Archive for March, 2007
First off, 5 days in Las Vegas is way to much. It has this sensory overload that makes you tired within three days. Then you add 10,000 of your photography peers and friends and you become exhausted real fast. Every year I attend WPPI to become inspired and learn new and exciting avenues regarding my business. This year was no different, except I took it a step further and decided to really network and push my name in the industry. Spending time and asking questions with David Beckstead, Mike Colon, Mike Larson and meet new photographers (but industry leaders) like Dennis Reggie and Joe Buissink was really informative. I’m so lucky to be able to call my photography friends for questions or words of advice regarding my business. Thank you boys for all your time.
I’m about to add another memember to my team that will strictly push the brand SWP (Sean Watson Photography) to a more international level. This is going to be a very expensive endeavor (and scary) to bring on this new team member, but I have complete faith that it will be well worth it. More to come on this issue later in the week.
If I have not returned your phone call yet I will be doing so on Monday. I need this weekend to rest up and spend some quality Sean time without the interference of my work. So until then I hope everyone has a great weekend!
Always remember “work to live, don’t live to work”!
Oh almost forgot, Jaime Johnson from Jaime Johnson Events was rockin it in WPPI as well. Thanks for the tour of Vegas Jaime!
March 31st, 2007
Ok everyone, here is the link for the workshop I’m doing with David Beckstead. If your a photographer this will be a very informative and educational workshop. Not only will you improve your images, but you will also learn everything you need to know about marketing and branding your business.
(CLICK ON THE COEUR D ALENE TAB UNDER WORKSHOP)
*WORKSHOP LINK*
If your going to WPPI I please feel free to introduce yourself, I love meeting new photo friends.
March 23rd, 2007
I checked my emails this morning and I was surprised to see a wedding inquiry from Brazil! These types of email always make me smile because it means that my marketing is doing its job not only in the states but in other countries as well. One of my biggest goals is to become strictly a destination wedding & lifestyle photographer. I have been very fortunate in the last couple years to do just that and its only because of the internet! Whats funny about the internet is my first experience was when I was real young. My Dad at the time was very into the computer industry and I remember watching him put the phone on some type of device that was link to the computer. He would type one or two sentences then wait 4 to 5 minutes for a response. I asked what he was doing and he said “talking with a friend of mine in New York” (I was like why not put the phone by your ear?). He then went on to say that this is going to be the future of communication. At that time I dont even think it was called the internet. But now look at it. We can watch tv, movies, talk over it via computer and not only that but you can get your business in front of Billions of people!
I’m always been a firm believer in goals and it is always rewarding when I go back to see what goals I have obtained for the year. In fact when I was going down to San Diego last week I reviewed my goals from last August while on the plane. I then realized that I have obtained every goal that I set for myself in 2007 and its only March! The biggest goal was to teach some kind of photography workshop in 2007. Which I am doing this September with the amazing photographer David Beckstead (I will have all the information on this workshop by the end of next week). What I have learned is to always take action on the ideas that I feel will work. Do the research and focus everything positive towards your goal/vision and watch it happen! I can honestly say that I would be where I am today (business wise) if it wasnt for the internet!
Anyways, Bruno from Brazil had some great things to say so I thought I would share them with you…….
Hello \”friends\”.
I´m contating you to congratulate for the pretty work.
You have a very privileged and sensitive vision of the life.
Unhappyly I am in Brazil (so distant) and I do not have as to contract you for my wedding.
Seeing your´s photographs, tears had sprouted in my eyes.
See you and congratulations again.
Bruno Véo Mendes
I’m on my way to Las Vegas to meet with photographers all around the world at WPPI convention. This is always a fun trip to see and meet new and old friends. Not only that but I get to see all the new products and toys! I will be home next Thursday and will be returning phone calls and emails then.
March 21st, 2007
Ok, here is another poll for all my readers. Let me know what you would like me to talk about on my blog. This poll is mostly based for the photographer, but for all you non photogs the “other” sections is dedicated for your input. Simple type in what you want to know and I’ll see what I can come up with.
My goal here is to keep my blog interesting and to have repeat viewers. So here is your chance to find out everything about SWP.
March 14th, 2007
I’ve been meaning to do this topic for awhile now. I get a lot of questions on my Photoshop techniques and how I create dramatic and “full of life” images. Most of the action happens in front of the camera as I’m shooting. I then bring the images into Photoshop and “enhance” the image for a more punchy effect. This helps draw the viewers (you) attention to the emotion and subject of the image. These are really quick PS images and not my more advanced techniques, but you will be able to see the difference.
After
Before
March 13th, 2007
I’m finally home and as usual swamped with playing catch up. The weather was gorgeous for the shoot and I can’t tell you how nice it was to have some sun on my skin! We started the session in Balboa Park (which was packed) and ended our session in La Jolla on the beach (which was just as packed but in a more confined area). Somehow I was able to frame the “extras” out of most of the images (ok, well I know how I did it. But you have to come to the workshop to find out! Ha). Let me know what you think.
Aren’t they a cute couple?
Yes, I’m aware that this image is out of focus. But, I love the feel of it, the sun coming through them, the soft look etc.
I think this is a great image. Has a really nice warm feeling to it!
Ok, this is one of my favorite images from the shoot. I know its a little traditional, but the movement in the water along with the sunset really makes this a striking image.
Just want to say thank you to Cara and Brock for the good time, the beers and all the laughs. When I get the slide show up I will post the link for others to see.
O
March 12th, 2007
Well I arrived safely in San Diego yesterday. I decided to head out of the hotel room and do some shooting. I headed down to Old Town SD for some culture (and margaritas). Here are some pics from the adventure.
Here’s a little cactus graffiti
Check this place out, not only can you get some money! But you can even pick up your friday night supplies! Ah the good old days.
Some local foliage with a B&W flavor
Ok, Mindy bought me some new flops for Valentines day. So I decided to rock them a bit today. Please no comments on the white feet! Its been a long winter for this Irish man.
you can’t finish a photo essay in a spanish area without a shot of the church!
I’m so excited for the lifestyle shoot tomorrow with Brock and Cara.
March 10th, 2007
Well I woke up with a bright blue day. To some thats not a big deal, but in the Northwest it’s grey and cold for 6 months of the year. So a Blue bird day is something special this time of year. Because of this phenomenon I decided to go out and shoot some images. Here they are.
March 7th, 2007
Hey everyone
I’m doing some last minute work before I head off to sunny San Diego, California. I’m so excited to go shoot in a new location with a new fun couple. When I’m done I will post some images for everyone to see. So stay tuned……..
I’ve been real curious as to who is viewing my blog, or if anyone really is? So I have made a poll that I hope everyone will take part in. Once I get all the feedback I will know who my viewers are and what to keep posting for everyone. I promise it only takes a few seconds, actually two clicks….can you manage that? Thank you in advance everyone!
March 6th, 2007