Education is an investment, and like any investment, it should be approached with thorough research and careful planning. Unfortunately, many schools, training programs, and workshops are more interested in taking your money than ensuring you have the qualifications for a sustainable career.

Know the Job Market Before You Spend a Dime

One of the most crucial steps before pursuing formal training is understanding the job market in your chosen field. Are there actual jobs available? What credentials are genuinely required? What is the likelihood of finding full-time, well-paying work? These are questions that many people fail to ask before committing thousands of dollars to education.

My wife’s experience is a perfect example of this. She earned her Master of Divinity (M.Div.), then went through a Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) program to get the necessary credentials to work in a hospital setting. While she also serves part-time as a fire chaplain, that role is typically filled by volunteer chaplains or firefighters who take on that responsibility in addition to their regular duties. Yet, some schools charge students for training programs that promise careers as first responder chaplains without explaining that most positions are unpaid or that proper hospital chaplain credentials require far more rigorous training.

Photography Programs: A Field Ripe with Misinformation

Having spent decades teaching photography in colleges, workshops, camera clubs, and one-on-one coaching, I have seen firsthand how many aspiring photographers invest in expensive degree programs without understanding the reality of the industry. Many photography schools teach technical skills but fail to prepare students for the business side of photography, which is essential for making a living.

I’ve taught students who graduated from photography programs with tens of thousands in debt, only to discover they lacked the business acumen to market themselves, secure clients, or navigate the competitive landscape. Camera clubs and workshops can offer valuable learning experiences only if they are structured around practical, real-world knowledge. That’s why my approach to teaching always includes discussions on industry trends, client needs, and the financial realities of running a photography business.

Many students enroll in hospitality programs without realizing the realities of the industry. They spend years studying hotel management, event planning, or restaurant operations, only to graduate and discover that most jobs require working nights, weekends, and holidays. Rather than learning this after earning a degree, students would benefit from working in the industry early, whether through internships, part-time jobs, or shadowing professionals. Doing so would help them understand the demands of the field and determine if it aligns with their lifestyle and career goals.

Beware of Programs That Overpromise

For every reputable college, trade school, or workshop, many exist primarily to make money, not to ensure your success. These programs often:

• Overstate job availability and salary expectations
• Fail to provide necessary accreditation or certification
• Skip over industry-required steps for employment
• Offer incomplete or misleading job placement assistance

Aspiring photographers need to be especially cautious. While a degree in photography might sound impressive, many successful photographers never went to formal school for it. Instead, they built their careers through mentorships, workshops, and real-world experience. Before spending money on an expensive program, consider whether a mix of self-study, workshops, and business training might be a better path.

Do Your Homework: Research First, Invest Later

Before spending money on education, take these steps:

1. Talk to Industry Professionals – Reach out to people working in the field. Ask them about their career paths and what qualifications are essential.
2. Look at Job Listings – Read accurate job postings for employers’ requirements. If every listing demands an accreditation that your school doesn’t provide, that’s a red flag.
3. Verify Program Accreditation – Many professions require specific credentials that only accredited institutions can grant. Make sure your chosen program meets industry standards.
4. Consider the ROI (Return on Investment) – Will the job you’re training for provide a salary that justifies the cost of education? If not, explore alternative paths.
5. Check Graduate Outcomes – Ask the school or program for job placement rates and talk to alums. If most graduates aren’t working in the field, that’s a significant warning sign.

Final Thoughts

It’s heartbreaking to see people invest their time, energy, and money into education without real career opportunities. While there are fantastic programs out there, far too many exist to turn a profit. Before enrolling in any program—whether a university degree, trade school, or specialized workshop—ensure you’ve done your homework.

The goal isn’t just to get trained. The goal is to build a career. Choose your education wisely to equip you for the path ahead genuinely.

Stanley teaches lighting with the YWAM School of Photography in Kona, Hawaii. Photo by Dennis Fahringer

In any field, from teaching to storytelling, mastery separates the good from the great. A master of their craft understands their subject so well that they can approach it from multiple angles, adapt on the fly, and ultimately deliver better results than someone following a script.

Why Clients Benefit from Masters of Their Craft

When you hire someone truly skilled, you’re not just paying for a service—you’re paying for insight, adaptability, and problem-solving. This is especially true in creative fields like photography, videography, and storytelling.

