Keep'N It Fresh™ workshops

Vol.2 Video

2009-02-11T08:15:00.001-08:00

Door Prizes Oh My!!!

2008-07-21T22:32:00.000-07:00

Are you ready? Here is just a little glance of what's up for grabs as door prizes for the October Keep'N It Fresh™ Workshop with Corey McNabb here in Kansas.

Wacom - 6x8 Intous 3 Tablet

ShowIt - A ShowIt Sites website

ShowIt - ShowIt Web software

Marathon Press - $50 gift cards & $250 Packaging Kit

Boda Bags - Boda Dry lens bag

Kubota - Two Kubota RAW Workflow for Lightroom

AsukaBook - Two 60 side Hard bound books

Alien Skin Software - Exposure 2, Shirts and more

Shoot Sac - Shoot Sac lens bag

WPPI - 1 year membership to WPPI

WPPI - 1 FREE registration to WPPI 2009 for two

ShootQ - 1 year membership

Triple Scoop Music - 2 music gift certificates

Pixel2Canvas - Free Canvas print

LexJet - Fiber Elite paper sample kits

LexJet & T&J Studios - Free 17x22 Fiber Elite prints for all attendees

Totally Raid Actions - Free Action Set

And more to be announced later... Hope to see you there.

Also don't miss out on your chance to save $250 off of the workshop by using discount code KNFVOL2 remember it expires July 31st.

Attendees Slide Shows!!!

2008-07-15T13:31:00.000-07:00

Here is the first of the slideshows from the workshop. We've grabbed a few images from each attendee and will be posting the rest of them later today. Also be sure to check back as we will be posting the door prizes from each of the sponsors. There are some awesome items up for grabs.

Updates!

2008-07-15T06:56:00.000-07:00

Greetings everyone things are really starting to come together for the October workshop with Corey McNabb. Be sure to get your seat before the the discount expires at the end of this month.

Vol.3 to be announce in August!!!

2008-06-26T09:32:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to let everyone know we've been working on Vol.3 and have another amazing line-up. Sorry can't say just quite yet but it will be very cool!

Getting the word out

2008-06-26T09:27:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Marathon Press for your help in getting the word out about the workshop. We've recently been added to their website as well as great exposure in their recent newsletter.

Now Seating Vol.2!!!

2008-06-26T07:24:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to give everyone an update about the upcoming workshop with Corey October 20th - 23rd. Seats are now open and starting to fill up!

We've adjusted the shopping cart so you can now pay a deposit to reserve your seat. However you are still required to pay the remaining balance 30 days before the workshop.

In addition use this discount code KNFVOL2 and save$250 expires July 31st or if seats run out first.

We've got some amazing sponsors and prizes.

Check back soon as we've been getting the discs in from the Vol.1 attendees and will be posting their work soon.

Volume 1 Group Shot!

2008-06-11T22:48:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone here is the Vol1. Class Group Shot. Below you will find a small video trailer from the workshop. Click here to view the larger version.

Don't forget the count down is almost up! Seat will be opening soon for Vol. 2 featuring Corey McNabb!

We will be posting a slideshow soon from some of the attendees.

What an amazing time!

2008-05-14T06:37:00.000-07:00

Wow... What an amazing workshop! We'll write more on what took place after we get a little more sleep. I just want to post a few pics that Karen with Heartland Photography had worked up for the blog.

Workshop is Rock'N!

2008-05-12T08:28:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone just wanted to drop a quick line in while Mike is teaching. Yep that's right its workshop time! Sorry for the delays in our blog updating lately we've been running like crazy to get the studio and all of the details ready for the workshop. A BIG thanks to all of our family and friends for their amazing support and help in getting ready for this. I special thanks goes out to my Mom who designed and put together all of the flowers for the workshop they look killer. Her shop name is The Wild Geranium and the website address is www.mywildgeranium.com I will be taking over her site design in the coming future to remember to check back to see the redesigned site.

I have a post about Vegas that I've been meaning to post for a while now I'll work on getting it up once the workshop is wrapped up this week. But lets just say Vegas was soooo. Cool.

Also want to give our friends at Fat Cat a special thanks for shooting some of the workshop we will have a little trailer to show in the future. And of course a Huge thanks to Mike for the plug on his blog today, you can check it out by clicking here.

Well back to check on things. Well be posting pics soon. Today will be a long day with a number of locations and models lined up.

Talk everyone soon!

