Its MICHELLE, Be BRAVE!!

Your name?
Michelle: Michelle Ocampo Photography
www.michelleocampophotography.com

How long have you been in the photography business?
Michelle: Photographing professionally for a little over a year. However, when I was in high school (back in the day!) I worked in a photo lab developing photos...that has to count for something right?! :)

What is the best advice (Pay It Forward Style) you could give a photographer starting out in the business?
Michelle: Never give out CD's with images on them. Chances are, they will take them to a place that prints a *less* than desirable quality, and that photo now represents your work and talent. I admit...I did it, but never again! So please learn from my mistake!!

What is something you have learned in the past that you carry with you to the present?
Michelle: Just do your best. As long as you do your best in everything in life, you will succeed often and have few regrets!

One thing you just CANT live without?
Michelle: Photography related: My favorite lens of the moment...my 17-50mm 2.8. I also must have my iPod music jamming while editing...I swear my images always come out better when I do! However, on a personal level...my cell phone. I will ALWAYS have it on me!

Your favorite quote?
Michelle: "The brave only die once." My grandfather used to say this...and it's so true!

Wildest Craziest Thing you have done?
Michelle: Okay, so I feel boring having to sit here and "think" about this answer! But I will probably go with the time I went out on a tour off of North Shore, Hawaii where they take you out to shark territory and put you in a shark cage to get up close and personal with the sharks! So you're probably reading this thinking, "oh cool (or not), that's crazy!" Well, the funny part is we didn't see anything, and I got horribly sea sick for the first time...but I had all the intentions of being wild and crazy. And yes, I will SO do it again when I am in Hawaii next time...I'll take puking to be able to be that close with such a mysterious animal!


Who is your hero?
Michelle: My husband...he is perfection to me.

Favorite Picture you took?
Michelle: This is my favorite recent one...I have many favorites in life! I just love seeing the individual grains of sand drifting away in the wind!

*Michelle PIF gifted two jpg cards, you simply size your photo over the card and insert your font type wherever you like (these are so cute)

Link to download cards: Download Cards

*Thank you Michelle for those CUTE cards and interview! -PIF Blogger

Its Mama Shan from Photoshop Mama! PIF Interview

Your name?
Mama: Shan Canfield (aka Photoshop Mama & Mama Shan)

How long have you been in the photoshop business?
Mama: It started in 1998, when I took a Photoshop class. But I remember when the lightbulb exploded in my head--it was at local NAPP/Photoshop seminar, presented by Photoshop gurus, Scott Kelby and Rob Kerr at the Convention Center, in Nashville, Tennessee in 1999. I became so infused with excitement and understanding of the program that I got my ACE Adobe Certified Expert, 2 months later and started teaching Photoshop, in the Summer of 1999, at Nashville State Community College. I created a Web site in 2001, shanzcan.com, where I put up galleries of my work and my students work, along with a lot of very nice printable PDF tutorials, I'd written. I wrote monthly articles on Photoshop techniques for SBS Digital Magazine for over 2 years (many can still be found on Graphics.com). I also contributed several images and techniques to the Photoshop Diva, Katrin Eismann, who graciously published them in three of her books. In 2003, my youngest daughter Nora and I started a Photography/Design business, moidesignstudio.com In January, 2007, I launched a new commercial venture, Mama Shan's Digital Imaging Goodies, LLC, sharing and selling video tutorials and digital imaging products for Photoshop at photoshopmama.net. And so far, this has been the most rewarding venture. I love making video tutorials and creating actions and techniques for the photoretouching workflow! It's still a work in progress but after 9 years of sharing my OPD (Obsessive Photoshop Disorder), it's finally paying off.

What is the best advice (Pay It Forward Style) you could give a photographer starting out in the business?
Mama:
1. Research your market area for products offered and competitive pricing.
2. Write down your goals: service, product, and financial!
3. Be creative! Come up with a unique style, service, and/or product!
4. Visit and participate in photography forums.
5. Go to conventions and/or seminars for photography and digital imaging.
6. Create a Web presence to showcase your work, products, prices, bio, location, and contact info.
7. Be an expert at archiving and batch processing your images. If you can't do it, hire an assistant, who can.
8. This last bit of advice is the most important-- love what you do! Be passionate, confident, tenacious, grateful, and generous and you will be successful and happy!

