Savoring a well-earned macchiato break with James Dockery in Kosovo, recharging after long days of shooting, editing, and teaching at our video storytellers workshop. The craft and care that went into this cup matched the hospitality of the café—creating not just a perfect coffee but a moment to pause, reflect, and appreciate the incredible experience we were part of.

In 1997, at the Worldwide Developers Conference, Steve Jobs faced a brutal insult during a Q&A session. A developer criticized him harshly, questioning his competence and vision. Instead of firing back angrily, Jobs paused, collected his thoughts, and delivered a masterclass in leadership and customer-centric thinking.

You can watch the moment here: Steve Jobs’ Perfect Response to an Insult.

His response wasn’t defensive. Instead, he acknowledged that sometimes, even the best-intended ideas don’t work. He emphasized the importance of starting with the customer experience and working backward to the technology—not the other way around.

This principle is just as crucial in photography as it is in tech.

The Customer Experience Comes First

Too often, photographers fall in love with their style, gear, or creative process. They experiment, push their boundaries, and create work they adore—but that doesn’t automatically translate to a great experience for the client.

For example, many photographers get stuck on the idea of day rates or hourly rates when pricing their work. But from a client’s perspective, this can be confusing. What they really want is clarity: What’s the result? What do they get? How does it solve their problem?

That’s why I always recommend project-based pricing. It helps clients understand what they’re paying for and feel in control of their investment. One of the most effective pricing strategies is offering three options: low, medium, and high. If the client chooses the lowest tier, that’s fine—it still means you’re providing a service that meets their needs while also establishing a foundation for future work.

The Genius of Steve Jobs

Steve Jobs’ brilliance wasn’t just in creating technology—it was in his obsession with how people experienced it. He understood that customers don’t care about how complex or innovative something is; they care about how it makes their lives better.

As photographers and visual storytellers, we should apply the same mindset. The experience you create for clients—from your pricing structure to your workflow to your final delivery—matters as much as the photos themselves. A great experience leads to repeat business, referrals, and a strong reputation.

A Post-Jobs Apple and the Danger of Ignoring Customer Needs

After Jobs’ death in 2011, Tim Cook took over as CEO. Under his leadership, Apple shifted towards a more closed ecosystem, streamlining its products and maximizing efficiency. One notable change made it more difficult for customers to upgrade RAM and hard drives in their Macs. While this approach has contributed to Apple’s financial success and ecosystem integration, it has also frustrated some longtime users who prefer the flexibility of upgrading their devices over time.

This shift reminds us that companies that prioritize internal efficiencies over customer experience risk alienating their audience.

Bringing It Back to Photography

Your photography business isn’t just about the images you take—it’s about the experience you provide. If your pricing confuses clients, if your workflow is cumbersome, or if your portfolio prioritizes what you love over what your clients need, you’re making the same mistake Apple made post-Jobs.

Be obsessed with your customers. Listen to their pain points. Make their experience seamless. Most importantly, ensure that the value you provide is crystal clear.

Because in the end, the best businesses—whether in tech or photography—aren’t built around what the creator loves. They’re built around what the customer values.

A friend sent me a link to a photographer traveling the country, capturing images with a twin-lens reflex camera on film. It got me thinking about why photographers choose specific tools and how those choices shape their approach to storytelling.

I respect anyone who finds balance and peace in their craft, even if I don’t fully relate to their method. For many, shooting film—especially with older formats like 4×5 or 8×10—forces them to slow down. It demands patience and deliberation, making them ask, Is this moment worth my time?

I’ve shot film, but I never gravitated toward twin-lens reflex cameras. I preferred using a Hasselblad or even a Mamiya RZ67 because I liked seeing precisely what the lens was seeing. With a twin-lens reflex, you’re looking through a separate viewing lens, which means what you see isn’t always perfectly aligned with what the camera captures. That disconnect never worked for me. I wanted complete control of my framing and composition, and those single-lens medium format cameras gave me that clarity.

