Formation flying, real formation flying, should be briefed, trained and then debriefed.
I host two formation training events for high wing aircraft as part of the Search and Rescue Air Corps I founded.
We use instructors and materials from the fine aviators at FAST.
http://flyfast.org
I'm not discouraging formation work, as long as it is 'work'. I actually believe a well trained formation aviator is a far safer and more respectful of risk management.
I personally don't feel comfortable flying formation with anyone who doesn't have formal training and experience. I rarely have broken this rule and only with briefings prior. (Mostly in my SAR activities)
Happy to take to a different thread or via pm.
And if you'd like an invite to our private formation weekend clinics pm me.
Cory.