Intro by Chamira Young

Whether you've got clients lining up at your doorstep or you're a newbie looking to build your business, it's important to take time for fun photo project ideas. Not only do they spice up your life, but they help you continually hone and develop your photographic skills.

The benefits are many. If you're looking to build your portfolio with the type of images you love, photo projects are the way to go because you have complete control over the final results. The more targeted your portfolio is, the more likely you are to attract clients that are a good fit for you. After all, many a personal project has attracted potential clients and turned into paid gigs. And if you're a seasoned pro that feels "burned out" from shooting the same thing for clients, then fitting a personal project into your schedule can be a good way to rediscover your passion for the craft.

The good folks at Photodex have put together a list of possible photo projects for you to tackle when you have time. Pick one (or a few!) and have fun with it!

Check out the list below!
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Intro by Chamira Young

When you first decided to take the leap into professional photography, I doubt the task of creating a cohesive website had you jumping up and down in anticipation. Taking great photos? Sure. Creating a portfolio of unique, authentic images? Absolutely. But putting together a spiffy website? For most folks, not so much.

However, your website is an asset to your business that can't be ignored. In fact, a well-designed site will enhance your work, while a poorly-designed one will detract from it.

Check out the post below from the Photodex blog, in which Skip Cohen discusses six challenges -- and solutions -- with most photographer's websites. Even if you think your own website is rock-solid, it's worth taking a look because one or two of these challenges may apply to you. And with the thousands of websites Skip has reviewed in his career, you're in for a real treat! Be ready to take notes and learn how you can make your website better than ever.

Don't let your website be an afterthought. Let's get to it.​

By Skip Cohen

Today starts with a terrific post, Marketing Basics for Photographers by my buddy Scott Bourne. Your website is one of the tools in that marketing toolbox Scott refers to, but sadly, so many of you have websites that are far from doing what you originally intended.

Here are the six most common mistakes I’ve found in my website reviews to date:

Galleries: Just too many images and often not enough with the “wow” factor. Your work has to be outstanding and you need to ask yourself with every image, “If this was the only image I could show, is it good enough that I’d hire me?” If the answer is “yes” then it’s a keeper, but if not, don’t put it on your site.

About Sections: People hire you because of your passion and the why you’re a photographer NOT because of what you do, your awards or your gear. Over and over again I read bios that simply weren’t relevant. Nobody cares how you got started in photography. They don’t care what gear you shoot with and they care even less about awards from associations they don’t even know about. What they do care about is looking into your heart. They want to know they can trust you to understand the importance of your family and friends. They want to know you love people, capturing memories and being part of the human experience.

Lack of Continuity: If your target audience is bridal then show wedding images. If you’re a children and family photographer then show images of children and family sittings. What I saw over and over again were too many photographers trying to be all things to all people. There’s nothing wrong with your passion for landscape photography for example, but it doesn’t belong in your galleries if your target is brides.

Know Your Demographics: Women make 98% of the purchase decisions to hire a photographer in the portrait/social category. So, think about your target audience. So often I reviewed sites that were too masculine for the target audience. Or, they just lacked a little sex appeal. Pay attention to the graphic elements on your site.

Functionality: Over and over again I reviewed sites that were difficult to navigate. I couldn’t find some of the most important information about the photographer. I was buried in add-on clicks leading me to multiple steps when all I wanted was to look at images. You’ve got to focus on simplicity and make it easy for your target audience to find those things most important.

Oops – What happened to the design of the site?: If you were building the house or studio of your dreams, you’d pay attention to every detail. From colors, to window placement and even which wall light switches were going to be on, but so many photographers have thrown together their websites with total disregard to design. They knew they needed a website so they got one and that’s about it! Well, today your website is the equivalent of your storefront. It’s your business – your place on Main St. USA with the potential to have thousands of people walking by every day, but instead of something inviting that draws people in, they’re going elsewhere. Scott put it best – are you trying to attract the Motel 6 target or Ritz Carlton?

To say this is invaluable advice would be an understatement, especially in the case of composition. These days, it's all too easy to purchase a camera and proclaim your "professional" status before you even know what you're doing. In my humble opinion, there are far too many new photographers rushing to break the basic rules of composition before they have a clue how to use them.

Learn the rules first, and then master them like a pro. From recognizing lines and symmetry in your images to how you position elements within the frame, knowing the basic rules of composition like the back of your hand will elevate your work tremendously. Take time to learn and practice so that your artistic eye becomes that much sharper when you're out in the field. And then (if you so choose) have fun exploring and breaking some of these rules as you push the limits of your work.

The good folks at Photodex have outlined six great guidelines for mastering your composition. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned pro, it's always good to have a refresher.

​Let's take a look.

