We have MOVED our BLOG to Our Websites...

A lot has happened since our last post -

We have changed platforms - and created divisions - We have curated our websites to serve different clients at different levels of care.

We have created:

• www.alliemillerweddings.com for all our couples!
• www.alliemillerphotography.com for our families and portraits
• www.amillercommercial.com for our commercial clients - Headshots & Branding alike.
• www.boudoirbyalliemiller.com - for our clients who have a different vision. 

We have done this in the efforts to give our clients the best service possible at all the different directions needed.

Enjoy!

What May happen In 50 Years....

What May Not Happen In 50 years.....

While looking at my feed in my smartphone, as many of us do occupy with the technology which surround us, I came a cross an image posted by a fellow photographer Brian Joseph Calabrese 

This may be a truly beat on subject for those of us who own a professional photography business with a 'Print Your Images" and not a 'Shoot & Burn' mentality or model.  For some a great educational read and perhaps, not such joy for others.

But, in all truth.... I know that my clients already know my reasons for NOT shooting and placing all images in an USB [I have not delivered a DVD with images in a very long-long time] to just be printed at some random retail print service "At the Corner of Happy and Healthy" - No offense 'Walgreens'

My theory for not delivering ALL images in a storage device proves in the fact that these may never get printed.  There is a sense of ownership when you have ALL your images, but also there is something about the feeling of accomplishment, when your images are printed and delivered to you, by your professional photographer!

Although, in the past I may have lost potential clients to my strong belief in printing images. I rest in the comfort of knowing that one of my many responsibilities to ALL my clients as their Professional Photographer is to deliver Professionally Created Captures that will be printed/preserved by using professional labs and not that 'retail printer - At the Corner of Happy and Healthy"

That said, my lab partners offer prints that will last 100 years in a typical home display and 200 years in dark storage - Meaning that your kids and your kids' children {the upcoming generations} will enjoy these memories... Therefore protecting your INVESTMENT!

You made it this far... Great!!! Now, food for THOUGHT:

- How long ago, all PC's and Laptops had CD/DVD burners?? 

Now, think about this too -  Most of the major brands are developing PC, tables, iPads, and laptops with only USB ports or NONE at all! So, only the prints will make it to your hand assuring you of great moments when they are printed.

However, I do offer delivery options on the most loved images from their sessions via USB or downloads with perfect resolution for e-mail/screen-savers, social media. I also deliver a few images in an APPs for their smart devices. Making it fun to enjoy visually, and then the prints are delivered to them at home.

The process in framing and placing images in albums is still practiced, in these cases I offer my clients a great discount when they order their prints in already framed products or BULK printing for their albums and lastly, I offer album design!

I love that most people still want to preserve memories in albums and such!

Please ENJOY creating memories and PRINT all captures - Even the ones in your devices! You will never get these memories back and they are so important!

Protect your investment, obtain prints from your photographer, as professional we guarantee our products. I bet your retail " At the Corner of Happy and Healthy" cannot!

Indian Beach's Own Allie Miller Weddings Wins a WeddingWire Couples' Choice Award® 2015

PRESS RELEASE

Indian Beach's Own Allie Miller Weddings Wins a WeddingWire Couples' Choice Award® 2015



Indian Beach, NC – January 7th, 2015 – WeddingWire, the nation's leading online wedding marketplace, named {Enter Your Business Name} as a winner of the prestigious WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards® 2015 for Professional Wedding & Event Photography in Indian Beach, NC!



The WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards® 2015 recognizes the top five percent of wedding professionals in the WeddingWire Network who demonstrate excellence in quality, service, responsiveness and professionalism. The esteemed awards are given to the top local wedding vendors in more than 20 service categories, from wedding venues to wedding photographers, based on their professional achievements from the previous year.



While many industry award winners are selected by the host organization, the WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards® winners are determined solely based on reviews from real newlyweds and their experiences working with Allie Miller Weddings. Award-winning vendors are distinguished for the quality, quantity, consistency and timeliness of the reviews they have received from their past clients.



"It's always exciting to start the year by honoring the top-rated wedding professionals within the WeddingWire Network who represent more than two million reviews on our website," said Timothy Chi, CEO, WeddingWire. "Each of the businesses recognized are committed to quality, professionalism and all around top-notch service. We applaud Allie Miller Weddings for their impressive achievements within the wedding industry."



As a Couples' Choice Awards® winner, Allie Miller Weddings is highlighted within the WeddingWire Network, which is comprised of more than 200,000 wedding professionals throughout North America and abroad.



