What's the worst month to schedule your portraits?

August. Why August? Because August has the very best weather. Everyone else wants the August dates for themselves!

Picture this...

There you are on a leisurely late July afternoon, lounging by the pool, sipping on lemonade, when it occurs that you still need to get your family portraits or senior grad portraits done within the next month...August.

You open your calendar while calling your photographer, and suddenly find yourself in the middle of a battlefield, with every available photography date fiercely contested. News flies in from the front. The 17th and 24th have fallen, and the 31st is missing in action. Victory over the 10th could be yours, but you can't rally the troops in time.

 It's a showdown of epic proportions as families, couples, and high school students scramble to secure that coveted slot amidst the August chaos. Who knew that the very month synonymous with end-of-the-season relaxation would become a battleground for portrait bookings?

Am I exaggerating? Okay, maybe a little...but not as much as you might think!

Here's the point: If you're planning to capture those precious memories against the backdrop of August's sun-kissed summer days, it's time to channel your inner strategist, rally the troops, and plan ahead. In the unpredictable world of portrait photography, timing truly is everything. 

Disclaimer: No clients were harmed in the making of this image. Never would we ask our clients to pose for a photograph with real dragons or deranged warrior elves. 

2023 year-in-review

Our deepest gratitude goes to all the wonderful clients who made our business dreams come true this past year. Thank you to everyone in Snohomish County and beyond who chose us for their business, family, and senior grad portraits!

Happy New Year! We do this for you!

This family did **what* during daughter's grad portrait session?

Once in a lifetime, there comes a moment when a family realizes the time they've spent together under one roof is coming to an end. For the Johnsons, that moment arrived when their eldest daughter, Emily, was about to graduate from high school. Determined to seize this last, unique opportunity, they decided to do something extraordinary - they combined their family portrait with Emily's graduation session. What they ended up with were portraits Emily was proud to post on Senior Sunday and personalized family wall art of those precious fleeting years that still live on in their home to this day.

** While the names in this story were changed, the story these families all share is true. **

In the midst of the chaos and excitement that often surrounds the final year for a high school student, we recognize that this is also a major life transition for a family that should never be overlooked. For some parents, it is the hint of the end coming as the firstborn leads the way out of the nest, knowing the other children will soon follow. For other parents, this is the youngest child finally stepping into their own and marking the final chapter in the greatest family adventure.

Any moment now, the lives of everyone in your family are about to change and diverge. Your lives will weave and intersect as you go, but they will never come back together as they are here and now.

• What will ground these beautiful connections you have shared? 

• What will remind each and every one of them about this special place and time?

• What will point them home?

We understand that graduation is not just about the individual; it's about celebrating the love, support, and togetherness that brought each graduate to this point...it is about the family too! This is why Jared M. Burns Photography offers complimentary portrait sessions to the families of senior grads! This means, that when you book with us for a senior grad portrait session, we welcome you to reserve a little time for your family to have a portrait. For most families, 20-30 minutes is all it takes and there is no extra cost.

Achievements, milestones, and memories go hand-in-hand. This is why we believe art is prestigious, but family art is preeminent.

Here are the TWO things we cannot do for you. We cannot stop the rain from coming in the next 4-5 weeks and we cannot stop the kids from growing up fast. However, we can help you preserve this special moment if you act before this season comes to a close.

This is a moment your family can never return to.

Don't miss it.

We can help you keep it!

Snohomish photographer cracks time barrier, seeing into the past

SNOHOMISH, WA - In a mind-bending discovery that could put H.G. Wells to shame, businessman and self-proclaimed Time Photographer, Jared M. Burns, has unveiled an astonishing breakthrough in the art of photography. Burns claims to have stumbled upon a peculiar contraption during one of his late-night eBay escapades - a $7000 piece of equipment from overseas that allegedly allows him to capture moments in the past.

"This ain't your grandma's camera," Burns quipped while adjusting his fedora and twirling an imaginary time-traveler's mustache. "I like to call it the 'TemporalSnapper.'"

According to Burns, the manual for the TemporalSnapper - translated from an ancient, obscure dialect only decipherable to multilingual parrots - outlines its use of time-flip technology, chrono-cogs, and quantum hamsters (don't ask) to create images that transcend the constraints of spacetime.