By Kathy at Photodex
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In photography there are more guidelines than rules to help you make the most impact with your photos. These few guidelines/techniques will help you enhance the composition of your photos for a better outcome.
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After some time, you’ll naturally see these guides without having to think about it. The final photo will lead the viewers eye exactly where you wanted it to because of how you set up the elements. The more you shoot the easier it’ll be to see the best outcome possible.
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1. Rule of Thirds

​The most basic and commonly heard “rule” is the about dividing your shot into 9 equal sections. Within the grid you position the more important elements of your photo along the lines or where the lines intersect. It’s a simple way to avoid just centering your main focus.
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2. Leading Lines

​When we look at a photo our eyes are naturally drawn by lines. With a great pattern you can enhance your photo and affect where you want the viewers to be drawn in the photo.
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3. Golden Ratio
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​A more complex version of the Rule of Thirds…also called the ‘Fibonacci Spiral’. Once you’ve divided your photo into squares you also add a spiral which is used to continue the flow of the image. For example, by placing your point of impact in the corner then the spiral continues the focus on the rest of the image naturally.

4. Framing
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​Want to draw the eye directly to the main focus? Isolate the subject from unwanted items with a natural frame. It could be a tree branch, windows, buildings, archways, or many other effective elements to use as a frame.

5. Symmetry, Patterns, and Textures
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​This is a great way to break out of the monotony of certain photo techniques. It’s a great way to add an eye-catching pattern, texture, or symmetry in the photo as the main focus.

6. Depth

​Add some depth to your photos with specific elements in the fore, middle, or background. The way you set up the elements available to you can compliment each other or draw the eye away from the focus. The style you select also depends on the kind of shoot you’re going for like landscape or portrait. So blur your background, have subjects at varying distances, or compose your elements carefully to get that perfect shot.

What are some of your favorite photography guidelines? We’d love to know…leave a comment below.
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Plus, show off all your improved photos using new techniques with a ProShow slideshow. Submit your video to be a spotlight on our blog. Be sure to select the blog submission option.

Intro by Chamira Young

No matter who you are or how long you've been taking photos, it's an inevitable that your internal well of creativity occasionally runs dry, especially when you get caught up in the daily grind of running a photography business.

It's for this very reason we wanted to bring you a healthy dose of Monday inspiration in the form of poignant motivational speeches. The fantastic folks over at Photodex have compiled four excellent TED Talks that will get your creative gears fueled and turning for the week ahead. These specific pep talks cover everything from facing challenges, finding your genius, tackling leadership, and even mastering creative ideas in photography.

By the way, if you've never listened to a TED Talk before, get ready to take some notes and get seriously inspired!

By Photodex

​Stuck in a creative rut? Sometimes all that’s needed is a good pep talk or motivational speech to give you the kick-start you need. See things from a new and positive perspective with these 4 Ted Talks to help energize your brain and spark that creativity.
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1. Tim Harford – How Frustration Can Make Us More Creative
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“Challenges and problems can derail your creative process…or they can make you more creative than ever. In the surprising story behind the best-selling piano album of all time, Tim Harford may just convince you of the advantages of having to work with a little mess.”

2. Elizabeth Gilbert – Your Elusive Creative Genius

“Elizabeth Gilbert muses on the impossible things we expect from artists and geniuses — and shares the radical idea that, instead of the rare person “being” a genius, all of us “have” a genius. It’s a funny, personal and surprisingly moving talk.”

3. John Maeda – How Art, Technology and Design Inform Creative Leaders
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“John Maeda, former President of the Rhode Island School of Design, delivers a funny and charming talk that spans a lifetime of work in art, design and technology, concluding with a picture of creative leadership in the future.”

4. Erik Johansson – Impossible Photography
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“Erik Johansson creates realistic photos of impossible scenes — capturing ideas, not moments. In this witty how-to, the Photoshop wizard describes the principles he uses to make these fantastical scenarios come to life, while keeping them visually plausible.”
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What are some of the ways you stay inspired? We’d love to hear from you in the comments!

Photodex is all about the tools to help you become a better storyteller. They never slow down on their focus to help you raise the bar on your business, presentations and finding new ways to help you streamline the creative process. Visit their blog where you'll find outstanding new content being shared every day. 

The SAVE20WITHSKIP code is still active - so, put it in the code box when you purchase any Photodex product for a 20% discount. ​​​​​

Intro by Chamira Young

When the opportunity presents itself, there's nothing more fun -- or more challenging -- than taking a good silhouette photo. Whether you're a professional photographer trying to please a client, or even if you're a hobbyist  who enjoys grabbing those occasional breathtaking sunsets with your children, knowing how to utilize this fun photo technique can bring your work up to a whole new level. The crisp contrast of a subject against a stunning background can make a great work of art for proud display on anyone's wall.

While it may seem like a difficult technique for those new to it, it's actually quite simple when you have an idea of what you're doing. Kathy from Photodex lays out some straightforward, effective tips for getting that cool silhouette shot the next time you're out and the opportunity presents itself. She even gives some tips for using your cell phone so that you can always be ready to grab those shots that make people go "wow!"

Let's get to it!

