Wow... what a great week. I've just completed a whirl wind week at the National Convention of the Professional Photographer's of Canada.
There was a terrific trade show where I found some great suppliers. One product I'm sure my clients will love is a piece of crystal that has the photo embedded in it. It's gorgeous and I think I can bring it to you at a reasonable price too. I'll follow up on that.
I also had the absolute pleasure of seeing so many wonderful speakers. Just a few include...
Arthur Rainville, the chair of the Portrait Department at the New England School of Photography in Boston, taught a wonderful seminar that had me in tears at the end with a focus on the “art” and emotion of portraits but also on the technical aspects of producing a great image.
John Woodward… a preeminent photographer, having photographed the Pope, several presidents and prime ministers, and worked for clients such as Viacom, the New York Yankees, all major TV networks, Paramount, Hyatt and more… taught a fact filled course on mastering lighting and analyzing faces so they put their best look forward.
Hanson Fong.. one of the premier wedding (and portrait) photographers in the US… taught a jam packed course that covered several topics but focused on mastering posing techniques.
I also learned some great digital print enhancement techniques from David Cuerdon, one of the world’s first, and highly respected, digital fashion photographers. His clients have included Playboy, Glamour Magazine and Neiman Marcus. This poor man was stuck at customs all night right before his bright and early 6 a.m. seminar… and he still managed to teach SOOO much!
I also had the immense pleasure of listening to a wonderful wedding and portrait photographer from Toronto, Storey Wilkins. Storey also had me in tears as she imparted her feelings on the value and importance of the portraits that we produce for our clients. A truly inspirational person.
So, I'm back and ready to use all this information to ensure my clients ( the most wonderful clients in the world!) continue to get quality portraits of their babies and children at real people prices. I am so honoured to be able to have such a fantastic job.
In addition to the official events, there was also much merry making and I met so many wonderful people. Some new friendships were formed... and old ones renewed. It's an amazing profession that we are so supportive of each other.
Thanks to all the speakers and organizers. I look forward to seeing you all again in Regina at next year's convention!
Julie