The Importance of Intentionality

The lesson here isn’t about film versus digital—it’s about why we take photos in the first place. Before clicking the shutter, we should ask ourselves:

1. Is this moment worth preserving?
2. Why do I want to preserve it?

For some, the answer is personal. They capture moments simply for their enjoyment. However, the process requires more profound thought for those who create visuals to communicate stories and messages. It’s not just about what’s in front of the lens—it’s about crafting an image that conveys meaning.

Vanessa Van Edwards, who teaches body language and human connection, emphasizes how small details—tone, expression, and word choice—shape interactions. As visual storytellers, we communicate similarly through:

• Body language – Capturing authentic emotion and gestures
• Light – Setting the tone and mood of the story
• Lens choice, depth-of-field, and composition – shaping the way an image is perceived

For me, slowing down doesn’t require switching cameras or returning to film. Digital photography offers greater dynamic range and the flexibility to choose between color and black and white in post-processing. The key is not the tool itself but the mindset behind it.

Finding Purpose in Storytelling

When I teach, I encourage discussions on how different cameras and formats influence storytelling. But I’ve also noticed that some people become more attached to the experience of photography than to its impact. The same can be said for missions—too many people engage for personal fulfillment rather than actual service.

Jesus’s life reminds us that purpose isn’t about self-gratification. It’s about sacrifice, about giving of ourselves for the sake of others. When we embrace that, we experience the kind of love that only God can fully give.

So whether we shoot film or digital, the real question remains: Are we simply capturing moments or telling stories that inspire and serve others?

Let’s approach photography with that purpose in mind.

In today’s digital world, making connections quickly and efficiently is essential—especially for photographers and creatives like me. I recently invested in a Dot business card, specifically the metal version. While I still carry a few traditional business cards for those who prefer them, I’m finding that the Dot card is a game-changer.

What is the Dot Business Card?

The Dot business card is a smart business card embedded with NFC (Near Field Communication) technology. Instead of handing someone a paper card that might get lost or tossed, I tap the Dot card against their phone, and my contact information, portfolio, website, and social media links instantly appear on their screen. No app is required—just a seamless digital experience.

My Profile People See

Why the Dot Card is a Must-Have for Photographers

As a professional photographer and storyteller, I need to make it easy for people to see my work, contact me, and even book a session. The Dot card allows me to:

• Share My Portfolio Instantly – Instead of telling someone to visit my website later (which they might forget), they can access my portfolio immediately.
• Connect on Social Media in Seconds – Rather than hoping someone remembers my Instagram handle, they can follow me with a single click.
• Provide Multiple Contact Options—All my contact info is in one place: email, phone, or a scheduling link.
• Update My Info Anytime – Unlike traditional business cards, where a phone number change means a reprint, the Dot card lets me update my details on the fly.
• Save Money & Reduce Waste – No more constant reordering of paper cards. Plus, it’s an eco-friendly alternative.

How I Use It

I keep my metal Dot card in my wallet, ready to tap when I meet potential clients or collaborators. But I also carry a few traditional cards for those who prefer a physical option. This hybrid approach ensures I’m always prepared, no matter the situation.

Should You Get One?

The Dot business card is a wise investment if you frequently network, work in a creative field, or want a modern, tech-savvy way to share your information. It’s fast, professional, and practical—making all the difference in today’s world.

Interested in checking it out? Visit Dot’s website and see how it can upgrade your networking game!

The last presentation was the tables being turned. Billy Weeks was interviewed by Alexis McMurtry, a senior Communication major at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, with minors in Psychology and Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality studies.

Colleges play a vital role in their communities, not just through education but also by fostering public engagement. One excellent example is the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga’s (UTC) Photo Night, spearheaded by Billy Weeks. This event brings together students, professionals, and the broader community to celebrate photography, storytelling, and visual media’s impact on society.

Nick Fantasia, a Photographer for Marketing and Communications at Tennessee Tech University, shared insights on the reality of professional photography. He emphasized to students that 90-95% of his photos never see the light of day. Instead, they are stored in a photo database where their usage is unpredictable. However, the images that do get consistent use are his environmental portraits, which thrive on social media.

Angela Foster, a photojournalist for over 30 years who now serves as the University Photographer at UTC, highlighted the purpose behind her work during her workshop. She stated, “My job is to make [UTC] the most fun place to go to school.” She captures student life, classes, and events, creating imagery that defines the university’s public identity and outreach.