By Kathy from Photodex

Looking to try a fun photography technique? Taking a silhouette photo isn’t difficult even though it may come across that way. It’s simple, conveys a dramatic and mysterious emotion, and grabs your attention.
Check out 5 basic tips to help you achieve a simple silhouette photo.
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1. Light Behind Subject: In order for this to work, your light source has to be behind your subject. Try taking the photo around sunrise/sunset, or simply position your subjects in front or around the sun, or you can even take it inside against a window with good lighting. There’s tons of ways to take a great silhouette photo and these are just a few.
   
   
2. Make the Silhouette Distinct: Make sure you give your subject(s) enough space to notice all the details like the outlines of their body features like face, arms, legs, etc. It’s also helpful not to have any distractions during an action shot or still image. This way the silhouettes don’t blend with each other and you can carefully capture the main focus and it’s recognizable. If you do have anything in the background just make sure you position your subject in a way that it will still pop or in a way that it can enhance the photo. Composition of the elements is always important.
   
   
3. Get Low: To continue getting the best outline of your subject(s) and to avoid any background distractions try getting low or have them be located in an elevated area.
   
   
4. No Flash: The point of a silhouette photo is to have the light behind your subject. Remember to turn off your flash if you’re in automatic mode so that it doesn’t ruin your photo.
   
   
5. Burst Mode: If you are using a cell phone to capture an action shot in silhouette form then try using the burst mode to make sure you don’t miss anything. This means it’ll take multiple photos very quickly so that you don’t miss your shot. (This feature is available on most phones.)
   
   

These are some of the more common must-do’s in silhouette photography, but if you want to go more in depth from a technical stand-point and learn more about camera settings then you can check out these articles below.
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1. 14 Tips for Shooting Stunning Silhouettes
   
   
2. 10 Incredibly Easy Ways to Take Silhouette Photos
   
   

Showcase your silhouette photos in a ProShow slideshow and submit your video to be considered for a spotlight on our blog. Be sure to select the blog submission option.

Intro by Chamira Young

We've all been there. There are a million items on our "to-do" list, and sometimes posting content online feels like one more cumbersome task you have to squeeze in. As business owners, we tend to wear many hats by necessity, including being the customer service expert, photographer, retoucher, and social media manager - often all in the same day!

However, it's absolutely worth it to carve time into your busy schedule to post on your blog, Facebook, Twitter, or whatever channel you choose to build your online presence. It's a steady process that will help your potential clients learn about your business, your work, but most importantly about you. The process of building recognition takes time, but it is one of the keys to success for every flourishing business.

Skip Cohen goes into more detail below in this great post from the Photodex blog.

By Skip Cohen

By Kathy at Photodex

Who doesn’t have a smartphone these days! This means you’re walking around with another camera conveniently located in your pocket. So…why not learn how to use it. Just another perk to owning a smartphone. If you know what you’re doing then you can get some nice high-quality results!
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Take a look at a few tips below to get you started on photographing with your smartphone. Some may sound pretty basic and obvious, but it doesn’t hurt to have a little reminder. Plus, they do make a difference.

1. Know your camera: Your phone more than likely has many little hidden camera settings and features that you may not know about. Practice changing the shooting mode, brightness, lighting, exposure, change angles, and try many other techniques and settings. Keep trying to master certain photography techniques so you can avoid adding fake/unnatural filters.
   
   
2. Don’t zoom: The pixels get degraded when you zoom in on a smartphone. Try either getting closer when you take your photo or simply just wait to crop the final image.
   
   
3. Composition: Some smartphones already have a grid called the “Rule of Thirds” on it so why not put it to use! By learning basic compositional guidelines you’ll start to get a sense of how to naturally set up your photos without using the grid later on. Check out “6 Photography Guidelines for Great Composition” to get you started.
   
   
4. Clean lens: This may seem like an obvious one, but it’s really easy to forget. Have you ever noticed your photos come out looking a little fuzzy or blurry? Try giving your camera lens a quick wipe and try again.
   
   
5. No filters: By this I mean those full photo filters you find on Instagram. Instead, try to use the editing tools that are available to you on some photography apps or on your phone. They’ll look much more natural…unlike just slapping on a fake blur. Or you can always upload them to your desktop and use programs like Photoshop or Lightroom.
   
   
6. Lighting/no flash: Usually flash on your phone is harsh and can give you some awkward results like color changes, reflections or something else entirely. Take advantage of natural lighting or another light source, unless flash is the only way to capture your photo. You can also experiment with light during sunrise/sunset, with poster board, window lighting, and other options.
   
   

If you have an iPhone or iPad and you’re already using them…then take it another step further and make a slideshow using the ProShow Web app! It’s easy, just upload your photos + videos directly from your camera roll (or social accounts) and then just go from there. Go to ‘Hands on Review of the ProShow Web App for iOS‘ or watch the how to tutorial video ‘Getting Started with the ProShow Web App for iOS‘ to get started. Get the app for free here!

Intro by Chamira Young

Let's say you're a wedding photographer who just wrapped up shooting a tear-jerking ceremony, and you want to really impress the guests with some photo highlights at the reception immediately afterwards. Or perhaps you're a hobbyist who just finished taking stills of your three day family reunion cruise, and you're looking for a fun way to share them with the rest of your family.

