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Friday, April 6
 

4:00pm EDT

Registration
Friday April 6, 2018 4:00pm - 6:00pm EDT
TBA
 
Saturday, April 7
 

8:00am EDT

Registration
Saturday April 7, 2018 8:00am - 9:00am EDT
TBA

9:00am EDT

Opening Session
Speakers
avatar for Rebekah Albaugh

Rebekah Albaugh

Sponsored by WHCC, Rebekah Albaugh . Artist
Rebekah is a photography educator and international wedding and boudoir photographer. She's been shooting professionally for 11 years while also enjoying her life as a wife and mother of three. Rebekah also owns Jukebox Photography, which specializes in High School seniors. In 2013... Read More →
avatar for Kellie Penn

Kellie Penn

Across The Miles Photography
Kellie Penn of Across the Miles Photography resides in Champaign, Illinois. She’s a full-time wedding and family photographer, pastor’s wife, and mommy to four beautiful children. She is passionate about capturing life, preserving memories and is so thankful that photography allows... Read More →


Saturday April 7, 2018 9:00am - 9:30am EDT
Meridian Ballroom

9:15am EDT

Guiding The Client Experience
With all the talk about how to run a business, or how to take the perfect picture, we can lose sight of the ‘experience’ portion of our job. While some might be quick to argue that this customer service is simply an extension of running a business, in our talk, we’ll make the case that Client Experience is the third domain required to have a successful and sustainable career in photography. We’ll discuss strategies for creating exceptional relationships with your clients and how to manage reasonable expectations for wedding and portrait clients (and, importantly, yourself). Our agenda will not be to ‘preach synergy’ but rather give you workable solutions to immediately put to use in your photography business.

Speakers
avatar for Doug Weittenhiller

Doug Weittenhiller

Douglas Weittenhiller of Twig and Olive Photography is a fine art editorial photographer that specializes in weddings and portrait photography. He is a photography educator in the US and many other countries.We are Twig and Olive Photography, featuring woven narratives created through... Read More →


Saturday April 7, 2018 9:15am - 10:30am EDT
Meridian Ballroom

11:00am EDT

Becoming Besties with Blogging + SEO
Blogging. SEO. Snoozefest! We became photographers to document memories, not to sit behind our desks writing out boring blog posts and trying to understand how SEO works, right? Right! However, strategic blogging and proper SEO techniques can dramatically transform your business and help you get more clients than you ever thought possible!
In this class we will discuss:
  • Why blogging is so beneficial for small business owners
  • An easy workflow from session to publish
  • The three most important SEO tactics to apply when blogging. 
It doesn't have to be boring and you don't have to spend hours upon hours behind your desk figuring out what to talk about. Pinky swear. By the end of our session you'll finally be BFF with blogging and SEO. 
 

Speakers
avatar for Cinnamon Wolfe

Cinnamon Wolfe

Cinnamon Wolfe is a former corporate gal turned lover of all things small business ownership! As a business coach and photo editor she thrives off of helping overwhelmed photographers run better businesses. She is a retired Army wife, stepmom, pet mom and the friendliest introvert... Read More →


Saturday April 7, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Meridian West

11:00am EDT

How to Prep for a Newborn Session
Prepping for a newborn session is a science!  Come learn the systematic way that Stephanie preps for a newborn session (in the studio and with the parents), maximizes the time the baby sleeps, organizes the session to produce the most number of setups and subsequently produces galleries that are full of quality photographs.  Stephanie will also cover sales techniques specifically geared towards newborn sessions that will help you maximize profits!

Speakers
avatar for Stephanie Cotta

Stephanie Cotta

Sponsored by CG Pro Prints, Stephanie Cotta Photography
Stephanie is sponsored by CG ProPrintsStephanie Cotta is an award-winning newborn and family photographer based in St. Louis, Missouri. Stephanie launched her photography career in April of 2010 after retiring from her job as a high school math teacher. She hosts newborn mentoring workshops in her studio and also trav... Read More →


Saturday April 7, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Ohio-21st Floor

11:00am EDT

Lightseeker - Losing your fear of Harsh Light
The industry teaches us to be natural light photographer of soft light. To get those dreamy picturesque style of photos. They make you feel like high noon or just the sun beating down on your subjects is not the way you should photography them. Shoot early morning, evening for golden hour. What if I told you that you are looking some of the most amazing dramatic photos you can take are in harsh light? Not everything needs to be shot at f1.2/1.4. Anyone can do that, shoot something at f/11 and truly challenge yourself to create something amazing. Something bold. Something worth talking about. Join in (Sign up) for/on my live shoot to learn how to take off those training wheels and truly unlock some new technics to give your clients something they will love for a lifetime

Speakers
avatar for Hernan Sanchez

Hernan Sanchez

sponsored by Pixellu Smart Albums & Smart Slides, Photo Tailors, The Photosynthesis Workshop, Stills by Hernan
Hernan is Sponsored by Pixellu Smart Albums, Photo Tailors, & the Photosynthesis Workshop. Hello friend, my name is Hernan. I'm a Tampa & Chicago based destination wedding photographer.I am just a self-taught, chill, down to earth dude who likes a solid kombucha, tends to eat more... Read More →



Saturday April 7, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Meridian Ballroom

11:00am EDT

The Art of Family Storytelling
Every family has a story. How parents met...how grandparents traveled miles and seas to start a family in a new world...how kids were tearfully longed for...how pets tore apart sofas and found a way into hearts...festive Sunday dinners...sibling rivalries...new beginnings...well-worn paths. No two families are the same and the stories that make them different are what make them wonderful. 
As photographers, we have the humbling opportunity to tell the stories of the families in front of our cameras. We get to not only capture their faces in pictures, but we also get to capture the emotion and the interactions that make them a cohesive unit. Join me as we walk through how to identify a family's story and how to effectively photograph what makes each and every family special...including your own. From initial client interactions to effective print displays and everything in between, we will redefine what it is to honor the family story and set out to create work that celebrates the beauty of families of every shape and size.