"It's all about nailing the 'when' as well as the 'what' in the exact same moment," Burns explained with a sly grin. "You know you've done it when the image starts whispering 'tick-tock'."

But here's the kicker that will excite most: Families who have their portraits made by Burns today will then in five, ten, or twenty years be able to revisit their yesteryears each and every time they view the mind-boggling time image.

Naturally, our skeptical minds couldn't resist probing deeper into this temporal enigma. We summoned the Jenkins family to be part of a live demonstration. As Burns snapped a portrait of the Jenkins, the beautiful family moment was converted into time art right before our very eyes. Within seconds, the family also reviewed the temporal image for themselves, and the youngest daughter, Emma, exclaimed, "Mom, Dad, that is me from just a moment ago!"

"It's like magic, but tangible magic we can hang on our wall!" muttered Mrs. Jenkins in a distant tone of wonder.

And if you think this all sounds too fantastical to be true, we've got the science to back it up. Documenting every single step, a team of researchers from MIT had Burns create a portrait of them using the TemporalSnapper. Just two hours later, when Burns revealed the results, the scientists confirmed they were indeed seeing two hours into the past.

Word is spreading fast about Burns' time-warping talents, and the quaint town of Snohomish is buzzing with newfound excitement. Client after client validates Burns' claims with similar stories of how he made it possible for each of them to jump the time barrier to the past.

All of our best attempts to get our hands on the TemporalSnapper were foiled. Further study and reverse engineering will not be possible. Burns never lets it out of his sight, nor will he provide any hints as to how it really works.

So there you have it, dear readers - a one-of-a-kind mechanical device that can whisk you away to the good ol' days in a snap, all for the price of a decent used car. Who needs a phone booth or a Tardis when you've got Jared M. Burns and his wonderous TemporalSnapper? He may not have a Ph.D. in theoretical physics, but he's definitely earned a degree in Temporal Imagery.

Now the past is only a pixel away!

Temporal results are 100% guaranteed or your money back!

Disclaimer: Time Travel is dangerous and The Snohomish Gazette urges readers to exercise extreme caution with any device claiming to be a TemporalSnapper. Previous owners of the TemporalSnapper who dared to use it on their own discovered they themselves were missing from the resulting family image.

But pets are family too!

Hey there, human buddy!

It's me, your furry family member, and I've got something important to say. When you gather around for those special family portraits, please don't forget to include me! Yep, I'm talking about your favorite pet with the wagging tail and the wet nose—the one who brings so much love, laughter, and endless cuddles into your lives. Trust me, including me in those family portraits is more than just a photo op; it's a way to celebrate the one-of-a-kind bond we share and the memories we've made together.

Picture this: **SQUIRREL!!**

Picture this: all of us, side by side, our faces beaming with joy and mischief. I'll be there, with my tail wagging a mile a minute, showcasing my best photogenic poses. I may not know where to set my backside down, but you can help me with that hard part! Maybe I'll even give a few sloppy kisses to make everyone laugh!

I'm not just a pet; I'm an irreplaceable member of this pack! From the moment you brought me home, I've been there through thick and thin. Remember the times when I cuddled up with you during movie nights or chased my tail in circles, providing endless entertainment? How about those moments when I licked away your tears or greeted you with enthusiastic tail wags after a long day? I loved being there for you.

So, when it's time to strike a pose, please don't forget to give me the spotlight I deserve. I already know this family revolves around me so let's just go with it and capture all the joy and love that I represent in this pack. Those moments captured in the portrait will forever remind us of the love, happiness, and crazy adventures we've shared as a family.

I will look amazing, dashing, lovable, and dare I say, simply paw-some in the wall portrait! Oh, yes, and you all will look nice too. 

 - Your favorite pet

P.S. I made a little packing list for you...

• ☑ Treats

• ☑ Food 

• ☑ Food made of treats 

• ☑ Extra treats, just in case

• ☑ A crinkly bag to store it all in so I know when it is time for treats

Top 10 Questions Parents of Senior Grads Ask

1. How far in advance should we book a session for our grad?

   • About 2+ months in advance during the busy summer season.

2. What should we consider when selecting a senior grad photographer?

   • Does your grad like and connect with the photographer? Would the style represent them? If these things click, you will have much better success with the final portraits. The only way to find out is through an in-person meeting.

