It matters not the industry, continuing education is extremely vital in any profession. As Stephen Covey would say, it’s all a part of “Sharpening the Saw®.” Education keeps any professional up-to-date with new trends, new ideas and new technologies. Most importantly, education opens up the door to networking opportunities.
This industry has evolved rapidly in the last 5-10 years. Just think of the film-to-digital transition- and one can only imagine the changes we’ve seen. More than ever, photographers are sharing information, and helping each other succeed – the ease of digital photography is making this even easier, because it allows us to give each other instant feedback/constructive criticism.
I am part of several photography groups, and I have to say this group is my favorite: The NO BS Photo Success Forum. This collection of photography pros is one of the best resources in the world of professional photography. Members of this group worldwide come together in the spirit of collaboration. Everyone openly shares and learns – both in person and online. The forum provides online trainings on lighting, posing, marketing, Adobe Photoshop®, and almost any topic related to the business of photography. Two of my mentors are the founders of this group; Rob Provencher, of Westmount Photography & James Hodgins of James Hodgins Photography. These two are business-savvy, brilliant photographers. They are down-to-Earth people. Their passion for photography runs deep, and I am honored to continue learning from them on a daily basis. My NO BS membership has given me access to so much information, and I’ve met many new friends and mentors.
Each year this group has two major conferences; “The Niagra School of Imaging” and “The Inferno.” This month, I attended my first “Inferno” Conference in Nashville. All I can say is…WOW! I learned how to better help brides schedule their day in and effort to REDUCE STRESS. We learned how to better optimize the use of backgrounds, textures, and digital frames. I also learned about some of today’s most popular products for the High School Senior, and as a result of this conference – I will be running programs such as, “Dog Day with Santa” (because, like me, so many people are crazy about their pets). I will also be working with High School Marching bands and offering tasteful boudoir photo sessions (for all of you sexy people out there!).
I am committed to honing my craft and keeping abreast of the latest trends and innovations in photography. This benefits my clients, and keeps me loving my profession.
Below are a few shots from the fun night shoots of “The Inferno” in Nashville, TN. Each nigh of the conference, I ventured out on night shoots with fellow photographers. What a beautiful and “photogenic” city! We were so anamored, that we stayed out until the wee hours -shooting our butts off! Enjoy!
Fisheye View of Nashville
Nashville Warped
Nashville Night Art
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