Later…

jw

Lindsey Penney of Gingeroot Photography

2008-04-25T19:21:00.001-07:00

Name: Lindsey Penney
websites: www.gingerootphoto.com

How long been in biz?
I have been shooting ever since I can remember - for myself, for friends and friends of friends - but only recently took it to the next level. Who knew I could make a life doing something I love so much! What a concept. Gingeroot Photography went into official business mode a couple of years ago and the new studio just opened on February 29th of this year!

What inspires you?
People. Plain and simple. I don't know what it is but it compels me to whip out the camera. It's like a gravitational pull. Not to mention the thrill of seeing the reactions to their images.

The story how you first picked up a camera.
The first time was back in the film days. That was a learning curve, let me tell you. But figuring out how to make that contraption do what I wanted it to do was such a rush. Then came digital and I just went nuts from then on.

Favorite part of being a photographer?
Making stuff. That is my other inspiration. Making stuff. I make other stuff, too. But pretty photographs are my weakness. I can't get enough of the process: shoot, edit, print, show, shoot, edit, print, show...

One area you would like to improve on?
Just one? Streamlining my workflow would probably make my year. But then there is marketing, tricky lighting situations, photoshop savvy and my obsession with cake that I could use some work on.

Only 1 seat remains... Who will it be...

2008-04-18T09:37:00.000-07:00

Now only 1 seat remains for the workshop. Who will it be... We've got some great things lined up for this one. From night time shooting to learning how to shoot with video light indoors without flash. Yes no flash allowed for the indoor. Sorry I used to love using flash and still do when it is needed. However with anything there is normally a time and place use it. I believe when we learn to shoot without flash we are pushed to focus more on the quality and placement of our light sources, which allows us to create images that have more impact. Judge for yourself.

This image is with flash and no retouch.

This image is without flash using available light only and no retouch.

Jim Rode of Jim Rode Photographer

2008-04-17T09:14:00.000-07:00

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.

Susan Smith of Smith & Hopper Photography

2008-03-31T22:01:00.000-07:00

Name: Susan Smith
website: www.smithandhopperphotography.com
blog: www.smithandhopperphotography.com/blog

How long been in biz?
My name is Susan Smith. I live in Augusta, KS. I have spent many years enjoying photography as a hobby. In 2005 I had an opportunity to step up to the professional level as an assistant photographer for another local wedding company. This is where I found my love for wedding photography. At this point Misty and I had been friends for many years. We decided that we could serve clients better and could add a new exciting and fun twist to the old traditional style of wedding photography. The idea of Smith and Hopper Photography came about in 2005, and became reality in 2006. As we jump into our third year of business our clientele continues to grow and grow.

What inspires you?
I think what inspires me most of all is that the fruit of my labor brings enjoyment to generations of people. I feel that successful photography should tell a story without words. I take great pride in knowing that our client's great grandchildren will someday relive these special moments through our photographs.

The story how you first picked up a camera.
My first memory of operating a camera consisted of my little blue 110 Fisher Price camera with the disposable cube flash. I used this camera to help my Dad, who always insisted upon videotaping every special event.

Favorite part of being a photographer?
My favorite part of being a wedding photographer is having the satisfaction of a job well done. I take great pride when a client likes our work so much that they refer us to their closest friends and families. As fellow photographers you all know the challenges we face with the wide variety of people, cultures, and environments. We should all be proud of ourselves as it takes a lot of hard work to be successful in this profession.

One area you would like to improve on?

Need to improve on streamlining the work flow.

Misty Hopper of Smith & Hopper Photography

2008-03-30T10:22:00.000-07:00

Name: Misty Hopper
website: www.smithandhopperphotography.com/
blog:www.smithandhopperphotography.com/blog/

How long been in biz?
My name is Misty Hopper and I am located out of Andover, Kansas. Smith & Hopper Photography started in 2005 but became an official business in 2006. I graduated in 2002 from Oklahoma School of Photography and in 2003 moved back to Wichita to work as a photo lab technician for Qualex a Kodak Company. I also worked part-time for a local wedding photography company as an assistant photographer. The photo lab downsized and I was laid off and I decided to pursue photography more seriously. I was off course still paying off student loans from photography school and I thought that I may as well put all that education to use. In 2006 after lots of love and support from friends and family Smith & Hopper Photography was born. Susan Smith and I had known each other for over 10 years and we had similar visions on where we would like to take our photography and starting into our third year now we are going strong and finding our style .

What inspires you?
I get inspired by so many things it is hard to pick any one thing. I tend to have light bulb moments at 3 a.m. while editing a photo session. I get inspiration from magazines, other photographers, my kids, a pretty neighborhood or while out scouting photo locations.

