Towner Jones Photography - Five Year Anniversary

We're back! As promised we've reenergized the business and reentered cyberspace in celebration of Towner Jones Photography's Five Year Anniversary! As small business owners, we will certainly vouch for the fact that five years is a major milestone for a little company and we want to say thanks to all of you for your contribution. We feel extremely blessed for the growth that we've experienced, for the good times we've had, and for the wonderful relationships we've established as a result of Towner Jones.

Our first big news item for 2012 is that thanks to our sweet wedding clients and their reviews, we've been named one of The Knot's "Best of Weddings" 2012. This is a huge honor in the highly competitive Washington DC wedding photography market, and we're extremely excited to have been picked. Be on the lookout for the official announcement from the Knot at the end of this month, and thank you to all our clients for sharing your wedding day with us!!

With that news, and all our grand plans we're extremely excited about what the next five years have in store. We're expanding our offerings to our clients, tailoring our business processes, and reaching out to the photography community and today I'd like to share a little about what's going on.

The Blog

First off, you've probably noticed that the blog has been "refreshed." We're trying to make it a little more friendly for our customers as our research has shown it's one of the main avenues to our shop. We'll be advertising our specials here on the blog as well as well as proofing some of our client work (so make sure to tell your friends!)

We're still in the process of reorganizing, but if you're a fellow photographer, you're going to want to keep an eye on the "Features for Photographers" section, as that's going to be your go to location for all of our photography resources. Here you'll (eventually) find a consolidated list of our contests, tutorials, photowalks, etc.

Shout out to my buddy Chris, talented owner and lead photographer of Christopher Breedlove Photography in Lynchburg, VA who shot the photo of Rose and I in the left sidebar of the blog. Thank you brother for the awesome shot!

The Website

Like the blog, the main website (www.townerjones.com) is getting a facelift as well. It's going to be rolled out sometime in the next two weeks. This will still be the primary location for our clients to find information about the business and contact us for an appointment.

The Galleries

We've upgraded our preview gallery software (galleries.townerjones.com) so client galleries should be easier to navigate with bunches of new options available to customize your purchases.

Social Media

Our facebook and twitter pages are back up and running. (Please "Like Us" on the facebook tab to your right on the sidebar) We're going to start using facebook more for our marketing (with some specials only listed there) - the twitter, no promises, but we're going to try to use that too.

Lots of Photos

The one advantage of my pathetic blogging record over the last year is that we've got TONS of new photos to share with you all. So be on the lookout. ("A likely story" says your inner monologue, "there's not even a single photo in this blog entry..." - Trust me.... lots of photos)

Sponsor Deals and Goodies

We've regaged with our sponsors and will be offering more goodies on the blog. Gift certificates, photo gear, books, prints - all kinds of stuff - in addition to more reviews and product info. Thanks to continued support from B&H, onOne Software, and WHCC - we love you guys!!! Be on the lookout for some new sponsors too!

Business Practices

I mentioned in a previous blog post that we're doing a even more behind the scenes than what you see on the surface. From turning around photos more quickly for our clients, to our methods or organizing and archiving clients' work, to simplifying pricing structures and adding product choices - there are a LOT of changes rolling out in 2012. For our clients, we're looking forward to sharing them with you. For our fellow photographers, we're planning on sharing tons of it right here on the blog - in the spirit of building a supportive business community.

That's All For Now... THANK YOU FOR FIVE GREAT YEARS!!

Where We've Been, Where We Are, Where We're Going

After a long absence from the virtual world, I figured it was time that I should fill everybody in on what's going on. First off, I want to start this letter with the message that - THINGS ARE GREAT! Usually, when one comes across a blog and finds an open letter to readers that starts sounding retrospective and emotional, the immediate assumption is that things aren't good. Avoid that mindset. Things ARE good, just very busy.

Where We've Been

On January 12, 2007, Towner Jones Photography opened its doors. Rosemary and I weren't looking to start a photography business, but God decided we needed to - so he dropped a wedding shoot in our lap (literally, we had 45 minutes notice) and the business began. (FYI - in hindsight, after almost five years and 50+ weddings behind us, don't do a wedding shoot with only 45 minutes notice) We've enjoyed a tremendous amount of growth that has taken us all over the country, and the best part of all, into the lives of dozens of clients and friends.

This past summer, we began exploring the option to partner with another company. The plan was to combine the businesses to reduce overhead, share our resources, and broaden our common vision. For all intents and purposes, we went on sabbatical to start planning that new business around June. 

After a great deal of prayer and other consideration, around September we realized that wasn't the path God had in store for us, and more importantly - we needed to change direction.

Where We Are

One of the most important realizations that came out of this past summer's activities was that Towner Jones Photography never had formulated the structured plan with which most successful businesses start. It is certainly a testament to the blessings that we've been given, but in fact, we had really just been along for the ride. We had enjoyed success but didn't have a detailed vision for where we wanted to take TJP over the next five or ten years and beyond.That needed to change.

