Just got back this week from Imaging USA in Phoenix, AZ. It's an amazing photographers' confrence held yearly to help us keep up on the latest and greatest. As well as training and inspiration from the biggest and best names in the industry. I was so excited to go! My eyes glimmered over all the new technology, information and inspiration!
I met up with my cousin from Colorado who is also a photographer. Yes, the camera bug runs in the family! We were hit with the amazing talent from all over the U.S. and a few internationally. It may take me a few days still to process all of it. I do want to bring some of those tidbits of what I learned to my customers to enjoy. You may see in the coming months new products that I will offer. I've already recieved a new background as well as some fun new props to play with. But over all the message that hit home the most is "Continue to do what you love and love what you do!" Now, Flashy backgrounds and props are not really what I am about, it is a commitment to work hard for my customers and for my love of photography. Start with doing my best in the camera then let the rest follow suit!" Ultimately, give you, my customers, something emotional, that you are proud to hang on your wall and enjoy looking at every single time you enter the room.
I have to admit, I was seriously a teen at a rock concert when I was there! I confess when I met Anne Geddes, my inspiration, I was... I would love to insert intelligent or interesting, but No... more like: babbeling all over her!
My cousin Erin and I were waiting in line to have Anne Geddes sign our books at her book signing. Just before making a complete and utterly embarrassing fool of myself!!
It was like I had just drank 3 margaritas and went something like this as I walked up to her: "I love you! You are so great! I just love how creative you are. Really... I love you!" And I guarantee you I had that big cheesey, desperate smile that makes celebs think twice about running for the exit. I am totally serious I acted like a teenage groupy. No quiet, reserved, Monica. Then she said, "Are you coming to the show tonight, MONICA?" In my mind all I heard was her voice saying my name. And just like in the movie "Cars" where he knows the rusty old car's name. You know the part! Thinking how did she know my name, I'm weak in the knees! ...And I'm wearing a name badge, in addition to that the book she was signing had a sticky note with my name on it!! I Am A Dweeb! ...and unforetunately I know it but enjoy it! Zachary, my 15 yr old teenager was literally rolling on the floor when I told him! I mean really, what would you do when you meet your celebrity idol? She changed the face of childrens portraiture forever!
Ok! I'll stop! But do tell everyone about my blog, sign up for the newsletter and don't pass up the opportunity to get your portraits done this year! ;o)
Dweebiness and all I'm off to a happy new year and hope you are too!