3. How much?

   • How much for what? No, seriously. Everyone's goals for the end results are as different as their grad student is unique. Some parents invest around $1000 and some invest $7000 or more. Know your end goals. Know what these memories are worth to you. With further conversation and understanding, your photographer can guide you to an idea of what to expect cost-wise.

4. Can we request a specific location for the senior grad photo shoot and are there travel costs?

   • Yes, we love to work with you whenever we can! Travel to nearby locations is included. There will be normal expenses for places a little further out. Travel inside the US is included with our Epic Destination options.

5. How many outfit changes are typically allowed during the session?

   • It is not about "what is allowed" as much as it is about how much time you want in front of the camera versus time changing. We generally recommend 2-3 outfits for a 2-hour session.

6. Can we include family members or friends in some of the senior grad photos?

   • Yes! We now allow parents to designate a portion of their grad sitting for family or friends if they like. Typically that looks like 90 minutes dedicated to the grad and 30 minutes to the family or friend.

7. Can we customize our package with prints or albums from the photographer?

   • Yes, we abandoned traditional "set packages" a long time ago. We are a full-service provider, meaning prints, albums, and framed artwork, and are all available to you. It is all about complete solutions for our clients. We also provide other amazing products you may not have seen yet and cannot get access to anywhere else! Our goal is that you purchase the images you love on the products you truly want in your home.

8. Are digital copies of the photos included, or do we need to purchase them separately?

   • We are very proud of the fact that we are among the few "Full Service" portrait providers in our region, meaning people choose us for the amazing art pieces we create for their walls or as keepsakes. We do appreciate our client's desire to show how proud they are of their senior grad online so we always provide complimentary social media-sized files of every image you order. You can also purchase full-resolution, fully-edited digital images, however, if you are looking for all the digital images for free, that is not what we do here.

9. What happens if the weather is bad on the scheduled day of the senior grad photo shoot?

   • If the weather looks bad, we will reach out to you in advance with some backup options at no charge.

10. Do you provide hair and makeup services?

    • Absolutely! And we have access to TWO of the best makeup artist pros in the area!! They are highly sought-after among photographers for their knowledge of how makeup must integrate with lighting and camera. Makeup makes a difference!

Did we miss something you want to know more about? Ask us! We are happy to help answer any questions you have. One of our deepest desires is that you understand the process with us before making any decisions.

Call us at 206.659.7468

Why am I sharing a photo of my family?

You may be wondering why I am sharing a photo of my family. Well, I'm a father and I am proud of them, need I say more? Actually, there is more to the story behind this cherished image...

We just got back from a memorable trip to the breathtaking island of Maui! We soaked in the golden sunsets, embraced the warm ocean breeze, and created precious memories that will forever hold a special place in our hearts. Towards the end of our time there, we had the opportunity to capture this beautiful family portrait, an image that encapsulates the joy and love we experienced together. I don't say this to boast but to highlight why such an image represents everything truly wonderful about this 2023 summer for us.

Already, this portrait is a treasure to me. It reflects the bond we share and serves as a reminder of the laughter, the adventures, and the irreplaceable moments we spent as a family. Every time I look at it, I am transported back to those peaceful shores, reliving the magic of that vacation and feeling grateful for the blessings of my family.

Portraits hold immense significance for fathers too. These images represent our role as protectors, nurturers, and pillars of love in our families. Like time machines, they allow us to return to shared experiences and reminisce or reflect on the beautiful journey of fatherhood. The moments along the way may be fleeting, but memories never have to be.

It is simple. Fathers love portraits because fathers love their families. Maybe they don't have the emotional realization as quickly as moms, but I guarantee they will. We want you to carry all the same joys of fatherhood with you on your life journey!

When was your last family portrait? 😬

They sat on the couch and stared at each other in disbelief. They had just finished celebrating their youngest child's 16th birthday, and could not believe how fast time was flying by. It seemed like only yesterday they were holding their last baby in their arms.

Suddenly, the wife turned to her husband and asked, "When was our last family portrait?" The question caught the husband off guard, and he had to think for a moment. "It must have been when the kids were still little," he replied, "so much has happened since then."

