The very basic core of a man's living spirit is his passion for adventure.
Jon Krakauer

by Skip Cohen

I've gotten into the habit of keeping it short and simple on Fridays. Like my Sunday Morning Reflections posts, I rarely know what I want to write about in advance. Looking for inspiration, I was wandering through Lou Mitchell's book on positive thinking, and the quote above came up.

He went on to write: ...It's in our nature to seek out new experiences and push the boundaries of our comfort zones. This passion for adventure fuels personal growth, creativity, and a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world.

While most of my days are pretty terrific, every now and then, as I've gotten older, I miss the adventures. I define "adventures" as anything I've ever done that was out of my comfort zone; time with friends who I hadn't seen in a long time; virtually any conference or convention; or even starting or finishing a new project, just to name a few.

Yes, I now officially qualify as an "old fart," but aside from creaking for 10 minutes when I get up in the morning, I don't feel any different than I did 20-30 years ago.

Here's my point - it's the absence of adventure that ages us. And when we get that attitude of "been-there-done-that," we're doomed to boredom setting in!

Wishing everybody a day and weekend ahead that's an adventure. Growth doesn't just happen outside your comfort zone. It happens when you let your creativity run wild, spend time with friends who make you laugh, and when you take notice and appreciate the people who love you most.

Okay, so I'm getting sappy, but it's really just about appreciating everything in our lives and avoiding wasting energy on things outside our control. 

by Skip Cohen

Although I shared this over eight years ago, I wanted to bring it back again. Why? Because there's so much we take for granted in education today. I'm pretty sure this was the very first program of its kind in imaging. It was thanks to the brilliance of Ed Pierce (front row, second from the end) and the trailblazers in the photograph with him.

Here's what so many of you don't know:

• ​This event actually led to the launch of PhotoVision, which many of you subscribed to over the years.
• There were four events in the series, with the smallest being 58 viewing locations and the largest at 80+.
• While some of the locations were in theaters, over half were in hotel ballrooms with satellite trucks. Just the logistics alone, which included a few snowstorms, was an incredible accomplishment.
• Ritz Camera had the studio for the production, but Ed Pierce had to help them rig it for the event.
• Each speaker was interviewed live during the event, followed by a 25-30 minute video of them working/teaching, then back to the speaker live again.
• There was a full panel of operators standing by to field phone-in questions for the speakers - much like a telethon.
• The program consisted of 8 hours of live content for each event.

This is where it all started! There wasn't ANY online programming at the time. There were no webinars; even YouTube wouldn't be founded for almost close to ten more years!

But this is another fun aspect of Throwback Thursday. While in one respect I can't believe how old I am to have been around for this stuff, on the other hand, I couldn't be more proud to have been a very small part of it. Hasselblad was one of the sponsors, and Tony Corbell and I flew to Washington, D.C. and were in the audience all day at the live event.

It's hard to imagine a more fun trip down Memory Lane when it comes to photography. To Royce Chenore for sharing so many years ago - thank you again! And to my old buddy Ed Pierce, you're the one who blazed this trail into video education and helped change so many lives in photography!

Happy Throwback Thursday!
​
About the photograph above:

Here's a fun quality of Facebook. The image above was shared on Royce Chenore's page back around 2017. I shared it once before, but it was so long ago, and significant, that I wanted to share it again.

Royce originally wrote:

This is Circa 1995... it was a publicity photo for the "PORTRAIT 2000" teleconference.... this was in the VERY early days of "electric imaging" now called digital retouch... the photographers submitted "selfies" on FILM of all formats brands and speeds....(selfie...another term that didn't exist) and ACI composited them into one image.... this was EXTREMELY INNOVATIVE AT THE TIME!! Feel free to share and tag others if you wish....

Seriousness is overrated. If you want to achieve more without ruining your life,
the first step is to approach your work with a sense of play!
A. Abdall

by Skip Cohen

This short post has a message many of us often overlook: life gets too serious, and that heaviness leads to more stress.

The bottom line is the way so many of us have done our best growing and surviving in business over the years - work hard, play hard. Some of the most successful projects I've ever worked on involved a team of people who simply refused not to have fun - no matter how hard the task.

These days, that quote above is the perfect reminder that we've all become too serious, mostly about things outside our control. And, if you're one of those people who think playing it safe requires a level of seriousness, here's one more quote:

The death rate for people who play it safe and for people who live boldly is the same: 100%
Patty Digh

Happy Hump Day!

by Skip Cohen

It's Marketing Monday, and to date, I've shared seven different posts about areas you need to examine in your marketing efforts. The whole idea is to help make 2026 one of your very best years in business.

And while the politics and economy around us certainly don't make things easy, people still have memories to capture, and they need your skills as a storyteller and your technique as a "magician." Remember, you're the one who can literally capture time and make it stand still!

