Hope everyone has a fabulous holiday! The Bokeh Pot will be on vacation thru the end of the year! We’d like to thank all of our photographers who have contributed to the blog as well as all of our wonderful readers!
In the meantime, we need more photographers to feature… so if you’ve been considering contributing a feature on The Bokeh Pot, there’s no better time than the New Year! Don’t be shy:)
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Posted by crystalgenes
Meet Kricia, a wedding and engagement photographer who shoots with Canon using her right eye. Kricia shoots in both RAW & JPEG simultaneously, primarily in Manual mode, and uses Totally Rad Actions.
www.kriciamorris.com
www.kriciamorrisphotography.com
Facebook
Twitter
Describe the moment you decided it was time to pursue this as a career?
Right after purchasing my first DSLR, I 2nd shot at a wedding with a friend, pretty much just as a favor. I’ve NEVER had so much fun at something that was supposed to be work and I haven’t turned back since!
28-75 mm 51 mm ISO 640 1/320 f/4.5
What is one thing you’ve learned so far that has proven most valuable?
PRACTICE. No matter how many times I go for a similar shot, the more I take it, the better it gets.
What makes you different from everyone else?
I think what makes the biggest difference is that I allow my personality to show through in my work. I love images that are emotional, poignant and fun. I want my clients to look back at them and say, “Yes! That’s EXACTLY what I was feeling then!”
50 mm 50 mm ISO 1600 1/80 f/2.8
Who is your one favorite up-and-coming photographer?
There are so many photographers that inspire me it’s hard to narrow it down to just one! My favorites right now are Justin and Mary Marantz. They’re taking the world by storm, and their images are simply amazing!
One item you can’t live without?
My Shootsac! It makes my life so much easier.
Your best bokeh image and why?
17-50 mm 17 mm ISO 500 1/125 f/5.0
I love this image of the bride’s shoes with the dress in the background. Something about it just really reflects all the pieces of a wedding day to me!
Why did you want to be included on The Bokeh Pot?
I think it’s an amazing site and I learn so much from it! If I can help someone like the other articles have helped me, my job is done 
Favorite book?
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn. It’s a classic
Favorite movie?
The Lion King
17-50 mm 47 mm ISO 200 1/200 f/5.6
Where do you find inspiration?
EVERYWHERE. I find myself constantly looking at my environment for backdrops, poses, props, anything. I also really love spending time at the beach at night when I need to empty out my mind and just let the ideas in.
What do you think is the most valuable aspect of your business?
My client relationships by far. It’s my goal to have each of my clients become a friend and to know that they are the most important thing to me on their wedding day!
60 mm 60 mm ISO 1250 1/125 f/4.5
Do you use a second shooter?
I love to have someone with me when I’m shooting for the company, but it’s about 50/50 whether I have someone along.
How would you recommend that someone wanting to second shoot with you go about getting the gig?
Just ask! I’m always open for questions and I LOVE to meet other photographers!
17-50 mm 17 mm ISO 200 1/160 f/5.6
If you could second shoot with anyone, who would it be?
Jasmine Star. She always has the most amazing poses and her clients always look so comfortable, I’d love to learn how she pulls it off
Are you a member of any organizations and have you won any awards?
I’m a member of PPA and WPPI
18-200 mm 18 mm ISO 100 1/125 f/3.5
What did you have to do to actually take the leap? Did you have any hoops to jump through?
I quit my job and moved to Florida! I realized that I was at the point in my life where if I didn’t take a big leap I was never going to have the courage to do it, so off I went!
Do you have suggestions for others trying to make the transition?
Shoot anyone, everywhere and all the time. The more practice you have with real people in front of your lens, the better you’ll be at what you do.
28-75 mm 35 mm ISO 400 1/125 f/2.8
What is the biggest or most creative thing you do/have done to draw new clients?
I just moved to a brand new location and I’m pretty much starting my branding and marketing over from scratch. I really want to make my business a reflection of myself, and learning how to make myself transparent is quite the learning process!
Are you for or against advertising (paid or free)? If for, who have you had the most success with?
I’m 100% for advertising, especially when you’re just starting out. If you don’t get your name out there, nobody will find out what you’re trying to do! I use Google Ads and I advertise on TheKnot.com. The best advertising though is and always will be word of mouth from happy clients.
17-50 mm 42 mm ISO 250 1/200 f/13
What’s your idea of the perfect photographer networking “date”?
Coffee and great conversation. When creative minds get together, magical things can happen!
17-50 mm 26 mm ISO 250 1/400 f/5.0
***Enjoy this feature? Please leave a comment to let us know!***
1 Comment | ALL Posts, All Photographers Only, Hawaii, Hawaii - Kailua | Permalink
Posted by crystalgenes
Join me and 27 other industry leading photographers for The Joy to the World FREE Marketing Websummit on December 28!