Allie Miller Weddings is proud to be one of the top Professional Wedding & Event Photography in Indian Beach, NC in the WeddingWire Network, which includes leading wedding sites such as WeddingWire, Project Wedding, Brides.com, Martha Stewart Weddings, and Weddingbee. We would like to thank our past clients for taking the time to review our business on WeddingWire. We value all of our clients and truly appreciate the positive feedback that helped us earn the WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards® 2015.



For more information about Allie Miller Weddings, please visit our WeddingWire Storefront today at www.weddingwire.com/alliemillerweddings



To learn more about the Couple's Choice Awards®, please visit www.weddingwire.com/couples-choice-awards.



About WeddingWire

WeddingWire, the leading technology company serving the $100 billion wedding and events industry, is the largest online vertical marketplace connecting engaged couples with event professionals. With more than two million consumer reviews, it is the industry leader in consumer reviews. The site enables engaged couples to search, compare and book from an extensive database of more than 200,000 recently reviewed event professionals, from venues to photographers. WeddingWire provides event professionals with the technology they need to serve their clients, including a SaaS platform, which powers advertising, marketing, and CRM needs of local wedding and events businesses nationwide.

RE-BLOG | The Top 8 Essentials for a Successful 2015!

ATTENTION

This is a RE-BLOG - and by no means MY work.  It is great to share their great work with other photographers. All Materials belong to Zack & Jody © 2014-2015

______________________________________________________

The Top 8 Essentials for a Successful 2015!

BY ZACH & JODY | DEC 30, 2014 | BUSINESS, MARKETING, MISC | 10 COMMENTS

“We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we create them.“

- Einstein

A friend of ours had the best year ever in his business, ever.

The reason for it was talked about on this blog by the Business Insider. That post is about the top tips Andrew Carnegie used to become one of the wealthiest men of all time and was documented in the book by Napoleon Hill “Think and Grow Rich.”

We used the exact same tips back in 2007 and it completely rocked our business and set us up for an amazing 2008!

We want to share with you our top 8 tips that took us from making $4,000 profit in 2007, to making 100 grand in 2008! These are the same tips that we now use each and every year that have helped us continually build our business and make it better time and again.

If you choose to use these simple tips, you will have a better business in 2015, so only read on if that is what you want!

1. Define your purpose.

Hill says to, “Create a plan of action and start working toward it immediately.” The way we did that was to create a vision statement for our business. We wanted to “impact couple’s marriages through photography that is relationally based, with a focus on marriage, not just their wedding day.”

Having a defined purpose (or vision) gives you a reason to get up and work at it every day. When you are working toward something that is bigger than yourself, you have purpose in your life. Now you need a Mission, or a “how” and that is where you start to create an action plan and start working toward it NOW!


2. CREATE A “MASTER-MIND ALLIANCE.”

Contact and work with people “who have what you haven’t,” Hill says.

Create a small, tight network of people that are doing what you want to do is what catapulted our business just when we needed it. We found wedding planners, photographers and a few brides that were doing the gigs we wanted (not the ones we had at the time), and demonstrated value to them.

We gave them every reason to refer us and our business exploded and we were booking like crazy. Someone already has a network, and YOU need that network.


3. GO THE EXTRA MILE


“Doing more than you have to do is the only thing that justifies raises or promotions, and puts people under an obligation to you,” writes Hill.

Use this in every aspect of every single thing you do for anyone, ever. When you do, those people will feel reciprocity and will want to do something in return for you. They will want to refer you, help you, or buy your products and services.

4. INDULGE YOUR IMAGINATION.

Dare to think beyond what’s already been done.



When we changed our business model in late 2007, I remember looking at the top 5 wedding photographers in the country and deciding we would do what they were doing, only better.

You have to allow yourself to think big, and believe big if you want big things to happen. You are what you believe so don’t think small.

5. EXERT ENTHUSIASM.

A positive attitude sets you up for success and wins the respect of others.

The more positive we thought about situations, the more those situations worked out for our good. The way you choose to think will determine the outcome of your circumstances. (Tweet this out!)


6. Concentrate your effort.

Don’t become distracted from the most important task you are currently facing.



Focus + Intensity + Time creates Momentum according to best-selling author Dave Ramsey. You need to concentrate your business, your effort, and your time into to doing what matters most and close out all other distractions.When we did this in 2007 it gave us powerful momentum that took our small city by storm. It gave the perception that we were everywhere and that made us more valuable. You can’t do that if you are not concentrating your efforts in one direction.


7. PROFIT FROM ADVERSITY.

Remember that “there is an equivalent benefit for every setback,” Hill writes.



We all fail, and we have had plenty of set-backs in our career. Use those set-backs and as opportunity to learn, adjust and more forward with more knowledge than you had before.