Speakers
avatar for Kellie Bieser

Kellie Bieser

Sponsored by Miller's Professional Imaging
Sponsored by Miller's Professional ImagingKellie Bieser is a professional portrait photographer and enthusiastic educator based in Columbus, Ohio. She believes wholeheartedly that technical execution and emotional connection go hand-in-hand when creating memorable imagery. It’s... Read More →


Saturday April 7, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Panorama A-21st Floor

11:00am EDT

The Souls Whisper
Allow yourself to capture the beautiful emotion of your clients heart. Let your lens tell the story their words can't.

Speakers
avatar for Spanki Mills

Spanki Mills

Breakout Presenter
Spanki spent many years hiding behind the mask of perfection. Dredging through the channels of “safety”, creating a huge disconnect between herself and her art. She realized playing by the rules, she was cheating her own creative voice and more so, the souls she was photographing... Read More →


Saturday April 7, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Panorama Ballroom-21st Floor

11:00am EDT

Unleashing Creativity
You are creative even if you don't feel it! The problem is, we don't always fully realize our creative potential. In this class, we'll explore how to unleash the creativity that already exists within us and ultimately experience breakthrough in our businesses and day-to-day lives. 

Speakers
avatar for Ryan & Lauren Anderson

Ryan & Lauren Anderson

Lauren Anderson Photography
Ryan and Lauren are a fun-loving husband & wife wedding photography team based out of central Illinois. These two believe that people matter & the more life they live, the more they have learned that their ministry is happening right where they are. Beyond that, they share a heart... Read More →


Saturday April 7, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Michigan-21st Floor

1:30pm EDT

All Spread Out: How to Style Flatlay Photos
Want to know how to create stunning flatlay images that all your followers and potential clients will love? If you are looking to add more flatlay photos to your portfolio then this is the class for you! In this course, I will walk the attendees through the basics of flatlay photography with the chance to work hands on during a live demonstration. I will cover topics from lighting, camera settings, photography styles, and so many props! 

Speakers
avatar for Nathaniel Crawford

Nathaniel Crawford

Breakout Presenter
Hello, friends! My name is Nathaniel and welcome to my class! By day I work in hotel marketing and on nights and weekends I work as a food and lifestyle photographer. I'm originally from the cornfield jungles of Central Illinois but now live in Chicago, IL.I started cooking/baking... Read More →


Saturday April 7, 2018 1:30pm - 2:30pm EDT
Panorama A-21st Floor

1:30pm EDT

Connected. Family Photography that satisfies you as an artist as well as your clients.
In this talk Elena Will explain why staying true to yourself as an artist in family photography will allow you to avoid burn out as well as attract your dream clients. then she will explain how she stays organized an in control in family sessions with a family session flow. she will also give you actionable exercises to creating meaningful and connected family poses.

Speakers
avatar for Elena Blair

Elena Blair

Sponsored by Millers, ShootProof, and Honeybook, Elena S Blair Photography
Elena is Sponsored By: Millers, ShootProof, & HoneybookElena S Blair is a self declared people person! The Seattle based photographer and mother of three claims the relationships and connections in her life inspire her photography. Elena owns a thriving lifestyle family and newborn photography business, focusing on capturing moments an... Read More →


Saturday April 7, 2018 1:30pm - 2:30pm EDT
Meridian Ballroom

1:30pm EDT

How to Write Copy That Converts
Learn simple tricks that make sales effortless, so you can work from a place of rest, not hustle

Speakers
avatar for Ashlyn Carter

Ashlyn Carter

Ashlyn Writes
Ashlyn writes bespoke, meaningful words for creative women as a copywriter & calligrapher. She left her job as a publicist to go full-time with her calligraphy biz for brides--and realized there were lots of creatives fumbling with their message and sales copy (you can take the girl... Read More →


Saturday April 7, 2018 1:30pm - 2:30pm EDT
Panorama B-21st Floor

1:30pm EDT

How Your Past is Part of Your Story
Using your past in the narrative of your copy is vital for a strong business foundation and how you shape your business future. You are a copywriter, whether you want to be or not. Blog posts and Instagram captions all have a unique voice, yours. This session will walk you through how to weave the most important parts of your story into the future of your business. We will align the story behind the brand with who you are trying to reach.

Speakers
avatar for Stacey Greene

Stacey Greene

Stacey Greene
Stacey is a passionate wordsmith, hand letterer and calligrapher for women entrepreneurs.Her 7+ years in the corporate world has led her experience in helping creative women master the right words to find the ideal clients. Her desire to write meaningful messages is what drives her... Read More →


Saturday April 7, 2018 1:30pm - 2:30pm EDT
Michigan-21st Floor

1:30pm EDT

Law 101
Speakers
avatar for Elle Danielle

Elle Danielle

Sponsored by Pixifi, Elle Danielle
Hi! I am Elle - a wedding and lifestyle photographer. Had you told me 10 years ago that I would have a career that takes me all over the world to capture stories of love and family memories, that my images would be printed in magazines, or that I would find so much joy in helping... Read More →


Saturday April 7, 2018 1:30pm - 2:30pm EDT
Ohio-21st Floor

1:30pm EDT

Newborn Posing (live demo!)
Come watch Stephanie's revolutionary approach to the newborn session.  Stephanie will walk you through her systematic approach to posing a newborn, both on the beanbag and with props!

Speakers
avatar for Stephanie Cotta

Stephanie Cotta

Sponsored by CG Pro Prints, Stephanie Cotta Photography
Stephanie is sponsored by CG ProPrintsStephanie Cotta is an award-winning newborn and family photographer based in St. Louis, Missouri. Stephanie launched her photography career in April of 2010 after retiring from her job as a high school math teacher. She hosts newborn mentoring workshops in her studio and also trav... Read More →


Saturday April 7, 2018 1:30pm - 2:30pm EDT
Panorama Ballroom-21st Floor

3:00pm EDT

10 Steps to a Consistent Annual Marketing Strategy
Are you tired of the "feast and famine" roller coaster most entrepreneurs experience? Planning your marketing strategy en masse is the key to a consistent brand presence and a consistent sales cycle. This session will walk you through the 10 core steps to an annual marketing strategy, setting you up to head into the back half of 2018 with a clear plan for consistency with your cash and clients. The strategy will connect all the pieces of your brand and is designed to ensure that all messaging and communication strategies are consistent and customer-centered. You'll leave having identified your 2018-2019 business goals, crafted a cross-platform marketing strategy, and feeling prepared for seamless execution through your business.
 