"The aim of marketing is to get customers to know, like and trust you."
Unknown

by Skip Cohen

Unlike most Sunday morning posts, I knew exactly what I wanted to write about this morning. It's Mother's Day, and especially with both my parents having passed, I tend to think beyond not only "Mom" but my folks. As I've gotten older, my most cherished memories come with old photographs. For my mom, and dad too, their story was captured in a day-in-the-life album thanks to Cantrell Portrait Design and Graphi Studio.

The album contains only 14 photographs, printed full-page and often without a border. The book is proof that less is more!  It captures the love they shared. The cover shot is simply a full-page bleed black and white and is proof that a picture really is worth a thousand words.

But today's post isn't just about my folks; it's about the mistake we all make in thinking we have unlimited time with the people we love the most. Looking back, especially on Mother's Day, I regret not getting closer to my Mom before Alzheimer's robbed us of so many years and better memories. She fought the battle for eight years, and Dad never left her side.

I might be an old fart, but that doesn't change the fact that I'm missing my folks and Mom this Mother's Day. But thanks to photographs, there are no tears, just deep smiles and memories of the good times, the crazy times, and even the sad moments of letting go.

When Mom passed, we were all around her bed. My Dad whispered in her ear, "What a great run we had!"  Sheila said, "Mom, it's okay to let go and be with God." One tear rolled down Mom's cheek, she let out a  sigh, and let go. It had been raining, and at the same time a rainbow appeared. Seriously, no embellishment- It was a Hollywood moment.

So for those of you who, like me, and have lost your mother, I'm a fan of Marianne Williamson, who talks a lot about death. I've never been particularly spiritual, but that's where Sheila comes in.  I know the only thing that's changed is that Mom's left her physical being, but her spirit is alive and well and all around us. Hang on to only the good memories you have of your mother and cherish every smile they give you.

To all of you celebrating with your mothers today... enjoy each minute with the same focus you'd have when when savoring a fine wine. Don't waste a minute on anything that doesn't matter. Take those walks down Memory Lane and get a few grab-shots and video to cherish years from now.

And to all of you Moms out there, thank you for the path you chose. We're all here thanks to your journey and the sacrifices you make every day as a mother.

Wishing everyone a terrific Sunday. This is definitely a day to go for those eleven-second therapeutic hugs I always write about, especially if you're going to be with your mother today. And if you're like me, and Mom has long since passed, she's still watching over you - send her that hug anyway.

Happy Sunday...and Mother's Day!

...

"This is what I like about photographs.
They're proof that once, even if just for a heartbeat, everything was perfect."
Jodi Picoult*
​

by Skip Cohen

David Anthony Williams and I have been friends for a long time, going back to both Hasselblad days and then mostly through my days working at Rangefinder Magazine and WPPI. In 2004, he received WPPI's Lifetime Achievement Award. Besides being a WPPI icon for so many years, nobody's more genuine than David. He was caught completely off guard, and the emotions just flowed.

But this fun little tribute this morning isn't just about David, but the thousands of grab-shots we all have in prints, negatives, files on our computers, and especially our phones.

​A few weeks ago, I shared a large group of headshots of industry members from when they were seniors. For a second round in a few weeks, I put out a request for more artists to share their senior shots, and David had some fun with it. He shared a shot of himself as a teenager, then included a series of images from his growing up.

I'm saving his teenager shot for the next post of industry artists in their high school days, but the collection David sent over is too much fun not to share. It doesn't matter whether you know David or not; my point is the power of the grab-shots in our lives that tell our story.

Think about all the images you have from when you were a kid...pull a couple at random and then take a walk down Memory Lane and think about the stories they bring back. We're an industry that helps people capture memories. Over and over again, old photographs take us back to good times and yes, even bad times, but they prove the point that a picture really is worth a thousand words.

I've got a big request: how about some of you sending me 2-3 shots that tell a little of your story when you were a kid? No matter how old you are today, life was so much simpler back then, but no less relevant or contributing to who you are today. Send them as a DM on Facebook or email me.

Thanks, David! I miss ya buddy - we share so many great friends and memories!

Happy Throwback Thursday!

* I know I've shared this quote dozens of times, but I have yet to read one better that talks about the value of photographs!

by Skip Cohen

Over the last few months I've shared dozens of suggestions to help you build a stronger business. But now that we're into spring seasonality, things are busier and a lot of you have the idea that you don't have the time to do more marketing.

