Networking with other Christian Photographers

Last night, I went down to Powell Camera in Covina. I sometimes refer to this shop as the "toy store" because there are so many fun things to see and play with. Mark and Wynn were working last night and I always enjoy bouncing different ideas off on them. I shared with Mark about my desire to start my photography business full force in the Spring, and really after I graduate with my M.Ed. in May. Can I just say that Mark, Betty (Mark's Mom) and Wynn rock? They are three amazing Christians who strive to run an ethical business of selling the best camera and other photographic equipment for anyone from the beginner to the professional. David and I have been loyal customers of theirs for the past 10 years and will never buy our equipment anywhere else. I think I may have convinced Mark to carry Jessica Claire's shootsac's in his shop. I ordered one this week and will take it in for him to see once I receive it. This could be the start of something great. I told Mark that he needs my retail expertise to rub off on him once he moves his shop to it's new location in January.

During my conversation with Mark, I shared with him that while I have been doing my research in getting this business started, I have tried to find other photographers who are Christians. This is important to me, only because we can truly celebrate our special gift of photography which was indeed given to us by our Heavenly Father. I wanted to mention three photographers in particular who I have found that are Christians and I am hoping that over the next few months, I get the opportunity to network with them and ask them questions about how they are able to pursue this business in the sometimes non-ethical world.

The three amazing photographers are the ever so talented Jasmine Star from Orange County. She was the photographer Melissa and Jackson's wedding in October. The next photographer I want to mention is actually a couple who lives out in Tennessee. Amber and Nathan Holritz of Holritz Photography. WOW! They blow me away by some of the shots they get of families just living life to honor the Lord. The third photographer is actually an APU alumni who took the photographs at my co-workers wedding two years ago this month. Melissa Jill lives in Arizona now and she has done so well in developing her photography business and catching some amazing shots. Melissa....if you ever read this blog, I am so proud of you and your accomplishments!

So, that pretty much sums up my evening last night, Almost! Oh, then there is the nine page paper I finally turned in for one of my graduate classes, and I played with my new website for a bit. I went and splurged on a blu domain website, only because it will be more clean, professional, etc.

Again, I am excited to see what will happen with this new adventure over the next few months and even the next few years. I love photography so much and can't wait to have the opportunity to continue what my father started back in the day when he was a professional photographer.

~Peace