Google+ is the hotest thing to hit social media in quite some time. Have no idea what Google+ is? You aren’t alone. The tech world has been talking about it for a while, but currently, Google+ is open on an invitation only basis. This apparently lets the brain trust at Google work through the details while keeping the new social network relatively small so that when it is officially launched to the public all goes smoothly.

I was lucky enough to be invited by fellow photographer Nick Chill, and have liked what I’ve seen so far. There are many similarities to Facebook in how things like photos and videos are shared. Like Twitter, you can follow anyone on Google+, even if they are a rock star. So with those observations, how is Google+ different and why should you care?

There are actually a lot of differences that make Google+ unique, but I have two favorites so far. First, on Google+ you are connected to people in circles. Just like we all have our social circles in life that might include friends from college, work and the PTA at school, you group your connections on Google+. When talking to college friends you may want to relive the days of your youth, but maybe not share all of those stories with the crowd from work or the PTA. On Google+, you can do just that. Thanks to the Circles feature, you have the ability to share and view content with different groups of people based on what circle they are in.

Second, the photo viewing and sharing features are awesome! Photographers especially are loving the ability to share photos and interact with others in different ways than other social networks currently offer.  I’m still getting used to how to use Google+ and finding people to add to my circles, but really do like it so far. If you are already a Google+ user, I’d love to add you to one of my circles! Check out my profile here. If you are curious and would like to check it out, comment below or send me an email with your email address and I’ll be happy to send you an invite!