Here's a list of easy things to do regularly to help you keep the momentum going:

1. Check and respond to customer inquiries: I'm always surprised at the number of artists who check their messages at totally random times of day. For phone and text messages it should be several times a day and for email, especially if you have a structured contact system on your website. 
2. Keep in touch with clients: With social media it's so easy to track birthdays, anniversaries and milestones. Make a list of your top clients. Then set yourself up for 30 minutes a day to stay in contact via email, social media or even your phone. Just 2-3 calls a day will help you build a foundation of customers who know you care. This is all about staying in touch, NOT selling or pitching anything beyond respect and friendship.
3. Monitor your website: You don't have to do a full review every day, but each morning hit a few different pages on your website to make sure everything is loading the way you want it to.
4. Get out to lunch! I've often referred to myself as "the biggest lunch slut in the industry!" I love getting time with friends and associates over lunch. It's about the conversations and especially with members of the industry - you learn so much about the challenges everybody is facing.
5. Take advantage of Throwback Thursday: It's the perfect way to remind Mom that her family changes a little more every day. So utilize your blog or social media to share old photographs that make the point about the importance of memories and your skills. Remember, you're a magician with the skill to turn intangible moments into photographs and videos to enjoy for a lifetime.
6. Follow a few icons: We all have our heroes in imaging. Bookmark a few of their pages and then stay in touch with what they're working on. You'll be surprised on how much you can pick up in trends and technique.
7. Stay involved in at least 1-2 groups of artists: Whether it's a local camera club, state association or national, don't just stand on the sidelines and watch the parade go by - get involved.
8. Attend a few workshops: You should be attending at least one major conference each year and then fill in the rest of the year with a couple of hands-on type workshops. The key here isn't just expanding your skill set, but expanding and socializing with your network.

Just like a houseplant needs water and fertilizer to grow and stay healthy, so does your spirit and your business. Don't let the stress of the biz grind you down. You've got to stay active and passionate about the craft and your clients. Remember, you can't create images that tug at people's heartstrings if your own heart isn't in it!

Happy Hump Day!

by Skip Cohen

It's Marketing Monday! Even though we're in the heat of spring seasonality, that doesn't mean your "world" is perfect, and there's nothing more for you to be doing when it comes to building a stronger presence. If you're at least fifty, you might remember the old Ban deodorant commercial with the tagline, "You never get a second chance to make a first impression! Never let them see you sweat!"

Over the years, I've done a lot of website reviews, and so many of you are missing an opportunity to make a really good first impression. A visit to your website needs to be a great experience. Just like shopping at Nordstroms vs. Macy's - you've got a choice to make in the experience you give visitors to your website!

Here are some ideas, most of them easy fixes and things you can do regardless of how busy you might be with Mother's Day, graduation, prom season, and Father's Day.
​

• Load Times: Don't just assume your website is loading the way you intend it. Check it on different browsers. Chrome is the most popular, with Safari second.
• Navigation: Is your site easy to scroll through, or do you need a team of miners to find the most important components and information?
• Mobile Compatible: Your website has to be accessible and easy to view on a phone as well as a computer. So, is it?
• Great Images: It's all about quality, not quantity! Stop showing images that anybody's Uncle Harry could capture. Every image you share, including your own headshot, should scream "PROFESSIONAL!" Stop filling up your galleries with average photos.
• Policies Don't Belong on Your Website: Too many of you have policies that would scare an IRS auditor. Save the policies on cancellations, refunds, etc., for the contract discussion, and stop scaring people away before they fall in love with your work.
• Contact Pages: Give people a way to contact you directly! There's no excuse for not listing your phone number! And make your phone a dedicated line for your business.
• Respond Quickly: If you're still wading through traditional contact forms from potential clients, you might as well go back to the "bingo-cards" magazines used decades ago. What's most important is that you respond quickly, making sure your clients know that you value their potential business.
• Continuity: Now and then, I review a website that looks like it was built by different contractors on a house. The home page has a distinct look, but the pages that follow don't seem to fit in. There's no excuse today for a website that's anything but upbeat and great-looking! DIY has its limits, and while some of you have the skillset, too many of you have been building things as you go along and need help.

While somebody will challenge me on this, you can't be in business today without a website. I also feel a blog is incredibly valuable. Why? Because your site is about what you sell, and your blog is about what's in your heart. Both work together, much like advertising and publicity. Together, a great website and blog can open doors, build trust, and help establish your reputation as a professional photographer.

Hate blogging? Then maintain your presence through consistent posts you share on social media, on your Facebook page, for example. The key is establishing a regular presence. Remember, you've got one goal with every contact - exceed expectations and make yourself habit-forming.

But just like discussions on Facebook forums about what photographers wear when shooting a wedding, you've got to dress the part. You've got to dress for success! ​ These days, your website is the equivalent of a bricks-and-mortar store - make a visit, starting with your audience walking through a front door that's memorable and a fun place to "shop."