We’ll each share our best money-making ideas for your business. From starting off on the right foot, to promotional ideas, to earning a larger investment from each client, to workflow improvements and more. You’ll learn so much in these 14 FREE hours to substantially grow your business in 2010. At the same time, we’ll be helping fund smiles for children in need of cleft lip and cleft palate surgeries through PPA Charities.
Over 10,000 professional photographers registered for the Master Photographers Free Marketing Telesummit in September. You raved about how much you learned so we thought why not do it again to help you get off to a strong start in the New Year…and make it BIGGER and BETTER! __This time, you can learn from David Jay, Sam Puc, Laura Novak, Julia Woods, Jerry Ghionis, Scott Crosby, Will Crockett, Marcus Bell, Tamara Lackey, Jesh de Rox, The Bebb’s, Joe Buissink and more! The Joy to the World Websummit promises to provide you with serious money making ideas for your business.
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So, what’s the catch?There is none. The organizers believe that the value of this FREE LIVE event is so strong, many of you will want to purchase the downloadable recording. That’s what will pay for the thing. But, if you don’t, there are no strings attached. I think they are really smart because it creates a win for everyone especially if you just tune in LIVE! All you need is a computer with an Internet connection to join us December 28 (and the latest version of Adobe Flash – it’s free, too). The Websummit will be available for 24 hours beginning at 12:01 CST on December 28. Listen to only those speakers you like best or watch all 28. You can start, stop and pause each speakers’ presentation to learn at your leisure within the 24 hour window. Simply REGISTER NOW for FREE! If you’re not available on December 28, 2009 or want to get a head start on 2010 planning for your business, you can purchase the Adobe FLASH files of all 14 hours for $89 and receive access to the speaker presentations IMMEDIATELY. A pre-websummit special price of $59 is available until December 27. But you must register before December 28, 2009, and you’ll receive this special offer! BONUS: The Joy of Marketing has partnered with PPA Charities to change the world – one smile at a time. Join us in raising funds for PPA’s charitable partner, Operation Smile, whose network of volunteers work worldwide to repair childhood facial deformities including cleft lips and cleft palates. Learn more here. If last time we did this was any indication, you know how big a deal this is. You seriously don’t want to miss out… but you must register now! See you there! |
To find out first…
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PS… Because so many have requested it, I created this page with links to some of my absolute favorite apps, products & services (along with a little bonus at the bottom). I hope they help!
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Posted by crystalgenes
Meet Libbie, a wedding photographer who loves capturing the expressions of people, but who really loves landscape photography. She shoots Nikon using her left eye in JPEG mode.
www.libbieventiquattrophotography.com
www.libbieventiquattrophoto.blogspot.com
Facebook
Myspace
Describe the moment you decided it was time to pursue this as a career?
Before my daughter was born I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do with my life. I had always been someone who took tons of photographs. After her birth I became nuts about scrapbooking and photography, from there I took online classes, joined forums and just couldn’t get enough. In June 2004 I was able to make my dream a reality, shooting my first wedding. From that I have never looked back, and today I have been privilaged to work with so many great people!
18-135mm f/6.3
What is one thing you’ve learned so far that has proven most valuable?
Keeping faith in myself, don’t compare myself to everyone and believe my work is second best, as for those I work with treat everyone as your closest friends., and I will always believe that I am a mommy, wife and then a photographer!
What makes you different from everyone else?
I put my whole heart into my work by being myself.
Who is your one favorite up-and-coming photographer?
There are so many great ones, but I would have to say I love the work of Stacey Rainer.
One item you can’t live without?
I absolutely love my D80, I don’t know how I shot without it!
Your favorite bokeh image?
18-135mm f/5.6
Why did you want to be included on The Bokeh Pot?
I love looking at other photographers work and networking is always a plus. Hopefully I can inspire others with my work to pursue their dreams!
Favorite book?
Honestly I have a couple, One is the Killer Angels and the other is God and Generals. I am a huge Civil War enthusist.
18-135 mm f/5.6
Favorite movie?
I have two that tie for first – Braveheart and Gettysburg.
Where do you find inspiration?
My family is my true inspiration., Without my husband and children I don’t believe I would be where I am now.
18-135mm f/5.6
What do you think is the most valuable aspect of your business?
For me it would be the friendship of clients I have made.
Do you use a second shooter?
There are some sessions that yes I have used a second shooter for such as larger weddings.
18-135mm f/6.3
How would you recommend that someone wanting to second shoot with you go about getting the gig?