8. PRACTICE “APPLIED FAITH.”

Believe in yourself and your purpose so fully that you act with complete confidence.



If you don’t believe yourself, than your clients won’t either. A lack of confidence is very apparent to everyone around you and when you don’t think you are good enough, then everyone starts to believe it. Guess what? You ARE good enough. Hear that from us. Hear that you are good enough and that you CAN do this. Don’t listen to anyone else that says otherwise.



Your Chance To Respond!

Which one of these 8 Tips do you need to do the most? Start the Conversation by making a comment and let us know!We know that you are going to have an amazing 2015 and we will see you after the first of the year!!!

This is a RE-BLOG - and by no means MY work.  It is great to share their great work with other photographers. All Materials belong to Zack & Jody © 2014-2015

My Best Wishes For You!

My Best Wishes For You!

A little something to get you started...



Perhaps a bit long... But, this e-mail evoked the stimulation of emotions such as "New Year’s Resolutions"

It has become a tradition that sometimes I like to hold on to, here are a few pieces for everyone to appreciate. I try to every year select out a few things to work on and keep that list in my Tiffany Blue Book by my bedside.

2014 has finally come to an end and I recently looked at my little book and I did pretty well with my 2014 goals {Both business wise and personal}

Oh, now... This year, I've had a few challenges - it is harder coming up with a new set of daring matters that will be part on my 2015 plan. However, I enjoy doing these and here is quick questionnaire that perhaps may assist you decide on your resolutions for 2015.

Let's see...

Here are my New Year’s Resolutions for 2015

Bad habits I’m going to break:
Start my days earlier, and attain a normal schedule - I definitely need more rest!


Where do I want to travel:
DO my normal US route - But, I want to conquer new places.


I will make a better effort at:
- Creating more availability to help more in my community.
- Develop a program locally to provide printed memories to those who cannot afford to have my services such as less fortunate individuals.{ Charitable work}


What Project to finish:
- My Bridal Sketches and other illustrations
- My Sketch table - Canvas painting studio set up

What I want to do more of:
- Offer Educational Opportunities to beginner photographers
- More YOGA and walk more often.


Food-wise, what would I do:
Prepare in advance... So, I can eat better and frequently


What to wear:
Although, I have always been the pony tailed with jeans gal, I will attempt to be more-formal, more often


Work/Business Wise
Indulge in creativity for my clients and myself while continuing to grow and assist conventions/workshops , continue to inspire other and meet new clients as well as to continue developing my Commercial Division!

So, there it is.... Now it is your turn...

What are your plans and resolutions for 2014?

Crop or Crap: Zack Arias Takes a Real-World Look at the Crop vs Full-Frame Debate

Definately - a MUST watch - +Zack Arias - Has the most valid points... Differenciating all the talk about #crop vs #fullframe cameras!!! SO - always remember: #cameras cannot see - They know, no #composition , #color, #size or #emotion ... Not even MOMENT - So it all comes done to you, me.... the operator - the #photographer.. the operator. Point MADE!!! :) Love the #honesty always the best policy!

Crop or Crap: Zack Arias Takes a Real-World Look at the Crop vs Full-Frame Debate

#AskMRod: What is the one thing you can't live without?

ISO 1200 Magazine | Photography Video blog for photographers: Photographer Platon gives us a tour of his studio

Came accross this incredible video, really touching indeed and thought: Hey! I want to share with everyone!

If you have not met him yet, please meet Platon (born Platon Antoniou) - Who was raised in Greece by his English mother and Greek father - And owns a studio in NYC.  He is photographed some of the most influencial and famous individuals in the world. He is one of my most favorite portrait photographers after Peter Hurley.

In the attached video, he explains about his 20 year project in which all images are shot in B&W - These are images from his villages, in which he grew up... He believes that there is a point in your life, when you just want to be more honest with the gifts you have and he reached a point in his life with all the bechmarks he set out for himself.

He says that when you shoot a b&W photograph, you are searching for all the truths.

With today's technology we always covering up all the lines and little imperfections.  Today's sofwtwares sell: PERFECT.  I can relate to this, many clients always ask me: "can you remove..." or "is it possible to..." - and sometimes, I explaing why although I would smooth out a few things, because I understand the nature of that self-awareness I would not remove or change a few things... Because, one thing I have learned to do while shooting whether be film or digital for the past 27odd years, is to reveal what I pick up on camera and keep it honest [ofcourse unless I am hired for a commercial or working on a conceptual project] -

I have always loved B&W phtography and grain in my images. That said, while handling a business, I tend to do what is loved by my client.  I do have a few clients that want ALL their images in COLOR; however, for my own pleasure I turn these in B&W - Black and White images are simply "HONEST"

Platon, shares the same vision and this is why I have shared the video blog along with my own ideas and thoughts! I invite you to watch. Whether you shoot or simply love photography and are a client.

