Business Day Thursday: Do You Really Need A Professional Wedding Photographer These Days?

Good Afternoon Everybody,

Sorry for the very late post.  I’m up to my eyeballs working on all the last minute details of our fabulous PhotoPro Expo convention coming up in only four weeks.  I’ve been working the phones since  8:30 a.m. this morning, non-stop, hence the very late post. Our Expo Trade-show is about sold out with nearly 60 vendors setting up shop in nearly 100 booths in our 19,000 sq. ft. exhibition area – yea, it’s BIG!

Soooo…. that means what I had planned to post today is going to be postponed till tomorrow.  I think you’ll like the topic: “Make BIG Money Being A Shoot and Burn Photographer”.  OK, I know the title should “stir the broth” just a bit but be sure to tune in tomorrow for the rest of the story.

The GRID: "Do You Really Need A Professional Photographer These Days?

I sure hope you get a chance to check out the re-broadcast of the GRID yesterday.  It was certainly a lively discussion.  The topic - "Do You Really Need A Professional Photographer These Days?” You won't want to miss the conversation between Scott Kelby, Matt Kloskowski, and myself.  Check it out right here.  It’s also a kick to be on the show – hope you enjoy it!

On that note gang, I’ve got to split.  Here we are at 5:00 p.m. in sunny (but chilly) Florida and I’m still at the computer.  LaDawn is going to “kill me” if I don’t catch some of this sun ;~)

Plan to stop back tomorrow for Business Day Thursday on Friday.

See ya’ then,  David

Inspiration Day Wednesday: Amazing Photographers, Amazing Photographs!

Good Morning Everybody,

I have to be honest with you, I am running lean today on ideas for a post. I spent all day yesterday working on our PhotoPro Expo 2012 convention, didn't quite finish, and ran out of time at the end of the day before heading off to my next meeting early in the evening. Today is shaping up pretty much the same - too much to do, a few too many appointments, and too little time to get everything finished.

Inspiration Day: Amazing Photp0graphers, Amazing Photographs!

So, like they say, “turn a lemon into lemonade”. As I was collecting photographs from all of our speakers at PhotoPro Expo 2012, I was blown away by the imagery I saw by our lineup of speakers! I thought what I could do for you today is share with you some the excitement I was feeling yesterday perusing the many fabulous images that I was collecting for the PhotoPro Expo 2012 website.

It was the range of imagery that impressed me most. At next year's PhotoPro Expo 2012 I'm bringing together a collection of SUPER speakers whose work really expands all fields of interest in photography. As a result, I think next year's PhotoPro Expo 2012 is going to be one outstanding “Education Destination” for all those that attend.

That said, let me share with you a few of the images from three of our extremely talented speakers that we have scheduled for the show. Let's see if you don't feel the same level of excitement that I did yesterday collecting these images.

Scott Kelby – What more can you say?

Scott is one of the best-selling authors on Photoshop and Lightroom. Always the constant learner, about five years ago Scott started hanging out with some of the top photographers in their profession and, being a really quick study, morphed himself into one of the top photographers shooting today. His style ranges from landscapes to fashion to sports photography and everything in between.  He seems to be a master at just about anything he tries.

This is one of my favorite images that most impressed me from his on-line portfolio at 500px right here.  I just love this landscape photograph – the composition, the colors, the energy makes this image one of most exciting Western landscapes that I've seen. What I think makes this image particularly interesting is the fact that there was a pool of water in the foreground that reflected the sky and, having photographed in a similar situation myself, it's quite a treat to see. Scott has many exciting images over 500 pixels.com.

Now check out this football image – it blows you away! It’s completely the opposite end of the photographic spectrum demanding a photographic skill set far different that the landscape image but Scott still nails it.  What a visual treat!

Jerry Ghionis - Wedding Photographer Extraordinaire!

Another of our headline speakers is Jerry Ghionis, one of the top wedding photographers in the world. I've had a chance to get to know Jerry over these last couple of years and, whether I hear him speak from the stage or cruise his website, I'm always excited about the wedding imagery that he produces.  It is astonishing beautiful and exciting to behold. I think it's his creativity that far exceeds just about every other wedding photographer working today.

I just love this photograph of the bride and groom backlit with the splashes of water also highlighted in the scene. The juxtaposition with the saxophone player completes a composition and captures one very special moment for this bride and groom.