As they reminisced about the past, they realized just how much their family had grown and changed, celebrating so many birthdays, two graduations, and even the birth of their first grandchild with their oldest. Their last baby had a few more years left in the home, and just like that, they would be empty-nesters.

The wife's eyes filled with tears as she spoke about what it would mean to her to have a current family portrait. It would represent everything they were together in this present stage and the life traveled with all the ups and downs, milestones, and memories. All their family dreams had come true, but so many little moments had slipped by unnoticed while life was busy. They had so much to be proud of and knew at least this moment could live with them forever in a portrait.

---

While this is not a real story of any one client, it is a real story of all our clients and the things they've shared with us through 16 years of portrait work. We enrich family bonds through emotional, personalized art, a truly unique visual presentation on the wall that says to each member, you matter, you belong. The ultimate product is not the material itself, but the complete vision and customized experience we provide that led to the special moment in time you can always return to.

Can we make beautiful family portraits for you?

Surprising, new research about Mother's Day

For years, people had been struggling to find the perfect Mother's Day gift. Some went for flowers, others for chocolates, but nothing seemed to capture the true essence of motherhood. That is until millions of hours of research were conducted by countless teams sent to every country of the world leading to a breakthrough discovery: the most perfect gift for a mom on Mother's Day is a portrait of her family.

Researchers found that mothers cherish memories and the bond they share with their loved ones more than anything else. A family portrait is not just a picture but a symbol of the love and connection they share. The research was conclusive, and the world rejoiced at the discovery of the most perfect gift for mothers everywhere.

DISCLAIMER: While we cannot confirm the validity of this study, as it was conducted by sleep-deprived graduate students who were bribed with free pizza, we still feel the need to share their findings. Though family portraits for mom were indeed found to be the number one choice, it should be noted that a personalized rap song performed by the family pet was a close second.

Capture Your Love: Give Mom a Family Portrait

A family portrait is a timeless gift that always touches a mother's heart on Mother's Day. A portrait captures a moment in time and preserves memories that will last a lifetime. It represents a beautiful and enduring reminder of the bond between a mother and her children. When a mother sees a beautiful portrait of her family on the wall, it will evoke strong emotions and a sense of pride and joy that fill her heart. It is a powerful symbol of the love and connection that exists between all the ones she cares for the most and it serves as a tangible reminder of the happiest moments shared.

A family portrait is a gift that keeps on giving. It is a beautiful addition to any home and will be appreciated for years to come. As children grow and change, a portrait can serve as a reminder of their growth and development, and it can be passed down from generation to generation as a cherished family heirloom. It is a beautiful way to celebrate the unique bond between a mother and her children and to honor the role that she plays in the family. Overall, a family portrait is a heartfelt and thoughtful gift that will undoubtedly touch Mom's heart and serve as a cherished reminder of the love and connection that exists within her family.

Yes, portraits are the right gift for families with furry ones too!

We believe art is prestigious, but family art is preeminent. We say this because it is a message to each member saying, you matter, you belong, and you are loved in this home. What would it mean for Mom to have a moment like this she can always return to?

PRO TIP FOR GUYS!

Don't surprise Mom on Mother's Day with portraits or a gift card. Involve her in the process, because she is deeply invested in the outcome. Let her know this is your intention to celebrate her this year and contact us to set up a free consultation!

Where are you at with Q1 branding objectives?

Q1 ends today and Q2 starts tomorrow. Was one of your goals this year to increase your brand presence and awareness?

 Between you and me, on a scale of 0 to 5, where are you at with that today?

Not Started - 0 1 2 3 4 5 - Aced it!

Business photography plays a crucial role in presenting your brand's identity and creating a positive first impression with potential clients. You know the competition is always moving forward. Are you making strides toward enhancing your brand presence or do you feel stuck, with no clear path ahead?

 After years in the industry, we see some regular problem points.

 Do any of these resonate with you? 

• Don't have a clear idea of what the brand vision is

• Know they need to paint a picture and sell the dream to their clients, but not sure where to start

• Not sure how to find or communicate the emotional appeal in what they do

• Know they offer creative solutions, but not sure how to show the intangibles 

• Good at their business, but not good at art

• Too busy to think about moving forward with the brand, but feel like they are getting left behind in the market

• Painfully aware they have a lack of consistency in their brand

• Have invested tens of thousands of dollars in the website and social media, but did not make an investment in the visual and it shows

• Suffering from lack of originality and turning to stock images for a quick fix

• Not sure what it means to tell a visual story

We have raised companies up through these very same issues. We are ready to help you! There is still time to make 2023 a successful one! 

