Photo Success

A Place to Grow

Ever wish you had “X-Ray” vision?

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I’m not talking about seeing through walls here. Or seeing through girls clothes (well, there was a time when I did….hey, I was young, and, like most dudes, I was hornier than a two peckered billy goat.)

I’m talking about being able “see” how a successful studio, well, succeeded.

How all my favorite mentors and gurus got their mojo on when it came to growing a successful photography business.

Not only the technical stuff, like lighting, posing and all that stuff….but the real deal.
Yes, yes…I wanted to know all that techie stuff.

But….

I always wanted to know the cold hard truth. Even the ugly side.

The pains, the agonies. The near death experiences that so many businesses go through.

But I mostly wanted to know how to grow MY BUSINESS. What marketing strategies to use.

What steps to take. What promotions, ads and specials would connect with my clients and prospects?

I wanted to “see” the inner world of marketing. See with deep inner vision.

It’s why I succeeded eventually. Why my photography studio grew to well over six-figures like a shot out of a cannon.

I’m confounded by photographers who don’t get this. Yes, I can see how we all want to take the easy road. The path of least resistance.

It’s human. Natural.

But some things need to be risen above. Like taking the easy lazy road.

All you gotta do is ask yourself, like I asked myself…: “Is this goal, and the road I have to travel on, worth the work, pain, turmoil, fears and anxieties in order to achieve it?”

Or do I go back working for the “man”?

(by ‘man’ I mean any boss, man or woman, who controls us and our destinies as we’re tied to jobs we hate, can’t stand, resist with every ounce of our being even though we eagerly took it on because we wanted the security and instant gratification that comes with a steady paycheck….even if we’re paying daily by the cold, slow erosion and deadening of our creative souls and aspirations…)

This drive, this urge and ultimate success is the reason I created what I consider to be the best online photography, marketing and success forum found anywhere out there.

And why I brought to the members a specific and clearly defined library of success tools.

Tools like:
*success and marketing interviews with big names and not so big names, but successful photographers…..over ten years worth so far… each one interviewed by me. Because dammit, I’m curious as hell and I want Xray vision…!
*marketing…more than any hot blooded ambitious photographer can handle. Videos, systems and manuals. I literally ripped open every conceivable idea, strategy and tactic and poured it on with no-holds barred
*videos on everything…shooting, photoshop workflow, website optimization, weddings, fairies, families, seniors and way, way, way more…too much to mention here because there simply isn’t enough room. But it’s all in there, including many presentations by some of the best photographers working today.
*coaching, meetings and questions….members who are open, without huge ass egos and prima donna attitudes that gives everyone the impression they have god like powers and ‘how dare you even look at me’ stupidity. We’re real, authentic and genuine. This, for some reason, always surprises many…

That, my friend is what I call X-Ray vision. And I’m only scratching the surface. There’s way, way more….

But I’m talking about seeing ALL OF IT…as CLEAR AS DAY…

This is “X-RAY” Vision that ANY photographer can have (and achieve near miraculous results using) once he or she learns how to get their mojo on.

This, by the way, applies to all. Newbies and old timers like me. Photography is like a unicycle….you gotta keep peddling. Or you fall off….
Robert N. Provencher – Your Master Coach Marketer

“If you want to be a profitable and successful photographer, then study profitable and successful photographers.”

Join us…Content, Coaching & Community

Frontline webinar with Thomas Dodd December 3rd, 9:00PM EST

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JOIN US….December 3rd, 9:00PM EST

OPEN to everyone….REGISTER HERE

Thomas Dodd is a visual artist and photographer based out of Atlanta, Georgia who has developed a style that he calls “painterly photo montage” – a method he employs in editing software in which he crafts elaborately textured pieces that have a very organic and decidedly non-digital look to them. His work often has mythic and quasi-religious themes that pay homage to Old Master art traditions while at the same time drawing from psychological archetypes that evoke a strong emotional response from the viewer.
Although his artwork resembles paintings, his pieces are entirely photographic in nature, fusing many images into a cohesive whole. His larger works are often presented in a mixed media form that adds a depth and texture that complements the photography beautifully. Thomas has had numerous exhibitions of his works in many cities in the USA and around the world.

He has had recent shows in Germany, Romania, Argentina, New York City, Mexico City, Orlando, Miami, New Orleans, Tokyo, San Antonio, Seattle, Paris and in his hometown of Atlanta. Dodd’s photographs have been featured in many magazines, on book and album covers and he frequently teaches workshops and webinars on photo-editing and marketing for artists.

