I’m more than happy to share some great sites with you! These are a few online resources that I’ve found helpful for my business & professional growth. I hope that you benefit from them as much as I have.
Becoming Certified
If you are looking for my compilation of Certification Resources, you’re almost there. You can also visit CertifiedPhotographer.com for the official low-down on becoming a Certified Professional Photographer.
JD Photo Imaging
My lab of choice. From the first order I submitted, my prints received one-on-one attention and were printed according to high quality standards. With JD Photo, I don’t feel like a nobody — I know my lab, and they know me. Also, when it comes to competition prints, JD Photo does an outstanding job of preparing the images to PPA-approved competition standards.
Animoto
An online service that allows you to create professional quality videos of your images set to music — in minutes! Videos can then be e-mailed, downloaded, exported to YouTube, burned to DVD, and placed on your website, blog or MySpace. Get an extra month free when you purchase a year pro pass (attend a class of mine for the code!).
BackUpandBurn
A phenomenal piece of software for any photographer to own. I use it to download all images from my memory cards. The program not only downloads from multiple cards (to your choice of up to three locations on your computer), but renames the files, and creates a back-up disc as well. Unfortunately, the developer has made the decision to discontinue development of the program, but I believe you can still find it at the RonNichols.com Store.
GNP Frame
If you’re looking for a one stop frame shop, GNP Frame will fill your needs. They provide fully assembled and do-it-yourself frame options, and their pricing structure was designed to keep life simple for you. Use one of the coupon codes below on your first order:
- $20 off your first order of any size (BETSYGC)
- 15% off your first order when you spend $599 or less (BETSY15)
- 20% off your first order when you spend $600 and up (BETSY20)
ImageQuix
Your one-stop shop for online order fulfillment. They provide password-protected online galleries for your clients, and orders can even be sent directly to your lab for fulfillment! Talk about easy! ImageQuix has also developed some website solutions (Flash + HTML templates) if you’re looking for an easy way to get your web presence revitalized.
Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep (NILMDTS)
A non-profit organization that exists to assist families suffering an early infant loss or who have children in hospice situations. The foundation provides Infant Remembrance Photography to families, at no cost, in a sensitive and compassionate manner. In March 2008, NILMDTS was featured on the Today Show. View the clip on our NILMDTS info page.
OurPPA Forum
This forum for professional photographers is run by the Professional Photographers of America (see next resource). While there is a “members-only” section, there are a few sections of the forum open to non-PPA members too. I highly recommend this forum if you are interested in learning about certification, print competition, or just how to improve your business.
Professional Photographers of America
A great resource for professional photographers. It offers a forum and gallery for sharing thoughts and questions with other professionals. The member benefits include an indemnification trust, many education opportunities (including webinars!), and more.
ProPhoto Blogs
An easily customized Wordpress theme for your blog. It’s actually been designed especially for photographers. The ProPhoto blog theme is quick to set up, and easy to navigate on the admin side. Your blog will be up and running in no time when you use ProPhoto! Get $10 off your purchase when you use referral code BETFIN233.
Photography Connect
A forum for professional photographers wanting “something more.” Currently a referral-based community, PhotographyConnect.com exists to provide professional photographers with the opportunity to rekindle enthusiasm about the craft of photography and provides an environment for learning, creativity, and growth.
Photoworkshop.com
A series of bimonthly educational DVD’s — mailed to your studio or home. The main feature of interest for PPA members will be the PPA Merit Assignments. Each month you can access a new assignment — under the “guidance” of well-known and respected photographers (ok, so it’s self-study, but there are video clips to watch). Every two assignments earns you a new service merit.
StudioCloud
A studio management software. Access your business data anytime, anywhere on any device that has a web browser, as well as from your desktop. Their solution includes management software, an online gallery, in-studio projection/sales software, and a workflow manager that are all integrated. StudioCloud offers a free 30 day trial (no obligation). Get $5 dollars off your initial purchase when you mention referral code FINN101.
StudioPlus Software
StudioPlus is the ultimate studio management system. From start-to-finish, StudioPlus is there to manage your clients, appointments, images, and to-dos so that you can keep your mind on doing the job at hand. StudioPlus interfaces with QuickBooks to provide an all-around solution that works like a dream both in the studio and when it comes time to give your accountant the numbers.