What things do you have with you at your desktop while you work?
Mama: Coffee in the morning and occasionally a DosEquis or Margaritta on hot summer evenings, Computer, Wide Screen Monitor,Wacom Tablet, DVDs, CDs, Scanner, Printer, Paper & Pens, Desktop Calendar, Calculator, Headphones, USB Microphone.

What is something you have learned in the past that you carry with you to the present?
Mama:Teaching helps you learn faster and better, which falls right in line with the "pay it forward" philosophy. I always advise my students and clients to share something they've learned with a friend or family member. The repetition really helps cement in concepts and techniques.

One thing you just CANT live without?
Mama: My family! My husband, of 31 years, Brett, three grown children, Shayna & her husband, Mike, Nora, Zac, and my grandson, Jonah! I know they're not a piece of equipment or a cool digital toy...but I'd be lost without them.

Your favorite quote?
Mama: Change is inevitable.....except from vending machines!

Wildest Craziest Thing you have done?
Mama: Running down my street naked! Ha...gotcha! That's so NOT true!...it was at Rivergate Mall! LOL!
NOTE: You should have a question that follows this that asks, "What's the smartest thing you have done?" And I'd respond, "Not to "truthfully" publicly divulge the wildest craziest thing I've done!"

Who is your hero?
Mama: Pam Hawkins. Ten years ago, I took a Quark Xpress (desktop publishing) class at Nashville State Community College. Pam was the best teacher I've ever had in my life (and she is still the best teacher at NSCC, today!) My intention was to take only one or two classes. After a semester with her, I was so inspired to go all on board and get my degree in Visual Communications. Pam also inspired me on a personal level. Prior to having her as a role model and teacher, I was chronically late for everything! She made me want to be a much more conscientious individual! Pam was also the Program Coordinator in 1999 and had enough faith and confidence in me to hire me to teach the Advanced Photoshop Class. Pam and I have become best buds, and partners in Photoshop to this day! I just love her!

You do the www.photoshopmama.net , what is your favorite technique in photoshop?
Mama: I'd have to say using Mama's Powder Actions for photo retouching, in Photoshop. It's just so easy and so much darn fun! The actions create a Group/Set and I just brush on the digital powder! Poof! It's done. Here's a link for FREE VIEWING of the process for the All Powders Kit.

If you were on a boat, and stranded in the middle of the ocean, what would you do?
Mama: Take my clothes off, lather up with sunblock, lay out on the deck and be confident the "Save the Whales Organization," would rescue me!

And Mamas not done! (this is awesome btw)
*Here's a link for FREE VIEWING of my video tutorial on how to create a LensBaby Effect and use a Gradient Map, in Photoshop!

*And here's a zipped folder containing a nice pdf tutorial and image for using Adjustment Layers to colorize a Black and White image-- Mama Shan
Link to download: http://www.gigasize.com/get.php/-1100027927/bw2col.zip

*Thank you to Mama Shan for the interview and awesome PIF gifts! The save the whales comment has me rolling, LOL! -PIF Blogger

Link to Photoshop Mama: Photoshopmama.net

Did you wonder what happened to us??

little internet service provider difficulties, and backed up on work (had a few photoshoots this weekend) , we will get some fun stuff going here shortly :o) If you emailed us and havent heard from us, please email again. We dont want to miss anyones emails (we get a few).

Thanks for reading the blog and if ya by chance feel like paying it forward and you feel like today is the day to do it, COME ON DOWN! We LOVE for you too contribute!

Melissa is paying it forward, with a..........

simple 4x6 sloppy border!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Link to download:

http://www.gigasize.com/get.php/-1100062736/4X6_pay_it_back_border.psd

*thank you Melissa for paying it forward, its AWESOME!! PIF Blogger

Nominate someone for an interview on the Pay It Forward Blog!

We have interviews lined up for about a week and a half left, then there might be a dry spell, we at PIF do not want that to happen, if you know of a company or someone, who you would love to see on the blog interviewed, or if your reading this and you might be interested in giving advice and a PIF gift (not mandatory but goes along with the theme here), let us know. We want to hear from YOU! EMAIL us at pifphoto@gmail.com

Thanks to all for an extremely giving, sharing of advice, and just all around awesome month on the pay it forward blog. We are amazed at how generous you guys are.