Speakers
avatar for Dannie Lynn Fountain

Dannie Lynn Fountain

Breakout Presenter
Dannie Lynn Fountain is a marketing strategist and whip-smart whiskey drinker currently working at Google. She has ten years of experience as an entrepreneur and strategist. Today, she works with entrepreneurs and corporate clients alike to brainstorm, strategize, and implement strategic... Read More →


Saturday April 7, 2018 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Panorama Ballroom-21st Floor

3:00pm EDT

Details Matter
Learn how to style magazine quality wedding detail shots and how to build a styling kit that works for any wedding day

Speakers
avatar for Dana Tate

Dana Tate

Dana Tate Weddings & Portraits
I am Dana Tate. I have been bringing out the best in people behind my lens for 10 years. I like gummy bears, unicorns, and pretty things. I know a thing or two about styling editorial details that pop and I love to make people look and feel and look their best whether it's for their... Read More →


Saturday April 7, 2018 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Michigan-21st Floor

3:00pm EDT

Fairy Tale Photography for Children
In this class you'll learn:
  • How to Style for Fairytale Sessions
  • Selecting Props & Couture Gowns
  • Ways to make the session really "magical" & memorable for the children
  • Including Boys (not just girls!)
  • Finding light & using it to create magic
  • Using "mini sessions" to market
  • Selecting themes

Speakers
avatar for Tracy Tignino

Tracy Tignino

Tracy Joy Inc
NW Illinois Newborn & Child Photographer, since 2008. I'm a lover of all things art, and a dorky mother of 3. I thrive on color & textures, and a nice glass of wine! Feel free to talk to me about ANYTHING! I am an open book, lover of all people, and enjoy a good chat with my... Read More →


Saturday April 7, 2018 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Panorama B-21st Floor

3:00pm EDT

Jumping Off Cliffs
This class is about taking risks in business and learning from failures. I'll share relevant pieces of my story to illustrate how they can do this in their own businesses. This is a class about creating/seeing AND taking opportunities, not letting fear get in the way, and turning the botched plans into successes... plus, working with what you have available to you (which is something photographers struggle with a lot and often go into debt over)

Speakers
avatar for Megan Kuethen

Megan Kuethen

Megan Kuethen
Megan has been telling stories since she could string words together at the age of 3, and slightly after that, she began developing film in the family darkroom with her dad. Many writing contests and a lot of life mishaps later, on the road to writing what she was certain would be... Read More →


Saturday April 7, 2018 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Ohio-21st Floor

3:00pm EDT

Make it Personal: Protecting Your Brand and Avoiding Burnout
Your brand isn't simply your logo or website. it's your work. it's who YOU are. I'll be sharing how to push past mediocre and how to make your brand truly you, genuine, and constantly self-fulfilling.

Speakers
avatar for Sarah Hill

Sarah Hill

Breakout Presenter
Sarah is a family photographer based out of Central Indiana. She's a wife, mom to three adorable kiddos and just as many crazy dogs, and a social media influencer. She finds passion in empowering other women to push past the fear of dreaming offensively bigger for themselves and their... Read More →


Saturday April 7, 2018 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Meridian Ballroom

3:00pm EDT

The Unposed Newborn
Join Jess for a newborn demonstration as she shows you the easy, natural, and organic poses and wraps that go into a more 'natural and unposed' newborn session. A newborn model will be used during this as well!

Speakers
avatar for Jessica Weinstock

Jessica Weinstock

Sponsored by Honeytree Style and Select
Sponsored by Honeytree Style & SelectJess is a natural light photographer in the Chicagoland area. She specializes in emotive family and newborn photography


Saturday April 7, 2018 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Meridian West

5:00pm EDT

Connecting with Clients through Styling
Raise your hand if you could use a little client styling pick me up!?! After realizing a majority of my clients don't e-v-e-r take the time to read the "what to wear" section in my prep guides, I knew I had to find a different approach.  Through a lot of trial and error, I found a visual program that helps my clients shop and dress for sessions. The best part is I can be a part of their outfit choices that blends with my photography vision, all while allowing me to connect with my clients on a deeper level before the session even starts.  I can't wait to share with you the steps I take to collaborate with my clients' outfit choices.  Topics that will be covered include: pricing, client styling preparation, step by step set up of styling program, demos styling clients, and more.  

Speakers
avatar for Robin Hansen

Robin Hansen

Robin Hansen Photography
Hello! I'm Robin Hansen Photography, formerly known as Picsy Photography. I am a natural light photographer that specializes in family and newborn photography. I crave styling my client sessions while incorporating life, light, and connection into my work. I love people! Relationships... Read More →


Saturday April 7, 2018 5:00pm - 6:00pm EDT
Panorama A-21st Floor

5:00pm EDT

Creating Your Foundation-How to Build a Thriving Business
We are both newborn and family photographers who have built successful, profitable business we love, while also being wives and moms (and wearing the many of hats that come with both of those job titles). We have come together based on our mutual belief that building a solid business is 100% possible for women and moms everywhere! We want to see more women succeed. And we believe the path to success is much easier to follow when you know a few simple, but powerful concepts. In this talk, we will share what those concepts are so that you can start building your path to success today!