For me when I am looking for a second shooter I want to know their inspiration to shoot, what they are looking for in the photography field and of course I want to meet and see their work, I always want to see if the second shooter and I have a good chemistry.
If you could second shoot with anyone, who would it be?
I would love to work with some of the photographers that I have become friends with over the years. – One is Andrea from www.andreabrownphotography.com and Didi from www.dididaniellephoto.com
18-135mm f/10
Are you a member of any organizations and have you won any awards?
I am an active member of a wonderful organization called Americorps and the Ms. Wheelchair Virginia Organization which I am the webmaster and photographer for, as well as Think Pink Photography
What did you have to do to actually take the leap? Did you have any hoops to jump through?
For me it was more of getting my nerve up enough to do it., I am constantly driving to make my work even better. I feel like I haven’t jumped through enough yet. There is always something that I am needing to get through.
Do you have suggestions for others trying to make the transition?
Spend as much time as you can online looking through forums, don’t pass up any chances you have to learn!
What is the biggest or most creative thing you do/have done to draw new clients?
I have a lot of clients who have found me through word of mouth, event planners or even my ads through craigslist. I don’t advertise really otherwise than that., Once my children are big enough, I plan on throwing myself completely into working full time.
Are you for or against advertising (paid or free)? If for, who have you had the most success with?
I am for both paid and free, the most success I have had is craigslist., the funny thing is the majority of my work has been from there.
18-135mm f/5.6
What’s your idea of the perfect photographer networking “date”?
I would love to do a group “high school senior” session, that way we can learn techniques and new ideas from each other!
Anything else you would like to share?
Thank you for the opportunity to share my work!
18-135mm f/5.6
**Enjoy this feature? Leave a comment to let us know!**
Leave a Comment » | ALL Posts, All Photographers Only, Virginia, Virginia - Timberville | Permalink
Posted by crystalgenes
Meet Heidi Hesla of Heidi Leigh Photography. Heidi is a wedding and portrait photographer who works in Colorado Springs as well as in her hometown of Myrtle Beach, SC. She shoots in RAW using Nikon Manual mode. While she uses her right eye to shoot with, her left eye does crazy things as it’s behind the camera. She likes to use Kubota actions as well as MCP Blogging Actions.
www.heidileighphotography.com
www.heidileighphotography.com/blog
Facebook
Twitter
Describe the moment you decided it was time to pursue this as a career?
The first wedding I ever did! There is something completely amazing about being able to document Love. I love people, photography and weddings so it seemed like a natural fit for me. Plus I have been waiting my whole life to do something that I truly LOVE.
50mm f1.8 iso 100 1/100
What is one thing you’ve learned so far that has proven most valuable?
I have to pick one thing? I have to say I have learned A LOT this last year. But not viewing other photographers as competition would be close to the top. This industry is huge and there is so much to learn, we can all learn something from one another. Luckily I figured this out early on(thanks Becker) and I believe it has helped my business to thrive. Check out the [b] school.
50 mm f2.8 iso 100 1/500
What makes you different from everyone else?
My background is in communications and event planning so I fully understand the importance of details, schedules and thinking on the fly. I even made bouquets at a wedding once, because of a flower emergency! I believe it is of utmost importance that things run as smoothly as possible for the bride and groom on their big day. Sometimes that means you have to take care of the details. Besides they aren’t going to need you to photograph the moment they realize all of their flowers are dead.
Who is your one favorite up-and-coming photographer?
Jamie Delaine. She is only 19 years old and her work is classic, artistic and just plain stunning.
One item you can’t live without?
My camera or my macbook pro….hmmm
Your best bokeh image and why?
50mm f1.8 iso 100 1/160
I love this image because it separates this child from everything around him. For a moment he just is and I believe it captures the child at this age. The bokeh in this image helps me to convey that feeling. For this reason I love bokeh!!
Why did you want to be included on The Bokeh Pot?
I think it is really great what you all are doing! I love learning more about other photographers around the country and I love to blogstalk too! If I can impart any widsom(if I have any) to help you on your journey to a photography career I would be happy to.
Favorite book?
Anything by Jane Austen
Favorite movie?
Sabrina
45 mm f2.8 iso 100 1/125
Where do you find inspiration?
Anthropologie…haha but seriously I love that store. Such a classic/vintage style all wrapped up into one. But really my greatest inspiration comes from those around me.
What do you think is the most valuable aspect of your business?
I guess me(filled with all of the information that I have learned). I am offering my clients an experience and the end result is relaxed and beautiful photographs that tell their story, this is my goal.
200mm f5.0 iso 200 1/200
Do you use a second shooter?