As a storyteller, I’ve traveled the world to capture meaningful narratives. Inevitably, something always goes wrong—weather changes, a key interview falls through, or access to a location is denied. But because I know why I’m doing the story and the goal, I can pivot and still produce a compelling final product.

True professionals don’t just execute a plan—they know how to adjust it in real-time without compromising the outcome. The same goes for teachers, consultants, designers, and leaders. When disruptions occur, those who have mastered their craft turn obstacles into opportunities.

How to Identify the Right Expert for the Job

Clients looking for a master artisan should consider the following:

1. Experience Over Credentials – While degrees and certifications matter, real-world experience often speaks louder. Look for a portfolio of work that demonstrates expertise.
2. Adaptability & Problem-Solving – Ask about challenges they’ve faced in past projects and how they overcame them. Their response will tell you much about their ability to think independently.
3. Clear Communication – A master of any craft can explain complex ideas clearly.
4. Passion for Their Work – Do they genuinely love what they do? Passion often fuels mastery and ongoing learning.
5. Testimonials & Referrals – What do others say about working with them? A strong reputation is a good indicator of consistent excellence.

How to Market Yourself as a Craftsman

If you want to be recognized as a master of your craft, it’s not enough to do great work—you need to position yourself effectively. Here’s how:

1. Show, Don’t Just Tell – Share case studies, behind-the-scenes stories, and examples of how you’ve solved client problems.
2. Educate Your Audience – Masters teach. Share your knowledge through blogs, videos, or speaking engagements.
3. Demonstrate Adaptability – Showcase how you’ve handled challenges in your work and still delivered exceptional results.
4. Build a Reputation Through Consistency – Delivering great results repeatedly builds trust and credibility.
5. **Engage with Your Industry—**Network, contribute to discussions, and position yourself as a thought leader in your field.

Conclusion

Mastery isn’t about knowing everything—it’s about understanding your craft so profoundly that you can adapt, pivot, and still achieve outstanding results. Clients benefit most when they hire true experts; those who dedicate themselves to mastery stand out in a crowded market. Whether hiring or positioning yourself as a professional, remember that the difference between average and exceptional is the ability to navigate challenges without losing sight of the goal.

Why This Belongs on My Blog

At first glance, this topic may seem unrelated to my usual focus on storytelling, photography, and branding. But in reality, it’s deeply connected. Storytelling isn’t just about capturing moments—it’s about understanding humanity. And right now, I see a world that has drifted too far into left-brain thinking, where efficiency and logic have taken over at the cost of creativity, faith, and grace.

As a storyteller, I know that the most potent narratives—the ones that truly move people—come from the right brain. They come from faith, community, and our ability to see beyond ourselves. Without that, we lose not just great stories but the essence of what makes us human.

That’s why I felt compelled to write this.

The Lost Art of Balance: Why We Must Reclaim the Right Brain in Society

Our world has become dominated by logic, data, efficiency, and control—hallmarks of left-brain thinking. While this has fueled remarkable technological progress and problem-solving, it has also come at a cost. In our relentless pursuit of order, we’ve suppressed the right brain—the side responsible for creativity, intuition, faith, and deep human connection.

As a result, we find ourselves increasingly isolated, transactional in our relationships, and starved for meaning. The institutions that once nurtured the right-brain aspects of our humanity—faith, the arts, storytelling, and community traditions—are fading. We are losing the things that help us see beyond ourselves, make sense of suffering, and extend grace to one another.

The Decline of Right-Brain Institutions

Faith, the arts, and communal traditions have helped societies stay balanced throughout history. These were cultural expressions and essential forces in shaping compassion, wisdom, and a sense of purpose beyond personal ambition. Today, many of these institutions are in decline:

• Faith Communities: Christianity, Islam, Judaism, and other faiths emphasize themes of grace, mercy, and loving others. Yet, many religious institutions struggle as society leans into hyper-individualism, seeing faith as unnecessary rather than a vital part of human flourishing.
• The Arts and Storytelling: Stories, music, and visual arts are essential for conveying human experience, yet they are increasingly undervalued in favor of purely functional or profit-driven pursuits.
• Communal Traditions and Rituals: From neighborhood gatherings to shared meals, we’ve lost many simple practices reminding us we belong to something greater than ourselves.