Speakers
avatar for Elena Blair & Sandra Coan

Elena Blair & Sandra Coan

Sandra Coan and Elena Blair are both award winning newborn and family photographers from Seattle, WA who have come together based on a mutual belief that building a solid business is life changing and 100% possible for everyone.  They have a deep passion for teaching others (particularly... Read More →


Saturday April 7, 2018 5:00pm - 6:00pm EDT
Meridian Ballroom

5:00pm EDT

Get Published: Top 5 Things You're Doing Wrong and How To Fix Them
Jasmine Norris-Dixson is sponsored by Two Bright Lights

Have you been dying to get your photography featured in a wedding magazine or blog? Do you not know where to start or how to actually get your work noticed? Have you been discouraged by getting denied in the past? With over 100 publications, Jasmine is here to explain the exact steps that you need to take to get your work noticed. Learn how to curate your wedding submission so it is exactly what editors are looking for, the do's and don'ts of the submission process, why it can help elevate your photography business to the next level, and how to fit the submission process seamlessly into your workflow. Walk away from this presentation armed with the knowledge needed to get your next wedding published.
 
You will learn:
- Why you should be getting published.
- How to curate the perfect submission.
- The top 5 things most photographers are doing wrong.
- How to make the submission process an easy part of your workflow. 

Speakers
avatar for Jasmine Norris-Dixson

Jasmine Norris-Dixson

Sponsored by Two Bright Lights, Jasmine Norris Photography
Jasmine is Sponsored by Two Bright Lightswww.twobrightlights.comJasmine Norris-Dixson is an award winning and published wedding photographer residing in Lafayette, Indiana. She captures the romantic, joyful, and authentic elements of every wedding day. Her work has been featured in over 100 publications including The Knot, Bridal Guide, Rock... Read More →



Saturday April 7, 2018 5:00pm - 6:00pm EDT
Ohio-21st Floor

5:00pm EDT

Letting Go of Perfection
Like many of you, I picked up my first DSLR to photograph my children and somewhere along the way I stopped documenting my family's journey. Taking photos of my own children became more of a job that photographing my clients. When I realized what was happening I had a heart to heart with myself, completely changed my approach, and fell back in love with documenting my life. I quit trying to make my life look like an advertisement for perfection and started getting real. Now, instead of sprouting grey hairs, I feel a sense of peace when I pack my camera on our family adventures or click my shutter around the house. Creating raw, lively, and organic family photos is easy once you open up to losing control and start seeing what really matters in your own life. Come along with me on a trip down your own memory lane and let's start taking photos of our own families without losing our minds while shooting from the heart.

Speakers
avatar for Anita Martin

Anita Martin

Sponsored by Finao & Camera Bits (Photo Mechanic), Anita Martin Photography
Anita is Sponsored by Finao & Camera BitsI am a wedding and family photographer located near Sacramento, California, and while I love meeting new brides and grooms and babies, I am always and forever enamoured with photographing my own family. I love adventuring with my boys, spending time outdoors, lounging by the pool, and trave... Read More →


Saturday April 7, 2018 5:00pm - 6:00pm EDT
Michigan-21st Floor

5:00pm EDT

OCF Shooting Course
Off camera flash doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive but it can really elevate your work to the next level. 90% of my work is done with OCF and while some looks show off what we can do with OCF most mimic natural light with just a bit of added pop. I’ll teach you how to start with one light and enter any lighting situation and be able to create GREAT light quickly and easily.O

Speakers
avatar for Sarah Jane Shorthose

Sarah Jane Shorthose

Sarah Jane Photography
Hi! I’m Sarah Jane, I’ve been a photographer & entrepreneur for nearly 14 years and I run a full-time portrait studio as well as a backdrop company. I’m a wife, mother to two fur babies and a perfect (strong willed) 2 year old little girl and, at my core, I’m a businesswoman... Read More →


Saturday April 7, 2018 5:00pm - 6:00pm EDT
Meridian West

5:00pm EDT

The Ins and Outs of Newborn Photography
Speakers
avatar for Amy McDaniel

Amy McDaniel

Breakout Presenter
Amy is a wife, mother of 3, photographer and educator.  She remains the most sought after newborn and baby photographer in the Auburn and Opelika, Alabama area and has been photographing newborns, babies, maternity and families for almost 7 years. She knows how important this special... Read More →


Saturday April 7, 2018 5:00pm - 6:00pm EDT
Panorama Ballroom-21st Floor

5:00pm EDT

Video Basics for Photographers
Speakers
avatar for Ashley Herrinton

Ashley Herrinton

The Herrintons
Ashley Herrinton is one half of a husband and wife wedding videography team based in Richmond, VA. Together they travel all over the country and where ever their passport will take them documenting sweet stories of couples that believe true love can go the distance. When they’re... Read More →
avatar for Tyler Herrinton

Tyler Herrinton

The Herrintons
Tyler Herrinton is one half of The Herrintons, a husband and wife wedding filmmaking team based in Richmond, VA. Together they travel all over the country and where ever their passport will take them documenting sweet stories of couples that believe true love can go the distance. When... Read More →


Saturday April 7, 2018 5:00pm - 6:00pm EDT
Panorama B-21st Floor
 
Sunday, April 8
 

8:15am EDT

Morning Worship
All are welcome! 

Speakers

Sunday April 8, 2018 8:15am - 9:00am EDT
Panorama Ballroom-21st Floor

9:30am EDT

Opening Session
Speakers
avatar for Elisa Watson

Elisa Watson

Elisa Watson lives in Gilbert, AZ where she spends her days raising her four boys, blogging, podcasting, and supporting her husband Todd and their team at Showit. Over the years she has loved studying personality and the way it impacts our families, our businesses, and our personal... Read More →


Sunday April 8, 2018 9:30am - 9:45am EDT
Meridian Ballroom

9:45am EDT

How Not to Starve as an Artist
I think the topic of creative entrepreneurship is invaluable. 

Speakers
avatar for Jeff Rojas

Jeff Rojas

Jeff Rojas is an American Photographer and Author based in New York City with a focus on advertising and editorial photography. In addition to creating images for publications like Elle and Esquire, he has successfully used his experience in sales, value engineering, and content marketing... Read More →


Sunday April 8, 2018 9:45am - 11:00am EDT
Meridian Ballroom

11:15am EDT

10 Ways to Be More Profitable
A lot of times, photographers are in this business for the love of it, Unfortunately, all the passion in the world will not put food on a table, pay the mortgage, or supply fuel to get to the next shoot. This class will give photographers concrete, practical ways to bring in more money, from learning IPS to adding lines of business. It will also cover a little bit of finance. We'll get into the nitty gritty of starting up new lines of business, talk about the bones of how to actually do IPS, and leave with tools to put in place solid financial practices in our businesses.