Yes! I eventually hope to have someone full time, but right now I use photog friends or people that I find through the B school, etc. I believe have a second shooter is crucial for many reasons and thus I don’t think that I will ever shoot a wedding without one. If you want to know what those reasons are just ask!
How would you recommend that someone wanting to second shoot with you go about getting the gig?
Just send me an e-mail!
155mm f2/8 iso 100 1/320
If you could second shoot with anyone, who would it be?
I would say Becker because I hear that he has a way with clients like no one else and can make anyone feel comfortable in front of the camera. And Jamie Delaine because I love her style and I would ask her how she became such an amazing photographer AND businesswoman at the ripe old age of 19.
90mm f2.8 iso 100 1/320
Are you a member of any organizations and have you won any awards?
I am in the process of gaining membership through two organizations. No awards yet, but who knows maybe one day.
What did you have to do to actually take the leap? Did you have any hoops to jump through?
I suppose I am still taking the leap. I still work a full time job in addition to my business. But when I started this I said if I was going to do it I would do it right. So I bought pro gear and spent every waking moment learning as much as I could. There is still so much to learn though.
70 mm f2.8 iso 100 1/400
Do you have suggestions for others trying to make the transition?
Shoot, shoot, shoot and learn, learn, learn in order to grow, grow, grow. This isn’t a song yet but maybe I will right it soon.
What is the biggest or most creative thing you do/have done to draw new clients?
Social Networking and Facebook have been huge for me! I don’t know that I have anything super creative yet.
Are you for or against advertising (paid or free)? If for, who have you had the most success with?
I purchased paid advertising in a new market that I was hoping to break into and have received 0 return from it. But that was my only experience. I am a huge fan of social networking, I think it is the way of the future and I am predominately referral based.
70mm f5.6 iso 250 1/125
What’s your idea of the perfect photographer networking “date”?
Chatting for hours over coffee and then going out and shooting for fun!
Anything else you would like to share?
I really have learned a lot from the [b] school and the amazing community there. I would suggest you check it out if you haven’t already. Don’t be afraid to blogstalk but identify your brand and what you like to shoot from this will come your own style.
70mm f2.8 iso 200 1/80
***Enjoy this feature? Leave a comment to let us know!***
4 Comments | ALL Posts, All Photographers Only, Colorado, Colorado - Colorado Springs, South Carolina, South Carolina - Myrtle Beach | Permalink
Posted by crystalgenes
Meet Brian Jones of iDream Media. Brian is a wedding, portrait, and wildlife photographer who uses Canon equipment and shoots with his right eye. He shoots in both RAW & JPEG, Manual and AV modes, and uses TRA actions.
http://www.idreamimages.com
http://blog.idreamimages.com
Facebook
Twitter
Myspace
Describe the moment you decided it was time to pursue this as a career?
I have always wanted photography as a career. After graduation I wanted to take photography in college but my parents told me I could never make a living doing it so I ended up going a different direction. After a few different majors and everyone telling me I should do photography full time I finally enrolled at the Ohio Institute of Photography in Dayton, Ohio. I earned a degree in portrait photography.
1/2500, ISO 640, 85L F1.6, 5D MKII
What is one thing you’ve learned so far that has proven most valuable?
Have fun!
What makes you different from everyone else?
I am very outgoing and connect with my clients easily. I try and capture the small details that people tend to forget about.
5D MKII, 70-200 F 2.8
Who is your one favorite up-and-coming photographer?
ME 
haha
One item you can’t live without?
My 85L
Your best bokeh image?
5D MKII, 85L, F1.2 ISO500
Favorite movie?
300
Where do you find inspiration?
Malls
What do you think is the most valuable aspect of your business?
The different look that I deliver. It’s more modern and edgy.
Do you use a second shooter?
Sometimes
How would you recommend that someone wanting to second shoot with you go about getting the gig?
Just ask
If you could second shoot with anyone, who would it be?
Canon 5D MKII, 1/200 F1.8, 85L, ISO800
Are you a member of any organizations and have you won any awards?
PPA, WPPI, NILMDTS, I have won awards for my nature and wildlife photos
What did you have to do to actually take the leap? Did you have any hoops to jump through?
I wanted to make sure I was fully prepared and ready before accepting and weddings. You have one chance to get it right!
5D MKII, 1/5000, F1.4, 85L, ISO100
Do you have suggestions for others trying to make the transition?
Work with other photographers and get out there and shoot.
What is the biggest or most creative thing you do/have done to draw new clients?
I get out in the community and get noticed. I also work with a local jewelry store and give a complimentary engagement session when they buy an engagement ring.
5dMKII, 1/5000, ISO640 85L f1.6
Are you for or against advertising (paid or free)? If for, who have you had the most success with?