Thomas began his career as a visual artist in 2005. Before that, he was best known as the harpist and songwriter for the 1990s musical group Trio Nocturna, a Celtic Gothic ensemble that put out three critically-acclaimed albums (“Morphia”, “Tears of Light” and “Songs of the Celtic Night”) and performed at author Anne Rice’s annual Halloween balls in New Orleans, as well as spawning an offshoot band called the Changelings. Mythic themes and their relation to emotions and psychological states continue to be his primary subjects and motivations.

JOIN US….December 3rd, 9:00PM EST

OPEN to everyone….REGISTER HERE

You gotta pay if you wanna play…

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You ever wonder: “Am I doing the right thing?”

Often late at night these monsters called fears and doubts sneak up and attack in a constant barrage of unrelenting ambushes.

Sometimes I don’t know if I’m doing the right thing. I don’t have a solid plan in place. Just an idea. And faith that it will all work out. So the attacks are expected.

No big deal. I just deal with it, not letting them win.

Most of the time, it’s somewhat calculated, and not entirely risky.

Just yesterday I was chatting with Tina, my wife, and I told her that most folks couldn’t live the way we live.

Most folks need too much back up. A secure, solid pay check. Certainty and security.
I get it and appreciate it. Maybe it’s just not for me.

I’m okay with certainty that it will all work out. Even while being uncertain.

We’re in it on a wing and a prayer. Like most entrepreneurial start ups.

It’s great to do the stuff you love, at have control over your freedom, your time.

This my friend doesn’t come easy. You gotta pay if you wanna play. And part of the price is facing fears.

It’s also called freedom. But freedom isn’t guaranteed nor are we entitled.

It’s something you have to work at, fight for, and constantly struggle to keep as a valued part to your life.

Arnold said it best:

“For me life is continuously being hungry. The meaning of life is not simply to exist, to survive, but to move ahead, to go up, to achieve, to conquer.”
~Arnold Schwarzenegger~

When you’re hungry, you’re focused. Clear. Scared. Calculated. Cautious yet willing.

Be brave my friend. But stay hungry.
Robert N. Provencher – Your Master Coach Marketer

“If you want to be a profitable and successful photographer, then study profitable and successful photographers.”

Join us…Content, Coaching & Community

My first wedding and first near nervous breakdown….(how I got through it)

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“Self-belief is the catalyst for spectacular achievement.”
~Robin Sharma~

My heart was pounding.

My legs were like rubber. My brain was exploding in a flurry of stress and fear…all cascading down onto my young fragile and vulnerable soul.

I was freaking out in a big way.

I tried as best I could to keep up the illusion of control while inside me I was like a duck paddling furiously under the water, trying to stay afloat, looking sorta calm on the surface.

All an illusion.

This by the way wasn’t my first wedding. This was my first year. My first 5 years to be honest.

When I started shooting schools, families and especially weddings, and, well, people…. I was so close to having an all out nervous breakdown I have no idea how I got through it all.

But get though it I did. It’s hard to say where the drive, the inner fortitude comes from that keeps one going. I can’t say.

Maybe, just maybe it has something to do with having goals and a vision for something bigger and better for oneself. Yea, let’s go with that one.

In the best self-help business book ever written, Think and Grow Rich, there are 13 key fundamentals.

The first one is “Desire”.

From the book:
“The starting point of all achievement is DESIRE. Keep this constantly in mind. Weak desire brings weak results, just as a small fire makes a small amount of heat.”

I suppose I had two choices. Let the fear dominate and let the chips fall where they may. Or, make a decision as to what I wanted for myself. Desire.

You can get far in any and most endeavors, including a photography business, or photography marketing, or in trying to enhance your photographic skills, by simply asking yourself this one easy question: “What do I want?”

If you have that knowledge, you now have a map, so to speak. And having a map may give you the edge you need to keep going on your journey.

I created some goal setting forms to help others create self-awareness and a strong personal vision. These forms have helped me immensely in my lifetime.

You’re welcome to them. Download HERE

If you’re a member of noBs photosuccess you can also watch/download the video replay HERE.

Either way, download and print out the PDF forms and sit down for 20 minutes.

This is some of THE MOST IMPORTANT work you can ever do in your life.
I guarantee it!

The choice is yours.

Robert N. Provencher – Your Master Coach Marketer

“If you want to be a profitable and successful photographer, then study profitable and successful photographers.”

Join us…Content, Coaching & Community

Does your photo booth display look more like a yard sale rather than a professional showing? 25 essential tips for bridal show success

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Two years ago in the noBs forum, Marian, our resident “Howard Cosell” replied to a wedding display booth post and started a meandering, info rich thread based on his observations, critiques and rants on photo displays at wedding shows. Good stuff.

Marian attended many wedding shows since then, and has posted many, many on going samples, ideas, strategies, tips, what to do, what NOT to do…..