Speakers
avatar for Megan Kuethen

Megan Kuethen

Megan Kuethen
Megan has been telling stories since she could string words together at the age of 3, and slightly after that, she began developing film in the family darkroom with her dad. Many writing contests and a lot of life mishaps later, on the road to writing what she was certain would be... Read More →


Sunday April 8, 2018 11:15am - 12:15pm EDT
Meridian West

11:15am EDT

Photographing the Feeling-Creating Emotive Photography
Have you ever looked at a photo and wondered how the photographer got such a strong connection out of their subjects? Maybe you thought it had to be the right kind of client to be able to produce emotive images? In this class I will be sharing how I get emotion and connection from every session starting from pre session emails to how I foster a space where clients feel free to be themselves. We will be going over prompts I use as well as loose posing. Come join me in my class and let's start photographing with feeling.

Speakers
avatar for Chloe Ramirez

Chloe Ramirez

Chloe Ramirez is a California based lifestyle couples, wedding & family photographer. Chloe is known in the industry for effortlessly capturing human connection and emotive images. In addition to photographing love, Chloe is a public speaker and photography educator. She loves connecting... Read More →


Sunday April 8, 2018 11:15am - 12:15pm EDT
Meridian Ballroom

11:15am EDT

Video-Marketing: Don't Get Left Behind
After several years of producing, shooting, and editing video-visual content for Grammy-Award winning artist, small businesses, larger corporations, and promotional companies, (while also producing quality promotional and video-marketing content for my own business),it finally dawned on me how many other cinematographers, photographers, businesses, and entrepreneurs neglect this part of their business. 

If Fortune 500 companies continue to use video-marketing within their businesses, why don't you? 
 
I helped build the visual presence of a well-known promotional company that has hosted over 435 events, with an attendance rate of over 400,000 people and counting. This company has grown an audience of over 72,000 followers on social media, has been featured on OWN Television Network, and has been the host of worldwide tours.
 
Video visual-presence within your brand increases search engine optimization and it also helps you to stand out; especially if others within your industry or niche aren't using video within their brand presence. Video visual-presence within your business is very important to your brand.  I'm here to introduce you to practical ways to use video-marketing within your business and more. You'll learn why video-marketing is important, the best places to use video, valuable and practical tips for shooting and creating promotional videos (for your service-based business or products), why video visual presence is important for your business growth, and more.

Speakers
avatar for Anesha Collins

Anesha Collins

Sponsored by Photographer's Edit & Fundy
Sponsored by Photographer's Edit and FundyAnesha Collins is a well recognized and award-winning Photographer, Cinematographer, and Video-Marketing strategist currently based in Orlando, Florida. Anesha Collins has spoken at several conferences, universities, online and in-person summits, several podcasts, and many other platforms... Read More →


Sunday April 8, 2018 11:15am - 12:15pm EDT
Panorama B-21st Floor

11:15am EDT

When & Why You Should Become an LLC
Starting a business? Legally speaking, deciding on your business entity structure is one of your first steps. Lawyer Joey Vitale will walk you through your business entity choices, why LLCs are awesome, and what goes into forming one. He'll also share his innovative "entrepreneurial setup" for people with multiple business ideas. 

Speakers
avatar for Joey Vitale

Joey Vitale

Indie Law, LLC
Joey Vitale is an attorney for professional creatives. With his law firm, Indie Law, Joey works with creative small business owners to protect their passions and give them the legal foundation they need to thrive. Indie Law offers innovate subscription plans, flat-fee packages, consultation... Read More →


Sunday April 8, 2018 11:15am - 12:15pm EDT
Ohio-21st Floor

11:15am EDT

When Your Bride Becomes Your Tribe
I mentor a lot of fellow photographers and the biggest complaint I get is "I'm not booking my ideal client, I hate the weddings I shoot" well, I have the solution for you and it's not your portfolio that causing your problem, it all lies within your clients. In this course I will walk you through our process of connecting, courting and continuing with our clients to book future clients just like them.

Speakers
avatar for Julie Paisley

Julie Paisley

Sponsored by Millers Professional Imaging
Sponsored by Millers Professional ImagingKnown for her use of light and the way she connects with her clients, Julie is an award winning, hybrid (both film and digital) wedding and portrait photographer. Julie has been named in the top 100 wedding photographers in US, published in People magazine, featured on the Today Sho... Read More →


Sunday April 8, 2018 11:15am - 12:15pm EDT
Panorama A-21st Floor

1:30pm EDT

7 Facebook Ad Hacks for Photographers and Videographers to drive more traffic
There is one thing we all can agree on—Facebook is always changing. And it changes for us, small businesses.   From the algorithms to the newsfeed updates the only thing that we can count on, at least right now is paid advertising. I will to show you 7 Facebook Ad hacks from my experience that will not only help you, but boost your photography or videography business.  As Facebook continues to change we can stay   ahead of the curve and keep targeting the clients that want and need our services. 

Speakers
avatar for Chip Dizard

Chip Dizard

Owner, Chip Dizard Studios
Chip is an serial entrepreneur with a passion for all things technology and media. He is the founder / lead cinematographer of Chip Dizard Weddings a wedding photography/videography firm that captures couple’s love stories internationally. Chip graduated from Coppin State University... Read More →


Sunday April 8, 2018 1:30pm - 2:30pm EDT
Panorama A-21st Floor

1:30pm EDT

Family Prep: Creating Branded Clients
You pull up to your shooting location and you see them before they see you. They’re already out of the car. Mom is fussing with hair and Dad is grumping in the corner on his phone. The kids all have the ‘why-do-I-have-to-wear-this’ look on their faces. And Mitzy, the family poodle, came along – unexpectedly – for your pictures. Along with Gram-Gram. And everyone is wearing khakis. And white shirts. Is it too late to turn around? 
If this has ever happened to you (and let’s be honest – it happens to everyone), you may wonder why you ever quit your 9-5 office job. But fear not! There is a way to both find and prepare your clients for a brand of photography you love! But it’s more than just one or two steps – you need to think and create the brand you want to portray and help clients to feel confident with your experience. Join us as we break down the many steps necessary for you to have the brand of photography you first set out to produce.

