Pricing For Success For Photographers -- Edmonton

Here are the official details!! Grab a seat before they are all gone

Edmonton, August 18th 4:30pm-9:30pm

location to be announced privately Here is the paypal link to register:

In case you missed the first post about why I am doing this, you can find it here:

http://danapugh.com/pricing-for-success-a-workshop-for-photographers/

Once you have paid, you will receive an email from me talking about the next steps.

Thanks! Dana

Canada Photo Convention

I have just come home from speaking at the Canada Photo Convention in Vancouver. While I was away, I received an email saying that Georgia needed a headshot for something. So, I knew that upon walking in the door, I would take her down into the studio and grab a shot or two. This, of course, will not do for the headshot. It's too 'artsy' ;) but...for me, her mother, it will do just fine. I can see glimpses of the baby she once was and the woman she will become and the freckles that will connect the two.

This was not the first time I have presented to an audience of photographers, but there was something unique about this conference. Throughout the 3 days, almost every one of the speakers contradicted another speaker. But, there was no bickering only head nodding. The community that has been created at this convention is unique in this industry(at least in my experience). We are all artists. We realized that there are no rules in art and what feels right or works for one person may not resonate with you and that's OKAY. This is your business, your art, and you get to make the rules that work for you.

I'll be honest and say that I have had a number of negative experiences in the industry over the last year or two. It has made me hesitant to spend time with photographers outside of my inner circle because I don't need the negativity in my life. What I need is support...it's what all artists need because being an artist is difficult in a lot of ways. And, at the heart of what I took away from these last 3 days is that supporting each other only makes the industry stronger.

I can truly say that I was overwhelmed by the number of people who came up to me to tell me how much they loved my talk. I was a bit worried as sometimes it seems that family photographers and wedding photographers are on different planets, but, the truth is, we can learn from each other. We can be inspired by each other. We can support each other. No matter which planet we are from.

~ Dana

Beginnings

I've been mentoring a lot lately. It's something that I love to do for a couple of reasons. First and foremost, photography can be a lonely occupation with large periods of time sitting at home planning, editing, invoicing, blogging, etc...and it is nice to chat with someone else who is passionate about something that you are passionate about.

Secondly, I truly enjoy watching people succeed after I help them. I have even seen some of the people I mentor go on and do amazing things. Like win awards and stuff. Secretly, it feels a bit like I've won, too. I guess that's what being a teacher is all about and I have to admit that I like that.

Thirdly...and by no means lastly...I learn a lot. Chatting with photographers who are earlier on in their journey than you is an interesting thing. You remember when you were there. It inspires you(well, me at least) to look back at your work and to see what inspired me to start this journey in the first place. And, THAT is a good thing. It has helped move me past the worry of where the industry is headed...the bitterness that so many feel over the changes that are happening and embrace the changes. To see that the changes are inevitable and that change is a GOOD thing.

More people loving and valuing photography can never NEVER be a bad thing for our industry. It has just become more difficult to find our own place in this sea of loving. For me, I have found that it lies squarely in being yourself and embracing your imperfections ;) But the thing is...if you are looking for your own place...yours is in a different spot than mine. No two people can occupy the same place. It's not so easy to find now, but ... if you can't find it....I would argue that you aren't looking hard enough :)

It also pushes me to get better. It helps me see that I should embrace more of what I teach. Truly...because saying something and doing it are two totally different things. Watching them improve so quickly--for some of them it is a daily thing(truly)--reminds me that the more photographs you take the better you will get. Period.

Don't hate the people in the beginning of their journey. Remember you were there once...

~ Dana