Rich Glickstein, a former photojournalist-turned-psychotherapist, provided an essential perspective on the emotional toll of photography. His workshop addressed the importance of mental health for visual storytellers. He encouraged photographers to find ways to process their emotions so that photography remains a sustainable career and passion. He stressed that balancing emotionally taxing assignments with activities that fully engage one’s attention is critical.

This idea of balance resonated with me as I recently rediscovered my love for music by picking up the flugelhorn. Learning a new skill requires focus, which contributes to long-lasting mental well-being. Music, like photography, is a powerful tool for processing emotions, reducing stress, and engaging in bilateral stimulation, which is linked to therapeutic benefits in EMDR therapy. A 2020 study by Spotify found that 89% of participants felt playing an instrument positively impacted their mental health, and 75% used music to de-stress and unwind.

Photo Night itself was an inspiring event. Student projects were showcased, highlighting exceptional talent. Billy Weeks then led short interviews with professional photographers, allowing them to share select images and discuss the stories behind them. Instead of lengthy presentations, this format ensured a concise yet engaging experience, followed by a brief slideshow and an open Q&A session.

Having organized and participated in workshops for over 30 years—from the Southwestern Photojournalism Seminar to the CIP Atlanta meetings and my FOCUS group—I’ve found that creatives benefit most when asked the right questions. Many speakers struggle to gauge what an audience truly wants to know, and structured interviews like those conducted by Weeks create meaningful and engaging discussions.

What Billy Weeks has cultivated at UTC should be replicated at photography programs worldwide. These events extend student work beyond the classroom, fostering connections with professionals and inviting the public to engage with the power of storytelling. At its core, photography is about informing and connecting communities, and UTC’s Photo Night exemplifies this mission beautifully.

Two Assignments, One Mission

As a visual storyteller, every assignment presents an opportunity to connect people to the stories behind the moments. This past week, I photographed two unique events: the Investiture Ceremony of the Honorable Tiffany R. Johnson for the U.S. District Court and the Roswell Fire Department’s Ole Timer’s Dinner. Each event is rich in tradition and meaning.

Planning for the Story

Before I pick up a camera, I ask myself: What’s the story?

For both events, the answer lay in honoring legacies—whether Judge Johnson’s groundbreaking journey or the decades of service represented by the retired firefighters.

Technical Challenges & Solutions

Every assignment comes with its technical considerations.

• Lighting the Legacy: At the Ole Timer’s Dinner, the traditional group portrait outside in front of the ladder truck required two studio strobes. Photographing a large group at night means balancing ambient light with the strobes to ensure everyone is evenly lit while keeping the background crisp. My Nikon Z9’s GPS sync also helped document the exact location—a slight touch that adds historical value to the image.
• Candid Moments with Dignity: During the Investiture Ceremony, the challenge was capturing natural expressions without intruding. I stayed aware of the ceremony’s flow, anticipating moments of connection between Judge Johnson and her speakers—Ryan K. Buchanan, Chris Huber, Trish Treadwell, Rebeccah Bower, and Senator Raphael Warnock.

The Art of Anticipation

No matter the subject, the best storytelling photos come from watching—not just through the viewfinder but with your whole self. I look for small interactions: a hand on the shoulder, a shared laugh, or how light falls on a face during a quiet moment.

Takeaway Tips for Photographers

1. Scout Your Environment Early: Knowing where light sources are and how the space will be used helps you plan your shots without interrupting the event.
2. Pack for the Unexpected: Studio strobes aren’t always needed, but they can elevate a portrait into something timeless when they are.
3. Be Present, Not Just Observer. Engage with your subjects when appropriate. This helps put people at ease and often leads to more authentic images.

Conclusion

Whether documenting history in the making or preserving community traditions, every assignment is an opportunity to craft stories that change lives. What made this week so special was not just the moments I captured but also the people whose stories I had the privilege to tell.

A few days ago, I received an email that took me back to my early days as a photojournalist. The message started with a simple question:

“I’m looking for a Stanley Leary who would have worked with Hickory Daily Record in the ’80s…”

That’s me.