Remember, that when one takes, we hope that person will give too : "Paying it Forward refers to repaying the good deeds that one has received by doing good things for other unrelated people"

All the best, and thanks a million, this is AMAZING,
PIF Blogger

First Ten Contest with JLee Album

Winner List for the Jlee mini accordion Album Contest with PIF Blog is....

1. Melissa Arroyo
2. Lori williams
3. Anne Zimmerer
4. Kelli Jane Seeley
5. Jenn Ketcham
6. Joyce Blackson
7. Sara DeBauche
8. Lara Moss
9. Wendy Whitacre
10. Marie Gaona

*Thank you to all those that entered, you guys were lightening fast!!!! Your information is being forward to Jie @ http://www.jleealbums.com/

*Thank you to Jie for this AWESOME contest!!!!

Contest over!!!

wow, that was quick you guys are super fast, will post results shortly :0) Thanks to all that entered!!!
-pif blogger

On your mark, get set, GO GO GO GO GO!!!! CONTEST

CONTEST FROM http://www.jleealbums.com/

FIRST TEN WHO EMAILS at pifphoto@gmail.com gets one mini accordion.

YOU Must email your first and last name along with your mailing address and email to win!!!

Picture copyrighted to http://www.jleealbums.com/

Link to mini accordion albums: http://www.jleealbums.com/store/product_info.php?cPath=65&products_id=254

*Up to 12 prints can be attached to this album. Fits 2.5x2.5 or smaller prints. Prints need to be dry mounted with adhesive.

Winners will be announced in new blog entry :)

Jie from, www.jleealbums.com , this company just ROCKS!

Your name?
Jie: Jie Zhu Lee

How long have you been in business?
Jie: 2 years

What is the best advice (Pay It Forward Style) you could give a photographer starting out in the business?
Jie: Make sure that it is worth it. There is an opportunity cost for everything.

What is something you have learned in the past that you carry with you to the present?
Jie: Be humble and be grateful for everything you have. No one makes it on their own but don't expect any handouts :)

One thing you just CANT live without?
Jie: Ice tea.

Your favorite quote?
Jie: There is no such thing as a free lunch. My boss told me this on my first day of work right after college. He took me lunch and as we were talking about my career aspirations, he quoted this to me. I think it really says something when the guy buying your lunch is telling you that there is no such thing as a free lunch. And I don't expect any :)

Wildest Craziest Thing you have done?
Jie: Sheesh, I am just a simple girl. Oh wait, I married my husband :)

Who is your hero?
Jie: Really, too many to name. But definitely my mom.

Tell us a little bit about your company http://www.jleealbums.com/store/ ?
Jie: We sell photo albums to photographers ;) After looking everywhere for a session album, I realized that there is a limited amount of options (that I like anyway) out there. With the encouragments from fellow photographers, I dived in and the rest is history. I think part of the reason that my albums are well received is that I listen to my customers. Isn't that a smart idea? Listening to the needs of the people that will use your products? More items will be added to my product in the next couple of months. I think I finally convince myself that we are here to stay.

Links: http://www.jleealbums.com/store/

And Jie at JLEE albums is hooking it up with a contest paying it forward! Contest details coming up!!! SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO EXCITING!!!! Are you ready??????????

*thank you to Jie for the interview and contest pif gift!! PIF Blogger :O)

Interview and contest coming up...

here shortly :o) FUN FUN FUN

Baby, Baby, Baby................

5x7 card, with 3x3 pic inserts

Boy version, if you dont want the swirls, you can delete that layer to make it more boyish :)
Link to download: http://www.gigasize.com/get.php/-1100067581/maibabyboytemplate.psd

Girl Version:
Link to download:http://www.gigasize.com/get.php/-1100067572/maibabygirltemplate.psd
Free to use for you photography business or personal use, not to be sold as a template.

Friday is contest day, and its going to be a "BIG DEAL"

Interview and contest on friday, keep your eyes peeled, one hint for friday "First Ten". And the prize IS ROCK'N :o)

Its Marilyn today!! Be FEARLESS!

Your name?
Marilyn: Marilyn Sholin

How long have you been in the photography business? Marilyn: I hate to tell you!! Started my business from home in 1979 and opened my first 800 sq foot studio in 1982. In 1986 moved to 1200 sq foot studio on main street and in 1993 moved to 2600 sq foot studio with four employees. Gave all that up in 2000 and moved everything back to my home but work only on location for shooting, sales and delivery. Have one full time employee and LOVE and I mean LOVE how I work now! Low volume and a mix of art, photography and teaching.