Jerry just has a way of bringing all the elements together to make that final image just seem to sing. He definitely has the magic touch when it comes to wedding photography. Just check out his portfolio images right here.

I'm thrilled that we have him on board for PhotoPro Expo 2012 next year. And, he is also scheduled for an additional day-long program on Monday, February 6, 2012!. I can't wait.

Lindsay Adler - Quite The Fashion Statement!

Another photographer's work that just absolutely blows me away is the work of Lindsay Adler, a fashion photographer from New York City. I had the occasion to hear Lindsay speak at WPPI earlier this year and also a second chance to visit with her when she came to Cincinnati for the After Dark program.

She also had the market cornered at Sigma’s booth at the WPPI convention this past spring. Every image in the Sigma booth was created by Lindsay and every single one of those images had an absolutely mesmerizing effect on the viewer.

Lindsay is also part of our PhotoPro Expo 2012 lineup for next year. I think she brings a sense of style to her photography that should excite any photographer attending her session regardless of whatever field they happen to be working in. 

The image I posted here is one of my favorite Lindsay Adler images. It's more than her use of light and color in this image that makes it such an exciting photograph for me.  She breaks a lot of the portrait rules that I've learned over the years. When photographing profiles of people I was always taught to create a base with the subject’s shoulders that the head could rest upon. What Lindsay has done is completely sidestepped that rule.

In the above image she has done exactly the opposite by completely minimizing the model’s shoulders by how she has turned them away from the camera. That shoulder view, together with the overblown hairstyle makes the model’s head look that much larger – almost alien.

Then Lindsay adds her special touches to the composition - the blue skin, the matching blue background light, and the green highlights on the hair – these touches make for an outstandingly beautiful image!

I highly recommend you check out her website right here. I think I spent way too much time there yesterday but, I enjoyed every moment looking at every single one of her images – truly inspiring.

Hey gang, that's a quick preview of a few of the great speakers we have lined up for our PhotoPro Expo 2012 next year. We’ve got a grand total of 15 speakers coming to town and the photographic collections of the other 12 speakers is equally as impressive as the few I high-lighted.  Over the next few days I'll share a few more of my favorite images from our other superstar lineup of photographers. I hope the photographs in the links today will inspire you as much as they have inspired me.

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Hey gang, that's got to be it for me today. Once again it's a very busy day and I better get back to work. How about I see everybody again tomorrow for a brand new “Business Day Thursday: Selling The Appropriate Sized Wedding Coverage”.

Have a great rest of the day and I'll see you then.

Adios, David

Weekend Update - Part 1: Half Price For PhotoPro Expo 20102 Extended Through Labor Day!

Good Afternoon Everybody,

Before we head out to Las Vegas and Photoshop World I wanted to update you on a few items.  First, PhotoPro Expo 2012 has extended it’s half price off through Labor Day – ONLY $139!  After that it’s gone forever!

I know you may be getting tired of me talking about it, but it’s my baby and I want it to be a huge success.  So far, we have nearly 200 individuals registered for this fabulous event.  I’m trying to push it to 700-1000.  Attendees are traveling from 16 states around the country – from California to New York – and we have the tradeshow about 40% sold out too!  We’re shooting for an 85 booth tradeshow and we’re about half way there with months to go!

I’m trying to make this the “go to” photographic event for 2012 – with your help, we can pull it off.  I promise, you won’t be disappointed.  Just look at the talent line up – these are the “who’s who” in our industry.  What could be more exciting than meeting in person each and everyone of them and experiencing an exciting and informative presentation over a long weekend. It will be a total “Brain Fry!”

Check it out right here – don’t miss this last opportunity to attend one of the best photographic events of 2012. REGISTER NOW!

Kelby, Ghionis, Laforet, Petty, Voclain, Grimes & Many More! PhotoPro Expo 2012 Blasting Off!

OK gang, today I’m pulling the trigger on the most exciting photographic event of 2012. Mark your calendars for

When: February 2, 3, 4, & 5, 2012

Where: Greater Cincinnati, OH

Lodging: Marriott Rivercenter 4 star hotel $99!

 Register today – only $139 till August 31, 2011! 

Here is the deal!

• 4 Full Days! - 12 World Class Speakers - 1 Fantastic Opportunity!
• Print Competition, Image Review,$10,000 in Image Awards and Door Prizes!
• Largest tradeshow ever - 50 Vendors, Model Shootouts, Speedlighting Clinics, & Tech Help Desk
• VIP Seating for first 100 to register!