Speakers
avatar for Doug Weittenhiller

Doug Weittenhiller

Douglas Weittenhiller of Twig and Olive Photography is a fine art editorial photographer that specializes in weddings and portrait photography. He is a photography educator in the US and many other countries.We are Twig and Olive Photography, featuring woven narratives created through... Read More →


Sunday April 8, 2018 1:30pm - 2:30pm EDT
Meridian Ballroom

1:30pm EDT

Fearless Portrait Sales
Hearing high sales averages of other photographers when you are barely making it is never fun. How do you go from making zero or minimal profit to a salary that can sustain your family? Are you working for pennies and don't even realize it? Are you trying to leave a corporate job but just cannot find the means to do so that will make it worth it to be fully self employed?

I have been there, I know it all too well, you are not alone. Five years ago I took the leap and left a very good salary with a major corporate bank to be a full time, self employed photographer. I took the chance that I could make it on my own and had to figure out a way to make at least the same income as I was making with the bank. I quickly surpassed that amount and then it doubled, and then it tripled! I went from photographing everything under the sun as I tried to make it work to fine tuning my business model in a way that allows me to specialize in senior portraits all year 'round.  I will help give you the tools you need to bring your sales to a point of profit, and share how I was able to do this in a gradual way and get to the point in my business that I have been able to maintain a high sales average for the last 3 years. If it's possible for me, it's possible for you! 

Speakers
avatar for Christina Ramirez

Christina Ramirez

Sponsored by WHCC & Iris-Works, Christina Ramirez Photography
Christina is Sponsored by WHCC & Iris-WorksChristina Ramirez is a senior portrait photographer based in San Antonio, Texas. She has been photographing for 6 years and running a successful photography business full time for the last 3.5 years. She has been named one of the Top 100 Senior Photographers in the nation by Senior... Read More →


Sunday April 8, 2018 1:30pm - 2:30pm EDT
Panorama B-21st Floor

1:30pm EDT

Flow Posing
Join Dana and learn the 5 base poses for almost any situation from seniors to couples.  You'll learn new ways of incorporating emotional prompts to get more out of the session. You will walk away with the confidence to get amazing poses out of every session.

Speakers
avatar for Dana Tate

Dana Tate

Dana Tate Weddings & Portraits
I am Dana Tate. I have been bringing out the best in people behind my lens for 10 years. I like gummy bears, unicorns, and pretty things. I know a thing or two about styling editorial details that pop and I love to make people look and feel and look their best whether it's for their... Read More →


Sunday April 8, 2018 1:30pm - 2:30pm EDT
Panorama Ballroom-21st Floor

1:30pm EDT

How to Ditch the Comparison Trap. Like for Real.
The comparison trap is a real problem that is hindering many people from producing their best work and it can't be solved by pretty Instagram quotes. It affects everyone, in every level of business and in our hyper connected and social media driven world, its getting worse every day….comparison to others leading to a feeling of unworthiness or doubt about our own skills and abilities. 
 
In this class we will discuss: 
  • How to recognize when comparison is happening
  • Why comparison happens and what its doing to us as business owners
  • 5 strategies for ditching the comparison trap and getting back on track

Speakers
avatar for Cinnamon Wolfe

Cinnamon Wolfe

Cinnamon Wolfe is a former corporate gal turned lover of all things small business ownership! As a business coach and photo editor she thrives off of helping overwhelmed photographers run better businesses. She is a retired Army wife, stepmom, pet mom and the friendliest introvert... Read More →


Sunday April 8, 2018 1:30pm - 2:30pm EDT
Ohio-21st Floor

1:30pm EDT

Making the Most of Your SEO & Website Presence
Learn tips and tricks to utilize all the tools at hand to optimize your SEO and website presence. Gain new clients by obtaining the best web presence you can! 
 

Speakers
avatar for Jessica Weinstock

Jessica Weinstock

Sponsored by Honeytree Style and Select
Sponsored by Honeytree Style & SelectJess is a natural light photographer in the Chicagoland area. She specializes in emotive family and newborn photography


Sunday April 8, 2018 1:30pm - 2:30pm EDT
Meridian West

3:00pm EDT

Ain't Nobody Got Time for That!
Ah weddings.  The day that our couple has spent tens of thousands of dollars on and are surrounded by their most favorite people in life.  Yes, they want gorgeous pictures- but no, they don’t want to take 4 hours out of their day to go stand in weeds for you so you can get YOUR’ perfect’ shot.  So what’s the happy medium?  How do we get those jaw-dropping shots, perfectly full galleries, adorable bridesmaids pics, killer detail shots, and yes- a couples’ gallery to drool over- in a short time period?  Learn how we tackle a wedding day schedule so that we always keep our couples first, but our galleries something we’re proud of.   We’ll share how we tackle getting ready photos and detail shots, family posing, bridal party (formal and FUN!), and couple shots in just an hour or two- as opposed to 6 or 7.  That leaves the rest of the day open for capturing those perfect candid moments- and keeping our couples happy!