Both! I have had alot of success from Facebook! My website and I also have a commercial running which has reached alot of homes for not alot of money. Check your local cable company for rates.
What’s your idea of the perfect photographer networking “date”?
Just grab your gear and go out shooting…try things you wouldn’t normally do alone.
5D MKII, 1/1600, 85L f2.8
Leave a Comment » | ALL Posts, All Photographers Only, Ohio, Ohio - Chillicothe | Permalink
Posted by crystalgenes
<a href=”http://www.justinmarantz.com/”>Justin & Mary Marantz</a> are coming to Charlotte in January for their Spread the Love Workshop and on Black Friday, seats will only be $50!! After Friday, seats will be $150, so make yourself a reminder to do a little quick shopping online before heading out to shop and wait in hour long lines.
Here’s what they had to say about the workshop:
<em>Spread the Love is not a photography workshop…It’s a LIFE workshop. So you don’t have to be a photographer to attend! Florists, planners, basically anybody who owns their own business can benefit from Spread the Love. In this seminar, we’ll cover everything from marketing, branding, building relationships, business 101, financial health, balancing life & business, creating systems that stick. and so much more. This is the time for a fresh start, and what better way to kick it off than getting inspired to get back to what you love about not only your business, but more importantly…to what you love about your LIFE again? </em>
For each city to remain on the map, at least 50 people will need to sign up for that city, so help them spread the word and invite all your friends to come along!
We’ll be kicking everything off in our own backyard: Beantown, aka Boston on January 5th!
Spread the Love Boston: January 5th
Spread the Love NYC: January 6th
Spread the Love DC: January 7th
Spread the Love Richmond: January 8th
***We’ll be heading to Nashville here to be in town for Imaging/DWF. For any of you guys that are planning on coming to Imaging and can’t make any of the other stops (or just want to come twice!!) we’ve planned the Nashville stop to be the day after the conferences end, just for you!! Well….and all the Nashville people!
Spread the Love Nashville: January 14th
Spread the Love Charlotte: January 15th
Spread the Love Atlanta: January 18th
Spread the Love Jacksonville: January 19th
Spread the Love Houston: January 22nd
Spread the Love Austin: January 25th
Spread the Love Dallas: January 26th
Spread the Love Phoenix: February 2nd
Spread the Love San Diego: February 4th
Spread the Love LA: February 5th
Spread the Love San Fran: February 8th
Spread the Love Seattle: February 11th
Spread the Love Salt Lake City: February 15th
Spread the Love Denver: February 17th
Spread the Love Kansas City: February 19th
Spread the Love Chicago: February 22nd
***We’ll be taking a break here to get ready for WPPI 2010 where we will be speaking for the very first time! Bleh….I feel like throwing up already!! And then we will wrap up the tour after WPPI with our Maine stop, when hopefully it will be a little warmer up that way!
Spread the Love Maine: March 24th
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Posted by crystalgenes
Meet Brianne, a wedding and portrait photographer in Illinois. She shoots RAW with her right eye using Canon equipment in manual or tv modes. She prefers Totally Rad Actions for post production.
http://www.briannebradburyphotography.com
http://briannebradburyphoto.blogspot.com/
Facebook
Twitter
An old college friend contacted me and she had become an amazing
wedding photographer. After second shooting for her and lots of
support, I started shooting some of my own weddings and loved every
minute. Being able to have a career that you love was a huge
motivator to make my business work.
22mm, 400ISO, f 4.5, 1/60
That your personality is everything.
I think my personality definitely sets me apart. When guests at a
wedding are telling you that your photos look amazing when they
haven’t seen anything you shot is always amazing to hear. The only
thing they have seen is me and my personality!
24mm, 2000ISO, f 8, 1/100
There are so many amazing up and coming photographers that it is hard
to chose, but I’m going to have to go with Cristina G Photography
(http://www.cristinagphoto.com/)! I met her by second shooting for
her a year ago and she is absolutely amazing!
24mm, 640ISO, f 18, 1/160
Other than my camera and equipment, it would be my laptop that is
almost always in my lap if I’m home! I check my email every couple of
minutes and some day I will have to go to a meeting for it
34mm, 1000ISO, f 4, 1:500I just recently shot a portrait session and one of my favorite images
from it is a bokeh image. Loralei was one of the most adorable giggly
babies and Melissa, her mom, was holding her out towards the camera
allowing for Loralei to be in focus and Melissa out of focus! The
background is just a lot of dots and looks great keeping the focus
mostly on Loralei! I just blogged about the session, so feel free to
give it a look and let me know what you think since I’m just about to
put portraits on my website!
Who wouldn’t!
Favorite book?
