We are reviving something old... the president's letter. I am going to attempt to write a letter to our group every month to encourage and inspire you! Well, here goes the first one:
The President’s letter
By: Kari Douma
Today for my first president’s letter, I want to focus on education. I just recently got back from the Professional Photographers of Michigan’s annual convention. It was 4 days of learning, networking, and having fun.
I started the convention by watching print competition. The competition started Friday night at 7:00, and then picked up again Saturday morning. I sat in the dark for about 12 hours, just watching and learning.... learning by the scores that were given for prints. I love print competition, and I can’t tear myself away!
Then, on Sunday through Tuesday, I sat in on speakers, learning things like marketing to seniors, how to get emotion out of your wedding clients, photoshop tips and tricks, and much more.
I once heard someone compare the photography industry to a horse race. This is what he said: “Look at a horse race. How much is the first place prize? How much is the second place prize? The difference in the purse (prize) from first place to second place is HUGE. The first place gets a large compensation for winning, and the second place only gets a small amount for coming in second. Now look at how close the race is. Sometimes the eye can’t even tell who won. They have to rely on high speed cameras to see who’s nose was across the finish line first.”
What is going to put you across the finish line first? Who will win the grand prize? It is those who are taking the initiative to further their education. A lot of photographers don’t want to take the time or spend the money to go to classes, workshops, or seminars. Photography is an ever changing industry, especially with digital photography. We need to keep current on the equipment, trends, and computer programs. Because if we don’t, our competitor will, and they will finish a nose ahead of us.
It is hard to justify where to spend your money in the tight economy. I understand times are tough. But, those of you who are members of PPWM have already taken that first step, and I congratulate you for that. Keep on learning and growing...... I hope to see you all at the all day program in March with Cliff Mautner. He is an amazing photographer who will teach us how to see light like never before. Don’t miss it!
Kari