Christmas in August Rates

4 Full Days - Only $139! ($279 value)

Must be booked by August 31, 2011

PhotoPro Expo 2012 is shaping up to be one of the top 2012 photography conventions nationwide! The anticipated speaker line up will blow you away!  Just check out the line up so far:

 

Scott Kelby:  Editor and Publisher of Photoshop User Magazine, Editor-in-Chief of Layers Magazine; training director and instructor for the Adobe Photoshop Seminar Tour, President -National Association of Photoshop Professionals (NAPP), CEO of Kelby Media Group, and author of a string of bestselling technology books.  Since 2004, Scott has been distinctly awarded with being the world’s #1 best-selling author of all computer and technology books, across all categories. [link]

Jerry Ghionis:  Widely regarded as one of the top five wedding photographers in the world, Jerry Ghionis’ theatrical and iconic images have redefined modern wedding photography. He was the first Australian named in the first ever list of Top Ten Wedding Photographers in the World by American Photo magazine. Jerry is also proud to have won the WPPI (Wedding & Portrait Photographers International) Wedding Album of the Year for a record seven times among his long list of accolades. [link]

Vincent Laforet: Vincent, a three-time winner at the prestigious 2010 Cannes Lions International Advertising Festival, is a Pulitzer Prize–winning photographer who is known for his forward-thinking approach to image-making and storytelling. In addition to having been commissioned by just about every important international publication—including Vanity Fair, The New York Times Magazine, National Geographic, Sports Illustrated, Time, Newsweek, and Life. [link]

Sarah Petty:  Sarah is a highly-acclaimed speaker, author, MBA and coach who has inspired thousands of boutique business owners to use beautiful marketing to take their business to the next level. Her expertise is based on over 20 years helping build the Coca-Cola brand, meeting the marketing goals of a top regional advertising agency's clients and building her own successful  boutique photography studio. This studio was named one of the most profitable in the country within just five years in business. [link]

Kirk Voclain: Kirk Voclain is the award-winning owner and photographer of Kirk Voclain Photography in Louisiana. Kirk is one of the top portrait photographers in the country, honored with numerous Fuji and Kodak Masterpiece Awards, and he is published in many popular photography magazines and spoken at several national conventions. When he isn't shooting, Kirk manages Pro4uM.com, an online community he founded for professional photographers. [link]

Skip Cohen:  Skip Cohen is President/Founder of Marketing Essentials International, a marketing consulting firm specializing in projects dedicated to photography. He is also a guest editor for Photo District News and responsible for Focus on Weddings, published in December. He is the past president of Wedding and Portrait Photographers International Association, and served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Hasselblad USA Inc. [link]

Lindsay Adler:  Lindsay is a professional fashion and portrait photographer based in New York City. Her work has been featured in several international fashion and photography magazines including Sublime Magazine, Popular Photography, Professional Photographer, Shutterbug, Rangefinder and dozens more.  Her visual art work crosses many disciplines within photography and video.  Lindsay teaches photography workshops at major conferences and seminars reaching thousands of photographers worldwide. [link]

Joel Grimes:  Joel worked with the top advertising agencies across the globe for clients such as Abbott, Arizona Office of Tourism, AT&T, Febreze, Discovery Cannel, Goldman Sachs, Hewlett Packard, Honda, Hyatt, Qwest, Sony, Visa, Volvo, and Red Bull. His has traveled on assignment to all 50 states in the US and over 50 countries worldwide. His book “Navajo, Portrait of a Nation” received numerous photographic and design awards, as well as an eighteen-month solo exhibit at the Smithsonian American History museum. [link]

Syl Arena:  Syl recently published his best selling book 432 page opus, the Speedliter’s Handbook, detailing the use of Speedlighting – all their features, functions, and applications. Syl Arena specializes in commissioned and stock photography for advertising, editorial, hospitality and private clients. Syl studied commercial photography at Brooks Institute and fine art photography at the University of Arizona.  Syl's first blog, PixSylated.com, gained a global audience within a year of its launch. Syl launched his second blog, Speedliting.com, as a way to share his expertise on Canon flash techniques. [link]

Janice Wendt:  Janice Wendt is one of the industry’s most respected retouch and image enhancement artists, one who “trains the trainers” on numerous techniques related to digital imaging. As an education and training manager at Nik Software, Janice instructs professionals across the country in all aspects of digital capture and digital workflow. Her practical approach to retouching features alternative, timesaving techniques for professional and beginning photographers alike. Janice is also a commercial and portrait photographer with more than 25 years of experience in film and digital photography. [link]

And more speakers to be announced! 

