If you’ve ever been to a bar camp, you know that they’re conferences that are planned and executed in a radically decentralized fashion. I’d never been to one before, but when some folks in the Santa Cruz tech community came up with an idea for one, we at productOps decided to pitch in as a sponsor. I’m glad that we did.
While I only attended the morning sessions because of family obligations, the general feeling seems to be that Freelance Camp was a success. Held on Saturday, the event brought freelance professionals of all stripes (I met programmers, graphic artists, a sculptor, career coaches, and writers there) and from surprisingly diverse points of origin (is Toronto far enough away for you?). They exchanged ideas, learned from each other, and networked in a fun, relaxed environment.
Several local businesses pitched in to support Freelance Camp, and it was exhilarating to see so many entrepreneurial, creative people together under one roof. Speaking of roofs, the Santa Cruz Art & History Museum was the venue, and it was an inspiring (if somewhat cozy) setting for the small group discussions, which were lively and engaging. If I never have to go to another conference that is held in a sterile, dull, conference center, I’ll be happy. If every conference were held in a museum, I think people would enjoy them much more.
I’ve posted a few photos from the event, and you can look for more photos online with the tag #freelancecamp.
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