 Would you like a custom audit?

 As a branding and photography professional, my top priority is helping organizations like yours strengthen their visual identity and brand message. If you are a business with more than 20 team members, I am thrilled to offer a complimentary image branding assessment. This custom-built audit process has taken us more than two years to perfect and is designed to evaluate the 45 key factors of image presentation as it relates to your total brand message. We’ll take a deep dive into nine critical areas you might not have considered like visual consistency, brand relevance, emotional appeal, visual experience, and more.

Will you become a goal-completer? The first step is to have a plan. Let's get in touch and get this done together.

Oh no, my senior grad and I do not agree on portraits....

Does this story sound a little familiar to you? Sasha, a junior in high school, is looking forward to the big 2023-2024 graduation year. A huge part of the year will be the grad portrait session and she is really excited about it! Her mom really is excited too but finds her ideas are shut down or met with opposition. Sasha believes her mom only wants a bunch of "the boring stuff." Mom thinks Sasha's ideas are "a bit much" and miss the point a little. Sasha only wants to post the images to social media for Senior Sunday, but Mom is thinking a little more long-term and wants something beautiful for the home. The discussions are going nowhere. 

 CONGRATULATIONS, you are officially the parent of a senior grad!!

 Although both are seeking to commemorate the upcoming milestone, the goals are distinctly separate. Let's compare...

MOM'S GOALS

• Capture the life milestone

• Look like the competent and capable young adult they are becoming

• Create a cohesive look that would fit in the home 

• Proud to represent them at their best

• A reminder of their belonging to this family

• Feel affirmed for all that went into raising them (fist-bump from me)

SENIOR GRAD'S GOALS

• Showcase individuality

• Look cool and different

• Highlight personal talents and interests

• Emphasize personal style

• Use props and outfits to reflect their personal brand

• Feel seen

Despite these differences, both the senior grad student and parent CAN achieve their own results with the help of a professional photographer who understands their unique needs. With 13 years of experience, and clients with diverse interests and from varying backgrounds, we know how to provide customized solutions to meet opposing desires.

We believe everyone deserves to have a portrait that represents them in the best possible way. We also know what it feels like to be a parent. We will work with you both to create the perfect portraits. With a professional, you can achieve the goals for each and have lasting memories everyone will cherish for years to come!

Here are the secret 1-2-3 steps to success...

1. Talk to your senior grad and affirm their desires for the portraits

2. See what they think of our grad guide with tons of tips, style, location, and clothing ideas (Get a PDF you can send to their phone)

3. Meet with us before you commit to anything, but let your grad drive the discussion (Remember, we know what you want too!)

Booking with an experienced photographer also means you avoid getting stuck for life with portraits that met only one person's goals, or worse, no one's goals.

Let's do this!

So, why not book a consultation with us today and let us help you capture this life milestone the right way? We guarantee we will create beautiful portraits that you will both be proud to show off. If you have doubts, ask us about our brand promise!

Six things to know as you prepare for a 2024 grad

You might have a high school junior right now, but planning for the senior grad year is already underway. Yes, we know there is a TON you will need to do over the next 15 months, but there are small, easy steps you can take now with high-level planning and preparation that will ensure a smoother journey ahead.

As one of the first things you'll need to worry about...

 Where are you at with your grad-year portrait plans?

1. Don't wait too long! Why do we say this? Because it happens every year. Parents don't think about portraits until summer comes, then realize they are too late to get a date. The best photographers book up solid first. The good weather does not last. 

2. This isn't just a photo or snapshot. If it was that easy, you could do that yourself, right? Really, this is about a right of passage that commemorates the biggest achievement and transition your son or daughter has ever experienced in their life.

3. Who is your son or daughter becoming? A "right fit" photographer is key for their style or personality. Even better, an expert photographer will take the time to understand who they are and design a vision for their portrait session that brings out the very best. We believe that amazing portraits people cherish for a lifetime show a little about who they were, feature who they are now, and hint at who they are becoming.