Not to be melodramatic, but your next step is crucial. Seriously.

For the love of all that is precious and sacred, don't just haphazardly throw them up on Facebook, wait for nebulous "Likes", and call it a day. Instead, consider putting together a well-crafted slideshow that will really knock your viewers' socks off. Not only is it fun to do, but it's a great way to convey the unique story behind the photos.

Kathy at Photodex has come up with three great, powerful ways to display your slideshows. Some of them of them you may have tried before, but others you may not have.

Check them out below and pick one to try out this week!

By Kathy at Photodex

​Looking for a creative way to display your slideshows? Whether you are a photographer, business owner, bride and groom, or maybe just a hobbyist…the thought of presenting your slideshows in a unique way has definitely crossed your mind.

If you’re a business owner then you could have a short portfolio video running on a loop in the office for all to see, or if you’re having a wedding or engagement reception you may want to entertain your friends and family with a fun slideshow being projected. The ideas are endless and fun of course.
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Below are a couple of ways to consider displaying your slideshows in a way that your audience will love!
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1. Use a digital picture frame or add a frame around an iPad or tablet to have it playing at a table for an event or to display your work at the office and impress potential clients. You could also just use it to display your memories on a loop at home for all to see.
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2. Hang a white sheet outside and DIY! You may need to wait until it’s a little dark to get the full effect, but it’s still a fun way to project your photos and videos. Make sure everything is secure, there’s enough space, and that everyone is able to see.
   
   
3. Using a projection screen inside like a home theater is always a classic. You can also do this at the venue for your events. Just make sure you get together with the venue/event team and have everything set up properly for when you’re ready to start. You’ll definitely have your guest’s attention with this one.
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What are some ways you like to present your slideshows? We’d love to know…just leave us a comment below.

Portraits Heirloom 00 Title Photo – Effects Pack Portraits

 Intro by Chamira Young

Did you know taking stellar portraits is just one way to serve your clients? The way in which you present their precious portraits to them can be just as important -- and powerful -- for making a lasting impression. Offering a slideshow of highlights from their session can be a great way to help them ride the "emotional wave" that often results from a session well done.

​Additionally, if you're looking for a creative way to present highlights from your portfolio to potential clients, then a beautiful slideshow is a solid way to do your past work justice.

Photography and storytelling go hand in hand like peanut butter and jelly, so if you're in need of some great inspiration for putting together your own photo slideshows, then you're in the right spot. The folks at Photodex have rounded up some highlights from their Portraits Effects Pack to give you some ideas.

Let's take a look. Be sure to watch the Portrait Effects Pack Demo Video at the end! It'll really get your creative juices flowing.

By Photodex

Portraits Heirloom 00 Title Photo – Effects Pack PortraitsWe recently posted a round-up of 9 Portrait Photography Blogs, Tips and Inspiration, plus much more to help you capture the best portrait photo. Now…take all those photos and make a ProShowslideshow to share your creative work that came from that. Or maybe you already have some amazing portrait photos…either way, we’d love to see them!

Get the Portraits Effects Pack for ProShow Gold, ProShow Producer, and ProShow Web. From Art Deco, Holidays, Vintage, Wall Frames and much more…you’ll be sure to find the perfect effect for your photos. Still want more? We have some already built-in effects and a collection of 15 ProShow effects pack for an even wider variety.
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To get you started we’ve rounded up a few of our favorites from the Portraits Effects Pack to make your photos pop and look great. Your slideshow can be a fun keepsake or used as a great promotional asset for your business.

1. Portraits Vintage
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​This vintage fx adds a small frame to your photo and creates a black and white duplicate in the background. A classy and simple effect to showcase those images. Not a fan? There’s also a ton more to choose from like title photos, just the frames, and even the option for 2 or 3 photos per slide style.
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2. Portraits Scrapbook
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The scrapbook section is full of vibrant colors and playful designs that are perfect for children’s portraits or any family occasions. It also comes with title slides, multi-image options, and more.
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3. Portraits Glam

Add one of these subtle but elegant effects if you’re using fashion, weddings, or engagement photos. The gold trim and light chevrons in these effects will add a little burst of fun to make your photos come to life.​

4. Portraits Geometric
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​The geometric styles are full of light colors and shapes that add a cool twist to your photos. These are perfect for any of your casual portraits or anything else you feel that works out just perfectly when they are combined.

5. Portraits Minimal
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If you’re looking for very minimal effects that aren’t distracting from your photos then check these out. Gradient lines on solid backgrounds will give your photos a very sleek and clean feel.

Watch the Portraits Effects Pack Demo
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Photodex is all about the tools to help you become a better storyteller. They never slow down on their focus to help you raise the bar on your business, presentations and finding new ways to help you streamline the creative process. Visit their blog where you'll find outstanding new content being shared every day. 