What is the best advice (Pay It Forward Style) you could give a photographer or painter starting out in the business?
Marilyn: Education! I wish that more of it was available when I started out. Join the local and state professional associations and be active in them. Network and learn. Go to hands on workshops as much as possible and that will help the bottom line faster than anything else.

What is something you have learned in the past that you carry with you to the present?
Marilyn: My own quote which is to: BE FEARLESS. Don't be afraid to change and try new things. I have learned to make my mistakes turn into assets by learning from them and I have no fear of being wrong as I will always learn something from the experience. I don't worry about what others will think, but stay true to myself instead. And also, to always help others to succeed and it comes back to you in a positive way.

One thing you just CANT live without?
Marilyn: My Treo cell phone so I can get my email and have my schedule and contacts with me. I would be lost without it. Add sushi to the list and my life is complete.

Your favorite quote?
Marilyn: Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up. PICASSO
Actually, I have a lot of quotes I love and they help to validate my feelings, but this one has a way of reminding me to stay open to my feelings.

Wildest Craziest Thing you have done?
Marilyn: Gee, put that on the internet for everyone to read? I don't think so! Many thought I was crazy when I closed my studio, but I proved them wrong!

Who is your hero?
Marilyn: Other than Batman? I had to sit and think about this a long time. Heroes are few and far between.
I think I will say my mother who at the end of her life showed a strength I never knew she had. She also was one of my biggest fans and supporters of my pursuing the art side of my life.

Favorite Picture that you painted?
Marilyn: I would have to say that I always feel good looking at my Bourbon Balcony painting that was the cover of Rangefinder. I never get tired of it. I love painting my City Art series as it allows tremendous freedom and expression for me. I am trying to take that freedom feeling over to my portrait paintings now.

Tell us a little bit about the field your in for Painting?
Marilyn: Learning COREL PAINTER brought such happiness into my life I can't explain it. I never was this happy as just a portrait photographer. I finally feel that I can put life into my photographs and turn them into art. I feel like a kid exploring the software and all the things it can do. The best thing I did was to learn how to use this and I get a great deal of satisfaction watching it change other lives in the same way. There is nothing more thrilling than to see teach this and see lightbulbs go on over peoples heads in the room as they begin to "get it". My clients appreciate me so much more now that I paint for them and I am thrilled to see the paintings on their walls.


LINKS: http://www.digitalpaintingforum.com/
http://www.marilynsholin.com/ (this site is under a huge renovation but has the most information)

Marilyn on her PIF Gift: I am sharing with your members my Marilyn PAINTER BRUSHES Sampler! The zip file is attached with instructions for how to install in Painter. These brushes should work in version 7 and up, but if there are any problems, please have members email me directly. These brushes are either ones I created in Painter or are my variants on brushes in Painter with my special settings for using them.

link to download: http://www.gigasize.com/get.php/-1100071352/Install_Brushes_Painter.zip

*Thank you to Marilyn and her generous pif gift, it was such a joy to interview you! PIF Blogger

Photoshop Mama has created this special sample set of eyelashes copyrighted by Lance Lenoir from the original set of 21 lash styles,Lance Lenoir designed these beautiful and very useful lashes.
The full set of lashes are available at http://www.photoshopmama.net/ plus other
great products there that are great additions to your Photoshop collection.

Link to download: http://www.gigasize.com/get.php/-1100063997/Lenoir_Comp_Brushes.zip

*Thank you to Photoshop Mama/Lance Lenior for the lash pif gift. PIF Blogger

Give me a *S*, Give me a *U*, ITS SUSAN Interview today! Vendor review style ;)

Your name?
Susan: Susan H. Robichaud

How long have you been in the photography business?
Susan: Started my business officially in July 2004 (was portfolio-building from April-July)

What is the best advice (Pay It Forward Style) you could give a photographer starting out in the business?
Susan: Remember those who are helping you by helping out those who come after you. It isnt about how much of the market share you can grab for yourself, it is about having a collegial relationship with your fellow photographers. If someone helps you, you should help someone else. Dont delete those emails from newbies when YOU are the "expert". Just because they seem like "silly" questions once you know the answers, doesnt mean that that they dont deserve a response.

