ImagingUSA 2019 is over now and we are back into the swing of things at the studio, which means planning and getting ready for the rest of the year. We came back from the convention after learning a lot about where our profession is right now along with lots great ideas and a few new things for the studio. From the opening keynote address,’ The Age of Disruption – Everything Has Changed and Nothing is Different’ by Scott Stratten to the closing keynote program, ‘Fear is My Homeboy – How to Get Brave and Start Taking Action’ by Judi Holler, it was a great convention. This year, instead of the how to of photography, the convention seemed to focus more on the how to of taking your studio and yourself to the next level. We heard reports on the state of the profession that were both promising and surprising to some. Our industry is strong and despite what many think, 85% of consumers want portraits not digital media. Something we have been saying all along. Some other things we learned from PPA about prints from PPA’s Print The Movement:
We have entered the era of the photographic lost generation. We are taking photos more than ever, but they’re nearly all digital files with very few tangible prints being produced. By now we know that digital never means safe, yet millions of memories are currently being entrusted to servers, clouds and phones. The risk could be felt by our entire generation, as we grow up without a printed, photographic record of our lives. The most photographed generation of all time could wind up being the next Lost Generation.
It’s not just affecting today’s youth. 42% of people between the ages of 30 and 44 will likely look back and wonder where photos of their childhood, holiday get-togethers, relatives and friends have gone decades from now1, and, reportedly, 67% store their photos solely on a computer or phone. Statistics show that a staggering 53% of consumers have not printed a photo in more than 12 months, 70% don’t have photo albums, and 42% no longer print photos at all.
It doesn’t have to be this way. We know that everything from candles, bicycles and vinyl albums have survived the “disruption” caused by technological advancements. We have to remember the value and importance of printed, framed, and mounted photographs in our lives and for the generations after us. Children love to see images of themselves around the house, newlyweds have fond moments when they see their wedding photo on the mantle or walls, and our most beloved pets are sealed in time…all thanks to the power of print.
How can you ensure your memories last for generations? Start by finding the right photographer. PPA photographers spend endless amounts of time and effort perfecting their craft and working harmoniously with their clients. When you need a photographer for that special day or special time in your lives, finding the right one can make all the difference. Once you find him or her, then it’s time to find out about their expertise with print art. Here’s a few questions to guide you through:
Does the photographer offer print art?
Does the photographer have examples of their print art you can review?
Does the photographer use quality paper?
Can the photographer offer quality options within your price range?
Can the photographer show you how the art would look in your very own home?
If you do the right research, you’ll be glad you made the effort. The perfect photographer will also be glad that you are interested in quality work and print art. Together, you and your photographer can create beautiful pieces for your home and for your family.
1 2015 nationwide survey conducted by Professional Photographers of America (PPA)
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And with the big game coming to Atlanta we saw a lot of advertising going up on the buildings. How would you like this job on a cold windy day in January?