Results tagged “education” from PPA Today

Andrea Chapelo, of Chapelo Photography in Lebanon, Ohio, says that the greatest compliment she gets as a high school senior photographer is when she gets a call from a parent thanking them for making their teenager's session so fun and making them feel so confident.

For professional photographers in the high school senior market, your ability to give them this confidence is crucial to your business. That's why during Super Monday on May 13, Andrea will teach you some posing and lighting techniques that can create a great senior session in her "Posing and Lighting Seniors" class in Lebanon, Ohio

Why Seniors?

Chapelo says that she grew up with a camera in her hand and was always taking photographs of her family and friends.

After serving in the Air Force, Chapelo decided to use her GI Bill to pursue her love of photography and begin her business.

Chapelo has been in business for nine years now, and during that time she's become known in her area for her senior photography.

Part of her decision to specialize in this area was her ability to relate well to this age group, as she has two high school-aged children of her own. However, it goes beyond just relating well to her clients.

"I love photographing that age because they are excited about their session and they inspire me with their excitement," Chapelo explained.

For Chapelo, the biggest challenge she feels that she faces is staying organized. To overcome this, she recently hired an office manager.

"I think in business we have to recognize our weak points and either overcome them or bring someone in to take care of that part of the business for you. I can't overcome it so I will bring in reinforcements." Chapelo said.

Sharing Knowledge With You

If you're in need of help with senior posing and lighting, don't miss Chapelo's "Posing & Lighting For Seniors" Super Monday class in Lebanon, Ohio on May 13.

During the class, you'll cover all the basics of senior lighting and posing for both in the studio and on location.

"Photographers who come to the course will leave with a good understanding of basic studio and location lighting and also the importance of posing your seniors so they can feel confident and excited about their session," Chapelo said of her class.

So, if this class sounds like what you need, register for Super Monday today!

Read more about Andrea Chapelo at www.chapelophotography.com

View more Super Monday classes in other locations.

Super Monday is an educational program, sponsored by PPA, every spring and fall. These day-long, interactive workshops are conducted in locations around the country, allowing PPA members to earn merits for sharing their craft and enabling all photographers to learn new skills and develop professional networking contacts.

ALL IMAGES © CHAPELO PHOTOGRAPHY

Working hard, but have little to show for it? PPA's Studio Management Services (SMS) business workshops have helped hundreds of studios, just like yours, gain control of their businesses and become financially stronger and more profitable. And one is coming to Atlanta--with a little something extra--March 12-14!

Our Business Breakthroughs Workshop can help you keep more money and take control. It's all in learning to manage your finances, price right, attract new clients and increase sales average per session to reach the "elusive" next level. The most amazing thing?  This workshop includes a private consultation with an SMS mentor and PPA accountant...meaning you'll walk away with actionable business and marketing goals AND a custom financial plan.

But this Atlanta class also features a special segment you won't get at any other Business Breakthroughs Workshop. Jen Basford of 3 Girls Photography is joining us for a day, meaning you'll be able to glean extra tips on senior sales and marketing specifics!

So, if you specialize in senior portraits (or want to) and have been thinking about gaining control of your studio with a Business Breakthroughs Workshop, this is the class you can't miss. All class sizes are limited, so register now before your spot is gone!

Graham Wilson's Vision Photography was almost out of business in 2003. Thanks to a revamped incentive program and a few years of help from PPA's Studio Management Services (SMS), they grossed $1.1 million in 2008.

Just two years after Todd and Jamie Reichman posted a 12-month loss, they were able to pay salaries to themselves and their employee and finance a $33,000 studio renovation...solely with their 2008 net profits.

If those aren't success stories, what are? Be inspired by these stories in May's Professional Photographer. And don't miss the "Ask the Experts" column, where the SMS team answers questions about specialty marketing, payroll services, and generating more cash flow for your business.

JOIN AN UPCOMING WORKSHOP
This year, we're taking our SMS Workshops on the road, as well as hosting them at PPA headquarters in Atlanta. Space is limited so register today! Contact us at sms@ppa.com, or call 888-851-0405 to register and learn more.

Share Your Knowledge, Earn Merits
Volunteer to share your knowledge at one of PPA's most successful educational initiatives. Proceeds from Super Monday support PPA's education programs, and instructors earn two speaking merits toward a PPA degree. Submit your form by May 8 for inclusion in the October 26, 2009 program. Be a Super Monday Instructor--click here.

What is Super Monday?
Super Monday is PPA's peer-led education program. Each spring and fall, professional photographers volunteer to instruct their fellow photographers. Topics include: posing & lighting, workflow, Photoshop, weddings, senior portraits, business, marketing, and more. Proceeds from the program support PPA's non-profit education, copyright, and advocacy initiatives.

Want to attend a Super Monday class?
Sign up for an April course and help your business, technical, and/or artistic skills grow.