Man, these PUGs are great...

So last night was yet another amazing and informative PUG (for those of you not in the know this is a Pictage User Group.. I was confused at first too... thought it was the about dog).

Last night Kacie Jean arranged for two incredibly awesome photographers from the East Coast to share with us their business model. Mary and Justin Marantz are two photographers who have taken the idea of loving their clients to a whole other level... it was truly inspiring!! They, like so many other photographers I have come to know, were so open and giving with how they have created their successful business. Their lecture really hit home for me... as some of you may know, I really have two passions in life: one is obviously photography . . . but the other.... Goodie Bags and surprise themed gifts... and last night was the first time I realized I could incorporate BOTH!! I just love the surprise on someone's face when they open a thoughtful little gift they weren't expecting . .especially if it is specific to a moment or theme!! This is going to get me thinking outside the box a little bit more...

Thanks again to Kacie Jean, Mary and Justin (hope you are feeling better)!! You guys rock!

Love,
A

My Awesome . . PUG...

Nope... not the dog. MY PUG stands the "Pictage User Group".

I just had to talk about this amazing group of photographers here in Santa Barbara. Pictage is an awesome company that many professional photographers (myself included) use for their online viewing and ordering galleries. They not only serve a purpose to each photographer individually but they encourage us to build a community.

A little over a year ago I hesitantly attended my first PUG (to be honest it was because they were offering a free album). I was nervous to be in a room with all these SB photographers that were my "competition". How would these people REALLY react to each other... well, words cannot explain how I felt walking out of that first meeting. I had never felt such support, encouragement, and willingness to share. I can honestly say that throughout the past year the friends I've made,the connections I've formed, and the lessons I've learned have not only improved my photography exponentially but improved my life. It's a true community of photographers that meets once a month in order to encourage, inspire, and uplift each other in our business and in our lives!!

Anyways, last night Kacie Jean (fabulous photo friend) organized an incredible meeting that revolved around branding and logos. Danielle Siano gave us such an amazing presentation. I can't wait to implement everything I learned.

May you all find a community that inspires, uplifts, and encourages your passion!!

Love,
A

Sorry... no pics from last night so I thought I would just show you a long lost pic I found recently that I've decided I love... it's an artichoke if you can believe it!! How cool is that!!!