24 Hours Only! $129 For All Three Days, The Best Deal EVER on PhotoPro Expo!

Hey gang, I just got word that we are very close to selling out the room block at the Marriott Hotel for our upcoming PhotoPro Expo happing in two weeks. PhotoPro Expo is now officially the largest convention and tradeshow in the Midwest.

If you are a photographer, aspiring or pro, and want to have a great time learning from the top trainers, you need to be at this show.

Our tradeshow is totally sold out with the top vendors in the country being available to answer your questions and show you their latest merchandise or software.  Here is the list of all those exhibiting at our convention. OK, if you have read this far, I’ve got a little surprise for you. For the next 24 hours, if you use Promo Code PPE24HR, you can save $150 off the regular price of $279.  That’s right, you can attend the entire convention for only $129.  The Promo Code is starting right now! But won’t be available for long! You have only 24 hours or until 9:00 am EST to take advantage of this premium price!

Plan to stay for Jerry Ghionis’ program on Monday – your total cost  is only $229 – it truly doesn’t get any better than that!  That was our special Early Bird promo price way back in July.  I’m bringing it back for only 24 hours only so by tomorrow morning, this price goes up in smoke.  If you are even thinking in the slightest that you may come to the convention, this is the time to finalize you decision and nail down the best price ever!

Quick Hit Monday: Imaging USA Update; I’m In Polish; 5 Questions; and Great Portrait Tips!

Good Morning Everybody,

We’ve been enjoying the last few days in the Big Easy and especially some great sunrises. It’s always a good time when your in New Orleans and the home team is in the playoffs. Alas, even though the Saints lost, it was still a blast to be cheering with the local fans who are about the most excitable and energetic group of sports fans you can hang with. 

The last time we were in New Orleans was the weekend the Saints won the Super Bowl – you talk about a town going wild!!!  Anyway, we always have a great time in this city.

Hey gang, I’ve got a convention to get to so let’s get right to today’s post.

Quick Imaging USA Update

The Imaging USA convention got off to a good start yesterday with packed speaker rooms and a lively tradeshow.  I poked my head into Jerry Ghionis’ room which was packed with about 800+ attendees listening to the wedding master. 

Oh, BTW, that the same Jerry Ghionis that’s coming to our PhotoPro Expo in two weeks.  So….. if you are reading this today and are NOT in New Orleans, then plan to hear Jerry and 15 other great speakers, including Scott Kelby, Joel Grimes, and Vincent LaForet February 3 – 5, 2012.  Click the link to the right for all the info.

Oh, then yesterday evening, we attended our friend, Drake Busath’s packed house program.  Soft spoken Drake is one of the top portrait photographers working today.  His studio does well over 2M a year. He is also one of the most humorous people we know.  You can even see a bit of that humor coming out in his photography like this family portrait below with the “run-a-way” baby – I love it!  His presentation was fabulous.

I Guess This Makes Me An International Author

The other day I received an envelope from Peachpit, my favorite book publisher.  Peachpit is the company that prints all the Kelby Media books and also printed my best selling “Captured By The Light” wedding book last year.

Anyway, I opened the envelope and found a brand new version of my book – in POLISH! It was a great surprise so, to any of our Polish readers out there, pick it up and give it a read – I think you’ll love it.  And if you already have a copy tell me what you think in the comment section below – I’d love to hear from you.

5 Questions For David Ziser

A few weeks ago, fellow blogging buddy, Rick Sammon asked me to do a guest blog post for him.  I was happy to oblige. Here is a quick excerpt from the interview:

“… I’m not surprised by remarks I hear from photographic labs across the country.  Most feel the quality of wedding photography is at a low watermark right now. But most feel that that will change in the not too distant future.  It's just that there are SOOOO many new shooters that the quality level is skewed in their direction.  As they adapt, continue to learn and grow in the profession, so will their skill set and the quality of their photography. 

I think part of the reason the quality of wedding photography has dropped so low is that the aspiring pro doesn't know where to go to get the education they need to really excel in their craft. 

Photographers today really want to learn and think the only place to get that much needed education is on the web.  Web education is good but only up to a point. There is something special about attending programs and learning from the top photographic masters in person, for example, Scott Kelby, Vincent Laforet, Joe McNally, Jay Maisel, and of course, Rick Sammon. I think that more intimate connect with the speaker in a live setting greatly enhances the learning experience.  You know, when you hear these programs in person, the message just sticks with you in a way that is not easily forgotten.”  Uhmmm… I guess that's why all of us, around 10,000 are at Imaging USA ;~)

You can catch all of my 5 answers over at Rick Sammon’s blog right here. 

5 Tips On How To Shoot Killer Portrait Photography

And speaking of education, check out this link right here.  It’s full of Jim Jordan’s  great images, and important tips on how to make your portraits looks great.