The SAVE20WITHSKIP code is still active - so, put it in the code box when you purchase any Photodex product for a 20% discount. ​​

 Intro by Chamira Young

We're into that glorious time of year again: wedding season.

As a photographer myself, I understand how dangerously easy it is to become hyper-focused on technical details, such as the latest camera and lighting equipment. However, just as important (and dare I say more important!) is to put yourself in your clients' shoes and understand your photographic services are just one part of a multi-faceted machine. This is especially true with weddings. Understanding what your clients are going through during their hectic wedding process is key,  and it can give you an advantage over your competition.

This great post from the good folks at Photodex presents some interesting facts about wedding season that can help your wedding photography business. I'll bet there's a stat or two in there you didn't know. Also, make sure you read to the end, as they give some very useful tips on how to best present your photos to your clients in slideshow form. Revealing your finished work to the couple is an art form in and of itself, and can easily make or break sales.

It's time to put yourself into your clients' shoes. Let's get to it.

By Photodex

Wedding season is in full swing! Have you ever wanted an inside look at numbers and lists of everything that can possibly go into a wedding?

Here are some pretty interesting fun facts and numbers for anyone trying to get an idea of what goes into a wedding. You can also find all this information and more directly from the 2018 NewlyWed Report from WeddingWire. From social media announcements to planning to couples information, the list just goes on! Good luck to everyone working or attending a wedding, and congrats to those getting married!
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• 41% of couples are engaged for a length of 10-15 months and the average is 13 months.
• Photography average costs have remained the same since 2015 staying at $2,400. This doesn’t include videography which is another category itself that averages around $1,800.
• The average cost of an engagement ring these days runs about $5,000.
• The average cost of a wedding dress will run about $1,700 which has stayed about the same since 2015.
• The average cost of the wedding runs an average of $36,000! This also depends on what area you live in and if this is your first or second marriage. In 2010 the average cost of a wedding was $24,070…that’s about a $12,000 increase in 8 years!
• The most popular dates for a wedding to take place is now during the Fall. Peak time for weddings used to be in the Spring.
• 54% of couples are now generating a fun wedding hashtag. This is a great way to see all the photos everyone uploaded to places like Instagram. See what other ways couples rely on technology for their wedding by looking at the full report.
  
  

We found all our data from the WeddingWire 2018 NewlyWed Report. You can find so much more information by clicking through and you can also download a full report.

Wedding Slideshow Tips and FXWe’d love to see those beautiful wedding photos and memories put together in an awesome ProShow slideshow. Follow these helpful tips and tricks to start making your best wedding, engagement, or rehearsal dinner slideshow. To make your photos pop even more try adding a few of our creative ProShow effects or a simple theme.
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• 5 Tips for Making a Wedding Slideshow (Part 1)
• 5 Tips for Making a Wedding Slideshow (Part 2)
• Creating a Rehearsal Dinner or Special Event Slideshow
• Damask Elegance Theme
• Always Theme
• Infinity Theme
• StylePack Weddings for ProShow Producer and ProShow Web.
  Watch the demo video here: Damask Elegance Effects for ProShow​

Photodex is all about the tools to help you become a better storyteller. They never slow down on their focus to help you raise the bar on your business, presentations and finding new ways to help you streamline the creative process. Visit their blog where you'll find outstanding new content being shared every day. 

The SAVE20WITHSKIP code is still active - so, put it in the code box when you purchase any Photodex product for a 20% discount. ​

Intro by Skip Cohen

Suzette Allen is back this week with a terrific point to remember; less is more! 

If you look back over the last decade of many of your images, you'll see a variety of trends. I remember sitting in WPPI judging at least 12-14 years ago and the judges commenting on there being too many "filter junkies." Just because you know how to use the hundreds of tools in your image manipulation bag, doesn't mean you have to use them all, and too often there were dozens used on the same image.

Well, to Suzette's point, "less is more" applies to video and your slideshows as much as not being a filter junkie applies to your still images. And, less can be more when it's appropriate, providing you have the skill set to capture quality images to start.

Photodex is all about the tools to help you become a better storyteller. They never slow down on their focus to help you raise the bar on your business, presentations and finding new ways to help you streamline the creative process. Visit their blog where you'll find outstanding new content being shared every day.  The SAVE20WITHSKIP code is still active - so, put it in the code box when you purchase any Photodex product for a 20% discount.  

Minimalism is definitely in vogue these days, along with tiny houses, straight hair and reclaimed wood. Fashion makes waves from colorful to drab, bouncing between solids and raucous prints. The overabundance because-you-can becomes  the extreme minimalism because-you-can! There’s always an appetite for something fresh, no matter what season you might be in.
 
Keeping it fresh can sometimes be just over-simplifying. Looking at fashion photography and posing, I see that the interesting poses are now replaced by skinny, shapeless models (and similar clothes) standing with arms straight down and feet together. Completely static. It’s a matter of taste, (not mine) but the big thing is it makes you look because it is different.  I guess with marketing, that’s half the battle.
 