The request was for a photo I had taken on August 2, 1984—of a young pitcher, Marc Bolton, throwing from the mound in a Little League game. The email’s sender hoped to get a clear copy of the image, better than what had been printed in the newspaper.

Finding the Negative

For many photographers, a request like this would mean digging through old boxes of prints—if they even kept them. But early in my career, I developed a system for archiving my negatives by year and date. That organization paid off.

I went to my files, pulled the Print File Archival Storage Page for Negatives labeled August 2, 1984, and there it was—black-and-white negative.

Why Archiving Matters

This experience reinforced something I often tell photographers: your work has long-term value, but only if you can find it.

Whether you’re a professional or a hobbyist, an organized system for storing your digital or film images ensures that your work isn’t lost to time.

For me, this request was a little like found money. A chance to reconnect with my past work, serve a client decades later, and provide a family with a piece of history they thought might be gone.

So, I advise all photographers to keep their archives in order. You never know when a 40-year-old request might land in your inbox.

As a freelance photographer covering a company’s annual meeting or conference, your role extends beyond capturing great images—you’re also building relationships. Whether engaging with key leadership or connecting with attendees, how you interact can influence future opportunities. Here’s how to approach conversations strategically while maintaining professionalism and delivering high-quality work.

Engaging with Key Leadership

Your goal with executives, organizers, and speakers is to build trust, understand their expectations, and position yourself as a valuable asset.

1. Introduce Yourself with Confidence
   Approach them when they aren’t busy and set a professional yet friendly tone.
   • “Hi, I’m [Your Name], the event photographer. I want to ensure I capture what’s most important to you. Is there anything specific you’d like me to focus on?”
2. Ask Insightful Questions
   Show that you care about their goals beyond just taking photos. Ask:
   • “What key moments would you like documented?”
   • “Are there any VIPs or interactions that are important to capture?”
   • “How will these images be used—internal communications, social media, or marketing?”
3. Balance Professionalism & Friendliness
   Show genuine interest in their role and the company’s vision. A simple conversation like, “I’ve enjoyed capturing the energy of this event. What’s been a highlight for you so far?” can leave a lasting impression.
4. Express Appreciation & Follow Up
   Before the event ends, thank them personally. A quick follow-up email with a sneak peek of standout images (if appropriate) can strengthen the connection.

Connecting with General Attendees

Your goal with attendees is to make them feel comfortable and engaged, resulting in natural, authentic photos.

1. Be Approachable & Friendly
   When capturing images, make people feel at ease:
   • “Looking sharp today! Let me get a great shot of you.”
   • “Mind if I capture a quick photo of you enjoying the event?”
2. Encourage Natural Expressions
   If someone seems camera-shy, lighten the mood:
   • “Pretend I’m not here—just enjoy your conversation!”
   • For group shots: “Let’s get one with some energy—big smiles!”
3. Make It Easy for Them to Find Their Photos
   Let attendees know where they can access event photos:
   • “The company will have all the event photos soon, but if you want a quick look at any, feel free to connect with me.”

Building Relationships During Breaks

Your downtime at an event is an excellent opportunity to connect with people in a more relaxed setting.

1. Start with Small Talk, Then Go Deeper
   • “Wow, it’s been a packed day! What’s been your highlight so far?”
   • “How long have you been with the company?”
   • “Is this your first time at this event, or are you a regular?”
2. Find Common Ground
   Not every conversation has to be about work. Pay attention to details and make genuine connections. If someone is wearing a sports logo, mention it:
   • “Are you a Braves fan? I grew up going to their games.”
   • If they mention hobbies: “Oh, you play the trumpet? I just picked up the flugelhorn again after years off!”
3. Exit Smoothly & Keep the Door Open
   If the conversation winds down or you need to get back to work, wrap it up with:
   • “Great chatting with you—I hope you enjoy the rest of the conference!”
   • If there’s potential for future work: “Let’s stay in touch! I’d love to send over some of my work after the event.”

Final Thoughts

Your presence at an event isn’t just about documenting—it’s about enhancing the experience through genuine interactions. You’ll make a strong impression by showing attendees professionalism, leadership, and warmth, leading to future opportunities.