This is your once in a lifetime chance to experience the top trainers in the world, all at one conference:

The PhotoPro Expo 2012!

Quick Hit Monday: PSW Wrap Up; Flash Bus Tour A Hit; Lighting; Lightroom; DIY Lightning Trigger; and More

Good Afternoon Everybody,

I'm a little slow out of the gate today but after our non-stop two weeks, I’m planning to take a little easier today.  We finally landed safe and sound back in Kentucky around nine o'clock last evening. It's been a very busy two weeks for LaDawn and I. We had a great visit in Atlanta with my good friend Denis Reggie both on the way down to Florida and on the return trip back.

The wedding of LaDawn’s son Joshua and now wife Kristen, went fabulously well. Even though I wasn't the chief photographer I still captured some beautiful images. Also, at the wedding I tried a portable lighting technique that worked out quite well. You'll probably see tomorrow for Technique Tuesday.

From Sarasota we made the trip over to Orlando for Photoshop World. As usual, we had a great time there too -- even though it's our busiest convention we do throughout the year. Check out Scott Kelby's complete recap of Photoshop World right here. His new book on retouching just came out and was available at the Peachpit booth.

He even gives a nice shout out to Terry White and I for wireless shooting during the convention. By the way, Damien and I are working on formalizing the process and how we made that happen. It's quite complicated but I think we should get all the details organized for Technique Tuesday next week. Stay tuned.

We left Photoshop World on Friday and headed back to Atlanta. We had tickets for The Flash Bus tour featuring Joe McNally and David Hobby -- more on that later. We spent another evening with my friend Denis and then headed home around three o'clock yesterday.  With the exception of my FUSION webcast on Thursday [link] the week is fairly light.  My Master Class starts first thing next Monday morning. I hope I can catch my breath this week because next week will again be a crazy, not-enough-time-in-the- day kind of week.

After my Master Class wraps on Friday April 15.  we had to Banff, Alberta, Canada for the Canadian Professional Photographers National Convention.  I have several responsibilities at that convention as well. I'm doing a day long platform program, an early bird program, and two tradeshow programs.  Yes, were on the move quite a bit these next few weeks. But it will be fun and I'm looking forward to it.

How about we get on with quick hit Monday --

Stormy Weather Shooting

I had to smile a little bit upon our return. We spent two weeks in Florida under mostly blue skies and white clouds. The word from the home front was that they were being bombarded with snow, thunderstorms, and mostly bad weather while we were gone. Our timing was right to be in Florida during all the bad weather.

Now the word on the street today here in Kentucky is that we are in for one heck of a thunderstorm yet again. That's why I thought this link would be appropriate. PentaPixel.com which is quite a nice site for finding interesting articles on photography and many other things, posted a link for a do-it-yourself lightning flash trigger. It's a pretty geeky read but if you really want to roll up your shirtsleeves and give it a try I think it would be quite fun. Lightning triggers cost around $200-$300 so if you can make one yourself for $20 bucks that's quite a savings. Anyway, if you're into the geek read you can find the link right here.

The Flash Bus Tour A Hit!

We left Photoshop World right after my Manfrotto booth presentation a bit earlier than usual on Friday.  We had tickets to the Joe McNally/David Hobby Flash Bus Tour on Saturday in Atlanta. 

Saturday morning we were up bright and early and headed to the World Congress Center for the program. Joe and David had a great crowd of approximately 400 in the room.  It was about 5 minutes to show time when Joe spotted us and asked us to join the Flash Bus crew in the front row. These were definitely the best seats in the house.  Thanks Joe!

David Hobby, a.k.a. the Strobist, kicked off the program promptly at 10 AM. Many of us have read David's blog numerous times -- my gosh it's about the largest photography blog out there. Turns out that David is not just a great blogger but a great photographer as well.

He moved through his presentation showing how each light added to and affected the final image. He showed us his "mess ups" along the way and how he was able to correct those mistakes. It was a great learning experience to sit there for those few hours to see how he built his photographs into beautiful finished masterpieces.