4. When is the yearbook deadline for your school? It might be far earlier than you think! Guess what? The schools are really bad at communicating this info to you. It is not that they mean to be, they just get busy. DON'T WORRY! We are tracking that for you here.

5. What are YOUR goals as a parent for the portraits? Are they a little different than what your grad had in mind? Don't worry, we've got your back! We know what it is like to be a parent and how much these portraits represent all the love and support you have poured into them to get them to this point. We know what they want your child wants too. We are really good at blending the goals on both sides in a way your grad may not even notice! (We are sneaky like that - they don't have to know!)

6. What are your son or daughter's goals for portraits? Let's be honest here, your grad probably thinks you are totally out to lunch with your portrait goals, right? (Shhh! remember, we've still you got covered here!) Your grad is most concerned about feeling seen as a special individual with unique passions, personalities, or qualities. They want to showcase their personal style/brand in a way that sets them apart through clothing, interests, and location that fits their identity. We've got things covered for them too!

Tomorrow is Saturday! Use the opportunity to have a high-level conversation with your upcoming grad about some of these points above and just see where they are at. What are you on the same page about? What things were you not expecting to differ so much on?

We know life is busy and overwhelming, but this piece really does not have to be. We know what to do. We are here to help. We've got this!

Is it too soon to plan your outdoor portraits?

Not at all, spring is right around the corner! It's always better to plan ahead to avoid last-minute stress. Spring is a season of renewal and fresh beginnings, making it an ideal time to capture beautiful moments in nature or with loved ones. With each passing day now, the days are getting longer and the temperatures a little warmer! Planning now for spring means making the most when it comes to the season ahead.

TRIVIA TIME! Do you know why SEPTEMBER is at the top of the weather clock? (Find the answer below)

5 FUN TIPS FOR SPRING!

1. LOCATION: Consider the location for your photo session carefully and how that completed portrait will fit in your home. Springtime is full of vibrant colors and beautiful landscapes, so look for a location that will complement your desired aesthetic. Think about parks, gardens, or even your own backyard. (...and we know the best spots!)

2. CLOTHING: Spring is a season of new beginnings, so consider incorporating new clothing with bright, fresh colors and light fabrics into your wardrobe choices. Dressing in layers is also a good idea since spring weather can be unpredictable. (...and we provide a clothing consult!)

3. LIGHTING: The lighting in your photos can make a big difference in the final product. Springtime is a great time to take advantage of the soft, diffused lighting that comes with overcast or partly sunny days. (... and we are lighting experts so you always look amazing!)

4. PROPS: Adding props to your spring portraits can help tell a story or add visual interest. Consider incorporating spring flowers, picnic blankets, or other items that evoke the feeling of the season. (...and we provide recommendations as we get to know you!)

5. MOOD: Think about the tone you want your portraits to convey. Spring is a season of joy and renewal, so consider incorporating elements that reflect those feelings. Laughter, movement, and playfulness can all help bring your spring portraits to life. (... and we will design your vision!)

So why is SEPTEMBER at the top of the weather clock?

It is because September is the single most desirable month of the year. Whether people intend to or not, life is going to get a lot busier over these next six months. The portraits people intended to have done in spring or summer, often get pushed all the way back until school starts. August is the 11th hour, don't wait until then to start! 

Let's get something on the calendar and solve one problem now!

2022 Year in Review - Branding & Headshots

Over the past year, we've had the privilege of working with countless clients on their business branding portraits, and it's been nothing short of epic! From solopreneurs to larger businesses, we've loved helping our clients stand out in their industry and make a powerful first impression with professional, dynamic photos. It's been amazing to witness the transformation that occurs when our clients see themselves through a new lens and start to truly embody the confidence and success they deserve. We can't wait to see what 2023 holds and continue empowering our clients through the art of business branding portraits!

THANK YOU!

JMB

I asked Chatgpt to write an ancient story about a photographer

I asked the Chatgpt AI to create a story about a photographer in the form of an ancient legend, and this is what it wrote...

The Photography Student

There once was a photography student who dreamed of becoming the greatest photographer in all the land. He had a natural talent for capturing the beauty of the world around him, but he knew that he still had much to learn.

One day, the student decided that he would seek out a great photography master in the hopes of gaining some valuable wisdom and guidance. He traveled far and wide, searching high and low, until he finally found the master in a remote village nestled in the mountains.

