Yes, connecting with people is essential here, because otherwise your posts just don't get noticed.

There are also some popular photography related tags here, that people often look up. For example the #monochromemonday or the tags of the #colorchallenge (#mondayred #tuesdayorange #wednesdayyellow #thursdaygreen #fridayskyblue #saturdayindigo #sundaypurple). It might help, when you try to post photos, that are related to that tags.

the websiteThere is also a very popular #steemitphotochallenge with a new topic every two weeks or so. You can check or follow @jamtaylor for updates.

photography website with Steemit integration.You also might be interested in checking out the profile of @bescouted - He is running an interesting