Quick Hit Monday: Thoughts On Conventions; Some Amazing Photography; & The New Social Marketing Wizard

Good Morning Everybody,

We had a great visit to the Professional Photographers of Ohio Convention in Sandusky, OH over the weekend.  It was good to see so many friends we have made over the years.  We also had a chance to see some great programs as well. 

Thoughts On Conventions

You know, one observation I made was that the attendance seemed to be down a bit which, by the way, is the story for state conventions around the country.  I was talking with my buddy, Chuck Zix, the owner of Madison Photo Works, about the situation.  We were both lamenting the fact that so many new photographers ARE NOT “joiners” these days.  They think that they can get all the info and training on-line, and many times for free.

Sure, I think DigitalProTalk is a great resource for the amateur, aspiring, part time, and seasoned pro, but there is still nothing like getting the information in person.  You get to feel the presenters passion, you get to absorb their images up close and personal.  On line training, free or otherwise, doesn’t hold a candle to the “live” learning experience! I’ve been to four conventions this year and loved every minute of them.

To get an idea what I’m talking about, just continue reading.

WOW!  Amazing Photography

While walking the tradeshow, we stopped by the Sigma booth to visit with my friend, Dave Metz. Assisting Dave at the Sigma booth was David Fitzsimmons, a fantastic wildlife/nature photographer showing some amazing images for his new children’s book coming out in July. He showed us several images/page layout presentations from the book titled Curious Critters. These included photographs of small fuzzy and not-so-fuzzy critters, bugs, birds, snakes against a white background away from their natural environment. The visual impact and detail in his images was amazing. Check out the image of a lightning bug below.

David is a photographer and writer whose works have appeared in Shutterbug, Popular Photography & Imaging, Ohio regional publications, and in recent Sigma ads.  You can get more info on David right here.  Be sure to check out his website right here – more great critter pics.

David has agreed to do a webcast for DPT later this summer to discuss his projects, books and his wonderful photography. I’m sure looking forward to the children’s book release and the time together to pick his brain during the webcast.

I’ve Never Seen High School Seniors Like This Before!

We also dropped in on the tail end of Kevin Mears high school senior/lighting program.  Wow!  I was blown away by Kevin’s work.  I’ve known Kevin for a number of years but never really knew his work.  To see it up close and personal was a visual treat!

Kevin, who is a very friendly, soft spoken individual is producing images that scream for the attention of the viewer.  You have the same reaction to many of his wedding images too.  Check out his website right here, spend some time in his galleries, and enjoy! He is a master of the small strobe and small strobe technique.  He too has agreed to do a webcast for us at DigitalProTalk – stay tuned, you won’t want to miss it.

It’s All About Social Media Marketing – We Heard One of The Best!

One of the true highlights of my visit to the PPO this weekend was catching up with my friend, Bruce Hudson.  He and his son, Josh, were presenting multiple programs on lighting, composition, Groupon sales, and social media marketing.

I’ll tell ya’ young, up and coming Josh Hudson had them nailed to their seats at his SRO 7:30 a.m. presentation on social media marketing.  It was literally a packed house for his program.

The day before, Josh co-presented with his dad and “teased” the audience with his knowledge of social media marketing – I was blown away by both his depth of knowledge on the subject but more importantly how he strategizes his efforts to promote Hudson’s Photography.  He is truly a master at what he does. Hey, I was sold and ended up purchasing his multi DVD series and can’t wait to dig in!

Bruce and Josh lecture all across the country and were on their way to Pittsburgh next week.  If you ever get a chance to see them, be sure you do!  You can get more info on their coaching and training materials right here. And, you can check out the studio website right here.

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Hey gang, that’s it for me today.  I’m spending a little time today going over all my weekend notes – like I said, there is no better way to learn than being there up close and personal with the speakers. 

Hope to see you at the next convention!

-David