Jim Jordan is a widely sought-after fashion, celebrity, lifestyle, and kids photographer based out of Los Angeles and New York City. Some of his notable clients include Vogue, Elle, J.Crew, and Mercedes Benz. He’s also taken portraits for major celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio, Drew Berrymore, and Charlize Theron.

You’ll enjoy the read  at Photo Shelter right here.

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Hey gang, that’s it for me today.  I’ve got a convention to get to.  If you see me walking the trade show today, come on up and say HI, I’d love to visit.

Have a great rest of the day and I’ll plan to see you tomorrow for a very special Technique Tuesday.

Adios everybody,  David

Learning From The Top Guns; and I’m On “I Do Weddings” Webcast & the Grid Today.

Good Morning Everybody,

Brrrr...! Whoever said Florida was sunny and warn hasn't spent much time down here in January.  All the kids going to Disney were wearing heavy winter coats, hats and scarves and the visitors from Canada commented that they know cold... but here in Florida??? 

All joking aside, even Florida (35F) caught the cold snap that hammered the Midwest these last few days but warmer weather is in sight, thankfully ;~)

I’m On The Grid “LIVE” Today!

Every time we head to Florida, I always give our good friends at NAPP World Headquarters a call to see what's up. I got a call back last evening asking me to be on the GRID with Scott Kelby today at 4:00 EST.  I'm stoked!  We'll head over about 1:30 p.m., visit our good friends Matt, RC, Cory, and be on the air at 4:00 p.m.  I hope you’ll join into the broadcast.

I Do Weddings FREE Webcast Today!

Wedding success is on the tips of your fingers – just a CLICK away! That's right, you can catch the second FREE broadcast of the Joy Of Marketing's “I Do” Wedding webcast today [link].  I'm kicking it off at 11:00 a.m. EST - yep, it's a busy day for me today.  But it's still another great speaker line up you don't want to miss. Here is the link to register right here.  Oh, BTW, you can get an audio preview of each speakers program right here - pretty cool.

Here's the line-up:

• 11 am CST (9 am PST, 10 am MST, 12 pm EST) - David Ziser
• 12 pm CST (10 am PST, 11 am MST, 1 pm EST) - Scott & Adina Hayne
• 1 pm CST (11 am PST, 12 pm MST, 2 pm EST) - Steve & Jennifer Bebb
• 2 pm CST (12 pm PST, 1 pm MST, 3 pm EST) - Mark Garber & Jennifer Gilman

Once again, lots of FREE stuff when registering and you'll have a chance at winning one of the BIG prizes. 

Today's prizes include:

• A free 10x10 press printed album with a combo cover and 10 spreads from WHCC.
• A brand new copy of ProSelect Pro Basic (MSRP $399).

Hope to see you there!

Learning From The Top Guns

First of all, let me thanks all those who have left their comments, warm wishes for the new year.  I’d like to address one of those comments left on my New Years post.

Dan writes:

“I'd like to end the year in asking how does one get feedback on the progress of their photography skills. I know that photographic and software seminars are a great start.However, here is the basis for my question.

I go to seminars, attend webinars, study software tutorials - great stuff for sure. But when I try to get input from top professionals, I don't have a lot of success. It seems that they are really busy to help individuals out.

I really understand that scenario, but would like to create some dialogue on how someone can get some honest input and critique on their work. Any suggestions?”

Hi Dan,  Thanks for the question. I’m sure lots of folks wanting to enhance their skills as photographers would love to have a personal mentor and coach – me included.  And you are right, these folks are very busy – that’s how they’ve reached their level of success.  Remember, there is no excuse for hard work when it comes chasing success. But you already know that.

Where Does One Find The Time?

I agree and sometimes it looks like some of these top guns just don’t have time for individual coaching and mentoring.  But please remember, there are only so many hours in a day and they are filling up most of them with all their projects and activities. Plus, many photographers are also working hard to carve out precious time with their families.

So where does that leave you, me, and so many others who would like a little one on one coaching?  I think the answer is easier that you think.  You need to invest you time and your dollars into that kind of coaching.  Never expect anything worth pursuing to be free. Unfortunately, there is a giant trend for many to feel “entitled” for personalized/individual help.

To Much A Sense Of Entitlement These Days

I should be entitled to FREE music, FREE movies, FREE education – I see it everyday on my Google alerts.  Google alerts, BTW, notifies you any time your name is mentioned on the web in a blog post, etc. You know what 90% of my Google alerts notices are? You may not believe it but 90% of my Google alerts are about people “ripping” off my Kelby Training videos over at RapidShare.  Heck, when my “Captured By The Light” book came out last year, it wasn’t 2 months before a FREE pdf was available FREE for download.  Too many people think this is OK, but it clearly is stealing! But I digress.