The student approached the master with great reverence and asked if he might be willing to share his knowledge. The master, who was known for his kindness and generosity, agreed and began to teach the student all that he knew about the art of photography.

The student listened attentively, taking in every word that the master said. He was fascinated by the master's insights and techniques, and he knew that he had found a true mentor.

But as the days passed, the student began to realize that he had no intention of using the wisdom that the master had imparted to him. He was content to simply listen and learn, but he had no desire to put the knowledge into practice.

When the master noticed this, he asked the student why he had sought him out if he did not plan to use what he had learned. The student was at a loss for words, and he realized that he had wasted the opportunity to learn from one of the greatest masters in the land.

"Wisdom is not just to know, but to act on what you know," the master said. From that day on, the student vowed to use the wisdom he had gained to become the greatest photographer that he could be.

😲😲😲

Okay, wow! I have been totally guilty of this! Does it resonate with you too?

- JMB

Happy New Year - Something has changed...

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

(but something has changed)

.

Something has changed in the world. Have you noticed...

• Airbnbs are booked up solid across the nation?

• Airlines are overbooked?

• Concert tickets are gone 15 min. after release?

• People are being turned away from the best National Parks?

• You have to reserve a spot to go on the best hikes?

• Campsite and RV reservations have all been snatched up 6 to 12 months in advance?

• Your next available hair appointment is 6 weeks out?

---

WHAT IS GOING ON HERE?! 

Likely, you have found yourself in one of two situations. (1) You aren't worried because you planned what you wanted WAY in advance or (2) you experience tremendous disappointment when you found out the people who planned in advance took the opportunity away.

---

The same is true for on-demand creative services like photography. Half the people and businesses are planning ahead and taking the dates. The other half finds out that, when the idea pops into their head, it is already too late.

Here are 5 things you do to avoid disappointment in 2023

1. Do you have a senior Grad? Begin talking about the plan for grad portraits now. They need to happen the summer BEFORE the start of grade 12. Most parents don't know this and wait until the last week in August or the start of school. They miss out on the best weather, the best locations, and the best dates. April of the Junior year is not too early to start researching your grad photographer.

2. Is this the year for family portraits? Spring is when to plan for summer. Families who wait until school is out to think about their portrait plans may be lucky to even get a date in the fall. Some years, the best summer dates can book out 8-12 weeks in advance.

3. Going on a special vacation? Know that all photographers are busy during the most beautiful months of the year. Take your photographer plans as seriously as you would your flights and accommodations because other people are.

4. Needing business portraits? Plan now for Q1 or Q2 because where will your team be in Q3? On vacation, of course! So then it gets bumped to Q4, but everyone is too busy through the holidays and it gets bumped to Q1 of next year. Yikes!

5. Take a moment now to consider what your portrait goals are for this year. Bring it up at the next family meeting or business meeting. It is a quick and easy discussion you can have right now that has the power to change how you feel about 2023.

If we can be of service to you in 2023, we look forward to connecting! We know how to help you plan and prepare.

 Reach out to us at 206.659.7468 or info@jaredmburns.com

10 ways photographers can refocus their business priorities for a better 2023

Here we are at the end of 2022. For most photographers, we are looking ahead to a bit of a slow season in the first quarter. For some that might be scary, but I truly count this as one of my favorite times of the year! It is the opportunity to evaluate the good, the bad, and the ugly of last year and make a better plan for the coming one.

It is a “New year and a new you” as the saying goes, but there is one keyword people miss in the application…New. “New” means, not the same. “New” has an element of intentionality. “New” is simple. “New” means “Do differently.” Stop what you need to stop. Do what you know you need to do. Continue, but refine what is working well.

Prep: Before you begin refocusing your priorities, I recommend taking a moment to reflect. The S.W.O.T. Analysis is an easy and simple way to do this. Google it if you are not familiar. There are also free templates all over the internet to print.

Have you completed your S.W.O.T. Analysis? Great! With all those Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats in mind, let’s now dive into the ten most important ways you can refocus your business priorities and get NEW and BETTER results in 2023.

1. Diversify your income streams: Don't rely on just one source of income, such as one genre like weddings or family portraits. Consider offering additional services that have a similar business model as what you already know, such as commercial or product photography if you do headshots, or selling portrait products if you do families and seniors grads. Regardless of your current level of business, there is always another need you can fulfill for your client.

