I got to meet some absolutely wonderful people, fellow photographers, aspiring photographers, beginners, crusty old pros and even a few side-kicks who really aren’t interested in the craft but came because they were expected to be there. The lectures were incredibly informitive. The speakers knew absolutely what they were talking about. I believe I received everything I need to know about being a successful photographer in the lectures in networking of last weekend. I just wanted to share some of the lessons I learned:
- KNOW your equipment. With your knowledge of your equipment, don’t be afraid to experiment. This brilliant message was imparted after seeing a camera strobe outfitted with the battery of a Remote Controlled racing car. As much as I dare go into. You can do a lot with digital darkroom software, like Photoshop - BUT - if you haven’t covered the technical basics then there isn’t much you can do. Programs like those are great for makeing good photos better, or for creating “art”. - Steve Foisy
- Photoshop can be used beyond your wildest dreams, unless you’re on the photoshop staff to be able to think that stuff up and discover it. But Photoshop can be used to automate certain things that otherwise takes forever to do. - Kent Shirley is a master with all that.
- Understand and learn the technical details of photography, what they mean, how they will affect the shot you’re taking right now, and use your equipment to cover all those technical basics. Rely on your camera’s auto modes only when it makes sense. And rely on the LAB for as much as time allows you to focus on capturing your images at hand.
- Gabriel Alonzo led the most wonderful presentation on Children’s Portraiture. He is truly a master craftsman and a wonderful man. Genuinely interested in capturing the magic of each of his subjects. Respect the subjects, capture the truly timeless images by simplifying and using lighting. I strongly suggest visiting his website at http://www.gabrielportraiture.com to get an idea of what might be possible with your child’s photography.
- And from Frank Cricchio, truly a photographer’s photographer: Creating “your style” happens when you can combine technical knowledge, apply technical knowledge, understand your subject and render it’s uniqueness in a way that tells a story instantly. If you want to see his words exactly, visit his site at http://www.frankcricchio.com.
- And Finally: if you don’t take the time to show up how can you possibly expect to play.
This was my first PPO (Professional Photographer’s of Oklahoma) conference and I’m certain it won’t be my last. Thanks to everyone who had a hand in putting it on and making the weekend possible. If you’re into photography you should bookmark this site: http://www.ppok.org and look for the upcoming events. They were recommended by a great photographer and they seems to be a wonderful organization.
John