Thinking is difficult.
That's why most people judge.
Carl Jung

by Skip Cohen

This was yesterday's selection from Lou Mitchell's book, Mastering Positive Thinking. He went on to write:

...It's often easier to form quick judgments than to ponder complex ideas and understand different perspectives. Judgment provides an illusion of certainty and control, while genuine thinking requires patience, open-mindedness, and a willingness to embrace uncertainty....How often do you find yourself jumping to conclusions rather than seeking a deeper understanding?​

I didn't want to turn today's Sunday Morning Reflections into a rant, but after watching the news the last few nights, it's getting harder and harder not to share my frustration. We all have times when we draw the wrong assumptions because we judge too quickly. We're even taught, as kids, not to "judge a book by its cover."

For me, my favorite is the latest absurdity over "8647" now being suggested as a death threat...

"86" (or "eighty-six") is American slang meaning to get rid of, cancel, refuse service to, or discard something. Originating in the 1930s, diner and soda-counter slang to signify an item was out of stock, it has evolved into a general term for eliminating, ejecting a person from a venue, or canceling plans. (Google and Merriam Webster)

Here's my point: the only way to keep our lives back on track is to set a good example within our own community. We don't have much influence over the craziness of a government that's forgotten about "We the People," but we can live our lives at a level far above the standards they keep setting. 

And here's one more quote that brings it together, thanks to Lou Mitchell again,

Snow flakes are one of nature's most fragile things,
but just look at what they can do when stick together.
Vesta Kelly

...and one last favorite from a quick Google search:

If you put the federal government in charge of the Sahara Desert,
in 5 years there'd be a shortage of sand.
M. Friedman

Wishing everybody a day ahead that allows you the time to simply kick back and think without passing judgement. Focus on your dreams and the people you love the most. Make a few new memories and appreciate all that you have with the people who get those eleven-second therapeutic hugs I always write about. 

Happy Sunday...or Monday on the other side of world.

We may be disappointed if we fail, but we are doomed if we don't try.
Beverly Sills

by Skip Cohen

It's the perfect quote for a common challenge I've been hearing a lot lately - apathy from small business owners who have decided to give up. They blame all the difficulties in their business on everything and everyone except the face in the mirror! Rather than accept the difficulties in business today, or even their own mistakes, it's always somebody else's fault.

I'm not suggesting that owning/running a business is easy, but as imaging artists the demand for capturing memories has never slowed down. In fact, the more bizarre and difficult the world is, the more important and poignant moments of love, friendship, celebration, and respect become. And in spite of everything that AI can do, it still takes an artist to tell the story!

Speaking of stories - here's a throwback sidebar. Going back to the late 80s, Stanley Sills was one of the key publishers in the photographic industry. At an industry dinner around 1988, my parents joined us at an ADL dinner in NYC. During the cocktail hour, I introduced my folks to a number of friends in the industry, including Stanley Sills.

My mother, when introduced to him, commented, "We have a friend in Cleveland, who's pretty famous, Beverly Sills. Do you know her?" Stanley smiled and said, "Yes, she's my sister!" My mother said something like, "We haven't seen her in a long time. I hope she's well." Then, Mom couldn't get away from him fast enough! My mother had been caught name-dropping. I don't think I ever heard her do it again. LOL

My mother didn't know Beverly Sills. And for those of you too young to know who she was: Beverly Sills was an American operatic soprano whose career peak was between the 1950s and 1970s. (Google) She had won a Grammy, an Emmy, and was a Kennedy Center Honoree in 1985, among other awards.

Back to the point of today's post - failure is not an option as long as you learn from your mistakes and change your course of action. But it's so true that you're doomed if you don't continue to try. So, when you get to those points where you just want to give up, use your network! Stop thinking you have to solve every problem by yourself.

We're an industry of people who care about each other and watch each other's backs. And while technology will never slow down, neither will the need for people to capture memories. Imaging artists are the magicians who turn intangible moments into tangible images people can hold and share for a lifetime. 

Most people give up just when they're about to achieve success.
They quit on the one yard line.
They give up at the last minute of the game one foot from a winning touchdown.
Ross Perot

Wishing everybody a terrific weekend ahead!

by Skip Cohen

It was 2008, and Scott Sheppard, who sadly passed away several years ago, interviewed me about WPPI's programming. And while it's a little long and definitely not in focus like it should have been, it's a kick to think back to the days when we were at Paris and Bally's. This was the year before the move to MGM, which continued to grow, as we took over the entire hotel, including the Garden Arena.

But part of the fun of an 18-year-old video like this is the location. We were in the back hall of Bally's that led to many of the conference rooms. As Scott and I are talking, check out the people walking by. I spotted Arlene Evans, and later Bill Hurter on his "golf cart."