The story how you first picked up a camera.
I have always had some sort of camera for as long as I can remember. I went through about 10 of those little 110 cameras growing up, you know the ones that were like key chains (okay I am giving my age away here). When I was in middle school my dad bought a Canon AE1 and it was one of the best cameras ever and I own it now today. Now after digital came into play I'm lovin' my Nikon!

Favorite part of being a photographer?
I think for any photographer the best part is knowing that your job means so much to someone else. The fact that we are so privileged to be a part of such momentous moments in people's lives and to be able to document those times is so rewarding.

One area you would like to improve on?
Work flow, I have got to start getting some sleep. Would also love some ideas on adding employees as your business grows. Balancing work and family. I know that's 3 things sorry.

Mike Shepherd of Heartland Photography

2008-03-11T07:46:00.000-07:00

Name: Mike Shepherd
website: www.heartlandphotography.org
blog: heartlandphoto.blogspot.com/

How long I've been in biz: I've been with Heartland for two years. Before that I worked in and around newspapers for nearly ten years with stints in Kansas, Michigan and Colorado.

Your story of how you got into wedding photography: Karen invited me to join Heartland about the same time I left the newspaper business. She came to my apartment and told me of her dream and asked me to be a part of it. I was hesitant at first but am I glad I decided to tag along.

Your favorite part of being a wedding photojournalist: I love hearing or seeing a couple's reaction the first time they see their wedding photos. There's so many sad stories out there from couples who had bad wedding photos that it makes me feel good to know that I'm helping to set a new standard in my market.

One area you would like to improve as a wedding photojournalist: Post-production workflow. There's gotta be a better way!

Karen Mikols of Heartland Photography

2008-03-04T23:14:00.000-08:00

Name: Karen Mikols
website: www.heartlandphotography.org
blog: heartlandphoto.blogspot.com/

How long been in biz: I've been photographing since I was 13 years old. Through college, I worked as a photojournalist for K-State's student newspaper and yearbook. I also spent some time interning around Kansas, as well as on the photo staff at the Independence Daily Reporter for more than 2 years. In 2006, Heartland took shape when I partnered with Mike Shepherd and we've been photographing weddings and portraits ever since.

Your story of how you got into wedding photography: Through college, my friends who were getting married asked me to photograph their weddings, and I always declined. I was afraid I'd mess up their photos and damage a friendship. Besides, I thought, wedding photos are cheezey and lame.

Fast-forward several years. I was engaged and shopping around for wedding photographers... and a friend of mine had just transitioned from being a photojournalist to a wedding photographer. She kept encouraging me to make the switch, and after loads of research, I did.

The engagement didn't last, but the encouragement of my friend stuck with me. I realized that if I could photograph the Pope or political elections and not mess up the photos, then I could photograph a wedding.

Your favorite part of being a wedding photojournalist: I love hearing people's stories – their love stories. Then, after I get to know a couple, to tell the love story of the first day of their married life... it's beautiful and an honor.

One area you would like to improve as a wedding photojournalist:
Bookkeeping!!!! I'd love to outsource this, but until then, I need to get ORGANIZED!!!!!!!

Only 2 Seats and counting!!!!

2008-02-07T17:27:00.001-08:00

Ok everyone only 2 seats remain for the workshop. Best of luck to those looking to attend.

2008-02-07T15:32:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone don't miss this great opportunity for 2 days of hands on shooting and teaching time with Mike Colon in the Midwest. Keep'N It Fresh™ Workshops offer small class sizes to maximize each attendees learning time and overall experience.

Limited seats remaining as in 3... Which three will come any and join in on the fun?

I Look forward to contacting all of our attendees soon!

Here a brief brake down of what will be taking place:

On May 11th there will be a meet and greet barbecue at our new 6,000 sq. ft. studio, complete with a Wii tennis tournament and also a great time to network.

The workshop includes a mix of lectures and shooting time.
Day 1 May 12th: We will be covering how Mike shoots, camera settings, etc... followed by live location shoots allowing attendees to use what they have learned.*

Day 2 May 13th: Will cover marketing strategies and Q&A time. The afternoon will hold surprise location shoots. (sorry can't tell everyone just yet, but trust us it will be awesome!!!) The evening consist of our Big Send off poker night and dinner. This too will be a great networking opportunity.

Plus some killer door prizes provided by Wacom and Alien Skin just to name a few.

Visit www.keepnitfresh.com to sign-up Today!

Let The Count Down Begin!

2008-01-31T11:08:00.000-08:00

For everyone who likes to check out our blog. Jeff, Brett and I are hosting a class that is going to be taught by Mike Colon. The seats will be officially available soon (6 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008)! You can get to the website by clicking here. This will be the first of many as we are planing to make this an annual event. Stay tuned and posted as new events come about!