When it comes to slide shows, I know all the cool transition and bells and whistles of fabulous effects are great, but just for something fresh I decided to try one with Zero Motion and just Hard Cuts or Dip to Black. Of course, it helps to have a dynamic subject for a dramatic shift like this to the overly-plain format. But here’s what I found. It’s clean. Clean lines, clean message, fresh appeal. Kind of like walking into an Apple Store. There’s a comforting sterility and simplicity to it all, and it usually means quality. No fuss. Just beautiful, exquisite value.
 
So today I decided to try that with ProShowWeb. It actually meant I had to purposely make it plain, but now that I have done it, I like it, and I think perhaps I will try using the Zero Motion Theme more often! It may not be a lot better, perhaps even less interesting, from a slideshow wizard’s perspective, but fresh and clean, nonetheless.

So challenge yourself today to try something in a new way, perhaps overly simplified. Go after the core message instead of the embellishments. Choose a simple message and be bold.  If you don’t like it, you can always go back, but in the process, you might get some new eyes on your work or appeal to a fresh new market that hadn’t seen you before! 

Intro by Skip Cohen

Suzette Allen and I have been friends for a lot of years, and I was thinking about everything she teaches in her workshops and her blog, along with all of her images and the videos I've seen over the years. She's not a photographer, but the ultimate storyteller. Everything she shares, together with the techniques she teaches are all about helping you tell a better story. And, that's what your clients are hiring you to do - tell their story.

All of you are looking for ways to make your work stand out from your competitors. You're looking for new ideas to exceed client expectations and enhance your storytelling skills. Thanks to technology, video is easier than ever to capture, and it's also never had so much diversity in its purpose, especially with "hybrid" - still images, video clips and great music all put together in one presentation.

In today's post, Suzette shares a series of easy to remember tips for your client videos, but I want to add one more. While a well-written bio on your "About" page is necessary, a 2-3 minute video of you working with clients, combining your still images with short video clips will be even more effective. If a picture's worth a thousand words, then a video is a match for the complete works of Shakespeare! It's a chance for you to show your expertise as an artist, and even better, share your heart. 

So, whether it's for marketing or a client, follow Suzette's advice, and with each event, session or sitting start shooting a few seconds of video. Build up a small library with each client and then take the time to put everything together to tell their story. We're a word of mouth industry, and nothing helps spread the word faster than customers who love working with you!

Helping you become the very best storyteller is what Photodex is all about. They never slow down on their focus to help you raise the bar on your business and presentations. Visit their blog where you'll find outstanding new content being shared every day.  Use SAVE20WITHSKIP in the code box when you purchase any Photodex product for a 20% discount. For a limited time, this special discount code is still active.

I know I'm dangerously close to Staples' tagline, but the other day a good friend asked me "What's new?" and it took me ten minutes to explain. I'm pretty proud and honored to be a part of a diverse collection of new features, plus maintaining a series of solid standby topics supported by videos and sound bites. 

So, here's what's new? Click on any image in this post to connect to the individual podcast or series.

Sponsored by PhotoShelter, we're having a blast with this new series. There's a new episode every month, with our goal always being the same, creating content that not only supports your need to better define your business but podcasts that are fun too. Remember the word "fun?" It's a word too often lost under the stress of business today. We've posted two episodes so far this year with a new one coming up on the third Wednesday of each month.

We're excited to be working with PhotoShelter and creating content in line with their philosophy as a company who does an outstanding job of supporting the industry. They're one of the few companies in professional photography which not only supports artists but encourages them to call and talk to somebody directly when needing help!

"Why?" started out as a way to introduce you to the movers and shakers in photography, but it's grown into so much more. Adding a 5-10 minute mini-podcast gives a post another dimension as each artist shares the backstory about one of their favorite images. Each backstory has also given us some incredible insight into another artist in photography. Plus, each image links to the artist's website, giving you a chance to explore their work on your own.

We're coming up on 100 artists in the series since it started April 22, 2016, with dozens more coming in 2018. I pulled a few to share the diversity in the subject matter in the rolling slideshow below. Click on any one of them to visit that photographer's "Why?" episode.

This is a remarkable industry we all share a love for, and programming like this doesn't happen by accident. While I'd love to take credit for these new features, the truth is they wouldn't happen without photographers who believe in our industry; companies who keep providing us with the tools to exceed client expectations and build stronger businesses, and all of you! 

​Thank you!

Intro by Skip Cohen

Suzette hits a topic this week that might seem off the path from slide shows and presenting your work, but it's one of my most favorite subjects. She's sharing ideas about "IPL" - In-Person Learning. I consider it one of the most valuable tools to thrive and not just survive! It's part of building an effective network, expanding your expertise as an artist and building a stronger business.
​
I've often said you can no more establish an outstanding skill set exclusively online than you could become the world's greatest race car driver without ever getting behind the wheel. Online education is outstanding and helps you build a stronger foundation of skills and technique, but it's missing the in-person contact.