Also, the Young Guns program I mentioned was highlighted in a previous Throwback Thursday post. Here's the link.
​
If you haven't been to any of the major conferences in professional imaging, put them down on your calendar for the months and years ahead. A great conference isn't just about what you can learn, but the people you'll meet and your ability to expand your network.

​These days, a great network is invaluable!

by Skip Cohen

It's Hump Day for everyone who's working/living a normal life...LOL  But, most of you are photographers, and if your specialty is on the bridal or event side, there is no "normal" life or schedule. There is no Hump Day to hit and ride over the other side, suggesting you can coast into the weekend.

And that's my point with today's post: I don't know anybody who has true normalcy in their lives. In fact, I'm not sure how to even define "normal." Sheila and I have our daily routines, together and apart, but life has become bizarre. As we watched last night's news, we were blown away by each story. From Mother Nature's wrath to the fires in Georgia and Florida, to there being no escape from the political scene. And regardless of whether you are on the left or right, whatever happened to the goal of supporting "We the People?"

I know this is becoming a rant, but I want my world back! The problem is that it's getting farther and farther away...it's becoming less and less recognizable. So, Sheila and I raise the drawbridge to keep the trolls out, but they still come into our lives emotionally.

This is a short post with only one goal: to remind you that, whatever frustrations you're feeling, you're not alone. Your friends and your network, together, are your support group. There are still memories to be made, moments to capture, and stories to be told, all under the umbrella of friendships. 
​

"Friendship is the hardest thing in the world to explain. It's not something you learn in school.
But if you haven't learned the meaning of friendship, you really haven't learned anything," 
Muhammad Ali

"Friendship is everything. Friendship is more than talent.
It is more than the government. It is almost the equal of family."
​Mario Puzo

Happy Hump Day!

by Skip Cohen

It's Marketing Monday and time for another installment of "Drilling Down." I started this series to give you ideas to build a stronger business, no matter what the challenges were. Most of you are right-brain creative types with too little focus on growing your business. Of even greater concern is the number of you who don't think of yourself as small business owners. Even if you're freelancing or working for another studio, imaging is a career choice that lends itself to ALWAYS building your brand.

Success isn't as much about who YOU know, but WHO knows you! Here's a list to help you keep your name out there in the spotlight. Your goal is top-of-mind awareness, so anytime somebody is thinking about photography, your name comes up first.
​

• Stay in touch with your past clients: I love the idea Steven Gotz shared back during the pandemic. Here's the link. In summary, he took portraits of clients and pulled the color, converted them to line art, and sent them to clients with young children as coloring book pages. It's a brilliant way to remind clients what you do for a living. And it doesn't have to be exclusively for kids!
• Community Involvement: People like buying products/services from companies they perceive as giving back. Being involved in your community can start at any time. And it doesn't have to include a camera in your hands. Use your social media presence or blog to help spread the word of nonprofits in your community - be an ambassador!
• Own Your Zip Code: Draw a circle around where you're based and start knocking on doors!  IT DOESN'T MATTER WHAT YOUR SPECIALTY IS! My favorite example is a wedding photographer walking into a real estate office. Once you've introduced yourself, all you need to say is, "My specialty is wedding photography, but I've got an incredible network. If you ever need any help with anything photo-related, give me a call. If I can't help you directly, I'm sure I know somebody who can."
• Use Your Blog and Social Media: Your website is about what you sell, and your blog/social media is about what's in your heart. Post at least twice a week, same days, same times. Share stories/ideas relatable to your readership. Your goal is to build a community. Talk about the diversity of your skill set. Share tips on photography, especially posing, lighting, and composition.
• Teach a Class: Just about all of you, unless you started yesterday, have enough expertise to help the community raise the bar on better photographs, even if they're only shooting with a cell phone. Share tips on composition, lighting, fill flash, posing, exposure, and storytelling. For most of you, your target audience is "Mom," so help make her a better photographer. 
• Partnerships: You don't have to fly solo all the time! Look for opportunities to cross-promote with other vendors. A postcard mailer, for example, with two other partners, brings your cost down to a third. Best of all, all three partners become ambassadors for each other. Here's your chance to cross-promote on discounts and each other's products as gift ideas.
• Pick up the Phone: When in doubt, call a past client. You don't need to be selling anything. The call's purpose is to let them know you're thinking about them and just want to know how everybody is. My suggestion is to make at least two calls a day to past clients. This is all about keeping in touch.
• Show Your Work: Years ago, Bambi Cantrell displayed her images in a local Starbucks. Helen Yancy, a past president of PPA, started out showing her work in a local diner. Offer to decorate your doctor's office. Think about it - almost every doctor's office is the same - BORING! Let's get some good photographs on the wall, and all you're asking is to leave a stack of your business cards on the magazine table.
• Career Day at ANY School: If we've learned nothing else from the toy manufacturers, the way to get to Mom and Dad is through their kids. Every school needs help with special programming. Offer to do a career day presentation and talk about what it's like being a photographer. Don't be boring and just talk - show photographs, special techniques, and things they can do with their cell phones!  Here's your chance to make education more fun.
• Build a Community Calendar: Everyone is always looking for new content. So, keep a calendar on your blog and Facebook page of upcoming community events, mostly non-profit fundraisers. And with each event you personally attend, share the story with a paragraph or two and photographs. It's a great way to build your reputation as a supporter of the community and be more recognized.
• Join Community Groups: From PPA affiliates to photography guilds to organizations like Kiwanis, Exchange Club, Rotary, and business networking groups, be involved. You're building a network of relationships, and right now getting together online is the next best thing to being there!