Speakers
avatar for Kara Kamienski

Kara Kamienski

Sponsored by Iris Works, Kara Kamienski Photography
Kara is Sponsored by Iris WorksKara is a full-time photographer from Washington, Illinois who specializes in weddings.  Currently in her 8th year in business, Kara manages #teamkkp- a team of associate photographers and editors who spent 2016 shooting over 70 weddings a year in Illinois, surrounding states, an... Read More →


Sunday April 8, 2018 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Panorama Ballroom-21st Floor

3:00pm EDT

Business-Proof Your Marriage
This presentation is for the person who feels like you're struggling with work/life "balance" and that your business may be placing a strain on your marriage. Yeah, not an easy thing to admit, but truth is, most of us at some point struggle to find the harmony in the chaos of our everyday lives and our relationships suffer as a result of it. 
There's simply so much to do and there appears to be not enough time to do it. You're overwhelmed and stressed out with trying to keep up with it all. And your day-to-day life doesn't truly reflect your values.  And even though you love what you do, you feel like your business may be placing a strain on your relationships, especially your marriage.  
 But it doesn't have to be this way. You can build a successful business and have a strong and healthy marriage...at the same time. But not without intentional effort...and that's exactly what this presentation will show you how to do.  How to build your business in a way that doesn't strain your marriage...business-proof your marriage. In this presentation we will explore:
We'll explore the following topics:
  1. Understand the 7 commons strains that business can have on your marriage
  2. Three strategies you can take to release the grip that your business has on you
  3. The two main reasons why your spouse doesn't support you the way you need in your business
  4. 3 steps to make your marriage a top priority in your life, despite what stage you're in your business & life
Come prepared to learn new ideas and strategies that you can apply right away to business proof your marriage, so you can have a great business and a great marriage. 

Speakers
avatar for Monique Melton

Monique Melton

Author, Speaker, Coach, Monique Melton
Monique Melton is a business coach, relationship expert, published author of the book EntrepreFriendships, a motivational speaker and diversity advocate. She supports creative business owners in building profitable and purposeful businesses while maintaining healthy relationships... Read More →


Sunday April 8, 2018 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Panorama B-21st Floor

3:00pm EDT

Finding Your Identity: You are Not Defined by your Business
Running your own business is exhilarating, and there are so many positive experiences that come along with being the boss. But sometimes it can feel like your self worth is wrapped up in the success or failure of your company. If business is good, you feel on top of the world, but if you suffer a setback, you feel completely worthless. The line between where your work ends and your identity begins becomes so blurry that at times it's not visible at all. This class will help you to identify a healthy separation between the two, and to discover where your true identity lies.

Speakers
avatar for Emily Moore

Emily Moore

Moore Media Group
Emily is a news reporter turned business owner/writer/videographer. In short, she likes to do all the things. When she got out of news, Emily created Moore Media Group (themooremediagroup.com) as a means to tell stories. She started out creating wedding videos and now offers a variety... Read More →


Sunday April 8, 2018 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Michigan-21st Floor

3:00pm EDT

Illuminate: the Why and How of Studio Lighting
Beth is Sponsored by WHCC

As photographers, light is our medium and controlling it determines how our image is made, and often interpreted. See the difference studio lighting can make in your work, and
remove the mystery and apprehension. Discover the equipment you need to begin shooting with studio lights and learn the classic lighting patterns for portraiture. “Simple can be harder than complex, but once you get there you can move mountains.” -Steve Jobs

Speakers
avatar for Beth Genengels, CPP

Beth Genengels, CPP

Beth Genengels Photography
Beth Genengels is a studio and fine art photographer. A former dancer, she looks at every line and image as a piece of art. Reveling in the darker tones she loves rich deep images sated with emotion. Beth is a strong believer in community for growth and is a Certified Professional... Read More →


Sunday April 8, 2018 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Panorama A-21st Floor

3:00pm EDT

Learn to Fail - Taking Risks in Your Photography Journey
Failure. It's not something we like to think about, much less talk about, but it's an integral part of every successful photographer's journey. Fear of failure can cripple all of us, stopping us from pushing forward towards new goals and successes. As a photographer, you're the boss so it's quite easy to stay within your comfort zone. You are both your biggest cheerleader and your worst critic. In this class we will discuss specific ricks and fears that we face as photographers, whether we are in business or shoot just for our families. We will hear about the failures of some of the industry's most successful photographers and how it led them to their successes of today.

Speakers

Sunday April 8, 2018 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Meridian Ballroom

3:00pm EDT

Newborn Lighting
Join Nicole Everson as she walks you through her approach to studio light during newborn sessions. Using a one light approach to create the soft natural light she loves with the consistency of studio strobes.

Speakers
avatar for Nicole Everson

Nicole Everson

Sponsored by Color Inc
Sponsored by Color Inc 35 year old mom of 4, I opened my full service studio 13 years ago, I am a portrait and wedding photographer, but most know in the teaching industry for my maternity and newborns. I have a big personality, with a very tough worth ethic. I love the challenge that comes from fighting for yo... Read More →


Sunday April 8, 2018 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Meridian West

3:00pm EDT

Take a Bite: Capturing Delicious Food Photography
Feeling hungry? Itching to know how to take delicious food photos that will make your followers and clients say “Oooooh that looks amazing”? If you are craving to add more delicious food photos to your portfolio, recipes for your website’s blog, or you’re if you’re just hungry, this class is for you! In this course, I will walk the attendees through the basics of food photography and how to use food as a subject to tell a deeper, more enriching story. I will cover topics from lighting, camera settings, equipment, photography styles, working with clients and using the right props plus some handy tips and tricks for styling food.
 


 
 

Speakers
avatar for Nathaniel Crawford

Nathaniel Crawford

Breakout Presenter
Hello, friends! My name is Nathaniel and welcome to my class! By day I work in hotel marketing and on nights and weekends I work as a food and lifestyle photographer. I'm originally from the cornfield jungles of Central Illinois but now live in Chicago, IL.I started cooking/baking... Read More →


Sunday April 8, 2018 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Ohio-21st Floor

4:45pm EDT

Finding Your Project (feeding your soul on your photography journey)
Ashley is sponsored by Pretty Presets

In an industry that can be filled with an overwhelming amount of hustle, competition, and burnout, Ashley shares how shooting personal projects made her feel more inspired in her work, life, and ultimately changed the direction of her photography.  She will walk you through her process of starting personal projects and help you start your own that reflects your style, fills your soul, and inspires your own photography journey.