What is something you have learned in the past that you carry with you to the present?
Susan: Dont be a jerk. It will come back at you someday. It will.

One thing you just CANT live without?
Susan: Photography-wise? For some reason I *MUST* have battery grips on all my bodies, even my film bodies. I just always spend the extra couple hundred, even though I have never had a battery issue (and I have 7 backup batteries). I'm just used to them now.

Your favorite quote?
Susan: "Uh, yeah, well, my grandmother just dropped acid and hijacked a schoolbus full of penguins, so its kind of a family emergency. can you come back later?" (ok, I loved the 80s and I constantly quote movies. This line is from Better Off Dead, where Cusack is accosted by the "I want my 2 dollars" paperboy. Cracks me up just thinking of it.

Wildest Craziest Thing you have done?
Susan: After I graduated from college, I packed my car with my clothes, my TV and my dog and moved to DC from Kansas City. I had no job, no money and didnt know one person in the entire area. It was great for me, taught me all about self-sufficiency and how to be my own best friend.

Who is your hero?
Susan: Anyone who gets through the day without hurting anyone.
Favorite Picture you took?
Susan: This was hard. I wanted to be able to post one of my kids, but since they are not my most cooperative subjects, I picked an easier one. This is Andy, he was 8 days on the day I took this shot. A little hard to get his unmentionables to stay covered, but I liked the way he looked pretty comfy in Daddy's hands.

















You do the Vendor review site, how does that work?
Susan: The Photog Vendors Review site is definitely my most-controversial project. Most people see it for what it is: a resource to consult when making financial decisions on a purchase. Unfortunately, there are people who want to sling arrows at me b/c they dont like the way I set it up. I dont strive to make people like that happy, that wouldnt be possible, they want everyone else to be miserable like them. I dont waste energy on them

The reviews can be anonymous (useful when reviewing a vendor who is well-received in other places but not the best investment for your hard-earned cash), or you can use your name or initials. Emails are not tracked, but IPs are. I check carefuilly to be sure the same person isnt stirring up trouble by posting again and again.

I encourage people to use the site as another tool in the decision-making process. Dont rely on it entirely. People *do* have agendas, and they can post negatively for reasons other than disatification with the product. Just use your best judgment.

Link to Photog Vendor Reviews: http://www.photogvendors.wordpress.com/
Its so not over, SUSAN is PIF and giving some BORDERS!!!!!! (and they ROCK!)


















Link to download: http://www.gigasize.com/get.php/-1100098503/LGPborders.zip

Links:
*Photog Vendor Reviews (http://www.photogvendors.wordpress.com/)
* Susan H. Robichaud Photography (http://www.susanrobichaud.com/)
* Art is Life E-Workshops and Safaris (http://www.artislifementoring.com/)

*We would like to thank Susan for the interview/PIF gift and for all her hard work on the vendor review site!
PIF Blogger

Come on down Tara, your the winner for the 411marketsource.com PIF PRIZE!

Here is her entry:

Tara:

My BIL is mentally handicap. During the summer and after school he goes to a "farm" that a bunch of people like him go and some live. They have dances and other social events every so often. A lot of these people(some are kids) have no family or no family that visits them. This year my BIL graduated high school. There were several of his buddies that graduated also. None of them had senior pics done. I felt like these wonderful,sweet people deserved their lives to be documented. So, I have had several meetings with the "board" that oversees the "farm" and we have solved this problem. I took senior photos for all of the graduating seniors, and gave them photos for them and their friends. I will also be their new photogrpaher for all of their events. They have a "prom" twice a year and I will be there to take formal pics. I will do this all for free for the individuals and the "farm" will pay me cost for any photos they want for yearbooks and such. This is a photo I took of my BIL for his senior photos.

Prize won: $200.00 in advertising credits at: http://411marketsource.com/artanddesign/cindex.asp?id=photographers

*Tara, I am amazed at your generous soul, thank you for all that you do and continue to do for these amazing people at the farm,

PIF blogger

*Thank you to 411marketsource.com for the generous prize donation and this contest.

Dont forget to enter the contest!! FUN STUFF!