My two favorite books are Time Traveller’s Wife and The Shadow of the
Wind! They are both absolutely amazing books and I have recommended
them to everyone.
Favorite movie?
There are so many I love that I can’t choose just
one! Some movies that I watch often are: 10th Kingdom, Princess
Bride, Forgetting Sarah Marshall, Kill Bill, Love Actually to name a
few. There are so many I’m forgetting though!
34mm, 400ISO, f 7.1, 1/200
I love to shoot outside with beautiful natural light and all the
colors are so inspirational. When you look around and can’t figure
out the first place you want to take someone’s picture because there
are so many great places is always amazing.
Me, since I really am the business!
Sometimes and hopefully more often next year!
45mm, 400ISO, f 3.5, 1/200
I’d love to hear from them and they just need to contact me!
I think it would have to be Joe Buissink. He is so amazing and it
would be fun to shoot a famous wedding!
52mm, 800ISO, f 5, 1/200
I belong to PPA and I haven’t won any awards yet
The major leap was purchasing all the equipment I needed! Otherwise
it was a lot of advice from other photographs, but no real hoops.
30mm, 800ISO, f 4.5, 1/200
My biggest suggestion is making sure you have support because it isn’t
always an easy transition!
I don’t think I’ve done anything new that hasn’t been done yet, but
hopefully one day I’ll have a stroke of genius!
I’m definitely for advertising because it is difficult to get your
name out there when you just start and advertising helps and then word
of mouth is always the best. I’ve had the most success with Wedding
Wire and Wedplan.
50mm, 800ISO, f 2.8, 1/320
Dinner and then a long walk on the beach, oh wait, networking… a
perfect networking date is in a comfortable casual setting that allows
you to talk easily and freely.
There will always be hard times, especially during winter (here in
Chicago it can get pretty brutal!), so just stick in there and spring
is right around the corner!
50mm, 400ISO, f 2.5, 1/320
1 Comment | ALL Posts, All Photographers Only, Illinois, Illinois - Arlington Heights | Permalink
Posted by crystalgenes
Meet Devin, a wedding and portrait photographer based out of Louisville, KY. Devin shoots Canon using her right eye and shoots manual and aperture priority in both RAW and JPEG . She prefers to use her own lightroom presets.
http://www.Flashy-Photography.com
http://www.Blog.Flashy-Photography.com
Facebook
Describe the moment you decided it was time to pursue this as a career?
I have always known that I wanted to be a photographer, I just wasn’t sure how to go about it. I got in touch with a local photographer and she gave me the encouragement and advice that I needed. As soon as I hung up the phone with her I knew that this was what I was meant to do. I went out the next day and bought my first DSLR and I’ve never looked back.
47mm, 100 ISO, 1/395, F/4.0
What is one thing you’ve learned so far that has proven most valuable?
Practice makes perfect! And always be yourself, people can sense when someone is being fake and its a definite turn off.
What makes you different from everyone else?
I always give 100% and I am totally in love with what I do… and also there is only one me, what could be more wonderfully different then that?
47mm, 100 ISO , 1/25, F/5.7
Who is your one favorite up-and-coming photographer?
Theresa Spalding with Envy Photography www.EnvyPhotography.net She should already be famous!
One item you can’t live without?
My GPS, I would literally be lost with out it.
Your best bokeh image and why?
132mm,100iso, 1/395, f/5.7
I just love this, I think she looks like she is in deep thought…and there is this childhood innocence about it. It makes me smile.
Why did you want to be included on The Bokeh Pot?
Well why not? I think it’s a great networking site and an even better place to showcase some of my work. I always enjoy looking at other photographers images…hopefully there are some people out there that will enjoy what I have done
Favorite book?
I am a huge fan of the Twilight Series, I also enjoy books by Lauren Weisberger and Nicholas Sparks.
Favorite movie?
There is NO way I could choose just one – Wayne’s World, My Best Friends Wedding, The Breakfast club, Teen Witch, Father of the Bride…are just a few
18mm, 200 ISO, 1/99, F/6.4
Where do you find inspiration?
Through the people that I photograph, nature, and from other photographers blogs.
What do you think is the most valuable aspect of your business?
I think it’s the friendships that I form with clients. I really value the relationships that I form with the people that I work with.
41mm, 400 ISO, 1/63, F/5.0
Do you use a second shooter?
I have a few times, but only at weddings
How would you recommend that someone wanting to second shoot with you go about getting the gig?
Just email me, I’d love to hear from you!
If you could second shoot with anyone, who would it be?
With out a doubt Bobbi + Mike (www.BobbiandMike.com) I LOVE their energy and style.
