I had an amazing experience speaking and leading two photography classes at the Wedding Photographic Society 2010 Convention held at the RTP Hilton. As one of 5 speakers, I spoke on sales as it specifically pertains to wedding photographers. You may have noticed, there is a shortage of large scale North Carolina Photography Workshops and, especially for wedding photographers, it’s a difficult business to start off in. The goal of our convention was to share, educate, inspire and bring together the wedding photography community in North Carolina.
We had over 60 people in attendance plus WRAL (Raleigh TV Station) also paid us a visit. It just happened to be when I was speaking which, admittedly, made me a tad bit nervous. The presentation I gave was really an incredible experience for me and, hopefully, everyone in attendance. Speaking at a wedding photography convention is incredibly challenging and rewarding at the same time. The room was filled with people who inspire me and, hopefully, I inspire in return.
The 2nd day of the convention involved mentoring sessions for wedding & portrait photographers and two “lens lessons” which involved all 5 speakers leading their own hands on photography demonstration. My photography class was on “Guerrilla Lighting” techniques and how to use often overlooked lighting and techniques to get a stronger photo. Wedding photographers rarely have the luxury of time or controlled areas to work in and I pride myself on taking these “disadvantages” and using them to get truly unique photographs.
Overall, it was the most rewarding experience I have had the pleasure of being a part of in my photography career. We have already begun planning the 2011 Wedding Photographic Society convention and, if early thoughts are any indications, it is going to be fabulous!!! I have posted a few shots below that I took during my lens lessons. I will be posting a few photos of me speaking in the near future.