After a late lunch break from 1 PM to 2 PM, Joe kicked off the afternoon session with his razzle-dazzle display of the gear, flashes, reflectors, etc. Joe is a high energy guy who always gives a great presentation.  He wrapped his portion with a synced flash shot – audience participation included – firing 127 strobes for the finished image.  What struck me about both David and Joe was how well spoken and concise they were in communicating their ideas to the audience.

Their entire program flowed easily, and was quite entertaining to boot. I paid very close attention to their presentations, took tons of notes, and was very satisfied that we had a chance to see both of them on the Flash Bus tour. Check out their flash bus tour when it comes to a city near you.  Highly recommended!

A Quick Reminder About Our Free Webcast On Thursday

Hey gang, just wanted to give you another heads up about our free webcast on Thursday [link] featuring Ariane Fisher who will be sharing her wealth of knowledge about how to combine the video with your still images. The program will be targeted towards the event shooter -- weddings, bar bat mitzvahs, etc. You know, video is not going to go away. Many of us have been hesitant about acknowledging that this needs to be part of the product and services we provide for our clients. Many of us have also been hesitant about improving our skills in that department.

Ariane will walk us through exactly what you need to do to become much more proficient in both shooting a video and combining it with your still images. I've been on the phone with Ariane many times since the WPPI Convention and I think she brings a lot to the table that can help each and everyone of the attendees to the webcast. Our IBM's is around 400 attendees so we still have plenty of room for people to sign up.  You can register right here.

More Lightroom Freebies Coming Your Way

Since I'm such a Lightroom aficionado this post really caught my eye at Mark Stagi's DigitalPhotoBuzz.com. In this post Mark gives you links to several presets that he's developed for Lightroom. Hey gang, they sure look cool to me -- I'm planning on downloading them right away. Here is the link right here.

I have to tell you Mark has some pretty cool content on his blog. He's covering lots of things from off-camera flash to light room presets, marketing and business. While you're over there downloading free Lightroom presets be sure to check out several of his other posts. A really nice read.

Understanding Basic Light Properties for Photography

Here is a great article right here by Rob Gray that really gets into the specifics of lighting. His references to lighting are not just in weddings and portraits.  He speaks to lighting is part of the overall composition and impact of the images. It is extremely well written article that I think should be read by all of our DigitalProTalk readers. Check it out right here, I think you really enjoy the read.

At The End Of The Day, You Just Need A Good Laugh

DigitalProTalk reader Bob Miller sent me this link to some pretty funny wedding photographs. Here is the link right here. The images must spend the time frame from the 70s and 80s.  I remember taking some of those same kinds of photographs myself back in the day. My favorite - the brain shot - is featured in this post.

I remember bride came up to me one time at her wedding and she asked me, "Do you do the brain shot?" I asked her what in the world was she talking about? She said, "You know, like he's thinking of me inside his head." I knew what she meant, I obliged by taking the brain shot for her - she was so happy. Hey, a long career spans several changes in styles and industry. This series of images is just kind of fun to look back upon -- I hope you enjoy the giggle.

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Hey gang, that's it for me today. I think you got your reading cut out for you with today’s quick hit Monday post. I hope you find the reads diversified, informative, and interesting. Don't forget to check back tomorrow for another episode of Technique Tuesday.

So until then Adios, David

$10 Will Let You Pick Up My Book, Zumbrella, Sunspots, or Love Lightz; I’m Revving Up Twitter Tweets; and More

Good Morning,

Happy Ground Hog Day to everybody!. Yep, this is the big day – great news! I hear Phil did not see his shadow and now Spring is right around the corner! Heck, be sure the folks on the East Coast get the word ;~)

You know, LaDawn and I got a chance to visit Gobbler’s Knob and see Punxsutawney Phil last Fall [link]. That's right, we were driving home from Boston and spent the night in Dubois, PA only 20 minutes from old Phil's hangout. We made the trip over and we were both amazed about how famous Phil is. For today's sunrise event, about 10,000 will be on hand to see if Phil will see his shadow. Hey, all in good fun.

I'm Scott Kelby's Guest Blogger Today!

OK everybody, today I said I had two big announcements - actually it's three. First, you can catch my first part of a two part blog post I did for fellow blogging buddy, Scott Kelby. The topic - The State of the Union In The Wedding Photography Business. It's an interesting read. You can check it out right here. Thanks too for all the greats comments so far.  Look for Part 2 next Wednesday.