Have you found specific approaches that work best for networking at corporate events? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

On Friday, I ran into a frustrating issue that every digital creative dreads—my Mac ran out of space. As someone who regularly works with large files, I understand the importance of keeping my storage in check, but this time, something unusual happened.

The Mystery of Missing Space

I had been helping a friend recover files from an 8TB damaged hard drive. Using data recovery software, I recovered about 3.9TB of data. However, I could only find 2.5TB of recovered files when I checked my storage. At the time, I assumed the missing data was due to the drive’s damage and didn’t think much of it.

I didn’t realize that my Mac’s System Data had swallowed 1.5TB of space. I had always assumed that System Data was just a temporary cache used while working on files and that macOS would eventually distribute those files to their appropriate locations. However, this time, it didn’t work as expected, and my computer was stuck with a bloated System Data folder, leaving me almost no free space.

Troubleshooting the Issue

I tried everything—clearing cache files, rebooting in safe mode, manually deleting unnecessary files—but nothing freed up that mysterious 1.5TB of System Data. After a call with Apple Support, I realized the only real solution was to wipe my Mac and restore it from a Time Machine backup.

The Restore Process

Thankfully, I followed a 3-2-1 backup strategy and had a full Time Machine backup on my NAS (Network Attached Storage). The restoration process took about four hours because I was restoring over the network. While this worked, I quickly realized there was a much faster way to get back up and running.

The Faster Restore Solution

If I had copied my backup from the NAS to an external SSD and then restored it from that drive, the entire process could have been completed in under 30 minutes instead of four hours.

For reference:

• Restoring from a NAS over a network: ~4 hours
• Restoring from an external SSD via USB-C or Thunderbolt: ~25–30 minutes

Lessons Learned

Additionally, I learned that if I travel, as I did this week, I should carry an SSD with my latest Time Machine backup. This way, I could have completed the restore in just a few hours rather than waiting until I got home.

1. System Data Can Get Stuck: While macOS is supposed to clear out temporary files, sometimes it doesn’t. Be mindful when working with massive data recovery projects.
2. Keep a Fast Local Backup Option: NAS is great for redundancy, but an external SSD is the way to go for speed.
3. Plan for Large Restores: If you ever need to restore your Mac, copying the backup to an external SSD first can save hours.

This experience was a wake-up call about the importance of not just backing up, but backing up efficiently. Next time, I’ll be better prepared—and hopefully, this post helps someone else avoid the same hassle!

As an independent photographer, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking your work is just about delivering images. A client hires you; you take photos, and they pay you—it’s a transaction. But if you want to build a lasting career, focusing solely on transactions will limit your growth.

The magic happens when you go beyond the transaction and build client relationships. Relationships lead to repeat business, referrals, and a more fulfilling career. The formula is simple:

Values + Trust = Relationship

Without trust, you’re just another photographer sending an invoice. But when clients trust you and connect with your values, they see you as a partner—not just a vendor.

How Transactions Differ from Relationships

A Transaction-Only Mindset

A transaction looks like this:

• A client emails you for a quote.
• You respond with a price and contract.
• They approve it, you show up, take photos, and send the gallery.
• The client pays, says thanks, and moves on.

There’s nothing inherently wrong with this process, but there’s no connection beyond the business exchange. The next time they need a photographer, they might shop around for the cheapest option because there’s no relationship keeping them loyal to you.

A Relationship-Driven Approach

Now, contrast that with a photographer who focuses on values and trust:

• Before sending a quote, you take time to understand the client’s needs, goals, and vision.
• You align your work with their values—whether it’s their brand story, personal milestones, or the emotions they want to capture.
• You communicate consistently, helping them feel confident and heard.
• After the project, you follow up—not just with a delivery link, but with personal engagement.

In this approach, the client sees you as more than a service provider. They feel connected and are likelier to return to you, recommend you, and even advocate for your work.

How to Implement Values + Trust in Your Business

1. Define and Share Your Values

What do you stand for as a photographer? Is it authenticity? Storytelling? Capturing emotions? Helping nonprofits?

