Amazing Influences

I think the most amazing thing about WPPI is that I was surrounded by amazing photographers who are talented and think outside of the box. A couple photographers who really influenced me were Jerry Ghionis, Kevin Kubota, Joe Buissink, and Michael and Anna Costa.

Jerry Ghionis creates beautiful, sassy fashion weddings. He photographs unbelievable images in ordinary situations. Jerry showed us all of these before & after shots that were just astounding. I guess I can't ever complain any more about bad locations ;)

Kevin Kubota re-emphasized to me the importance of positive thinking, goal-setting, and having confidence. He has pointed me in the right direction and given me many great tools for moving my business forward.

Joe Buissink spoke on Tuesday night. I loved how he told us to "Find the moments." And then "See the moments with your heart." He was so inspiring and reminded us to give back. He published a book called Autistic Heroes, which is beautiful.

Michael and Anna Costa are located in Santa Barbara, a very competitive area, but are thriving. They are a great example for me because they don't let anything keep them from moving forward. I love their style and enthusiasm.


These are pics I took of Michelle while meandering around Vegas on our photo excursion. I wish I had brought a flash with me...as some of these indoor locations were dark...but I love the funky colors that showed up. You're gorgeous, Chelle!

Vegas in Black & White

While down in Vegas, I figured out how to shoot in black & white mode on my camera. I'd never done it before. Go figure! It was fun trying to pre-visualize and then get immediate results. I LOVE how my camera converts the colors into b&w. I'm excited to use this function more often :)

Ok, so more about my experiences down at WPPI....

It all started on Friday evening.

I had driven down to Vegas by myself because my other friends from Salt Lake couldn't make it to the Business Institute. I had everything mapped out on Google and I was ready to do this part of the experience on my own. As I was sitting at a stop light one block away from the hotel, I heard someone calling my name (I had my window rolled down because the weather was very pleasant). It was my friend Anna from BYU!

We went through the entire photo program together and I hadn't seen her for almost 4 years. It was wonderful to have a friend during the Business Institute, but even better to have a chance to catch up with Anna and talk about our businesses and goals during the breaks. I feel so blessed that we ran into each other again.

We also ran into our friend Jon on Monday morning, who is an amazing wedding photographer who shoots with FILM. I just found out that Jon will be sponsored by Fujifilm. Congrats, Jon! I always feel privileged to know you :)