I'm Revving Up The Engines On My DigitalProTalk Twitter Feed

Announcement #2 -  I like sharing info I think our DPT readers will enjoy and the shortened blog schedule makes that a bit more difficult . Unfortunately, just not enough days in the week. Anyway, I think I have a way to solve part of the problem. I'm planning to rev up my Twitter volume.

You can follow me at @digitalprotalk. I’ve also added a Twitter roll here in the right column of my DPT blog so you can check back now and then to pick up of a few interesting news tidbits. Please let me know if you like the new DPT feature over the next few weeks.

$10 Will Let You Pick Up My Book, Zumbrella, Sunspots, or Love Lightz

Announce #3 - Today is the day - my very popular "Captured By The Light 2010” tour is finally available right here. They just arrived on Monday. We are putting them together and shipping them today!

I thought our Captured By The Light Tour offered a wealth of information for any portrait / wedding photographer shooting today. The comments we heard day after day is that the content was not wedding specific. Sure, I had my camera pointed at brides and grooms but the bottom line was this - the program discussed lighting and composition - key ingredients in any good photograph. The cost? Only $59.

Here is the deal though. You can also opt for our PICK THREE for only $99! You will get the Captured By the Light DVD Set – 5 hours of solid info plus 9 hours in the BONUS DVD for $59.

Add my Digital WakeUp Call DVD Set - 9 hours of important information and again a BONUS 4 hour DVD for only $30 more.

And finally for only $10 additional, you get your choice of my Zumbrella, CBTL Book, Sun Spotz Reflector, or my Love Lightz. That’s all THREE for only $99 – over a $200 value!!!  This is one great deal!! Not to be missed

Check out all the details right here.

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Hey gang, that's it for me today. I hope to see you tomorrow for another profit building Business Day Thursday post. This week's topic, “Are You Running Your Business Anonymously?”

Hope to see you then, David

Friday Wrap Up: Great New Book Ideas; Inkjet Issues Solved; Help Wanted; and Agave Update

Good Morning Everybody,

We put quite a few miles on the rental car yesterday traveling from Orlando over to Oldsmar near Tampa and then down to Sarasota and back - only about 275 miles. Here are the quick highlights of yesterday's trip.

Visit To Kelby Media World Headquarters

That was our first stop yesterday. It was fun to catch up with many of the Kelby Media crew. Kathy gave us a tour of the new facilities and they are phenomenal, especially the video department. They now have six sets in which they shoot everything from D-Town [link] to Photoshop User TV [link] and everything in-between.

We had a nice lunch with Scott and Dave and discussed new book plans. Both of them had some great ideas. Not to let the "cat out of the bag" or anything but the thrust of the new book is going to be lighting. Lighting brides and groom, couples, just about anybody anytime, anyplace, with any camera or lens. What do you think? I'm stoked! I'll provide more details as things develop.

We also discussed a few ideas for an upcoming series of Kelby Training videos. I thinks the first video will be on photographing, posing, lighting for an engagement couple. We're kicking around a few other ideas too. Again, I'll keep you posted.

Heading To LexJet - Inkjet Issues Solved!

Our next stop was to Sarasota where I wanted to catch up with my buds at LexJet. I'll tell ya' they are the nicest people. Tom and Kelly, my rep who I finally got to meet for the first time in person, gave us a tour of all the new products and some great ideas in how we could use them in my fine art endeavors.

For those of you doing any printing on canvas, Kelly recommended their new Sunset Select Matte Canvas at only $.90 sq.ft. That's like half the cost of their other canvases and it's more durable and has a much brighter base than regular canvas media.

Another highlight of the visit was meeting Adam, LexJet's resident inkjet printing guru. I've mentioned here at DPT that we put in Canon's iPF 8100 printer about a year ago and we LOVE it. It's fast and puts out beautiful prints. Our problem was all the profiles we downloaded from Lexjet just didn't work with QImage, the software we use to drive the Canon printer. We always figured out a work-a-round and managed to still get great output on a variety of mediums.

I raised the question with Adam and he tells me that the profiles on-line only work when printing from Photoshop. Bummer, that's not good for us since we queue up several sheets to print at one time.

But, Adam had the easy solution. Just print out some test images from sample TIFFs he would email me and send them to him. Using LexJet's gazillion dollar profile making hardware and software he would gladly make custom profiles for me. In fact LexJet offers the service to any of their customers at NO charge. Don't you love great customer service? That's why I love those guys - if it's Inkjet, call LexJet!! [link].