Your values should be reflected in:

• Your website and portfolio
• Your social media posts
• The way you communicate with clients

Clients who see your values align with theirs are more likely to trust and invest in your work.

2. Be More Than a Price Tag

If the first thing a potential client asks is, “What are your rates?” don’t just send numbers. Instead, respond with:

“I’d love to understand what you’re looking for and how I can best serve you. Let’s hop on a quick call so I can hear more about your vision.”

This shifts the conversation from cost to connection and allows you to create a service that meets their needs.

3. Over-communicate (In a Good Way)

Trust is built through clear and consistent communication. Keep clients informed at every stage:

• Confirm bookings and send reminders.
• Share what they can expect before, during, and after the shoot.
• Offer guidance on how to prepare.
• Be responsive and proactive in answering questions.

Clients feel valued when they’re not left guessing.

4. Give More Than Just Photos

A transaction ends when files are delivered. A relationship continues because of thoughtful follow-up:

• Send a handwritten thank-you note or a small gift.
• Share behind-the-scenes moments on social media and tag them.
• Offer a referral discount or loyalty incentive.
• Check-in months later with a personal message.

Small touches make clients feel part of something bigger than a one-time shoot.

5. Think Long-Term, Not One-Time

Approach each client as someone you want to serve for years, not just for one project. Consider:

• How can you provide value beyond this shoot?
• What future needs might they have (family portraits, branding updates, milestone events)?
• How can you stay top-of-mind without being salesy?

For example, a wedding photographer who follows up with anniversary reminders or a corporate photographer who sends insights on visual branding will naturally build deeper client loyalty.

The Long-Term Benefits of Relationships Over Transactions

When you invest in relationships rather than just jobs, you gain:
✅ Repeat business
✅ Word-of-mouth referrals
✅ Clients who trust your expertise (fewer pricing objections!)
✅ More fulfilling work with people who truly appreciate your talent

The best photography businesses aren’t built on one-time gigs. They thrive on connection, trust, and shared values.

So, as you approach your next client, ask yourself: Am I just delivering a service, or am I building a relationship?

Your business will thank you for choosing the latter.

I recently inherited my uncle’s English Besson 10-10 trumpet, a beautifully crafted instrument with a rich, resonant tone. As I started playing it, I naturally compared it to my Yamaha YTR-734, my trusted trumpet for years. While both instruments are excellent, they feel different in my hands and require their nuances to play well. This journey of comparing the two led me to dive deeper into my music and even inspired me to play some of Herb Alpert’s iconic tunes.

Watching the Herb Alpert documentary shortly after was a revelation. It wasn’t just his music that resonated with me but his philosophy about the trumpet. Alpert famously said the trumpet is “just a piece of plumbing.” This perspective stuck with me, not only as a musician but as a visual storyteller and photographer. It got me thinking about how cameras, like trumpets, are tools that amplify our creativity rather than creating art by themselves. That realization is what inspired this blog post.

The Camera and the Trumpet: Tools of Expression

Herb Alpert’s description of the trumpet as “just a piece of plumbing” applies perfectly to cameras. At their core, trumpets are pipes that vibrate with the musician’s breath, and cameras are boxes that capture light. They’re tools that depend entirely on the skill, creativity, and emotion of the person using them.

For a photographer, the camera doesn’t make the art any more than a trumpet makes the music. Both require a human touch. Mastery of technique, while essential, is only the starting point. The real artistry lies in how we see, feel, and interpret the world, just as it does with a musician interpreting a song.

Mastery is in the Details

One thing I’ve learned while playing the Besson is that the trumpet isn’t just about pressing valves. Staying in tune requires constant adjustments. When I practice scales with my tuner app, I see how much I need to adjust my embouchure and even fine-tune the first and third valve slides to keep the sound in harmony. It’s a continual refinement process, not just playing the notes but controlling them.

Photography is no different. You can’t simply set your camera to “auto” and expect every shot to align perfectly with your vision. Like a trumpet player adjusting tuning slides, photographers constantly fine-tune their settings:

• Exposure adjustments ensure the light matches the mood.
• White balance tweaks make sure the colors feel authentic to the story.
• Composition and framing require moving around, crouching, or standing high to find the perspective that brings the subject to life.

