President's Message:

To Be a Rock Star or Not To Be.

Do we need to achieve photographer Rock Star Status to be ok as photographers? And, even if we do achieve Rock Star status... are we ok then? My guess is not unless you are ok in your own skin. Your drive must ultimately come from within. What drives you?

I've been blessed to meet many photography 'Rock Stars' each in their own way special with much to give. But, the truly great photographer's and educators will tell you... it isn't the peer kudos, or how great your marketing looks, or how big your studio is which will give you the greatest sense of accomplishment. It is the feedback from the people you see day to day. Your clients. What does your bottom line tell you. What do your clients say about you to their friends? You can't fake that. Your client doesn't care if you are a photography rock star... they are only concerned, ultimately, with how good you can make THEM look.

The photography Rock Stars are the industry's gift to us. They teach us what 'to do' and what 'not to do'. They inspire us, lead us to find ourselves and give us the tools we need to become who we were meant to be. I'm proud to say nothing in my studio is my own idea. Every style, every portrait, every aspect (business, marketing and even the design of my studio) have all been inspired by someone else. Most from our industry celebrities and local photographers, some from other outside sources.... for a long time, I struggled with that. Feeling the need to create my own voice, my own 'style' was as elusive as finding the toy in the cereal box. However, as time goes on... I'm beginning to appreciate this journey of discovery. And, I'll be the first to let those who have inspired me know... I am who I am today and who I will become, because of their willingness to share. They recognize there is enough business for everyone in this marketplace... and are not threatened by those of us struggling to find our place in this crazy, exciting world we work in.

I'm quite certain my 'teachers' would still shake their heads and wonder why does she still not get it? Frankly.... I hope I never feel like a rock star... because, that would be my ticket to stop learning, to stop being inspired. I'm ok being a manufactured version of the greats. And to those who continue to inspire.... thank you.

Teri Quance
President, PPGH 2009

Upcoming Event

Survey - Vote on your favorite logo

We've had several members submit logos for consideration. Please vote on your favorite. The Winning Logo will be put up for a final vote at the Board Meeting, March 17th and final approval with you the membership. Please vote only once. Thanks for participating!  Click here to view and vote
 

We'd like to hear what you think.... Would you like to bring back the traveling mall display? Vote now if you haven't already.  Click here for the poll.

Want Ads:

PHOTOGRAPHERS NEEDED!

Awesome two-day fundraising walk seeks equally awesome photographers… We’re looking for great photographers, professional and amateur alike, to join our Photography Crew team. The Photo Crew are registered Crew members who work with our Communications Director to capture images of the Walk weekend. An ideal Photo Crew candidate is available to Crew on Saturday and Sunday of the Walk weekend and has previous experience as a photographer. Candidates should also own their photo equipment (Digital SLR with standard 55mm lens preferred OR digital point-and-shoot with 10+ megapixel capacity). It’s a perfect opportunity for a photo student or a photographer looking to expand their portfolio. If you are a great photographer - or if you know one - please let us know by sending an email to amanda.houston@avonwalk.org!

Kerrville print room


Hi Teri,
My name is Lewis Kincheloe and I am in charge of the print room at our Kerrville Summer Seminar June 14-17, 2009. Would you let your guild know that we are asking for volunteers to assist on the print room committee. Our main need for help is on Sunday morning starting at 8:00 am in the Spanish Oak Room at the Y O Ranch Resort. No experience is required and if you are new to the print room we will partner you up with a experienced worker. Volunteers can earn a TPPA fellowship point for helping and gain valuable insight into the print competition. I can be contacted at posimage@texas.net or at 512-930-4250. Thank you in advance for your help.
Lewis

Positive Image Photography
Lewis Kincheloe, PPA Certified
Master Photographic Craftsman
Vice President, Texas Professional Photographers Assoc.
512.930.4250
www.posimage.net
www.theseniorstation.net
 

In This Issue

1. From The President
2. Upcoming Events
3. Welcome New Members
4. Vote for the new PPGH Logo!
5. Pro Houston Online Display!
6. Want Ads

On The Side
1. Mark your Calendars
2. Gala Images Online
3. Membership Renewal

Mark your Calendars!

April 21st - Studios of Houston & Book signing with Lisa Jane New for her new book, 'Angel Kisses'.

May 19th - Eddie Tapp - Create IT, Fix IT, Mask IT, Finish IT and Print IT...

June 9th - Tim & Bev Walden - Separated by Excellence