Now for the explanation of the current hiatus.

After we decided not to partner up, we got fired up about reinvigorating Towner Jones Photography with the creative sparks that had started to surface over the summer. To do so, we decided to continue to serve our customers but maintain a low profile while directing our energies into completely overhauling EVERYTHING. Much of what is being done has been happening behind the scenes but we've been developing an exciting 5-year plan, streamlining our processes, upgrading our client offerings, developing new marketing avenues, and taking Towner Jones Photography to places it hasn't been before - we're talking exciting stuff.

Where We're Going

We are so excited about what the future has in store for our little company. Rose and I absolutely love working together and serving our clients. It brings about a true passion in both of us, and from what our clients tell us - it shows. We're also excited about sharing with you all that we've got up our sleeves, but that will have to wait... just a little bit longer.

Towner Jones is coming up on a huge milestone of small businesses - our FIVE YEAR ANNIVERSARY!! On January 12, 2012, we'll celebrate with you our grand reopening. (no we're not actually closed right now, but 'grand reopening' sounds exciting doesn't it!) Whether it's in cyberspace or face to face, we look forward to sharing this milestone and many more years with all of you.

Thank you and God Bless,

Rob and Rose Jones

 

Captured by the Light Tour - Washington DC - with David Ziser

After weeks of anticipation, I headed up to the Hilton in Rockville to meet David Ziser and attend his "Captured by the Light" seminar on wedding and portrait photography. This was my first time seeing David live, but I had a pretty high level of expectation for the program after seeing a number of his online training sessions. I've also marveled over his control of light on location while checking out his portfolio - so I knew this was going to be a blast. If you aren't familiar with his work, make sure you head over to Digital Pro Talk (David's blog) and take a look around.

Now let's talk about this seminar, because to be honest, it was even better than what I had expected. For those of you that have seen David on his online training videos - yes, he's that energetic in person too. He's got a level of enthusiasm that is contagious, and as a result, you can't help but get "fired up" about taking your own photography to the next level.

The sessions are broken up into five main parts entitled:

• Making Your Lighting Exciting
• Creating the Dramatic Image
• Finally, I Have My Life Back!
• Now, Let's Talk About Making Money
• Business Building

The first two parts focus on getting into David's head in terms of photographic technique and composition. While showing real-life examples from his stunning portfolio, David discusses topics such as classic portrait lighting, on and off camera lighting technique, using light modifiers, and using available light. In addition, there's a thorough review of David's camera gear including for what reasons each piece is included, as well as a striking segment on composition. By providing comparisons of similar shots taken from different perspectives and locations, this segment illustrated the dramatic difference small modifications to composition can make on the quality of the final image.

After the first session was over, a preliminary round of door prizes were given away. You read that right, they had so many door prizes to be handed out that they had to do it in two rounds.(Did I mention David has a massive list of sponsors, which says something in itself) 

Though getting inside of the Ziser eye for creating stunning photos was a special treat, as a wedding photographer continuing to grow my business, the second session was really worth the entire price of admission in itself. Here David graciously opened the doors on his successful studio and discussed the tools and techniques he uses to minimize effort while maximizing quality presented to his clients. In addition, hearing a presentation from a "master photographer" (inside joke from the seminar...) who actually IS a master photographer about how he markets himself and his brand was invaluable. 

The night ended with another round of door prizes and a closing "pep talk" which really got me fired up about taking our studio to a whole different level. If you ask Rose, she'll confirm I've been talking about it ever since.

Overall, the presentation quality, the handouts (bound workbook and DVD) and the content make this year's tour a real value from any photographer, whether it's someone looking to improve their portraiture or a working pro looking to stand out from the competition.

Thanks David for a great evening, and I look forward to the next time I have the pleasure of seeing you.

Marketing Minutes - Networking

Rose is back this week with another post in her series on Marketing your photography business...

Remember last week, I told you about letting potential clients know about your business, in the carpool line, at the store, etc. Well, tonight’s Marketing Minute is about networking with other experts in the world of weddings. 

As important as it is to get out and share with the potential clients, it is just as important to share with other vendors and experts in the world of weddings.  Networking with other businesses is your opportunity to exponentially expand your circle of clients.  By sharing with other businesses, you have the opportunity to help each other meet new customers through referrals, and we all know that a bride would prefer to work with someone who has the approval of a trusted source. 

For example, when a bride comes to you for her photography needs, she may still be in need of a florist.  If you are networking with other businesses, then you can provide her with a name of a florist with whom you've built a working relationship.  In the same way, your florist friend may run across a bride who needs a photographer and return the favor.  Can you see the beauty of networking?  Now you're not only more equipped to serve your brides, but you also have expanded your circle of prospects to include the clients of your florist friend. We are all looking to grow our businesses and what better way to do it than by helping someone else grow theirs too. 