Contest Contest Contest! w/ 411marketsource!!!
Okay, heres the contest scoop with details (that kinda came out funny, lol)

*Take a picture of you doing a charitable deed. Pretty easy, paying it forward by doing something nice for someone else and documenting it with a picture!!Winner will recieve..... can i get a drum roll..............................$200 in free advertising credits FROM 411marketsource!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

*Thank you Tammy @ 411 marketsource, EXCITING!!!

ends this friday!!!

Brad Gives us advice for the PIF blog!!!

Your name:

Brad Buttry

How long in the photography business?

Brad: I've always loved photography -- I remember my first 35mm back in the 80s. A Canon AE-1 Program. I am a graphic artist and photographer and have been shooting seriously for about 3 years I guess.

What is the best advice (Pay It Forward Style) you could give a photographer starting out in the business?

Brad: Don't give up! Stay determined and take lots of pictures. Also, one of the best things to do is study other photographers work. Look at other sites on the web and visually compare your photos with other professional photographers. What makes them stand out? What poses look better? Study the lighting and try to duplicate what their doing.

Piece of equipment you just CANT live without?

Brad: Canon EF 100-400mm IS USM lens! Love it! Also, my computer and PHOTOSHOP (did I mention Photoshop?) AND my WACOM tablet.

What's three things you keep at your desk while you work?

Brad: My trusty WACOM Intuous tablet (for painting), my collection of jazz music, and lots of starbuck coffee! (No phones allowed!!!!)

Your favorite quote?

Brad: "To invent, you need a good imagination and a pile of junk." Thomas A. Edison

Your a virtual Oil painter, what is your favorite picture you have done so far?

Brad: My youngest daughter is so full of character and loves to pose for photographs. This is a photograph I captured of her in a country scene. I call it Country Girl.

Website:http://www.mmkgraphics.com/

DVD Tutorials:http://www.mmkgraphics.com/tutorials/virtualpaint.html

Upcoming Workshop:http://www.mountainlearning.com/Workshops.html

Interview coming up......

hmmmmmm, its a toss up, maybe a girl or a boy...... be a surprise :o)

Toni Toni Toni, rocking the pif train!

Toni submitted these and she is awesome!

Link to download:
http://www.gigasize.com/get.php/1650227/Toni_12x12_2.psd


Link to download:


http://www.gigasize.com/get.php/1650178/Toni_12x12_1.psd

*thank you toni for pif, these rock!

Love this music, Plain White T's

Love it.

Myspace:

http://www.myspace.com/plainwhitets

Contest EXTENDED!

Contest with 411marketsource.com EXTENDED for another whole week! We figured that some may have a tough time getting their charitable deeds with a quick snap of a pic complete in a short amount of time, SO YOU GOT ANOTHER WEEK FOR THAT $200 credit for free advertising from 411marketsource.com!
Examples of charietable deeds for pics: Son taking out the trash, husband washing moms car, photographer helping a old lady across the street, mowing the neighbors yard, lets see what you can come up with *wink* *wink*. You can make it funny, or serious, whatever your hearts desire!!

Nichole , Paying it Forward, Texture Style!

How long in the photography business?
Nichole: Just a year officially, but I’ve been an amateur enthusiast for about the last 9 years, moving from film to digital.

What is the best advice (Pay It Forward Style) you could give a photographer starting out in the business?
Nichole: Learn the rules and all the technical stuff, and then feel free to break them all! You need a solid base in aperture, shutter speed, focal length and all that. You need to know all the old school rules. Only then can you manipulate and break them and find your unique style. And enjoy the journey along the way. The learning curve of becoming a photographer is a wonderful, exhilarating thing!
Oh and buy the best lens you can afford! Lenses make more difference than anything else!

Piece of equipment you just CANT live without?
Nichole: My Canon 85 f1.2L lens . . . . . it makes me soooooo happy!

Oh and my rocket blower . . . . that thing keeps all my equipment clean and out of the camera repair shop!

What’s three things you keep at your desk while you work?
Nichole: Chocolate, chocolate, oh and uhmmmmmm . . . . . . . . more chocolate

Your favorite quote?
Nichole: “There’s no Photoshop action for bad photography!” I honestly can’t remember who said that to me, but I think about it all the time. I think that I want to rely on Photoshop to make my photos great, but a great photo is amazing right out of the camera. It’s really forced me to continually challenge myself technically.

Favorite technique to do in photoshop?
Nichole: My actions . . . . especially my soft pop action! lol!
No, that’s not true, the liquify tool rocks my world! I love it more than words can express.