Here’s a SMALL sampling of this thread. If you’re a member, GO HERE and  check out the entire thread. It’s massive.

1. Tables- Are yours “bare” or skirted already? Some places don’t provide skirts. It looks “cheesy” if the table is not skirted. Bring something or call ahead of time.

2. Do you have separators between you and the next vendor? I have seen photographers put up extra walls, so it’s more of an an enclosed area, for their own booth.

3. Can you swap tables if you find that you are next to another photographer? You will find it hard to “compete” with 2 side by side photographers. People will think you are all one company and you will be passed by.

4. If your table can be “pulled in,” this will create an area that customers can “walk into” and you can devote your attention.

5. Electricity- If you need it for your table for anything, is it included? Yes, we have been “whacked” with $100 fees right on convention floors, if you want power! Attendants with IPads walk around and check to see if you have power and/or “stealing” from someone else. (YES!) At the same time, if the hall is smaller, check to see if your table has a WORKING outlet near you. Worst case scenario, bring an extension cord with a strip outlet. It has saved us many times!

6. Your display- Show products that you produced and can sell! If a couple wants to see a parent’s album, have one there so they can look at. People who browse albums with liquids in their hand need to politely told to be very careful. We have had people spill things on the table. Bring paper towels, rags, etc. Obviosuly, tuck these things under the table.

7. Your give away material. – Price lists, flyers, etc. Do your homework and produce something that easy to read just for the tradeshow. There is NO time for them to be reading an extensive price list/flyer, etc. It confuses them and you want to (important here) make eye contact and speak with them briefly. Let them take additional material and place it in their bags or a member of their “posse.”

8. Talk to the people who are PAYING FOR THE WEDDING. – If a bride & groom are there and parents are there, quickly (jokingly) include the folks in your 2-3 min “sales pitch.” Mom and Dad are paying, so make sure they hear the information.

9. Depending on traffic flow, don’t waste a lot of time on a couple that you feel you will “lose.” Ask quickly, where/when is the wedding. If it’s a “losing” situation for you then abandon the conversation. There will be others walking by also.

10. Your enemy is your friend. (The competition will be there!) So when you set up in a hall, get there early to set up and walk around see what are photographers are there. You could strike up a conversation, you could possibly get a price list, you could possibly get work from them down the road. Extend your hand and meet people!

11. Questions- You will be asked these…
a. What is the coverage? 6-7-xx hours?
b. What about a 2nd photographer?
c. Do I get all the digital files?
d. Are they watermarked?

12. Freebies- Does the bridal show give away prizes? They have raffles at the end for services that the vendors provide. In another words, someone wins a free engagement session from Ben’s Photography. The bride will go to your booth for the specifics. Do your homework on where/when and how much this will cost you personally for the session, to get them to book you. Keep in mind that other vendors will do this also.

13. Table placement – (I just remembered this.) Try NOT to be next to someone (bakery) that gives away free samples. Girls will plug the walking aisle while they are sampling and will walk past your booth while eating.

14. Breath! – Yours and the customers. (I’m not joking here.) So help me,I have almost been bowled over by some people. So, bring some breath mints, breath drops for yourself as you talk to clients. We often put out a small bowl of those chewable sugar candies. Girls (like bees) have walked straight into our booth first for the candy and then we start talking to them.

15. Gather names somehow! Some bridal shows automatically give the names of all the participants who show up. If yours doesn’t, put some index cards out and offer someone a free “whatever” that you will choose after the wedding day. Make sure you get their EMAIL ADDRESS. You could send flyers, specials to them later…

16. Sample images– Can you put up a small computer screen/LCD panel with a USB Stick to show a slide show? During some shows I have purposely advanced the pictures to show pictures of black weddings, oriental weddings, etc as the individuals approached. Why? Because they take an interest in you, knowing that you have done these weddings.

17. DON’T sit down at all! You may have chairs, but suck it up. It may be tiring on your feet but be active with people as they walk by. “Engage” these brides by giving them a compliment on their hair, clothing, virtually anyhting that they can smile and head over your way.

18. Have pens in your pocket to write with. Some bridal shows want you to to initial a form that the bride gives to you. That way, the vendor knows that she has stopped at each booth.

19. Your booth setup. Are you bringing large prints, 16×20 and above ? Where do you hang or place these? We have used lights stand with a horizontal bar (Covered with a large white or black background) to hold the prints up. Make sure they are at just above your head, when when someone is speaking with you, so they can SEE your work. If they are lower, then you are physically obstructing, your own images. SHOW your work!

