Why Continuing Education?

At 51 years old...after nearly 30 years in this industry...and a schedule that some days requires 20 hours...with limited brain cells available anymore...and a budget that always seems to be over because of a unexpected truck or equipment repair, why spend the time and money for continuing education?

Because I am lucky.  I'm lucky because after all these years I still love what I do and despite never ending daily challenges I can't get enough. SO continuing education is like fuel for the fire that burns within. Continuing education is a broad term that covers a multitude of topics.  Events like the WPPA (Wisconsin Professional Photographers Association) Spring convention held last month in Green Bay, WI brings together almost 200 of the midwest's finest photographers for 3 days of print competition, social events, classroom education and encouragement.  The friendships grow each year despite seeing each other in the spring and fall.  Studio owners comparing notes, sharing laughs and troubles.  Continuing education is more than adding to your skill set, it's also about helping and encouraging other in these tough times for the industry.  Events like last weeks After Dark EDU.  4 days of virtually around the clock activities and creative from the nations top mentors and educators.   This event provides an overwhelming amount of opportunity to push yourself to do things you haven't done in the past.  Mentors with styles as different as night and day help you think outside your comfort zone. Fellow studio owners learning as one group with seemingly endless energy and enthusiasm.  Lighting, posing, composition, story telling, equipment, business, marketing and so on are all covered. All pieces to the puzzle that allow you to make a big step forward in your business.

That's why I make time and find a way to pay for continuing education. It makes me happy, inspires me and makes me better...in more ways than one.  Below are a few images I created at these 2 recent events.  Hashtags are over used, but, #luvmyjob!