I've sat in on some of Suzette's classes over the years and even though there's so much available on the Internet to help you build strong slide presentations, working with Suzette in person changes the dynamics of the process.

Photodex has done an outstanding job building an online resource through their website and blog as well. They're helping you better understand and utilize all the features to create a high impact videos, especially when you're combining still images with short video clips and great music. Now, combine the expertise they're helping you build with in-person classes to boost the quality of your images and everything moves up a notch!

If you're attending a conference where Suzette is teaching, run don't walk to get a seat. In the mean time if you haven't played with ProShow9 take it out for a test drive. You'll find so many terrific ways to enhance your slideshows and better demonstrate your skill set. Don't forget to use SAVE20WITHSKIP in the code box when you purchase any Photodex product for a 20% discount. For a limited time, this special discount code is still active.

Have you noticed how everyone is doing a class on In-Person Sales (IPS)?

If you haven’t heard, or don’t yet do it, it is a game-changer and can mean the difference between a potentially fabulous sale and no sale. Or, to be more blunt and direct, the difference between success and failure in your photography business!

While the millennials want everything online, the truth is: the sales process of figuring out what you truly want for a portrait order rarely happens as a self-guided tour! Having a knowledgeable guide is vital for a client to know what to purchase and what will fit their personal needs. The ability to see and feel products in person and talk through a myriad of topics to reveal what is truly valued most, is vital! And with the added benefit of touching heart-strings, invaluable!  
 
But let me also bring up the topic of In-Person Learning! (IPL, for the sake of this article). We are in the middle of an online era where we think we can get everything we need online in the solitude of our own homes!  Online education is great, but it's missing a huge element! The personal and vital interaction that communicates more than words.
 
Over the past few years, we have seen the attendance decline at many photography events, which makes us sad, but we also see a few still going strong and thriving. Yes, the marketing factor has had to take priority, but it’s so good to see a few organizations going strong and offer the value of IPL.

Last month, we attended Imaging USA in Nashville and at the end of this month will be WPPI; the two biggest imaging conventions in the US. PhotoPro Expo just recently took place in Cincinatti, and this week, a new booming success is SYNC (Senior and Youth National Conference) in Florida. SYNC is relatively young, (celebrating its 10th year this year), and is bigger than ever, truly focusing on the community aspect. 
 
Remember, it’s not just the in-person class time; it’s lunchtimes, walking thru the hallways, the hotel lobby, tradeshows and the social evenings—all those times of interacting with fellow photographers that enrich our ability to see and help us grow in our businesses in many ways that are hard to articulate.

​We know it is a bit more expensive, (just like that wall portrait) but will be something you will cherish for years to come—something that will touch your heart and potentially change your life in the long run. Why do we encourage families to buy that wall portrait or for brides to purchase that album? We know the value and it goes so much deeper than words. Remember that when you consider online vs in-person learning too. Yes, it is an investment, but the value far exceeds the cost!

Intro by Skip Cohen

​One of the things I appreciate most about working with the team at Photodex is their neverending focus on helping you build a stronger business and skill set. This post by "Kathy" from last week is a perfect example.

For most of you, this is the slow season, but April is right around the corner which typically kicks off the start of the wedding season in the U.S. Wandering through Google, I found some interesting data on the SoundVision website.

• 2.3 million couples wed every year in the US. That breaks down to nearly 6,200 weddings a day
• The average age of a bride in the US is 25.3 and of a groom is 26.9
• Average number of guests invited to a wedding is 178
• One-third of those getting married each year have been married before
• $72 billion per year is spent on weddings
• The average wedding budget is $20,000

The number that's always a mystery is the number of wedding photographers out there. The estimates are all over the place, but what we do know is that it's an incredibly competitive market. That means you've got to stay cutting-edge on your skill set. You've got to build relationships with your clients and your community. You've got to exceed client expectations and make yourself habit-forming!

So, I want to add a few suggestions to Kathy's list of great blogs. Wander into YouTube and search for videos from the leaders in wedding photography. All it takes is plugging names into the search box, and you'll be amazed at what you find. For example, type in Sal Cincotta and see what comes up! From weddings to Profoto lighting tips, to engagement shots and pricing - you'll have your own private support series to help you build a stronger business. 

Keep on searching and look up Vanessa Joy, Justin and Mary Marantz, Roberto Valenzuela, Denis Reggie, Bambi Cantrell, Joe Buissink, Clay Blackmore, Jerry Ghionis and Yervant just to name a few of the leaders in the industry. Then search for photographers speaking at upcoming conventions you'll be attending.
 
So many of the most respected artists in the industry are sharing content every day on YouTube and in their blogs, and Kathy has picked out ten who are outstanding. You've chosen a career path where you can never stand still and simply rest on your laurels, and great content is right at your fingertips!

by Kathy

​Check out some of these incredible wedding photography websites and blogs that are full of beautiful wedding photos and so much more. Browse through galleries, videos, and even tips if you’re looking for some inspiration as the one getting married, for a friend’s wedding, or as the photographer. 

