One BIG lesson I got from the marketing mastermind with John Ratchford a few days ago was the idea that we as photographers in business need to innovate, create and adapt.

John had been on his game when it comes to keeping his studio running at full power.

Yesterday’s marketing mastermind with John Ratchford was inspiring. No, scratch that. It was beyond inspiring.

I’ve been trying to get John on a presentation since June. Why? Because I know John. He knows how to market and build a profitable photography studio. I know this because I’ve had him on twice before. And I follow him online.

Friends in photography,

Have you noticed how many photographers are coming out of the closet and eager to sell you their marketing program?

The way I figure it, if it’s so good, why are they selling it? Me, I like following people who are in the trenches fighting the good fight.

There are two questions we need to ask:
1- What’s going on?
2- How much do I care about what’s going on? Should it matter to me and my life, my goals, my quest?

Sounds selfish and narrow minded. I know. But the truth is I can’t make the world, or my world, a better place until I look at myself and make it a better place.

Business is different when you stand to lose everything. A safety net makes not a sharp mind. I have a printed quote in my office. One of my favorites.

When my daughter was five years old she asked me: “Dad, is there a God that made God?”

I was speechless. “Where do you think up these questions?” I asked her, astounded. “I don’t know, I was just thinking about it.”

I feel very lucky. Why?

Somehow, years ago, I realized that one basic truth would serve me well in life.

It’s important to remain optimistic. And have a positive grand vision. Let’s call this mindset.

Like any journey, any adventure, there will be challenges, roadblocks and logjams.
So to speak.

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