2. Build a strong online presence: This includes having a professional website, an active social media presence, and a solid email marketing strategy. Even if you are already on top of these, revisit them and make them stronger.

3. Focus on building your brand: Your brand should reflect your unique style and vision as a photographer. Develop a strong brand identity and consistently promote it across all of your marketing channels. A friend of mine named Levi Sim, once said, “If you want to be a better photographer, learn to be a better person.”

4. Network with other business professionals: Build relationships with the business leaders around you and add value to the local community. This will never be fruitless. All of your ideal client types are doing business with other kinds of businesses in your community. Their clients can become your clients.

5. Invest in education and training: Stay up-to-date on the latest trends and techniques in photography by investing in education and training. This can help you improve your skills and stand out in a crowded market. Pay more attention to “the boring training” about better business practices than the “photo tricks” that always feel more fun.

6. Build a stronger portfolio: I’m sure you know your portfolio is a key marketing tool that showcases your work and skills to potential clients who are searching for you. Make sure it is regularly updated with your best work and is easily accessible online. Do you have your contact details clearly displayed on every single page of your portfolio?

7. Focus on customer service: Providing excellent customer service can help you stand out in a crowded market and lead to repeat business and referrals. We are living in a time post-COVID where the bar for customer service has never been lower, meaning it takes next to no effort to show you care just a little more for people.

8. Learn how to effectively price your services: Properly pricing your services is crucial for the success of your business and now more than ever with current inflation rates. Research comparable rates in your area and consider more many factors than your Costs of Goods Sold such as your skills and experience, the value you provide to your clients, and your business expenses. If your pricing is off in any of these areas, the higher costs are secretly eating up your business from underneath.

9. Be proactive in marketing your business: Don't wait for business to come to you. Reach out to potential clients and promote your services through a variety of marketing channels. It is always harder to devote thought energy to what needs to be done in the moment, but so easy to make a marketing plan. A year has 12 months, so you only need to plan one activity per month. Consider the seasonality of your work and the goals you have for the year as you jot down your twelve items. Don’t forget, there is sophistication in simplicity. You are more likely to act if they are small, easy-to-understand items.

10. Stay organized and manage your time effectively: Good time management and organization are key to running a successful photography business. Develop systems for managing your workload, bookkeeping, scheduling, and other tasks to help you stay on top of things. Also, remember that most of the “effective work time” you lose in a day happens during distractions and transitions. Look for ways to work smarter, block your time, and limit intrusions.

Homework time! So sorry to break it to you…needed change is easy to identify, but not as easy to apply. Grab a notepad and work through this list again. Brainstorm all the unique things that are required to make your business better in 2023. I like using the Motive/Action Framework, again, because it keeps things simple.

For example, concerning time management…

• MOTIVE: Need to group similar types of work together on certain days.

• ACTION: Create blocks of time on the calendar for single-focusing on calls/emails, editing, photo shoots, and meeting appointments.

Congratulations, you are off to a great start for 2023! You’ve got this! Did any new thoughts come to you that were not considered before? Did you try something using this framework and find success? Let me know in the comments. I’d love to hear about it!

Don't Forget Your Camera

📷 ✅ 👍

It's just days away now - The most important holiday week of the entire year! ...And it is going to be a busy one with a flurry of family gatherings and special events. As you prepare for these festive occasions, don't forget to pack one important item: your camera!

 Here's a secret...

There is something unique about this Christmas, something that will never happen again. It could be the first Christmas as a new family of three or the last one with the family still at home. Maybe it is the first time a child sees Santa in wonder or the last year a child still believes. For some, it will be the first time the extended family has come back together in 10 years or the last shared with a special loved one.

When the season gets busy, we often forget to look toward these moments ahead, the ones we want to cherish most. Afterward, all the moments we missed will come to mind, but we can't go back.

Capturing memories with loved ones is an integral part of the holiday season, and having a camera in hand ensures that you won't miss a single special moment. Whether it's a group photo with all your relatives or a candid shot of all the little ones opening presents, these photos will become treasured keepsakes for years to come.

So as you gear up for the holiday season, make sure to remember to bring your camera along for the ride.

• JMB