This active control, this dance between the photographer and the camera, elevates a photo from ordinary to extraordinary.

Seeing and Feeling Beyond Technique

In the documentary, Alpert shares how he learned a profound lesson from Sam Cooke. Cooke had written a song he thought was mediocre, but when Cooke performed it, he transformed it into something magical. That’s when Alpert realized that the musician’s interpretation makes the music come alive.

Photography follows the same principle. A technically perfect image—perfectly exposed, sharply focused, and composed by the rule of thirds—can still feel lifeless if the photographer isn’t emotionally connected to the scene. Great photographs don’t just show what something looks like; they reveal how the photographer thinks about what they’re seeing.

When I photograph a moment, whether a portrait, a landscape, or a street scene, I aim to infuse it with how I feel in that moment. That emotional connection is what gives an image its soul. It’s not just about composing and exposing—it’s about seeing and feeling.

Conclusion: Beyond the Tool

The tool is only as good as the person using it in music and photography. The trumpet and the camera are amplifiers for creativity, not the source of it. My uncle’s Besson trumpet taught me to respect the subtleties of the tool in my hand, but it’s my breath, my feeling, and my interpretation that makes the music.

As photographers, we must approach our cameras with the same mindset. Master the tool, but never forget that the magic happens when we see the world uniquely and connect deeply with our subject. As Herb Alpert said about his music, artistry doesn’t come from the tool but from you.

A Personal Note: Honoring Uncle Knolan

This trumpet is particularly special to me because it belonged to my uncle, Knolan Benfield, who passed away this past summer. Uncle Knolan didn’t just teach me music; he also introduced me to photography. His passion for storytelling through images shaped much of who I am today as a photographer. I wrote about him earlier, reflecting on his remarkable life and the legacy he left behind. Receiving his trumpet feels like inheriting a piece of his creative spirit, and it reminds me of the profound impact he had on both my craft and my life.

As a photographer and small business owner, mastering marketing can feel overwhelming, especially with limited funds. However, you can grow your brand without breaking the bank by focusing on the right resources, strategies, and opportunities. Here are some key insights to get you started.

Best Books for Marketing as a Photographer

Books are a fantastic way to learn timeless principles and practical strategies. Here are some of the best-rated books for marketing that cater to photographers and small business owners:

1. “Building a StoryBrand” by Donald Miller
   • Learn how to clarify your message to connect deeply with clients by positioning your services as a solution to their problems.
2. “This Is Marketing” by Seth Godin
   • An excellent resource for understanding how to find your audience, tell your story, and build trust.
3. “Lead with a Story: A Guide to Crafting Business Narratives That Captivate, Convince, & Inspire” by Paul Smith
   • This book offers practical techniques for using storytelling to engage clients, build credibility, and drive business results. It is perfect for photographers looking to connect emotionally with their audience.

Budget-Friendly Marketing Strategies

When funds are tight, creativity and focus become your best allies. Here are some high-impact actions to prioritize:

1. Master Social Media

• Use platforms like Instagram to showcase your work, engage with potential clients, and build your brand.
• Create reels or stories highlighting behind-the-scenes shots, client testimonials, and quick tips.

2. Leverage Networking Opportunities

• Join local networking groups or professional organizations like the Chamber of Commerce.
• Connect with other small business owners in your area who may need photography services.

3. Develop Your Website

• A professional, portfolio-driven website is essential. For affordable yet polished designs, use platforms like Squarespace or Wix.
• Focus on SEO by adding relevant keywords, blog posts, and image metadata to attract organic traffic.

4. Embrace Direct Mail

• While digital dominates, direct mail still works. Create targeted postcards showcasing your photography and send them to local businesses or individuals who may need your services.
• Highlight any promotions or packages.

5. Collaborate with Nonprofits

• Many nonprofits appreciate professional visuals but have tight budgets. To build goodwill and gain exposure, offer discounted or pro bono services.
• Always include your name and contact information in the credits.