Joining a networking group that targets the same audience as your business is the best way to get started with networking. 

On Tuesday night I had the privilege of participating in a Tyson’s Wedding Networking Group at the Ritz Carlton at Tyson Corner.  Victoria Wagner from A Splash of Elegance (www.asplashofelegance.com) is the coordinator of this group and has gathered quite a wonderful array of wedding experts.  I had a fabulous time networking with this group and not to mention had great food and a night out at the Ritz.  (Okay I didn’t get to stay there, but it sure sounded cool to say “a night out at the Ritz.”  Plus, just walking through such gorgeous hotel doors without carrying children or pushing a stroller constitutes a night out to me.)

Not only did I get to network with some great people, I also heard Paula Bisacre from Remarriage, LLC speak on the growing population of remarriages within the wedding market.  Did you know that over 43% of marriages today are remarriages?  Paula has formed a company, which offers great resources to these families.  Remarriage, LLC not only helps these families find resources to plan their weddings, the company also provides them with resources to make their family blending smoother. Remarriage brides and grooms need education, resources, support, and encouragement as they celebrate their weddings and unite their families.  Paula’s mission is to do just that.  She has a heart for these families and has created a company to support them and help provide a foundation for a successful remarriage and family blending.   Thanks Paula for sharing your knowledge with us and opening our eyes to the unique wedding needs of the remarriage population.  If you want to know more, check out her website at www.remarriagemag.com.

Marketing Minutes - Growing Your Photography Business

Hello all. Between the comments here on the blog, and the kind emails we've received, it seems you'd like to hear more from my wife, Rose. As requested, I think I've convinced her to take a more active role as a writer here on the blog, so I hope you enjoy. Without further ado... here's Rosie.

Well, I’ve been officially roped into the world of the bloggers. What started as an innocent blog about my trip to a card shop resulted in praises from strangers and a big grin of stress-relief from my husband. How could I resist coming back? I think somehow I have even agreed to contribute weekly to the blog or at least twice a month. (I’m blaming it on sleep deprivation, but there’s no getting out now)

I will be starting with what I call Marketing Minutes. 'Marketing' - because apart from being behind the camera, marketing is the aspect of the business that is my area of expertise. And ‘Minutes’ - because a mom with four babies and a home-business has no more than minutes to share anything. So here goes…

My marketing background began 8 years ago when I started a Mary Kay business. Within 9 months, I was driving a free car and in little over a year I was a Sales Director. When my first daughter was born, I was already a Sr. Sales Director with my second company car. Needless to say, I moved fast through the world of sales and I acquired many hours of experience and training in marketing. When my daughter was born, I resigned from my position as Sr. Sales Director and joined my husband in pursuing our dream for a photography business. 

Now that you know a little about my background, here’s my “Marketing Minute”… 

Marketing is defined in the dictionary as “the activities of a company associated with promoting and selling a product or service.” Well, you need a customer in order to buy or sell something, and you won’t have customers unless they know about the service you have to offer. With this in mind, one of the most important parts of marketing is informing people about your business. This sounds really basic, but you wouldn't believe how many of us never open our mouths to tell people about the services that we offer (even I am guilty of this in some crowds). It wasn't until just recently we added TJP magnets to the sides of our minivan, and almost daily people in the carpool line say… “Wow, I never knew you and your husband had a photography business.” What an eye opener? There is no excuse for this, especially from someone who should know better. 

There are many reasons why we keep our mouths shut, but here are the top 3 in my book. 

1) I don’t want to be pushy, 

2) I don’t want to annoy anyone.

3) I don’t want to be rejected. (This one is the most common and the most paralyzing.)  

The most important lesson I have learned about marketing through my sales experience is that you MUST overcome the negative self talk that keeps us from telling people about our business. Ask yourself the following questions…  

1) Do you believe you are a great photographer? 

2) Do you believe that everyone deserves to work with a great photographer and have great pictures of themselves or their special event? 

If you said yes to these questions (if you have a business, I hope you said yes) and if you believe like we do that this business is first and foremost about serving your clients, then it’s unfair for you to keep silent. I don’t know if you noticed, but all of the reasons for not sharing your business with others started with “I”. When we only think about what’s comfortable for us, it’s easy to stay quiet. But when we believe in our services and we think about what’s best for our clients, then we can’t help but tell everyone we meet about how we can serve them. You wouldn’t want someone to miss an opportunity to capture that perfect smile or that special memory. You wouldn’t want someone to just settle for a photographer, when they could have a great one (that’s you by the way!) When you think about these concepts, not sharing with potential clients about your business almost seems selfish.

So the take-away from today’s Marketing Minute is: stop thinking about yourself, and start sharing your business with others. If you don’t, they’ll never know what their missing.