Imaging USA in Phoenix

Raynell and I recently attended Imaging USA, one of the largest conventions and tradeshows designed exclusively for photographers and imaging professionals. Over 7500 photographers and vendors attended this event January 10th-14th in Phoenix, Arizona.

In today's aggressive business enviorment, I feel that we need every advantage to keep our business as a leader in our market. The education and networking that occurs at Imaging USA has become our edge. This event has become the one "can't miss" education experience we have the opportunity to attend.

I attended classes on Senior Photography, Child & Family Photography, Web Design, Customer Service and Business & Marketing. Raynell attended classes on Marketing, Customer Service, New Product Developement and Image Editing & Design. We had the opportunity to study with some of the best photographers and business minds in our industry including, Ann Monteith, Ron Nichols, Vickie Tauffer, J.B. Sallee, Tim and Beverly Walden, Julieanne Kost, Larry Peters, Sarah Petty, Lori Nordstrom and others.

We brought back so many new ideas and are working hard to get them implimented into our business. We have designed and launched a new website and this blog, we have added many new product lines including Photo Jewelry, Photo Blankets & Throws, LumaView Displays, and leather Photo Handbags. We also trained on new software that will improve the quality of our images. I have been working on a new "High Key" photo technique and using some of the new toys I picked up at the show, including the new Canon 5D MarkII camera (the baddest boy on the block!).

Ray and I came back excited about our business and the photography industry. We are looking forward to getting all of our ideas put into action in our studio.
-James

James Portrait Design Recieves 2008 Best of Woodward Award

by U.S. Local Business Association
Washington, D.C., January 10, 2009

James Photographics & Portrait Design has been selected for the 2008 "Best of Woodward Award" in the Photographers catagory by the U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA).

The USLBA "Best of Local Business" Award Program recognizes outstanding local businesses throughout the country. Each year, the USLBA identifies companies that they believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community.

Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each catagory. the 2008 USLBA Award Program focused on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the USLBA and data provided by third parties.

U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA) is a Washington D.C. based organization funded by local businesses operating in towns, large and small, across America. The purpose of USLBA is to promote local business through public relations, marketing and advertising.

The USLBA was established to reconize the best of local businesses in their community. Our organization works exclusively with local business owners, trade groups, professional associations, chambers of commerce and other business advertising and marketing groups. Our mission is to be an advocate for small and medium size businesses and business entrepreneurs across America.

SOURCE: U.S. Local Business Association, Washington D.C.

How To Look Slimmer

We are always asked "How do I look slimmer for my photographs?". Well here are a few ideas that help you look better for your photos.

1. Color

• Darker, solid colors tend to be the most slimming. Our eyes are attracted to bright color first, so you will look larger.


• Try not to let your top and pants contrast to much. This creates a horizontal line at the waist, making you appear shorter and wider.

2. Pattern

• Large, bold patterns, such as flowers, checks and stripes will give the illusion that you are larger.


• Horizontal stripes are an absolute NO if you are worried about your weight.


• Medium to dark solid earthtones, black or gray, or even white or beige will be more flattering in a photograph.

3. Texture

• Shiny and sparkly materials will make you appear larger. Instead, opt for a matte fabric and add jewelry.

4. Sleeves

• Sleeveless tops will make you look 10 pounds heavier. Cover your shoulders!


• ¾ Length or long sleeves tend to make you look slimmest.

5. Fit

• Oversize clothes will not camouflage, they will only make you look bigger.


• On the other hand, clothing that is to tight will make you look larger too. Don't buy a smaller size just because it makes you feel better, you are the only one who can see the size label!

6. Jewelry and Hair

• Long necklaces create a longer line, and make you appear slimmer.


• Pulling your hair back off of your shoulders can make your face appear slimmer.

7. Magic

• Remember, all of our portraits are retouched and enhanced. We have some cool tricks to make you look slimmer, make you look younger, make your spouse look more attractive and make your kids look better behaved!

What is a Certified Professional Photographer?

When you hire a photographer, you want the best. Unfortunately, anyone with a camera can claim to be a professional. We use the slogan "PPA Certified" or "Certified Professional Photographer" all the time in our print ads, our web site and everything we publish, but what does it really mean? "Certified Professional Photographer" is a designation granted by the Photographic Certification Commission, the world's leading certification agency for imaging professionals. Being a Certified Professional Photographer is a great honor. Only about 3% of all professional photographers can claim this title. James Abram, our photographer, is Northwest Oklahoma's only PPA Certified Professional Photographer.

Three words categorize the select group of people who have earned the title of Certified Professional Photographer, Competence, Integrity and Stability.

Competence is established through successful completion of a rigorous series of tests, a continuing education program, and periodic critical evaluation to establish the consistent quality of their work. As a responsible member of their community, they are bound by the highest standards of integrity and a strict code of business ethics established by the Professional Photographers of America, Inc. Stability is evidenced by a minimum of five years of full-time, active involvement in a successful photography business.

You expect fine photography from a professional. You can expect more than just a picture when you work with a Certified Professional Photographer.