My Why...

by Skip Cohen

Recently, a less-than-enthusiastic bonehead from my past couldn't understand why I'm still doing this blog, not to mention continuing to work. So, maybe this last Friday in September, I should bring more of you up to date on why I love writing this blog...and hope it helps you build a stronger business.

First, you have to understand my mantra: I do it because I can. I can because I want to. I want to because you said I couldn't. Although I didn't hear this quote until after I left WPPI in 2009, it still fits my attitude toward projects I like to take on.

Second, although I know more than I let on, I'm not a working photographer. I've worked alongside some of the very best, and learned so much. However, my passion has always been on the marketing side. I've done my best to follow one of my wife's favorite quotes: to thine own self be true.

Third, years ago over lunch, Sarah Petty and I got into a fun discussion over the percentage of photographers who are simply bad business people. Most of you are right-brain creative types, which explains why you often disregard the operational side of your business.

Fourth, I love imaging. Over the years I've been criticized for being too much of an industry cheerleader, but my passion for a business based on the craft couldn't be more sincere. For years I had lived vicariously through so many of you. When I left Rangefiner/WPPI in 2009 to start my own company, I wanted to see if I had learned enough in all those years working for other companies.

Well, here I am 17 years later, still loving the marketing side of business and writing about it. While technology keeps changing with SEO, AI, and one's ability to expand their reach, the foundation of success is still built on the basics - especially relationship building.

Last but not least, I don't play golf! I'm simply not ready to retire. Although I've slowed down and definitely take more time for friends and family, primarily focused on Sheila and the two pups, Lucy and Belle, I'll continue to share whatever I can to help you run a better business and, yeah, have more fun in the process!

"Fun" - it's a word that for far too many of you is buried beneath the baggage of stress in running your business. You don't have to be over-joyed at everything you work on, but if you're not happy with what you're doing then it's time for a change. As I've written so many times, you can't create images that tug at people's heartstrings if you're own heart isn't in it!  For me it's pretty simple: As long as I'm still waking up every morning smiling about the day ahead, I'm not walking away from my keyboard.

Wishing everybody a terrific weekend ahead and time to focus on whatever or whoever is your passion.