Your favorite photo that you took?
Nichole: Uhmmmmmm, just one?!


Love this one!!

Links:
www.actions.nicholeV.com


and she is PIF with a texture action!!!


Link to download:
http://www.gigasize.com/get.php/-1100159334/NicholeVan_Texture.zip

*thanks to Nichole for PIF!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This texture ROCKS!

heads up, interview coming up!

Another chickadee with a WHOLE lotta action going on her name starts with a N (can you guess?), and something special from another chickadee, Toni Toni Toni, sharing a couple templates...........all paying it forward style, coming to YOU soon!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (which means I have to get organized and get the stuff together before i post :o) ha ha)

Bobbiea, lovely person and so generous all the time sharing templates and other fun stuff! Here she is......

This summary is not available. Please click here to view the post.

Interview coming up, can you guess who?

Its a she, and her name starts with a B.................................

Contest Contest Contest! w/ 411marketsource!!!

Okay, heres the contest scoop with details (that kinda came out funny, lol)

*Take a picture of you doing a charitable deed. Pretty easy, paying it forward by doing something nice for someone else and documenting it with a picture!!

Winner will recieve..... can i get a drum roll..............................

$200 in free advertising credits FROM 411marketsource!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

*Thank you Tammy @ 411 marketsource, EXCITING!!!

Contest starts today, ends friday June 8th at midnight.

Its a Interview From 411marketsource.com (Tammy) and a CONTEST DAY!

Your name?

Name: Tammy Cobb

Tell us a little bit about your company and what its all about?

411marketsource offers a directory for you to list your business to help others find you and a directory for all of those wonderful resources for photographers that we love so much!
*Listings are searchable by city, state, zip code and keywords!
*All basic listings are free!
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What is the best marketing advice you could give a photographer starting out in the buisness?
Tammy: List your business with 411marketsource.com. :)

What is something you have learned in the past that you carry with you to the present?
Tammy: We are never guaranteed anymore than the moment we have right now. Make them all count

One thing you just CANT live without?
Tammy: Vegetables...I love them all...especially cucumbers! I actually love veggies so much that I like to eat my salads after my meals because they are more like a dessert! lol

Favorite tunes to listen to when working?
Tammy: I like quiet when I work. :) It takes very little to distract me...lol

Your favorite quote?
Tammy: Live, Love, Laugh

Wildest Craziest Thing you have done?
Tammy: Don't you just love it when your memory fails you? lol All the things I could say, I won't...lol ;) Other than that, I'm pretty vanilla...lol (PIF BLOGGER SAYS "no fair" ;) LOL )

Who is your hero?
Tammy: My brother. He was always there for me...always so loyal and protective. We also had so much in common and could just talk forever. And now my sons....they have turned out just like him.

Favorite Photo that you took?

Links:
411marketsource Photographer Directory - http://411marketsource.com/artanddesign/cindex.asp?id=photographers

411marketsource Vendor Directory for Photographer Resources - http://411marketsource.com/photographerresources/default.asp

And of course its not over!! 411marketsource is PIF doing a contest (PIF LOVES CONTEST)!! Details, coming up!

Prophotogs.com Second contest WINNER! Meet that Girl........

Winning Entry

Your name?
Tara: Tara Jackson

What is something you have learned in the past that you carry with you to
the present?
Tara: Everyday is a new day. Dont spend your days upset aboutyour yesterdays


One thing you just CANT live without?

Tara: Cell phone

Favorite tunes to listen to when working?

Tara:Kelly Clarkson, John Mayer,Rascall Flatts

Your favorite quote?

Tara: "I dont"t know the key to success, but the key tofailure is trying to please everybody" Bill Cosby

Wildest Craziest Thing you have done?

Tara: Skinny dipping(is that ok to put?)

Who is your hero?

Tara: All moms, SAH or working.

*congrats to Tara for her entry, perfect symbolization for paying it forward!!!

Kristin, Paying it Forward, another Card Template, woohoo!

Flower Card template:
Link to download:
http://www.gigasize.com/get.php/-1100186553/flower_card.zip

*many thanks to Kristin for the beautimous card and for PIF!!!!

Jennifer riding the Pay It Forward Train......