It’s Easier Than You Think

Here are my best suggestions for you.

Jerry Ghionis, one of speakers at PhotoPro Expo next month offers membership into his I.C.E Society [link] where he offers exactly what you are looking for – coaching and mentoring.  Sure, it’s going to set you a back a few hundred dollars for the year, but my gosh, learning from one of the top wedding photographers in the world – what a deal!

Also check out Tim and Bev Walden’s Coaching Community [link].  Tim and Bev are two of the very best photographers and excellent trainers in the country.  They offer individualized training for all their members – again, it’s going to cost you a few hundred dollars a year to join.

Joy Of Marketing [link] is another great source of targeted specialized training.  I just posted about their FREE webcast today.  Don’t miss it and then sign up for the entire Joy of Marketing experience.  They offer several levels of coaching too.

My good buddy, Chuck Lewis [link], also offers, sales training and coaching to his community of subscribers.

At the PhotoPro Expo [link] happening February 2-6, 2012 we are offering at NO charge to photographers an opportunity to bring a sample portfolio of images to be critiqued by “an expert”. To take advantage of this experience you simply need to email LaDawn at ladawn@ziser.com  and she will schedule a time during the trade show hours  of 12:00 – 5:00 for your personal portfolio review on Saturday, February 4th or Sunday February 5th.

Invest In Yourself, Invest In Your Business!

Dan, I have to tell, when I was starting my business, I spent $1,000’s of dollars a year to get the training I wanted. Up to that point I had spent $50,000 – $100,000 getting my Physics and Engineering degrees. 

Now I was spending hard earned dollars on education again – to fast start my photographic ambitions. There are not cheap short-cuts these days even though the internet is chocked full of FREE solid educational content.  Going the next step is going to cost you a few bucks.

I’m not quite finished with my answer today, but since I currently have over 2 hours into today’s post, I have to get back to my real job ;~)  I’ll plan to do a Part 2 follow up part of this topic next week.

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Hey gang, that’s it for me today.  We’re packing up and getting ready to travel across the state to Oldsmar, Florida – NAPP’s world headquarters and prep for the GRID.  I’ll see you there at 4:00 EST and the “I Do” wedding webcast going on NOW.

See you tomorrow,

-David

Setting Up Google+; Inspiration; Lightroom Presets; And Lots Of News You Need To Know

Good Morning Everybody,

We had a great seminar in Brea, California last Friday. My Captured By The Light tour was hosted by our good friends at the Orange County Photography Center.  From left to right - David LaNeve, and his wife Julie, myself, and my buddy Don Zimmer.

What they have put together is quite unique proposition for photographers.  Here is the deal.  A photographer pays a very reasonable monthly fee for membership into the Photography Center.  For that fee, that have the privilege of using the extensive facilities, reception area, sales areas, several large and one  huge shooting studios anytime they're available. 

What a great way to cut down on the exorbitant overhead of owning your own studio location.  I think it's a brilliant concept for any photographer wanting to be more professional, more profitable, and more creative in these extremely competitive times.  Check out the Orange County Photography Center right here.

Thanks again you guys for hosting our sold out, standing room only CBTL seminar last Friday - a thoroughly enjoyable experience!

The Whirlwind Continues This Week!

It's been a whirlwind of teaching, travel, and shooting these last three weeks.  From a webcast with Suzette Allen 3 weeks ago [link], to my Master Class 2 weeks ago (recap here), then to Tampa for a wedding and my workshop for Dave Cross, programs in San Diego and LA last week, and our sold out Napa Experience this week, it will be nice to slow it down a bit come Thursday morning.

It has been a kick!  With all the teaching, about the most I've done in this long of a stretch, it has been quite an invigorating experience in helping me get my "brain juices" flowing.  I even mentioned to LaDawn on our 7 hour drive to Napa/Sonoma area on Saturday how excited I was with all the images I've had a chance to create these last three weeks.  I cant wait to see what happens during my Napa Experience class this week.  As usual, you will be the first to know.

From The Students Perspective - Thanks For The Very Kind Words

Before we get into today's post, I'd like to share with you two very nice posts from three photographers we’ve met over these last few weeks.

First from John and his wife Susan who attended our Master Class.

John writes, “I wanted to take a moment to thank you for the excellent Fall Master Class that we had the opportunity to take last week. Susan and I learned a bunch and had a lot of fun doing it. Thanks also to LaDawn (for her efforts in the class as well as on the home front), Jennifer and all your staff and coaches that made it possible.”

John did a very extensive day by day write up on my Master Class right here. Thanks again John and Susan for the very kind words and the great coverage of the week!

