Jim Rode of Jim Rode Photographer

Name: Jim Rode
websites: www.JimRode.com  &  YourBeautifulSoul.com
blog: rodeblog.blogspot.com/

How long been in biz?
I began in the early 1980's while unhappy at a job that paid too well to quit. Management gave no respect. I compensated by doing weddings. I got respect from my clients. Eventually my ego made me give up the old job, and go for what I loved to do. That was 11 years ago, and I'm not looking back. Today, I'm a engagement and wedding photographer in Bedford, Texas, a small town between Dallas and Ft. Worth

What inspires you?
I'm inspired by 3m, movies, museums, and magazines (magazines using great photographers that is). So much to learn from what came "yesterday" and "today's" cutting edge! I was the only guy I knew who subscribed to Vanity Fair (for Annie Leibowitz of course!). I am thrilled that I can sit in front of a computer and get excited at the images I've created. When it becomes
boring, I'll know it's time to stop.

The story how you first picked up a camera.
My mother bought me a Polaroid Land camera at age 12, while on a trip in Michigan. She booked us and the car onto a ferry/ship across the lake. We sailed for hours, and I took a photograph of the sunset and my life changed. I couldn't believe that I had captured a slice of nature. I remember vividly.

Favorite part of being a photographer?
I think it's cool that some of my clients look into my soul and see a rock star! (Or maybe they just like their pictures.)

One area you would like to improve on?
I can't get enough of marketing. I'd like to know more about price decisions.