Relationship building is your most vital marketing tool - so, set up a time every week to build your foundation of awareness, beyond your skill set.

Tony Corbell, one of the most recognized photographers in the industry, once told a story about when he first got started. "I might not have been the best photographer in town, but I was determined to be the nicest!" Tony's never strayed from that practice!

Your overall goal: Exceed expectations and make yourself habit-forming! And that applies to every interaction with past, present or potential future clients!

by Skip Cohen

​Several years ago, I started collecting senior headshots from artists in our industry. Since it's Throwback Thursday, my favorite day of the week, I'm pulling last year's "seniors" from the SCU archives, but releasing a new batch in a few weeks. So, if I've missed your high school senior shot, send it my way - you know how to find me. Just send me a DM on Facebook with the shot.

As we enter graduation season for 2026, enjoy the walk down Memory Lane. The who's who is at the bottom of the page, but see how many you can get before sneaking a peek!

And if the senior market is part of your business, definitely catch the Spring promotion at Marathon on grad cards. Marketing to seniors hasn't slowed down. However, to be successful, photographing seniors requires a different skill set from when so many of us were seniors. 

​A great senior session today is about connecting with the subject, capturing their personality, and combining it with maximum creativity. If you're interested in the senior market, the first thing you need to do is ensure you've got the skill set, but not just with your camera. You need solid communication skills and the ability to build a relationship with your subject.​

For many seniors, this may be their first time working with a professional photographer. They're as nervous about getting a portrait done as they are in dealing with some of their own self-esteem issues. That means your listening and conversational skills must be as good as your understanding of exposure, composition, and lighting!

Remember, too, what the class of 2026 has gone through. They were all in junior high through the pandemic. And today, they're dealing with the same challenges and worries we have as adults, but with very little control over their own destiny. That alone is reason to celebrate graduation and the next steps in their future with a grad card that emphasizes optimism and good news.

Marathon Press is an SCU sponsor, but my relationship with them grew out of respect for everything they do for the industry. It's a friendship that's lasted over 30 years, dating back to the first book I co-authored with Don Blair. They've got a special on gold foil treatment of grad cards. Click on either banner for more information.

Meanwhile, congratulations to the class of 2026 and all the outstanding artists pushing the creative envelope in capturing their personalities!

People often say that motivation doesn't last. Well, neither does bathing.
That's why we recommend it daily.
Zig Zigler

by Skip Cohen

It's Hump Day, and the older I get, the faster the week seems to go by. As I considered what to share on a lighter and more general note, I remembered a quote from Lou Mitchell's book, Mastering Positive Thinking. He wrote:

Just as we clean our bodies to maintain hygiene, we need to refresh our minds and spirits with motivational thoughts and actions. Consistent motivation fuels our drive and helps us navigate life's challenges with renewed energy. It's not about a one-time surge but about cultivating a habit that keeps us focused and inspired every day.

From the "Drilling Down" series to "Formulas for Success," I've shared a few dozen ideas to help you focus on actions to build a stronger business and make 2026 a record-breaking year. But ideas alone aren't enough - you need to be motivated.

Motivation is the fuel you run on, much like a tank of gas in your car. The ongoing economic challenges that raise the cost of gas every day are a small part of the increasing pressures on our sanity, which make it harder to stay focused and motivated.

The more we're bombarded by outside influences, the harder it is to stay motivated. That's where having faith comes into play. I know I've shared this before - the quote below is in a frame next to my sink in the bathroom, and I see it every morning. Yet, I so often forget it.

Faith...is being sure of what you hope for and certain of what we do not see.
Unknown Author

Happy Hump Day - Make the rest of the week as spectacular as you can! It takes motivation and motivation takes faith.

by Skip Cohen

It's Marketing Monday, and a perfect time for another component in the "Drilling Down" series. Time to take a look at the continuity of your complete presentation: your website, social media presence, and printed material.

