conversing. It can be found here: http://www.flickr.com/groups/grandrapidsmi