Christianity and the Core of Grace

Christianity’s central message is grace—the unearned gift of love, forgiveness, and mercy. Jesus’ life and teachings were revolutionary because they emphasized that people are valued not by their productivity, achievements, or even righteousness but by the simple fact that they are loved by God.

The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) is one of the clearest examples of this grace in action. A Jewish man is beaten and left for dead on the side of the road. Two religious leaders—who should have helped—pass by, prioritizing their legalistic duties over human compassion. But a Samaritan, a member of a group despised by the Jews at the time, stops to help, bandaging the man’s wounds and paying for his care.

This parable challenges us to understand that true faith is not about status, rules, or logic—it is about love, mercy, and action. The Good Samaritan had nothing to gain by helping a stranger. He extended grace simply because it was the right thing to do.

Other faith traditions also embrace this principle:

• Islam emphasizes compassion and charity (Zakat), requiring Muslims to care for the poor and vulnerable.
• Judaism teaches Tikkun Olam the duty to repair the world through acts of kindness and justice.
• Hinduism emphasizes Seva, or selfless service, which means helping others without expectation of reward.

Yet, as we’ve leaned too far into left-brain thinking—prioritizing efficiency, self-sufficiency, and measurable outcomes—our culture has moved away from these values of grace and service. Instead, we often view people in need as burdens rather than opportunities for compassion.

War and Crisis: Society’s Harsh Reset Button

History shows that societies become unbalanced when they lean too far in one direction—whether toward rigid control or chaotic emotion. When this happens, a collapse or crisis follows. Unfortunately, one of the great “reset” moments for societies has often been war.

War forces us to face our mortality and recognize that we depend on one another. After times of great conflict, we often see a resurgence of faith, the arts, and community-building. People remember the importance of grace—not as an abstract concept but as a survival necessity. We reconnect with the right brain because we are forced to do so.

But do we have to wait for a crisis to restore balance?

Reclaiming the Right Brain—By Choice, Not by Crisis

Rather than being forced into grace by war or suffering, we can choose to restore it now. We can:

• Reembrace faith and grace: Whether through Christianity or other traditions, faith reminds us that we are more than what we produce. It teaches us to give and receive grace.
• Invest in the arts and storytelling: Music, literature, and film help us process our experiences and see the world through different perspectives. They cultivate empathy and wisdom.
• Prioritize community and rituals: Shared meals, small gatherings, and storytelling traditions restore our sense of belonging.
• Extend grace in daily life: The Good Samaritan didn’t need a policy, a study, or an efficiency metric to justify helping someone. He acted in love. We can do the same—offering kindness even when it’s inconvenient or undeserved.

We have spent decades overcorrecting toward a left-brained world. It is time to bring balance back—not through crisis but deliberate choice.

If we reclaim faith, storytelling, and a culture of grace, we don’t just restore balance to our lives—we help rebuild the foundation of a compassionate society.

Adobe Lightroom is a powerful tool for photographers, but getting it set up correctly can save you countless hours. This guide will walk you through the key decisions you must make when installing and organizing Lightroom, ensuring a smooth and efficient workflow.

Installing Lightroom & Choosing Your Catalog Location

One of your first decisions is where to store your Lightroom catalog. By default, Lightroom creates a catalog on your internal hard drive, but you may want to consider placing it on an external SSD. Here’s why:

• Portability: If you work across multiple computers, keeping your catalog on an external SSD allows you to move seamlessly between them.
• Performance: SSDs offer significantly faster read/write speeds than traditional hard drives, making your workflow much smoother.
• Storage Management: Keeping your catalog separate from your system drive can free up space and prevent slowdowns.

File Naming and Folder Structure: Planning for Growth

A well-thought-out file naming and folder structure will help you stay organized as your image library grows. Some key principles to follow:

File Naming Conventions

Consistent naming helps avoid duplicates and makes it easier to locate images. A common approach includes:

• Date-based: YYYY-MM-DD_Description (e.g., 2025-03-19_Sunrise_Beach.CR3)
• Event-based: EventName_SequenceNumber (e.g., Wedding_001.DNG)
• Client-based: ClientName_Project_Sequence (e.g., ACME_Corporate_Headshot_012.NEF)

Folder Structure

Decide on a structure that makes sense for you. Some examples:

• By Date: 2025 > 03 > 19 > Shoot_Name
• By Project: Clients > ACME > Headshots > Raw_Files
• By Location: USA > Georgia > Atlanta > Event_Name

Using IPTC Metadata for Image Searchability

Beyond organizing files, embedding descriptive text in IPTC metadata is crucial for finding images later. Keywords, captions, and location data allow for fast searches within Lightroom.