20. Thought process– What is it that YOU do better than your competition? (The competition WILL be there!) You have to relay this to the bride somehow. Your objective is (no more than 5 minutes per prospective bride) to get her to come back to your studio, for a full presentation.

a. Is your personality?
b. Your artistic talents? (better have samples of it)
c. Why should someone hire YOU, instead of the photographer who has a booth, the next row over?

21. Dress for the occasion. I have seen guys in sloppy clothes, jeans, etc. The old role of “first impression” makes a lasting impression, still hold true.

22. When dealing with parents, be courteous and give them their respect! A polite No sir or yes maam, goes a long way. If you want their money, then “pull out all the stops!”

23. Consider a bridal show like being on stage. If you are shy and not confident with people, you will lose clients. Be friendly, be assertive and have a postive attitude. Have fun too!

24. This is “Marketing 101” at its’ best. Do it, have fun and learn from it.

25. Your images! Show color, black and white, sepia tone, if you can. Bottom line, a variety of images goes very well.

Thanks Marian….some great tips and useful information here. If you’re a member, GO HERE and  check out the entire thread. It’s massive.

Rob

Not a member? Join us.

 

Photographing the hockey coach on location

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Hockey is big on our area. Especially Triple A hockey. You can tell when there’s a game on, since most of our downtown will be jammed with vehicles and all parking spots snatched up.

I was hired to shoot the local triple A hockey coach for our local lifestyle mag. They wanted a studio shot. Ugh.I had something else in mind.

Now, this guy did NOT want his pic taken.
When I called him up and scheduled his session, I assured him it would take maximum fifteen minutes.

My hope was, once he showed up at the studio, I could convince him to give me an addition fifteen, but back at the arena. I had a vision and I really wanted to create it.

He said yes. We jumped in our cars and booted out to the arena.

Here’s the area I had in mind at the arena. Got here five minutes ahead of the coach.

I had a small softbox to the left and a kicker light (Nikon SB800 on manual) to the right, on a stand, held by my trusted assistant. Here I am standing in for the coach:

Coach shows up, here’s a pull back shot showing the kicker to the right:

Final shot below.
ISO 800 5.6 at 1/80th of a second. Nikon D800.14-24 2.8 lens at 14mm

Final image used on the front cover. Sadly, they cropped it in a little too much for my taste. It lost some of the “grandeur” that the original image and vision contained.

 

7 Of The Biggest, Baddest, Classic Business Breaking Blunders Photographers Make….(in business)

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Let me get straight to the point…..7 mistakes photographers make.

1- Market Too Soon
This is a newb mistake. They start doing all sorts of marketing, and spending money on ads and other “magic pill” solutions…..when the truth is….their work is crap.
Increase the marketing too fast, and you’re only speeding up the process with which the marketplace finds out how crappy you are.

2-Not Market Enough
Another mistake. Often with established photography studios.
They sit back and think: “Yea, we’re so dam good we don’t need to lower ourselves.”
What a load. It’s all fine until the eventual winds of destiny come blowing into their studio business and all is gone because we sat on our laurels.

Listen, everyone needs to market. Always….publicity, networking, greeting cards, social media, offers, clubs and programs, monthly offers, specials and themed portrait offers, affiliation strategies….

All you need to do is lose the ego, get on the marketing mule and go panning for gold. No one is immune to this.

3-Suffer From Technitis
Way too much focus on gear and processes. ’nuff said.

4-Pursue Wrong Markets
I love the story from my good friend Alicia Birch, from Australia.
I’ve had her pitch in and help me with a few coaching calls, and she told us about how she used to photograph horses. Yes, she made some money.
But not much.

The reality is, it’s not a large market. Sure, she could offer some sessions as horse themed photography sessions, or shoot the occasional show, but to niche in that area is a losing proposition.

5-Copy Cat Syndrome
I call this marketing incest. We see another photog we admire, and do everything like them instead of creating our own style, our own voice.
Our marketing gets dumber, watered down and weaker because of this. Our style doesn’t sing and resonate. Be true to yourself and shine. It takes courage. Brass balls.

6- Lack Big Picture Vision
Michael Gerber wrote one of the best business books of all time…The E Myth. Read it if you haven’t yet.
In it he tells how it’s vital for all businesses to envision what their (photography) business will look like five years from now.
This is a powerful exercise. And it forces us to use our imagination. No one else can do this for us. Only we can.

7-Fail To Treat The Craft Like A Business
This is common. So many don’t get this and it’s likely the number one reason why photography “businesses” fail.
It’s a business. You must make a profit. The final vote goes to the client who opens up their minds and hearts and votes with their wallets….over and over…

Their is no shame in making money.
It’s a business.
Get it?

Get it and you’re on the right track.

“If you want to be a profitable and successful photographer, then study profitable and successful photographers.”