Update On Blue Agave

Hey everybody, thanks for the nice remarks on the Blue Agave post yesterday. Just to clarify two points that were raised. I use Imagekind.com to host several of my fine art images. Here is the link. They do a good job, you name your own prices and the cost is only $99/yr.

The other question that came up was as to the sharpness of the 12-24mm lens. I think my 12-24mm lens is plenty sharp. I had read years ago before I purchased it that some folks, not many, had a problem with the sharpness of the early production models. They simply exchanged them.

My experience with Sigma lens has always been quite positive. I think they make the best super wide angle lenses you can get. In fact, they make the THE widest angle lenses you can get. You've seen that in the variety of images I've posted that were taken with the 12-24mm and their brand new 8-16mm for APS sized sensor cameras like the Canon 7D. What can I say, I’m a BIG fan.

Still Looking For Help For Imaging USA

Earlier this week, I posted that I was presenting to a large audience in about 10 days at Imaging USA and put out a call for help setting up for the program. LaDawn got a few responses but could still use another hand or two. If you plan to be at Imaging USA and can help, yes-goodies included, contact LaDawn at laDawn@Ziser.com and she can give you the times and details.

One For The Road – Good Training, Great Price

I just got a note from my good friends at Friday Photo School.  I did a program for them a few months ago that went great.  Well, they have bundled my program with two more from Rick Ferro and Bill Innes.

Here is the lowdown:

• Preparing Yourself for Excellent Wedding and Portrait Images with William Innes

• Top Ten Posing Tips with Rick Ferro

• Lighting, Lenses, and Locations: Exciting Bridal Portraits with David Ziser

$43 for 4.5 hours of “live training” – what a deal!

Here is the link right here.

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Hey gang, that's it for me today. The sun has finally come out after four days in Orlando and I think LaDawn and I are going to soak up a few rays.

How about I see you next week, same time, same station. Have a great weekend and I'll see you then.

Adios, David

Quick Hit Monday: Hey, It's Christmastime - Let's Help Scott's Kids; Images Fading Quicker Than You Think!

Good Morning Everybody,

How many Days till Christmas - Yikes!!!  Hey, it's all good though. This year LaDawn and I are trying to slow things down a bit and make a conscientious effort to enjoy family, friends, and the holidays more this Christmas season. Sometimes old habits are hard to break, but we're going to give it our best shot. Hope you can enjoy them a bit, too.

Anyway, on with Quick Hit Monday. I've got a few things to tell you about so let's get right to it.

Let's Help Scott's Kids

For all loyal readers of Scott Kelby's blog, you know that over the past several months he has been involved in a fundraising effort for the "Spring of Hope Kenya" orphanage. They are finally up and running. Here is the latest info on Scott's wonderful effort right here.

Well, guess what - we all can help too. I received an email from Scott last week mentioning his new line of fashion T-shirts, and coffee mugs for off-camera flash shooters. 

Is Scott's new fashion line more impressive than Versace, Gucci or Armani? As one popular Alaskan ex-governor was heard to say, “You Betcha'"  Why, because 100% percent of the profits benefit "Spring Of Hope" orphanage.

Here is the link to Scott's T-shirt fashion outlet and story right here. For only a couple of bucks what better way to say you care about your lighting and Scott's kids in Kenya and just in time for holiday gift-giving.  I'm ordering mine today.

Are Your CD and DVD Data Fading Faster That You Think?
This past Saturday I did a guest appearance on a local radio show. More on that later. Anyway, the subject of the "Shoot and Burn" wedding photographers came up, as it always does, and I got thinking about how long those CDs/DVDs will last.

At my studio, we deliver an archival museum quality photo album to our clients. It will last over two hundred years if properly cared for. How long will the CDs/DVDs last that are currently being delivered to bride's and grooms? My quick guess is not too long.

Here's why.  Most photogs are not looking to the latest, greatest longest lived CDs/DVDs when archiving the images for delivery to their clients. Some are of course, but many are not.

Over the weekend I received an email from one of my vendors mentioning that Taiyo Yuden, one of the top CD/DVD producers of quality recording disc media had joined forces with JVC.  Taiyo Yuden is the brand of discs we use exclusively here at my studio.  We purchase their discs with the guaranteed 100 year life.