Jennifer submitted this template, pif style, ENJOY!!!!




www.jenniferjacula.com
www.cardobsession.com

Link to download:

http://www.gigasize.com/get.php/-1100186834/simpleyellow.psd

*many thanks to Jennifer for PIF!!

I have a bunch of stuff to post, many are paying it forward

sending in templates and such (you guys are amazing), I will post those shortly. Busy blogger over here, I love it!

Second contest winner will be posted shortly (hopefully, lol) as soon as their interview is complete.

whew, tons more coming, and ANOTHER CONTEST! Its a surprise, and they are FABULOUS!!!! :o)

And, (we are about to hit 10,000 visits!!!! )

thank you guys, this blog is rocking because of you and your contributions! You guys RULE!

Prophotog.com Winner(one of them)! Nancy shows us PIF style with her entry for the contest!

Your name?

Nancy: Nancy Armstrong

What is something you have learned in the past that you carry with you to the present?

Nancy: One thing my grandma used to always say, "If you see something you really want just buy it because it might not be there if you go back later". I think that this carries true for other things too. It may not be what you want to buy but something you feel or want.

One thing you just CANT live without?

Nancy: The Internet...I am so lost without it!Favorite tunes to listen to when working? Music from Grey's Anatomy. If I really want to get things done though then I listen to Black Eyed Peas.

Your favorite quote?
Nancy: "Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference" Winston Churchill.

Wildest Craziest Thing you have done?

Nancy: I am the mother of two small children...wild and crazy takes on a whole new meaning these days LOL. As a teen though I worked at a summer camp. On our off night we played slip and slide with trash bags at the local golf course while the sprinklers were on. Crazy huh? LOL

Who is your hero?

Nancy: Someone I really admire is photographer Tara Whitney. Not only is she an inspiring photographer she is the mother of four children and I always wonder how she does it all. Honestly though seeing Tara's work a few years ago on her scrapbook pages at Two Peas inspired me to take a photograpy course and learn more.

Winning Entry For Prophotog.com Contest:

*Congrats to you Nancy, perfect symbolization for paying it forward and we will be sending your info to prophotogs.com, ENJOY!

Contest Winners will be posted soon!

Tons of stuff to share this week. We will post the winners soon today. Thank you to all the participants, you all captured beautiful shots.

Contest Entry ends at midnight TONIGHT!

Dont forget to send in those entries by midnight, I cant believe how amazing the turnout has been. You guys rocking the cameras and Sending in awesome photos! You did it on purpose , huh??? to make it harder on the judging, its all a conspiracy, I KNOW IT! :o)

Its Amy, yeah yeah, Its Amy!

Your name:
Amy: Amy Wenzel

How long have you been in the photography business?
Amy: 3 years

If you were on a boat, the motor goes out, your stuck in the middle of the ocean, whats one thing you will have with you that you just cant live without?
Amy: My husband. He's my best friend. Plus we'd have one more adventurous story to tell our grandchildren if we survived the tragic boat problem.

Piece of equipment you cant live without?
Amy: I'm going to list 2 things I can't live without if thats okay. The first thing is a really fast lens. I'd never make it in all those low light situations without my 50mm 1.4 and my 24-70mm 2.8. And I could NEVER live without Photoshop. It brings the magic to my images.

What is the best advice (Pay It Forward Style) you could give a photographer starting out in the business?
Amy: I could go on and on! Take risks. Never let your fear hold you back. Search your heart and only focus your creative energies on the things you truly want to do...not the things you feel you SHOULD do. Always play to your strengths. Don't be afraid to say NO. Excellent photo editing skills are a MUST in this industry. Invest in proofing actions, take workshops, experiment a ton and learn all that you can about Photoshop. Respect your clients and form friendships with them. After all, you wouldn't be where you are without them. And remember that in life, what goes around comes around.

Whats three things you have at your desk while working?
Amy: A tall jug of water to keep me hydrated, my list of goals taped on the wall next to me, and a large supply of sticky notes.

Who is your hero?
Amy: My heros are Moms with young kids who run the photo business. I don't know how they do it!

Favorite picture that you took?

Links:

http://www.amywenzel.com/ My Website
http://www.swissmisscards.com/ My Creative Card Designs for Photographers

And....she made a card template specially for PAY IT FORWARD!

Link to download:

http://www.gigasize.com/get.php/-1100212399/BirthAnnouncement.psd

*Thanks to Amy for PIF and the lovely template!