• Keywords: Add specific and consistent keywords to describe your images.
• Captions: Write a short description of the photo’s content.
• Location Data: If available, include GPS coordinates or place names to make searching by location easier.
• Copyright Information: Protect your images by embedding your copyright details in the metadata. Use the following format:
  • Creator: Your full name or business name
  • Copyright Notice: © [Year] [Your Name or Business Name], All Rights Reserved
  • Copyright Status: Mark as “Copyrighted”
  • Contact Information: Your email and website (optional but helpful)

Should You Build Smart Previews?

Lightroom offers the option to Build Smart Previews during import. These smaller, compressed versions of your RAW files allow you to edit images even if the original files are offline. Here’s when you might want to enable or disable them:

Reasons to Build Smart Previews

• You work on a laptop with limited storage and don’t always have access to your external drive.
• You need to edit images on the go without carrying your entire RAW library.
• You want faster performance while making edits.

Reasons NOT to Build Smart Previews

• You always have access to the complete RAW files on a fast drive.
• You want to conserve disk space, as Smart Previews require additional storage.

You can edit once you’ve imported your images and set up your catalog! The following steps involve developing your pictures, organizing collections, and refining your workflow.

By making these setup choices now, you’ll ensure that your Lightroom experience remains smooth and scalable as your photo library grows.

Discovering and living out your purpose is one of the most rewarding journeys in life. But for many, this takes time—often years—before they can fully execute their mission while covering financial responsibilities. The tension between purpose and provision is something I’ve seen firsthand, not only in my own life but also in those I mentor and teach. While I guide younger professionals in their journeys, I also recognize that I need help navigating my path.

Lessons from Paul the Tentmaker

The Bible gives us a great example of balancing work and mission through Paul. In Acts 18:1-4, we see that Paul made tents to support himself while preaching the Gospel. He didn’t separate his work from his calling but allowed one to help the other. His story reminds us that sometimes, fulfilling our purpose requires seasons of doing practical work to sustain our mission.

Joseph’s story (Genesis 37-50) teaches us that purpose often unfolds over time. From being sold into slavery to rising as Egypt’s leader, his journey shows that faithfulness in all seasons—including those where we must “pay the bills”—leads to our greater calling.

Finding Purpose in Different Career Stages

Our purpose is not always a single destination but an evolving journey shaped by experience, skills, and opportunities. Here’s how it often looks at different career stages:

Starting Out (20s-30s): Building the Foundation

• Explore different jobs and develop skills that align with your interests.
• Pursue side projects or volunteer work that resonates with your mission.
• Seek mentors who can help guide you while also learning from peers and industry leaders.

Mid-Career (40s-50s): Refining and Growing

• Leverage your experience to transition into roles that align more with your calling.
• Take strategic risks to move toward purpose-driven work without jeopardizing financial stability.
• Invest in others—mentor younger professionals and expand your influence by sharing what you’ve learned.

Later Career (60s+): Legacy and Influence

• Focus on impact—your wisdom and experience can guide the next generation.
• Shift toward projects that bring meaning rather than just financial gain.
• Stay adaptable—markets and industries change, but the purpose remains.

Navigating Uncertainty When the Market Shifts

Economic shifts can threaten income streams even when you’ve found your mission. I’ve experienced this myself—passion doesn’t always pay the bills consistently. Here are a few ways to adapt:

• Diversify Your Income – Develop multiple streams of revenue that allow you to continue your purpose-driven work.
• Stay Adaptable – Learn new skills, embrace change, and pivot when necessary.
• Seek Guidance – Just as I mentor others, I also need help from those ahead of me. Having trusted advisors can make all the difference in times of uncertainty.

We All Need Help

While I enjoy mentoring and teaching others about storytelling and brand-building, I also need help. The reality is that we never fully “arrive.” We are all learning, growing, and adjusting as life unfolds. Whether you’re just starting, in the middle of your career, or reflecting on your legacy, purpose is not a one-time decision—it’s a lifelong journey.

So, wherever you are, embrace the process. Seek wisdom. Stay open to change. Above all, trust that your purpose will continue to unfold even as you navigate the practical side of life.

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!