Maximizing Internet Marketing

The internet is your most powerful marketing tool. Here are the top strategies to prioritize:

• Google My Business: Optimize your profile to appear in local searches.
• Email Marketing: Build a list of clients and prospects. Tools like Mailchimp offer free plans to get started.
• Content Creation: Start a blog or vlog to share stories, tips, or tutorials, establishing yourself as an authority in photography.
• Online Ads: Consider running targeted ads on Facebook or Google. When ads are optimized for your audience, even a tiny budget can yield results.

Networking and Community Engagement

Joining organizations can open doors for collaboration, learning, and client acquisition:

• Chamber of Commerce: Ideal for meeting local business owners needing your services.
• Photography Groups: Both online and in-person groups can provide mentorship and referrals.
• Nonprofit Events: Volunteering at events can showcase your skills while benefiting a good cause.
• Special Interest Clubs: Join groups aligned with your niche, such as wedding expos, sports leagues, or art communities.

Tips & To-Do List for Marketing Success

Tips:

1. Focus on consistency over perfection; show up regularly on social media and your website.
2. Leverage storytelling in all your marketing materials to connect emotionally with your audience.
3. Always measure your efforts. Use analytics tools to see what’s working and adjust accordingly.

To-Do List:

1. Read one of the recommended marketing books.
2. Create or update your Google My Business profile.
3. Post consistently on your top-performing social media platform for one month.
4. Research local networking groups or nonprofit events to attend.
5. Design a direct mail postcard and identify 20 potential recipients.
6. Write one blog post or create one video showcasing a recent project.
7. Reach out to another local business to discuss collaboration opportunities.

By investing time and energy into these steps, you can market yourself effectively without needing a huge budget. Remember, marketing is about building relationships and showing your audience the unique value you bring as a photographer and storyteller.

Today’s snowstorm brought more than just a blanket of white to Roswell, Georgia; it brought a sense of wonder and excitement that kept me glued to my windows. Snow is a rare occurrence here, and its arrival turns even the most familiar scenes into magical landscapes. Watching the soft flakes fall, I couldn’t help but marvel at the transformation. It wasn’t long before I noticed some unexpected visitors—cardinals and deer—each adding their charm to the wintry scene.

The vibrant red of the cardinals against the stark white snow was stunning. These backyard birds, often overlooked, became the stars of the day. Their presence reminded me of the beauty and life that surround us daily but are so easily missed in the rush of life. And then, as if on cue, a few deer wandered gracefully through the snow-covered yard, their quiet elegance enhancing the moment’s serenity.

The combination of snow, wildlife, and quiet reflection made me realize something profound. How often do I look out my windows with the same anticipation and curiosity I have today? How many moments like this might I have missed simply because I didn’t take the time to notice? Today’s snowfall wasn’t just a weather event but an invitation to slow down and truly see the world outside my door.

Backyards are often seen as extensions of our homes—places for grilling, gardening, or relaxing. But they are also habitats, sanctuaries, and stages for countless moments of natural wonder. You don’t need to travel far to experience beauty and adventure; sometimes, you must pause and pay attention. Whether it’s the bright flash of a cardinal’s feathers, the quiet movement of deer, or the way snow transforms the landscape, there’s so much to explore and appreciate.

Today’s snow reminded me of the value of looking closer, stepping away from the screens and distractions, and embracing beauty outside my window. I encourage you to do the same. Whether it’s snowing or sunny, take a moment to explore your backyard. You might be surprised by what you discover. As I learned today, sometimes the most extraordinary adventures await outside our windows.

Tips for Capturing Backyard Moments:

1. Keep Your Smartphone Handy: You don’t need fancy equipment to capture nature’s beauty. With the right light and perspective, your smartphone can take stunning photos.
2. Use Natural Light: Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best lighting for capturing vivid colors and soft shadows.
3. Look for Contrast: The bright red of a cardinal against snow or the earthy tones of a deer against a white backdrop can create striking photos.
4. Get Creative with Angles: Experiment with different perspectives—shoot low to the ground or find a higher vantage point to add variety to your shots.
5. Be Patient. Wildlife often requires some waiting, but the results are worth it. Observe and enjoy the moment, even if the perfect shot doesn’t come immediately.

Remember, the moments you capture today become the memories you cherish tomorrow. So, step outside or look out your window and start exploring—camera in hand!