Hey everyone!
Having my feet up has given me time to write a blog post (mic drop) I know, I know! It's been a while...
Doing some Math today, getting all my business things in order for that dreaded time of year-TAXES!! So let me tell you exactly how busy and blessed I was this past year-
18 Weddings (Goal of 15)
25 Newborns (and some proud bellies)
50 Seniors (goal of 35)
41 Families
41 Kids, Puppies & Cake Smashes
6 BIG events
5 Team Sports
and an amazing 69 mini sessions!
I don't know about you, but I am sitting here just shocked I did all of this!!?? Thank you for making 2015 my most successful year...I am changing some things as I head into 2016, I will be featuring minis throughout the year ("Monthly Minis") and ending some sessions so I can have a little more me time...I am travelling extensively this year-to Florida for weddings, and Europe for my own daughter's senior pictures....I will be sending out surveys soon so please take some time to fill them out so I can make some decisions where and how to allocate my time.
Balance was better for me in 2015, but not as good as it needs to be, so that is my top priority to keep fresh and creative and keep my passion for photography alive. I am focusing on 3 main areas:
WEDDINGS (already fully booked for 2016, but paring down on the amount of images I take and increasing the artwork I make) having studied under Julie Paisley of Nashville this past year, I feel I Have kicked it up a notch or two...and I wanna keep on kicking!!
NEWBORNS/CAKESMASHES I think this is where I have grown the most, and will be seeking out some mentoring from Jennifer Nace of the twin cities, who's work I am IN LOVE with! Raising the bar, I hope to be on par with the best newborns photographers in a year or two. This means styling shoots and creating some serious magic!
SENIORS My first love, and reason for beginning, although this year is extra special, I began when my oldest was a senior, and now my middle daughter is a senior, I can't wait to do her pictures in ROME, Italy this June. That's right!
I will continue to strive for balance in everything I do. Having my foot surgery and working on some serious weight loss are just the beginning of embracing a much needed overhaul on a very tired body.
Rumor Mill & Question Control:
"Are you quitting doing weddings?" I heard that a few times this year....Um...NO...I love weddings. I am however, booked for 2016. If you are getting hitched in 2017, call me SOON!! (Here's the REAL funny part...I was asked this while I was shooting a wedding!! LOL)
"Are you not taking new families?" No, I announced last year I was not, BUT I had families I had refer people, and I have had a hard time saying no....I will be firm on this. I will also be firm on a deposit for family sessions. I'm delighted to refer you to other area talent! There's more than enough to go around. I prefer to see those that have been with me from the get go-they are MY family.
"I heard you don't have a studio anymore" Fact-I have the same studio I have always had at 5532 US Hwy 2 Kimball, WI. I might have to expand, but at this time, I am happy where I am. I moved "home" last winter, but it wasn't in the best interest of my family or my customers.
"Are you hiring?" Yes! I am hiring a studio assistant, an administrative assistant and an accountant. Obviously, these are very part time for now, but my hope is to make some time for the next "rumor"....I have filled one of these positions already, and am training my 14 & 16 year old daughters to help me out with some things...I will not be advertising just yet, if at all. I am going to have a second shooter/wedding assistant for some weddings.
"what kind of camera do you use?" I use a DSLR Sony A58, I have two bodies, 8 lenses and multiple filters for them. I am moving into my first full frame this year, I am torn between moving over to Cannon 7D or a Sony A7. To be married to a brand for so long, financially, to move into a new line is super spendy, but I do like both Cannon and Sony. There is not an all perfect DSLR.
If you're an amateur who enjoys taking pictures and playing with lenses, you should invest in a Cannon, Sony or Nikon DSLR. I will be offering classes and workshops and mentoring this year-that's the main reasons I am hiring some help! Remember, the camera doesn't make the picture-YOU DO! Kinda like saying "Gee, your cake is delicious, you must have a great OVEN!"
"Will you ever teach classes?" Heck yeah! (Read above) and I have, but not this past year as I ran out of time in the very busy fall season. This year, I am doing teaching workshops for out in the field, an internships for each of my key areas, and an editing one. I'm really excited!!
So there you have it, I hope you all have a great new year and enjoy this time of reflection and rebirth in everything around you. Back to working on refreshing my logo, brand, and website!
HUGS!!
Pam