28mm, 100 ISO, 1/99, F/5.7
Are you a member of any organizations and have you won any awards?
I just mailed my application to become a member of the Professional Photographers Of Greater Louisville association, and I am very excited about that. No awards yet…
What did you have to do to actually take the leap? Did you have any hoops to jump through?
After I got my first DSLR I started second shooting for people and I learned a lot that way and eventually branched out on my own. Through the help of my very supporting husband and good friends that pass my name out to anyone who mentions the word ‘engaged’ I have built up a nice clientele base. Everyday is another hoop to jump through. It is a learning process, but I love every minute of it.
20mm, 400 ISO, 1/83, F/5.7
Do you have suggestions for others trying to make the transition?
Follow your heart, its a lot of hard work, but if its something you really want to do then the work is totally worth it. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, and if you are presented with the opportunity to learn something new, don’t pass it up!
18mm, 400 ISO, 1/197, F/9.1
What is the biggest or most creative thing you do/have done to draw new clients?
Its not very creative, but I have gotten a lot of referrals from past clients that were really happy with my work.
Are you for or against advertising (paid or free)? If for, who have you had the most success with?
I am for any kind of advertising. For me, word of mouth has proven to be the most effective. I signed up for a booth at a bridal show in January so I guess I will have to wait and see if that brings in more business.
28mm, 100 ISO, 1/197, F/3.5
What’s your idea of the perfect photographer networking “date”?
I think it would be really fun to do a group “Trash the Dress” session followed up by some yummy Starbucks
28mm,100 ISO, 1/63. F/5.6
Anything else you would like to share?
I have three dogs that are pretty much AWESOME.
28mm, 100 ISO, 1/64, F.40
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2 Comments | ALL Posts, All Photographers Only, Kentucky, Kentucky - Louisville | Permalink
Posted by crystalgenes
Meet Gail, a Central Indiana wedding and portrait photographer who is left handed, but shoots Canon equipment using her right eye. She shoots RAW exclusively in Manual Mode, and uses Kevin Kubota’s Artistic 1 and Production packs, the original set of TRAs, MCP Blogging actions and Nate Holoritz’s Lightroom presets.
www.gailwernerphoto.com
www.gailwernerblog.com
Facebook
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Describe the moment you decided it was time to pursue this as a career?
I’ve always loved photography and took a few classes over the years in high school and college but it was finding my wedding photographers (Turtle Pond Photography), having them document our love and then falling in love with that process that made me think I was on to something so creatively fulfilling that I felt inspired by that desire to give other people those same memories, that same feeling. That and realizing spending 3 hours a day reading about photography, trolling other blogs and obsessing over my camera manual was NOT normal!
What is one thing you’ve learned so far that has proven most valuable?
To stop comparing myself to other photographers. There are so many wonderful photographers out there that it’s beyond intimidating. There are times I find myself looking at others’ blogs and judging myself, feeling second-rate or trying to compare my work to theirs. And then I’m reminded of this quote (ohhh, I’m a quote-lovin’ girl!): “Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else.” — Judy Garland. Amen Judy!
What makes you different from everyone else?
I think it’s just being myself. Being YOU-nique. I’m a cheery person, sociable and easy-going, and it’s those traits that often prove the biggest arsenal in my bag. Because you’re not just a photographer on someone’s wedding day. You have to be their cheerleader, sometimes a mediator, often times the wedding planner, and always someone who can roll with the punches. Are there photographers out there more technically proficient than me? Absolutely. So I just try to do what I do with 110 percent enthusiasm and hope it helps make me 100 percent memorable in the minds of my clients.
Who is your one favorite up-and-coming photographer?
You’d be remiss if you weren’t already following Jamie Delaine. That young woman is a true trailblazer in our field. I also adore my photo BFF, Betsy King. Betsy and I started our businesses around the same time, so we’ve commiserated about a lot of the pros and cons of this venture. Folks, if you don’t have a photo BFF, work on that pronto! You don’t have to be in the same city (or even the same continent), you just need to have one another’s back. Because no matter how much support you get from a spouse or a boy/girlfriend, no one will understand what you are going through like another photographer, preferably one who’s matching pace with you in terms of experience.
One item you can’t live without?
Chapstick (seriously, I freak out if there’s not a tube nearby in every room in the house or in the car) and something to read. Books, magazines, the back of a cereal box, I’m not picky. It’s periodical central in my house, that’s for sure.
Your best bokeh image and why?
I just love the way you’re drawn to her face in this image and I’m a nut for birdcage veils on my brides, so whenever I see this photograph I just fall for it all over again.
Why did you want to be included on The Bokeh Pot?
