So this past week was my first experience attending the WPPI convention (Wedding & Portrait Photographers International) – and I’ve gotta say – I don’t think anyone could have had a better first-time-experience.
I set out to join up with 2010 ShowIt Photographer of the year Stephen Knuth, Nick Lamb, and Chris Pike. These three ultimately ended up making my experience to be the best it could be – for their own unique value. Stephen had connections as if he were the up & coming head of the mafia – everyone seemed to recognize him and congratulate him on his achievement. His network spanned across the entire industry, including all the up & comers to the most well-recognized leaders of the industry (Not to mention a great girlfriend who also happens to be rocking the business). Hanging out with him proved to lead to a lot of great connections and an understanding from a perspective that is innovating within the industry. I took his workshop and got some great shots – if my image is chosen to be the winner in a competition, I’ll receive an upgraded website from ShowItFast – something that could prove to help TONS in the years to come.
Nick was a friend of Stephen who I had talked with on Facebook and hadn’t gotten the chance to connect with in person. I’m so glad I did – this guy was the life of the party at WPPI! The first night at the GoBee party, he made an impression that lasted with everyone for the rest of the trip. Everywhere we went, girls were coming up to him & hugging him talking about how much fun he is. Definitely wouldn’t have been the same without him. “I don’t want your chocolate milk!”
And CHRIS! Oh man…this guy definitely made my trip a lot more interesting. His experience with photography and studio lighting was impressive! (And a little humbling at that) Our conversations about lighting equipment and quality made me take a *third* look at my business and some of the decisions I’ll be making.
This was the first time I’ve actually gone to a convention for work – not knowing what to expect. It was a bit overwhelming, but the people I met and connections I was able to establish are going to be SO crucial to my growth in my business. A big “shout-out” to everyone I met while I was in town…it seems like I was able to meet all the *right* people for this moment in my life. Funny how that happens!
Anyways, since posts are always better with pictures, here are a couple snapshots from Stephen’s workshop:
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Pricing, Payments, and Backup –> My progression | Tim King Blog | Tim King Photographer - [...] JPEGs. To get in touch, email markham@smugmug.com and he’ll get you set up. I met this guy at WPPI a year ago, and has taken great care of my account ever [...]April 19, 2011 – 1:38 am
Rebecca Mendoza - That guy doing the tiger pose is such a characterMarch 28, 2010 – 2:11 pm
Kellie - Hi Tim! It was so nice meeting you at WPPI! You were instantly someone I liked and respected! I have enjoyed looking at more of your work since I have been home! Thanks again for snapping a few photos of me during the mentoring workshop! I was hoping for something to document my trip, but what you gave me more was much more! Without knowing me at all, you really captured my personality. I look forward to staying in touch and watching your business grow! Thanks again and Best Wishes!
KellieMarch 16, 2010 – 3:53 pm
Ben Anderson - It was great to meet you at the showit room – a lot of good people all together at once! Hope to see more photos from you and keep in touch!March 15, 2010 – 6:26 pm
Rachael Gregory - So great meeting you! Keep in touch and keep me updated on whether or not you’re going to visit my town :)March 14, 2010 – 9:25 am
Stephen - Dude!! GREAT POST!! Reading this really brought back a lot of awesome memories from this past week… you really told it how it sure was. It was a pleasure having you there with us! :-)March 12, 2010 – 8:57 pm