I did a little research and this is what I found out over at DigitalFAQ.com. "Japanese media makers have been hit hard by the economy in recent years. TY discs were once re-branded under Panasonic, Sony, Fuji, JVC, Verbatim and several other brands. But those companies cut costs by going with cheaper (and as you know, inferior) discs from the likes of Ritek and CMC, out of Taiwan. --- (Verbatim excluded, of course, they just don't use TY discs anymore -- their MCC discs are generally superior anyhow!)”

Here is the link to their CD/DVD longevity discussion right here.

Uhmmm, kind of scary isn't it? For years, back in the film days, we were all concerned about how long a photographic print would last. In the late 60’s, just  a little over 40 years ago, it wasn't much longer than 30 years of longevity - not very long. 

In the late 60's, as more and more photographers were transitioning to color, lots of photo labs were offering brand new color processing services - only one problem with some of the cheaper labs offering cheap prices.  They were cutting out the "image stabilization" step from the color process to save some bucks.  That's the final step in the process that gave the new color prints at least some kind of limited longevity.  Without that step, the prints were destined to fade even more quickly.

One of my photographic mentors observed, "We are going to have a entire generation of lost imagery because of so many photogs "going for the cheap" for their color processing.  Doesn't sound like things have changed much over the years.

Are we in the "same boat" today?  Folks, that's the problem we have with cheap CDs and DVDs - the data is fading FAST - like in 3-5 years and certainly under 10 years! Check out this article over at Auphanonline.com right here.  Here is a quick excerpt from their post.

"Most people buy recordable media based solely on price thinking that all recordable media are the same and most packaging do not include shelf life as a selling point.  Thus, the consumer has no idea that their precious data on the disc will degrade within 5 years.” 

So gang, do you know how long your CDs and DVDs will last that you are delivering to your clients?  Maybe a lot less time than you think! Are we in for another lost generation of wedding imagery? Let's hope not!

Hey gang, that's it for me today.  LaDawn and I are putting the final touches on our Christmas trees and getting the house decorations up today - that last warmish day this week before the colder weather sets in tonight.

I'll plan to see everybody for another episode of Technique Tuesday tomorrow.

See ya' then.  -David

So Where In The World Is Scott Kelby?

Dubai Metropolis
Originally uploaded by twocentsworth

At the Photoshop World Speaker Party in Orlando about 10 days ago, Scott told me he was heading to Dubai for a Photoshop conference. I always thought Dubai looked liked such a great place to visit.

Jeff Revell of PhotoWalkPro fame also accompanied Scott and Scott's brother Jeff on the journey. Jeff has some great shots from one of his Photo Walks right here. You can get the whole story form Scott's blog right here.

A Great Big High-Five to Scott Kelby

Yep, Scott Kelby listed us as one of his - must visit - top ten blogs to read on a daily basis. Here is the rest of the list. It's great to be in such good company with the others listed. Scott kept it open for others to post their favorites too, so check out the "Comments" too. So much information, so little time. Thanks a bunch, Scott. We will not disappoint while keeping the info flowing.

Big Electric Cat Band Brings Down the House at Photoshop World!

Good Morning Everybody!

What a non-stop day it was yesterday here in Las Vegas. Photoshop World opened it's largest conference to it's biggest crowd ever! We visited with a lot of wonderful people at the trade show and saw a lot of friends from previous PSW's. After the Tech Expo closed we headed over to the Peachpit Press party at the Border Grill in Mandalay Bay. It was really cool to "rub elbows" with Peachpit star authors - David Cross, Matt Kloskowski, Jeff Schewe, Deke McClelland, just to name a few.

Next we headed to the famous Photoshop World "After Party". Last Spring in Boston, we were all entertained by the rock group; Big Electric Cat Band. Who's that on "keyboards and vocals" - it's Mr. Scott Kelby along with his lovely wife, Kalebra, doing a knockout job on lead vocals, and Mr. Felix Nelson on bass. Most the the five band members have been playing together for over 20 years and are now the official NAPP "house band". Here is a piece of "Big Electric Cat" trivia - the NAPP house band was named after Adobe’s internal code-name for Photoshop 4.0. The band sounded great and the crowd loved it. A very fun night.

We got back to the room kind of late, but I was anxious to get the images downloaded and edited. Take a peek at the pics and enjoy! One great party!!!

I'll post a follow up on Monday. Have a great weekend. Catch ya next week, my first program begins in about 90 minutes. --David