Speakers
avatar for Ashley Manley

Ashley Manley

Sponsored by Pretty Presets, Ashley Manley
Ashley is Sponsored by Pretty Presetswww.lightroompresets.comAshley is a former professional family documentary photographer turned artsy amateur hobbyist who thrives on documenting her own life and family in a creative and authentic way. She has a slight obsession with pairing words with her photos and has had her writings and photos featu... Read More →



Sunday April 8, 2018 4:45pm - 5:45pm EDT
Meridian West

4:45pm EDT

How To Manage Your Business (and not let your business manage you)
As a small business owner, we typically handle everything ourselves. Communications, scheduling, invoices and contracts can all become a headache if we aren't managing our business properly. Meredith will share with you how to effectively manage your photography business without the business managing YOU. You will be provided with simple takeaways to implement into your business right away, and be equipped with tools to increase your productivity and increase your revenue.


Sunday April 8, 2018 4:45pm - 5:45pm EDT
Panorama Ballroom-21st Floor

4:45pm EDT

Ready, Set, Hire! Preparing Your Business for Hiring a Team
Hiring a team can be intimidating, overwhelming, and confusing - but it doesn't have to be! During this session, we'll discuss the 3 key areas you should focus on to prepare your business for hiring a team. We'll cover: 
  • processes and foundations you should have in place before hiring  
  • documents that will ease your transition from solopreneur to leader
  • creating a plan for successfully on-boarding your new team member
By the end of the workshop, participants will understand what they need to do in order to prepare their business to hire a team. They will walk away with clear, actionable steps they can take right away, whether they're ready to hire immediately or in six months.

Speakers
avatar for Ashley Cox

Ashley Cox

sproutHR
Ashley Cox, PHR, SHRM-CP, is The HR Partner for Creatives at sproutHR, where she loves to make the overwhelming, confusing, and intimidating parts of hiring and leading a team simple, actionable, and fun. Ashley will guide you in hiring a team that compliments and supports your business... Read More →


Sunday April 8, 2018 4:45pm - 5:45pm EDT
Ohio-21st Floor

4:45pm EDT

Selling albums on Auto-Pilot

Learn the simple tricks and mental switch to be able to sell more albums in less time. Get the roadmap to build the system to sell your wedding albums on autopilot with just a 30-minute meeting at the end of it. No more 4-hour meetings with 0 results. See how Jake built this simple system out of necessity, not luxury and how it's gone on to help hundreds of photographers worldwide. Whatever your market, whatever your skill level, whatever your confidence, Sell more albums, with less work.

Speakers
avatar for Jacob McCarthy

Jacob McCarthy

Sponsored by Freedom Edits, Freedom Edits
Jake is a father, photographer and lover of serving the photography community. Jake is the Co-founder of Freedom Edits, an end to end outsourcing solution for photographers.Jake and his partner Ryan built their business from 15 weddings to over 150 in just a few short years. They... Read More →


Sunday April 8, 2018 4:45pm - 5:45pm EDT
Michigan-21st Floor

4:45pm EDT

The Art of "Unposing"
How to create story-telling, "candid" images during your Newborn and Family sessions

Trained as a photojournalist, I have always been obsessed with capturing "candid" moments that tell a story. But do these moments just happen on their own?? Sometimes, but let's be real, 90% of the time they don't. Join me as I share my process of how to create joyful, "unposed" moments, and take away tips and tricks that will create lasting memories for your families and keep them coming back year after year!


Speakers
avatar for Brigette Schaffarzick

Brigette Schaffarzick

Breakout Presenter
I'm an outdoor lifestyle family and newborn photographer living on a 6 acre farm on the outskirts of Seattle. My family is everything to me, as is my business that I've nurtured for over 7 years. I live for golden sunsets and adventurous families that share my passion for the outdoors... Read More →


Sunday April 8, 2018 4:45pm - 5:45pm EDT
Meridian Ballroom

4:45pm EDT

What Happens When Things Fall Apart?
Would you be prepared if you suddenly were faced with illness, a natural disaster or some other tragic event that either affected you or your business and what plans and processes do you have in place to press through and get back to work? 

In March of 2017, our entire lives were sent into tailspin when I was on the way to teach at Reset Conference 2017 and was was diagnosed with heart failure.  That diagnoses had me in the hospital for 16 days, $300,000.00 in medical debt, daily appointments with a full medical team, and took both Ike and I out of work for 4 months (photography being our sole source of income).  This put us on the road to having to face what we were going to do as our lives were falling apart.  

How do you plan for, cope through and bounce back from life's hardest moments and move forward in business?  Ike and I hope to give you some things to think about and consider to fortify your business for life's unexpected challenges and to help you create a plan that will allow you to get back to work in spite of what you might face. 


Speakers
avatar for Ike & Tash Haynes

Ike & Tash Haynes

Ike and Tash Photography and Motion
We're Ike & Tash, wedding and portrait photographers based out of the beautiful Pacific Northwest. We focus on weddings and engagements, high school seniors and families, but that's only half the story. We're also passionate about sharing, investing and growing the industry, and that's... Read More →


Sunday April 8, 2018 4:45pm - 5:45pm EDT
Panorama B-21st Floor

6:00pm EDT

Closing Session
Doorprizes & Big Announcement!

Speakers
avatar for Rebekah Albaugh

Rebekah Albaugh

Sponsored by WHCC, Rebekah Albaugh . Artist
Rebekah is a photography educator and international wedding and boudoir photographer. She's been shooting professionally for 11 years while also enjoying her life as a wife and mother of three. Rebekah also owns Jukebox Photography, which specializes in High School seniors. In 2013... Read More →
avatar for Kellie Penn

Kellie Penn

Across The Miles Photography
Kellie Penn of Across the Miles Photography resides in Champaign, Illinois. She’s a full-time wedding and family photographer, pastor’s wife, and mommy to four beautiful children. She is passionate about capturing life, preserving memories and is so thankful that photography allows... Read More →


Sunday April 8, 2018 6:00pm - 6:30pm EDT
Meridian Ballroom
 
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