Over the years, writing for Shutter Magazine, I wrote a piece about the importance of continuity. It's a challenge shared by so many of you. Here's the issue - if you were to put all of your published material side by side, absolutely nothing matches! Your website, blog, brochures, business cards, stationery, and ads, along with everything in social media, have all been built at different times and often with a different vision. The result is a nightmare of design elements that probably don't fit.

With each Shutter Magazine article, authors needed to supply a short video highlighting the key elements. To make the point, I went into my closet and pulled out a combo that demonstrated the problem...including a flannel shirt in 90-degree heat in Florida. It reminds me of little kids when they finally get the opportunity to dress themselves.

I'm betting that for many of you, your support material doesn't look much better. While it wasn't intentional, it happened nonetheless, and maintaining brand continuity is so important. So, let's hit some easy fixes.

• Unless you've got a graphic design background/education, get yourself some professional help. Most of you have a great eye for this stuff, but you're not really a trained professional. It's worth the investment to have someone who knows what they're doing assess all your material.
• Look at everything you publish, from the pages of your website to your blog, Facebook page, Instagram, etc., to your brochures, stationery, and even business cards.
• Remember your target audience. I've written this many times before...98% of the decisions to hire a professional photographer in the portrait/social categories are made by women. Your site doesn't have to be totally feminine, and for you guys out there, you don't have to give up your masculinity, but you need to at least have a little "curb appeal" for female visitors to Internet properties and printed material.
• Pay attention to the way you describe things from component to component. Your content needs to be upbeat and maintain the same kind of continuity. Your website is about what you sell, while your blog is about what's in your heart. Your printed material is also about what you sell, your services. Be consistent in professionalism, detail, and vocabulary.

We all recognize Tiffany's logos and materials, for example. Every woman knows what to expect if she's handed a gift in their signature turquoise bag. Your recognition time on the Mercedes logo, BMW, and Audi is the same as well. And everyone recognizes the golden arches! Your brand needs consistency, but remember, just as important as the look of all your material is the service and performance behind it. Your skill set has to be just as consistent.

Make sure you can walk the talk, then give your talk the consistency to build strong brand recognition!

As I've gotten older, I've noticed how fast time flies by. I'm aware of how quickly one memory seems to melt into another, and another. I've found myself caring about things that never mattered and being concerned about issues that always seemed so far removed.

I've noticed that I've become obsessed with the state of our country and the complete disregard for We the People, from a government that overall doesn't care. That feeling is disrupting the peace in our lives. I've lost respect for most of America's leaders, but that's not really my point -- It's worrying about things I can't control that it's having an impact on a level of happiness that I do control.

None of us knows what tomorrow will bring. Here's my point: live life to the fullest. With age comes a special awareness—I realize how short life is, and how quickly time flashes by. It's fine to recognize things you should have done differently in the past, but life isn't about what's in your rearview mirror; it's about the journey ahead of you. Learn from your regrets, including being focused on so much that's outside our control. It's simply time to move on to that next special moment.

Wishing you a day filled with peace, love, and memory-making moments. Take the time to remind those people most important to you of the special role they play in your life. Go for those therapeutic eleven-second hugs. And, just to play off one of my favorite sunsets above - great sunsets can't be a part of your life if you don't take the time to look at them! Most important of all - don't let current events interfere with your dreams! No matter what gets in the way, nothing takes priority over dreams!

Happy Sunday...or Monday on the other side of the world.

We do not remember days.
We remember moments.
Cesare Pavese

by Skip Cohen

​When I read today's quote in Lou Mitchell's book, it was titled "Treasure Every Moment." It got me thinking about how accurate his statement really is.

The author went on to write: In our busy lives, it's the significant interactions, achievements, and connections that stand out and shape our memories. These moments, whether a breakthrough in a project, a heartfelt conversation, or a personal triumph, define our experiences and personal growth. By focusing on these special instances, we can cultivate a more fulfilling and memorable life.

Taking a walk down Memory Lane, it's the moments that bring back the most vivid memories and leave me with an incredible sense of gratitude for so many people in my life. We all live busy, stressful lives, but if you pay attention, you'll see moments that have helped you grow the most.

Creating those moments is a substantial part of who you are as an artist. Beverly and Tim Walden have often spoken about the products and services you offer as a portrait artist. You're not just capturing and creating a portrait, but a family heirloom, and creating a memorable experience for your clients. In fact, when you look at the work from Walden Studios, without knowing any of the subjects, you can sense the power of the experience in what many artists would see as just "another sitting." But NOT with Beverly and Tim.