You guys do SUCH a great job with the site and it’s a great resource for photographers who still are (or still feel) new to the game (I feel like I’m always going to feel that way, even if I’m still shooting with a walker for support!) And I’m someone who always loves to read what other people have to say about our craft and to join in a network of photographers who want to be in that same supportive community that I love. (And as a former journalist, it’s nice to be the one answering the questions instead of asking them
Favorite book?
Oh, just one? I can’t do that. So here’s two: Time Traveler’s Wife and The Book Thief (both made me cry, they are soooo good!)
Favorite movie?
Little Miss Sunshine
Where do you find inspiration?
Magazines, art, nature, the work of my friends who are photojournalists. Of course I glean a lot of inspiration from other photographers’ blogs, but I’ve trained myself to focus in on photographers whose style I most admire in terms of posing and composition and who embody a creative spirit that makes me want to work harder to bring out that same spirit in my images. (Training yourself not to look at EVERY photographer’s blog is also a good way to prevent panic attacks every time you open Google Reader to realize how many posts you’re behind in following.)
What do you think is the most valuable aspect of your business?
The knowledge I’ve worked hard to accumulate over the past 2 years. I love reading about the business side of photography as much as the technical side, so that’s a huge help. Having a background in design has also been a big plus for me.
Do you use a second shooter?
No. I’d like to work on that in 2010! So far, I’ve worked with assistants, which is great, but no one who’s wielded the camera with me.
How would you recommend that someone wanting to second shoot with you go about getting the gig?
Definitely shoot me an email at gail@gailwernerphoto.com and share links to some of your work!
If you could second shoot with anyone, who would it be?
I got to second shoot with my own wedding photogs earlier this year and it was a dream come true. It was an Indian wedding that was over the top beautiful so I couldn’t have asked for a better set-up.
Are you a member of any organizations and have you won any awards?
Nope and nope. I’d love to work on those two areas in my business as well. But first I have to go about finding a way to add two more hours to the day!
What did you have to do to actually take the leap? Did you have any hoops to jump through?
I still work full-time, so in part, I haven’t taken the big leap. The Grand Canyon of leaps, if you will. But as for making the leap where I said, “Yes, I want to do this FOR REAL, it was a series of stages of investing in gear and equipment and second-guessing myself with every click of that mouse. I remember buying my 5D online and being SO nervous about the amount of money I spent on it. Now I can’t imagine living without it. It’s that way with any investment you make in yourself and for your business. For me, this year, it’s been investing in workshops, lighting equipment and a Web site for my business.
50mm, f/4, 1/200, ISO 320
Do you have suggestions for others trying to make the transition?
Work hard. I feel like there are photographers who, like all of us, start doing this because they take some portraits of their family or friends with their starter SLR and think it’ll be easy and fun and that other photographers will tell them all they need to know. But it’s an uphill battle of learning the ropes and I think you need to glean your knowledge from so many different places — your camera manual, books, photo magazines (Rangefinder and Popular Photo are good ones), forums (OSP!) and practicing A TON. Oh, and be prepared to learn a LOT about the business side of photography too. If that idea overwhelms you, you may want to stick with photography as a serious hobby and that’s perfectly OK too!
What is the biggest or most creative thing you do/have done to draw new clients?
I think the recent process of rebranding has made me feel more confident, which in turn, I think has drawn more prospective clients to my work.
Are you for or against advertising (paid or free)? If for, who have you had the most success with?
Not against it at all, just haven’t had to utilize it yet. From those I’ve spoken to who have made use of it, it always seems there’s little bang for the buck.
What’s your idea of the perfect photographer networking “date”?
Grabbing lunch or dinner with a group of photographers, gabbing about life, work, art, what inspires us. The times I get to make that happen, I’m on a “photographer high” for hours afterward.
Anything else you would like to share?
Just remember that everybody has days where they doubt themselves and their abilities. Even the best photographers.
And I’ll share three gems of inspiration and knowledge when I was starting out:
Bryan Peterson’s Understanding Photography — When I first bought my SLR, this book had so much great info for me. Bryan presents the basics in a way that just makes everything click. His book on shutter speed is pretty fantastic too.
Digital Photography School: I’ve subscribed to this newsletter for about 3 years now and continue to be impressed with the tips, tricks and doses of inspiration that hit my inbox each day. If you’re not subscribed, check it out!
Lynda.com: This was a great resource for me when the time came to learn more about how to use programs like Light Room, Bridge and Photoshop for editing my photos. Having taken a lot of design classes in college, I look back and wish I had this resource then!
28mm, f/5.6, 1/240, ISO 1000
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3 Comments | ALL Posts, All Photographers Only, Indiana, Indiana - Muncie | Permalink
Posted by crystalgenes
