This year in photography has been full of challenges, growth, and valuable lessons. In PPA’s private online community, theLoop, photographers came together to ask their toughest questions, share advice, and offer support. From navigating tricky client situations to troubleshooting tech disasters, this space became a hub for meaningful discussions and problem-solving. As we wrap up 2024, here’s a final roundup of some of the most insightful conversations that took place on theLoop—a place where photographers truly connect and grow together.
Client Problems
Elibet Valencia is dealing with a bit of an annoying problem. Her client is not downloading their files within the limited timeframe which they are available for viewing. Elibet is also dealing with late payments and clients refusing to sign a model release form. How do other photographers deal with this? Find out more in the comments.
How to Handle an Unauthorized Photographer
Jaxon Fox is having conflicting feelings on how to better handle a situation that happened at his photo event. Members offer their constructive feedback on how to communicate rules around photography using clear signage and direct communication.
Marketing Wildlife Tours Conundrum
Adi Ringer asks loopers for help getting traction with his wildlife photography tours. He has limited funds to use for marketing, so he wants to be as efficient as possible. Members give great advice in the comments, including reaching out to various conversation groups to get the word out, to connecting with various photographers and developing a targeted email list.
How to Calculate a Good Booking Fee
Photographer Aaron Martens is curious how other photographers determine their booking fee price. Members weigh in with a variety of ways that they determine their pricing. A very helpful thread for photographers in need of different input on this topic.
Who is Your Photographer Mentor?
Melanie Levs, PPA’s Director of Publications, is curious how many loopers have a photography mentor who has inspired them. The responses are rich, with many loopers either talking about their mentor, or discussing how they have been in a position of mentorship.
Licensing Images Query
Blair Ball is curious if other photographers have a questionnaire or a good resource for coming up with a price for licensing of images. Fellow loop members give great feedback and offer various options for Blair to consider.
Model Release or Not?
Leon Sutherland attended a bull riding event where he took around 150 images. Now, he's trying to figure out if he needs to get a model release signed by the riders in order to sell the images. PPA loopers offer some advice and support in the comments.
Troubleshooting NAS System Problem
Jenifer Greer is terrified when she realizes she is unable to access her NAS system. The IT loopers come to her rescue in the comments and suggest a few different methods of troubleshooting.