So, I thought I should write this post a soon as I could, while the experience is still fresh in my mind.

Might I add…that I had been in a sort of slump…a rut…whatever you like to call it. Why, you ask? I gotta be honest.  Being the CEO, employee, graphic designer, business manager, AND photographer was starting to get a bit overwhelming and my heart became heavy.  My creative juices were flowin’ but they just weren’t motivated enough. Skip’s Summer School in Las Vegas was just the slap in the butt I needed.

Things are currently being reorganized to make life so much easier for me…and I am EXCITED! My business is thriving, and that’s the only reason things got overwhelming… and come on, isn’t that a good thing?!

One thing I’m learning to do… OUTSOURCE. Yes. It is becoming a MUST. I know I like doing it all, but the reality is… if I want to be efficient and top quality, I’ve got to let some tasks go. I’m still insistent on designing everything myself, because I know what I want and I’m particular about my websites etc. After all, if could,  I would’ve become a graphic designer in my spare time as well.

So now, back to Skip’s Summer School. What did I LOVE about it? I will tell you. First off, there were industry professionals there that have been in the business for almost 30 years. If I’m going to listen to anyone, it’s going to be people who know things from experience and have lasted the test of time. I want to last the test of time, and do it with excellence.I was really hoping to win some stuff…but oh well maybe next time. And, Shootq… you are my new bestfriend. Now that you’ve partnered up with Pictage…I am ecstatic! Photographers: if you have some time and even if you don’t (make the time!) register for Skip’s Summer School next year! If anything just to have a little getaway to focus on what you want to improve on in your business.

Some of my favorite speakers were: Kevin Kubota, Scott Bourne, Jasmine Star, Stacy Pearsall, Yervant! Yervant! Yervant!, and Cliff Mautner.

Kevin Kubota- I adore this guy. He doesn’t even know me, but yes I adore him. Why? He is the most down to earth guy. His humility and humor – Just awesome. He has a wonderful way of teaching and I respect him so much as a business man (not just one business either!)  And of course, his presentations are always entertaining…especially when someone’s cell phone goes off

Yervant- I had never had a chance to hear him speak, but by far the most priceless were his words of wisdom on the industry. He knows what he’s doing, and he’s spectacular at it. He’s a veteran, and still going strong. I hung by his every word, soaking in everything like a sponge. And, he’s such a gracious man for staying much later than he had to, just to answer questions.

Cliff Mautner- He’s also one that I have never heard speak. But, I adored his presentation so very much. I mean, my logo is a direct representation of what I’m all about- Heart. And, I noticed that was a major theme with all the big shots.  I loved that he had such innovative ways to share about capturing images with heart and emotion.  And, even more that he wasn’t afraid to think outside the box when it came to lighting approaches. I LOVE lighting that isn’t boring and predictable. So, it was a pleasure listening to his wisdom.

All in all… I was inspired. Motivated. To dig myself out of that slump…. and I leaped out with tenacity! Thank you so much Skip!! And everyone at the whole event for contributing to my lovely experience and making me feel like I wasn’t just a face in the crowd.