You Get What You Pay For...

by Skip Cohen

While I hate "selling" in a blog - I guess there are some of you who will suggest that's what I'm about to do. Actually there's a great quote from yesterday's post on just this topic:

"Selling to people through social media is like going to a party, meeting somebody for the first time, and then saying, ‘Hey, do you want to buy this Tupperware?’” Pat Flynn

So, I'm taking a risk, but those of you who either know me or know my reputation also know how much I believe in education.  I've been asked why the cost of this year and last year's summer program is more expensive than the original Skip's Summer School?
 
It's an easy answer - It's about quality in education. The original program was classroom style lectures designed for 300+ people. We sat in a ballroom and listened to a lot of incredible presentations, one after another, but it was all one way communication. A speaker came in, did a two hour program and was finished. Last year and this year's program has a serious hands-on element and we've promised no class will exceed 20 photographers. That also means the instructors are teaching for two full days, plus participating in other programs and being accessible to all the attendees.

Why 20 in a class? Because any more than that and you lose the quality of the experience. This is about helping you to become a better photographer and business person and it won't happen in crowded programs where you don't get quality time with the instructor.

I know the economy is tough and keeping up with technology and consumer trends even tougher, but these summer programs aren't just about helping you grow your skill set, but giving you a community that can become a resource for you in the future.

There are a lot of free programs out there and webinars, videos and blog posts. I'm a fan of most of them, but you can't learn to be a great photographer without good solid hands-on training and a great network. We're working hard to give you both. Plus, there are some great ways to make this year's program more affordable...

Alumni Discount: If you've been to a previous Skip's Summer School you qualify for the Alumni program and can save $100.

Save Me a Seat allows you to essentially put the program on layaway - paying the majority of the cost 60 days after the workshop - not due until October 1.

Just announced - Panasonic's LUMIX team and Photodex are helping make this year's program with Suzette Allen, Hybrid 101,  even more affordable with a $200 instant savings plus a year of ProShow Web Premium ($150 value). Here's your chance to be a leader in new technology instead of a follower later on.

Each of these offers are unique to SCU. They cannot be combined, but offer you an opportunity to get quality education and an incredible experience. Summer Session is virtually guaranteed to give you a solid return on your investment - the investment in a stronger skill set!

$200 Credit from Venice Album: Last but not least, every attendee receives a $200 credit at Venice Album on any order of $400 or more good until the end of the year - this is exclusive to SCU and it's profit that goes directly to your bottom line.

This year's program is going to be amazing and the last one we're doing in this unique format, but there's one more thing that comes along with a program like this - my team's support to help you THRIVE, not just survive. This isn't a program that just happens and then everybody disappears - we're here to help you all year long and if you don't believe me ask a few people in the Skip's Summer School group on Facebook.

Looking forward to seeing you in Chicago...and if you've still got questions just send me an email, [email protected].

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