Secondly from Kevin Braun from my Dave Cross Workshop

Kevin Graham, who was signed up for my Dave Cross Workshop, had been contacting me for weeks about helping on my Tampa wedding.  I figured I could use the additional help and I agreed to have assist. It was baptism by fire - I gave Kevin a quick lesson on my Quantum strobe and how to use it about 30 minutes before the shoot.  We were off and running for the next 9 hours without much of a break.

Kevin did a great job - hey Kevin, you can help me anytime - he nailed the light placement and anticipated what I was going to do next and what I might need to make it happen.  The shoot went off perfectly and we got some great images of the couple.

On Monday we all gathered for my Monday workshop.  Kevin was one of the participants and did a great write up of his experience assisting me on my wedding and  my class right here.  He also some some terrific images from the Monday session.  You can find his post right here.  Thanks Kevin for all the kind words.

OK gang, we haven't had any quick hits posted for the last few weeks so I've got a nice supply for you today.  Why don't we get right to it.  Here we go.

A Few Quick Hits: Lightroom 3, Goggle+, and A Little Inspiration

1. Google+ Set Up Guide: 

With 40 million people signed up, the folks at Google must be doing something right.  Want to get off and running on the right foot with Google+, then check out the link right here to a very handy Google+ setup guide.

2. Lightroom Presets Just In Time For The Fall & More

Being in the middle of  Autumn and the beautiful fall colors, even in the Napa/Sonoma areas, I thought it would be appropriate to post a link to fellow blogger, Matt Kloskowski’s Lightroom presets for Fall foliage.  You can find them right here.  Thanks Matt.

And while we’re on the subject of Lightroom 3, why not steer yourself over to PresetHeanen.com and pick up their 5 most downloaded Lightroom presets right here. It keeps getting better all the time.

3. Looking Good At The Wedding

OK gang, got a classy black tie wedding to shoot?  Then go out there and shoot that wedding looking really good.  One of my favorite clients has been featured in this blog many times has just started a brand new business – ThRedHeads.com.  I love the concept – tux shirts that rock.

What I love is their ability now to do made-to-order tuxedo or dress shirts for wedding parties in a gorgeous array of 16 colors, as the couple may choose what best enhances their color scheme for a truly remarkable wedding! They also have four designs IN-STOCK for weddings that may happen sooner, including a fantastic Tartan which would look amazing for holiday & winter weddings.

Hey, I have my shirt and love it!  What a great idea to share with your wedding clients too.  You know, it’s always the difference that makes the difference – even in tux shirts. Check out their rockin’ tux shirts right here – nothing like them anywhere, you’re going to love them! –David

4. A Little Inspiration To Start The Week

My long time friend, Terry Deglau, has been posting to his blog, “A Creative Mind Is A Moving Target” for several months now.  Each post is more exciting than the next.  Terry has been part of this profession for many years first as a photographer, then a  very long stint at Kodak Company, and now retired Terry is sharing his rich lifelong experiences for photographers to read everywhere.

What we have available in Terry’s weekly blog is a peek into the mind of wonderful artist, photographer, and industry friend.  Each week’s post is a must read and I never miss them.  Check out his latest post exploring 100+ iconic portraits of all time.

In Terry’s words, “This is going to blow your socks off.  Kick back, grab a blanket on this chilly Sunday, a hot pot of coffee, and settle into your favorite chair, and just take in, consume, and enjoy these images of characters who formed our world around us.  I should publish these as a small coffee table book, to enjoy today, tomorrow, on and on.  I have read this post at least 10 times and after lunch, I will again.”  Here is the link right here.

5. The View From The Top Of The World

Are you ready for your mountaintop experience?  I have always been enthralled by stories featuring climbs to the top of Mount Everest.  I had a client who climbed many of the mountains in that part of the world including K2, another of the world’s tallest mountains.

Maybe I am living vicariously through the eyes of others who have made it to the top of the worlds tallest peaks.  Nevertheless that view must be a breathtaking sight.  How about following this link right here to see the first ever 360 degree panorama image ever taken from the top of the world.  Prepared to be inspired!

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Hey gang, that's it for me today.  My Napa Experience workshop begins in just about an hour so I've got to be hitting the road.  I'm really looking forward to these next few days. Fran Russell, one of my former Master Class alums has set up our winery locations and all the models.  I hear both the models and the locations are amazing!  The really cool thing is that 2 of our Sedona alums are also attending the Napa Experience.  I have to say, I'm quite flattered.

We had a nice meet up at Fran’s studio last evening and everybody got a chance to meet and “break the ice” for the week. We have a great group and LaDawn and I are really looking forward to the next few days.

How about I check in with everyone bright and early tomorrow for recap of todays shoot and another mind bending (OK, that’s pushing it a little) fabulous Technique Tuesday.  I promise, it will be a good one.  It's title - Light Bending, Pixel Pushing, Sync Cheating Lighting!

Have a great day everybody.

See ya' tomorrow,  David