When we create a black and white portrait, we create something that is both abstract and real at the same time. Emotions come through much stronger in black and white. There is nothing to distract the viewer. They discover their own story within the highlights and shadows.  --Beverly and Tim Walden

As you wrap up the week and head into the weekend, think about the role you play with each client. Think about the moments you're helping them capture. These snippets out of time will add strength and growth to the human spirit they've trusted you to capture. It's a big responsibility and deserves only your best skills!

Wishing everybody a weekend filled with memorable moments that make you smile!

While I've shared this a couple of times over the years, with WPPI 2026 having just ended a few weeks ago, it's time to bring it back one more time.

Here's the short backstory - it was the opening program at WPPI in 2008. Each artist above was a "young gun," setting the standard for some amazing creativity in imaging and business. While a few have disappeared from the active photography scene over the years, most of the group is still setting the standard for excellence in business, education, and art.

My favorite moment was Mike Larson doing his then state-of-the-art risk-taking moment...he'd put his Canon on the self-timer and toss it 12-15 feet in the air, capture an image, and catch the camera on the way down. Hopefully, today he's using a drone! Back then, it was a bold and risky move, but what a kick to watch.

I recently found the video below, which Bill Hurter put together as the intro for that evening's program. It shows some of the work by each artist at the time.

So, how many artists do you recognize in the shot?

Wishing everybody a terrific Throwback Thursday and time to go off searching for memory-making moments that make you smile! Seriously, take the time - old photographs are an outstanding way to remember the value of imaging and a career field like no other!

​Note: Photo Credit - I'm pretty sure it was thanks to Kenny Kim

by Skip Cohen

The next segment of the "Drilling Down" series focuses on an idea to help expand your audience and reach more potential clients. This series ties back to many ot the core ideas from my nine basics for success in 2026.

Building your client base is something you should be doing 365 days a year. And right now, with Spring seasonality right around the corner (Mother's Day, Graduation, and Father's Day), it's the perfect time to think about finding new clients, as well as reminding your old ones what you do for a living. Being a professional photographer means you never stop learning and building your skill set. Being a small business owner means you never stop working to build your database of potential clients.

1. Your Current Database: I'm always surprised by the number of businesses that get so focused on finding new customers that they forget to take care of their old ones. There are so many opportunities to take old customers and bring them back for new products. Being in business, especially as a professional photographer, is about building relationships, and there's no better place to start than reconnecting with past clients. Keep in touch via email, phone calls, and even personal notes/letters.
2. Direct Mail: Direct mail is back with a vengeance. Think about how much noise there is in our lives and how many emails you delete every day without ever opening anything. Design a postcard mailer showing your images with a short call to action for a portrait sitting, a free promotional offer, etc. If we've learned nothing else from retail, promotions get our attention. You don’t have to discount your basic pricing, but provide added value with unique bonuses.
3. Look for Partners: You don’t need to do the postcard by yourself.  A children’s photographer might partner with a children’s clothing store. A wedding photographer can partner with florists, wedding planners, venues, salons, limo companies, etc. A senior photographer might partner with a sports store, a teen-focused clothing store, or similar businesses.
4. Stuck for New Ideas? Call your lab. All you have to do is ask, "What's new?" Then, sit back and listen. From new products to new materials they're printing on, a great lab has an ongoing collection of photo-centric ideas to choose from. This is the perfect time to call Marathon! From their current grad-card promotion to the Bella Albums to books and new presentation ideas, they've got so much to choose from.
5. Buy a List:  You don’t have to spend a fortune. Google the words "mailing lists" to find dozens of companies. Most will require a minimum quantity. They'll customize a list for you based on your needs. You can purchase by zip code. Many offer email lists as well. Often, they do not release lists. With spam issues, that's to your advantage. Let them handle deployment! If you do an email blast, consider your goals. Email alone isn't enough. Combine it with direct mail, publicity, and social media support.
6. Don't Forget Local Influencers: Built relationships with the local Chamber of Commerce, recognized individuals, and every business in your area. You never know when a postcard on children’s portraiture, for example, might inspire a bank manager to consider new headshots for their executives.
7. Use Social Media and Your Blog: If you've worked hard to build your presence, now use it. Keep growing your follower base with helpful, relevant content. You know your audience. Convert direct mail into social media or blog posts. Cross-promote with other vendors in the community. For example, a children's photographer partnering with a kids' clothing store might post about what to wear for portrait sittings and include the partners' special promotion.

Last but not least, remember this is a word-of-mouth business...

NOTHING helps your business more than exceeding expectations and producing quality products. But quality isn't just about the finished product. It's also about the experience of working with you. It's about keeping promises and making a portrait session, for example, FUN!  In the same respect, nothing can hurt you more than a reputation that's underwhelming!

There are no traffic jams on the extra mile.
Roger Staubach