We are happy to announce that we are the new Seattle PUG (Photographer Users Group) leaders. It’s a nation wide group supported by Pictage and ShootQ, two companies we are grateful to have supporting the everyday workings of our business. You do not have to use these companies to be a part of PUG. The whole idea of PUG is to bring photographers together to share ideas, experiences, crazy stories and knowledge.
The first meeting we hosted was last night and it was amazing! Nobody shot the same type of photography, most had never met before. We had all different ages and personalities but everyone was cracking up, comparing experiences and learning from each other. It couldn’t have gone better. I’m so happy!

This is for 2 free months of ShootQ, and can also be used for 2 free months of Pictage too for anyone who has never used either service before. The code for our group is seattlepug2014.

Things we discussed/learned:
Everyone is a Canon shooter except us. (We are ok with that. 1f642
Dario of Infini Boudoir has a photography closet full of so many great photography things that he got tangled up, fell and broke his arm while trying to escape his gear closet. His arm is still in a sling. We decided that A. he needs a better story for his injury, something with more drama like a wild lion chase and B. We must see all the treasures that live in that closet!!

We had an even split of natural light photographers and studio/off-camera lighting photographers.

Flutter Studios is an inspiring space with cathedral ceilings, real brick wall, a big white wall (excellent as a reflective surface), dressing room, fridge, lounge room, bathrooms. David, the owner, is very kind to allow us to use his studio last night. He was very easy to work with. He has lighting gear to rent too. I would recommend you rent Flutter Studios for your next shoot!

We talked about How to Get More Clients. A good topic for experienced as well as new photographers.
My list of ideas was lengthy at 12 ideas enhanced by more great ideas from everyone at the meeting. Here’s a small excerpt from my notes:

3. Show what you want to shoot
a. youtube slideshows, website, blog, fb, Pinterest etc.
4. WOW your clients-
a. get published
b. win contests
5. – under promise, over deliver: mail notes and/or gifts to clients before and after the shoot.
6. FB- teaser photos the day after each event, run a contest on number of comments on their wedding photo on their page,
7. Have a booth in an expo or an open air market.

We have learned in our business that even if the main goal doesn’t pay off so well there are other opportunities that can come of the exposure/experience you gained from doing something new. So, even if it seems like an unlikely money maker go for it anyway and see where the path leads. Getting yourself out there is hugely important.

We had a request for pricing to be the topic for our next meeting so that’s what it will be. Our August meeting topic will be pricing. We’d like to do a hands-on shooting event since it’s summer. I’ll keep you posted as to when/ where & what is happening for the next PUG meeting.

Stay tuned!

1f642 Dawn
P.S. Next time I will get a group photo and your [handsome, sweet, pretty] (whichever adjective applies to you) face will be in the photo with all of us too but you have to bring your face to the meeting in order for it to be in our group photo! 1f609