I love learning. Which works out well for me because as a small business owner, photographer, and entrepreneur, I can safely say I will never be done learning. At any given time, I’m probably reading through around 2-3 business books and working through an educational video series to grow in a specific area of my craft as a photographer or in business. Each year I invest back into myself and my business through education so that I can continue to grow Joy Michelle Photography to its highest potential. When I first started my business, I was able to attend a business-focused workshop where I made friends that ended up working for me and who I still talk to today! I believe that workshop impacted me and really shaped my business for the better. Ever since then, I have been eagerly looking forward to the workshop I would attend.
This past May, I had the honor of attending the Elizabeth Fogarty Workshop at Springfield Manor and Winery. I had worked with Liz as a second photographer for weddings for about a year and knew first hand that her workshop would be something special and straight from her heart. When I arrived, there was a beautiful welcome basket by Marigold & Grey with my name in calligraphy (which I get to look at every day in my office!). Liz and her team created an atmosphere of learning where attendees could ask questions and know she was giving 100% authentic and honest answers, not holding back any of her trade secrets. She shared with complete openness how she went from being a biochemistry major to a full time Wedding Photographer and what that looked like financially. Topics covered throughout the day included branding, pricing, advertising, posing real models and editing, as well as client management.
Guest speaker Katie from KD Creative spoke more in depth about branding, SEO, typography and blogging. Since Katie crafts custom brands and websites for creatives, she was the perfect guest for us all to connect with when it comes to all things branding!
I think I probably drank about 4 of these delicious Izze drinks while listening and taking notes on all the topics covered throughout the day. 😉 Way to go on the snack options too, liz!
After breaking for lunch, there was a romantic styled shoot on the grounds of the winery and I was absolutely blown away by the planning and styling talent by Jenna of Pop The Cork Designs and the rest of the vendors involved! During this time attendees took turns posing and photographing the models, table settings, and details of the shoot.
I’m thrilled to say the images I captured of the styled shoot will be featured on Burnett’s Boards next month and I don’t want to spoil the feature so I will leave you with just 1 image from the shoot.
Workshops are so different from reading a book or watching a youtube video. They allow you to get out and meet people in person, make connections, and establish relationships with vendors in your market. Liz is offering another workshop next month and this one is going to be even MORE packed with awesomeness and includes an overnight stay! What an incredible chance to surround yourself with a community of like-minded business owners. I know she has 1 seat still available. If you’re a photographer looking to connect with other creatives and grow your business, consider grabbing that last ticket!
CREDITS// Elizabeth Fogarty Workshop Styling & Planned by Pop the Cork Design Venue Springfield Manor and Winery Florals: Flourish Floral Artistry Rentals: Party Plus Tents Events Vintage Rentals: Regent at Stonehouse and White Glove Dress: Sarah Seven Paper: Bp Invites Ribbon: Adorn Gift Box: Marigold & Grey Hair: PSC Hair Artistry Makeup: Izzy B Makeup Bowties: Boutaugh Accessories: JaclynJordanNY Cake and Desserts: Fresh Bakes Chocolates: Sweet Meat Chef Plates: Sitting Pretty Vintage Model: Gabrys Wronka & Morgan