1. Cory Ryan Photography: Looking for the hip and modern bride vibe on your wedding day instead of the traditional ‘cookie-cutter’ wedding photographer then Cory Ryan is who you’re looking for to capture your memorable moments.
2. Crystal Stokes Photography: Crystal is an amazingly talented award-winning photographer who is obsessed with finding/creating beautiful light and turning sweet moments into stunning imagery. Her work ranges from wedding to family and portraits and more…she does it all.
3. William Innes Photography: William’s page is a great resource for inspiration. Browse through his galleries and blogs to get a feel for his awesome work.
4. Sal Cincotta Photography: Sal has more than just his blog full of beautiful photos.
   He also has his Behind the Shutter blog with tons of tips from his magazine. His work looks like something out of a movie or a painting…he has a real artistic flair. 
5. Junebug Weddings: “Showcasing phenomenal photography, and providing the most trusted list of recommended wedding professionals found anywhere in the world. Dedicated to helping couples plan the wedding they’ve always dreamed of, we encourage our readers to find and celebrate their own personal wedding style.”
6. Melissa Jill Photography: Melissa Jill offers a beautiful site with every detail you could possibly need! She keeps her personal blog here as well reflecting her natural talent and personality.
7. Lovesome Photography: For a mix of high-end boudoir, engagement and wedding photos,
   visit Lovesome Photography. Search through her blog for fun wedding ideas and browse through her photo galleries to get a glimpse into her style.
8. Modern Wedding Photography: Browse through the blog, albums, portfolio and more for an inside look into Modern Wedding Photography and all the gorgeous photos that get taken. If you want a fun, authentic, and candid approach from a passionate and enthusiastic photographer…you’re in the right place.
9. Del Sol Photography: Del Sol Photography’s page has tons of amazing destination wedding photos to browse through. Check out their Trash the Dress section for epic images!
10. Focus Imagery: Unique and beautiful photography with a “little piece of magic”. As they say. “We are storytellers and capture your day through our photo journal style of photography…The perfect blend of light, love, and you.” This definitely shines through after going through their portfolio.

​We’d love to see those wonderful wedding photos and memories put together in an awesome ProShow slideshow. Submit your slideshow to be considered for a spotlight on our blog.
Be sure to select the blog submission option.

Intro by Skip Cohen

We started Photodex Fridays because so many of you work events on the weekends. So, we thought the best way to keep ideas fresh in your mind was to share them closer to your working schedule. However, the truth is, everything we've shared is good any day of the week.

Suzette Allen is back with some great tips on adding title slides, but I want to expand on her concept just a little bit.

If you've ever entered print competition or read some of the suggestions by the judges over the years, one of the best tips is to pay attention to the title of your image. There's that old expression of what's in a name? Well, sometimes the answer is everything!

Suzette's suggestion on title slides adds a more sophisticated element to a slideshow, but I want to remind you to pay attention to the title you put on the entire show as well. I know it's a different application of the word, title, but the creative tools you have to share your images in a presentation have never been greater. 

Check out ProShow 9 with a click on the banner on the right. You'll find so many terrific ways to enhance your slideshows and better demonstrate your skill set, including title slides. And, don't forget to use SAVE20WITHSKIP in the code box when you purchase any Photodex product for a 20% discount. For a limited time, this special discount code is still active.

But here in this show, the titles were added so there is no doubt what is going on and it seems even more entertaining, as your expections are met in each scene. ​

Intro by Skip Cohen

A few months ago a good friend told me I was having way too much fun. "Fun" is one of those words too often lost in business today. All of us get so wrapped up in the day to day challenges we forget to have fun!  Well, fun is one of those things I love about Photodex and their approach to helping photographers become better storytellers.

One of their trademarks is their support of education. Sharing your images in a slideshow becomes "fun" when it's done well and helps create a stronger relationship with a client. Photodex never slows down on building great content and this series featuring Suzette Allen, who I refer to as the "Queen of Hybrid," is a perfect example. You can't create great slideshows if the images you use are mediocre!

This week Suzette is sharing some great tips on developing a sunset strategy. While some of you might find this pretty basic, I'm betting the majority of will find it a great reminder to take your time and develop a strategy, even when shooting in sweet light!

Your goal with every client is to exceed expectations, and that's where slideshows can be an incredible ingredient. I'm always surprised at how many of you still haven't jumped on the presentation bandwagon. There's very little that beats a series of great still images, short video clips, and great music all put together to demonstrate your ability to tell the story of a client.

Learn more about ProShow by clicking on any of the three links below. ProShow 9 was introduced several months ago, and it's the perfect addition to your skill set as a storyteller, and don't forget to use SAVE20WITHSKIP in the code box when you purchase any Photodex product for a 20% discount. 

​As the sunset progressed and the sky turned pink, the only way to capture that was to light her up to match, so we brought out a hand-held LED light (about 4”x6”) which is a small hard light, but gave it a fashion look.

​We used it off-camera and focused on “butterfly light” which puts a small shadow below the nose and it quite flattering.