I am so excited. I am heading to London for 5 days - on my own. But it's not quite a jolly - there is quite a lot of work involved. I am attending the SWPP ( Society of Wedding and Portrait Photographers ) Annual Convention.
Last year was my first year and believe me it was a real baptism of fire. This time around I know exactly what I am letting myself in for; so I am hoping that I am better prepared.
I have planned a chaotic time-table so I am going armed with notebooks and energy bars, cameras and comfy shoes.
Last year I was lucky enough to have booked myself on a Superclass with Jerry Ghionis. One comment he made really stood out to me.
You cannot necessarily be the best - but you should aim to be better than you were last month.
I wholeheartedly agree and I really want to keep progressing and improving my style. So this year, I have signed up to a number of Superclasses where I will have the opportunity of learning even more from the experts.
THURSDAY :
Damian McGillicuddy : On Thursday I am heading with a few very lucky souls on a full day Location Seminar with Damian. We are heading to the London Underground for a fashion shoot. He is promising to 'propel my photography forward'. No Pressure then !
Let the photographer that the popular photographic press most often call "the magician" or the "lighting wizard" guide you through the mechanics of a full on fashion shoot.
I am really looking forward to this - but if I am being truthful - I am a teensy bit terrified.
FRIDAY :
Sue Altenburg : Is going to help me build my boudoir business. Women nowadays are wanting to treat themselves as well as their other halves to some beautiful imagery of themselves.
This area of the market is growing fast in Northern Ireland - and to be quite frank - I want a piece of it.
Trade Show : Personally speaking, I think that in order to be successful, we have to be able to offer the client something unique and it is crucial to keep abreast with what is available and different in the industry. And it is for this reason that I am attending the Trade Show on Friday. This is a chance for me to source new products and to meet the major manufacturers from all over the world. I feel also that it is important to nurture good working relationships with suppliers and this give me a chance to chat with the right people who can help me achieve the level of service of which I am very proud.
Becker [b] : Is one of the many photographer who has come over from the States. I have been a bit of a fan for a while now - so I look forward to him sharing his experiences in producing fantastic imagery and 'outstanding customer service for his clients that turn them into raving fans.' Yes please !
Art P Suwansang : Is a master with the computer and will share his expertise in the post production area of photography. This can be both time-consuming and laborious - and Art promises to put the magic back into editing.
Uzair Kharawala : is going to shed some light ( excuse the pun ) on the business strategies required to help a business survive the economic downturn. I think in this current climate it's prudent to address all challenges in business.
SATURDAY :
I have planned two great Superclasses.
Barrie Downie : In the morning, I am hoping to learn from Barrie how to enhance my wedding photography using supplementary lighting which will help me to create dramatic creative images.
Andrea Barrett : In the afternoon, I am going to learn more about working only with available light on location. Andrea is going to help me achieve stunning pictures which will differentiate me from the competition. Woo Hoo.
SUNDAY :
The Yerburys : I am really excited to be meeting Trevor and Faye on the Sunday afternoon. They are renowned for their portraits of women. I just know that I will learn a lot not only about capturing the images - but also an insight into refining my marketing techniques.
It's not all work however. I am also really excited to be meeting old friends in the industry and to meet up with some new ones. I find that those in the industry are a very generous bunch of folk and I look forward to catching up and comparing notes again this year.
For further information, to make an appointment for your photography consultation or to check on current availability, please feel free to contact Cai Graham Photography on :
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