ISO 1200 Magazine | Photography Video blog for photographers: Photographer Platon gives us a tour of his studio

Enjoy!

Allie Miller
North Carolina Photographer

"How to avoid getting burnt from the latest wedding photographer trend" Re-Blog - written by Mike Allebach via Brandmash *

Re-Blog - written by Mike Allebach via Brandmash *

Ding – the email sounds an alert of an incoming message on your client’s computer. A ransom note appears warning 7 days to upgrade their gallery – or else. For less than $30 they can save their photo gallery from expiring. A short few weeks with all those cute pixels but now a strange company has taken them hostage and is demanding money. Pay up or these photos are taking a ride to the river in a beat up Cadillac to go for a swim with cement boots. And we all know pixels can’t swim. Especially after they’ve been shared, shot, sprayed and prayed at 11fps.

Thousands of photographers have used the system which boasts sharing freely and giving up on physical products in order to serve clients. Or does it?

Who does The System really serve?

In the beginning the concept of sharing photos freely sounded good. Sprinkle a little Jesus juice – as Michael Jackson called it – with words like serving and sharing and caring and loving. You’ve got something that sounds like an idyllic hippie community. Sign me up - I’d love to live in rainbowville and ride my unicorn and share photos everywhere. But then I’m reminded of M Night Shyamalan’s “The Village,” a perfect ye olde village living in harmony until it’s elders can’t maintain control. Suddenly, monsters and carcasses of dead animals start appearing everywhere. Spoiler alert. It’s a cult. Don’t mess with the village elder of a hippie commune built on sharing, eating organic food together & caring. Ugh. I digress. Just. watch. the. movie (or the trailer )

So back to ransomed pixels. No sensible business model would allow another company to step in and ask for a sale. Sure $30 isn’t that much but it is $30 your business isn’t getting. So what if a client wants to purchase a real life picture to place in a photo frame? They can buy that at rock bottom prices and you’ll get credit. It’s like those tokens you get from Chuck E. Cheese, you can put those tokens towards…paying off ransom notes for your clients!!! I’m not kidding.

How can we really serve our families?
Although we all love photography and many of us would take photos for free if we could, we all need to make a sustainable living. We might have a furry pet counting on our income or a spouse or a few bambinos. The idea that artists must be starving or freely share their art has…well…expired. I mean to earn the distinguished name of “professional photographer” and not hobbyist, you actually have to make $, right? Whether you have a high volume studio or luxury brand, each photography business can benefit by serving clients through tangible products.

How can we serve our clients?
The first step is to find out what your client really wants. The first answer usually will be “high resolution files” or something like that. Drill deeper and you’ll find out whether they want art for their walls or an album heirloom to pass down. In 10 years will they really just want those photos on a website? In 100 years, will finding a hard drive in the attic get the grandchildren excited to look at a spinning harddrive platter on a hunk of metal? Of course not. Our clients want more than digital. Our clients want mementos of love that celebrate milestones on display in their homes! Our clients already have 2,000 photos on their cellphone and a million websites they can pin, share and tweet. Give them physical items they can touch, feel, see and smell (I love that new leather album smell)!

So here is a next step…

If you haven’t tried In Person Sales (IPS) or Projection Sales. I dare you to give it a try. Shake things up. Host a viewing party. The best tool I’ve found has been Salesographer. Honestly, I’m still new to In Person Sales and Projection Sales and have gone through the material several times. It taught me the process to get out of the mindset of shoot & burn and into a more profit minded and truly client serving approach.

Let’s start treating our photography businesses like a business (not like a charity) and go back to taking pride in our work and pricing it accordingly. The best way we can serve our clients is to give them products they will cherish 10, 20…30 years from now.

Until next time, I’ll pass on this new trend and hope that making an honest living comes in vogue.

As for this article, remember…

Sharing is caring

-ma

---------------------------------------------------- © ------------------------------------------------------

Mike Allebach: Founded Brandsmash as a marketing resource for small business owners with his mantra “Your story changes everything.” Communications & Marketing Director turned Photography Business owner he hosted 4 episodes of a failed webisode called brandsmashTV and writes this blog thingie. Hailed by a Rock n Roll Bride as “the Original Tattooed Bride Photographer”

This site is sponsored by lots of wonderful companies as shown in the side bar. Click on the affiliate links. Support them and you support me with $ which is better than credits or Chuck E Cheese coins. Of course you don’t have to click on a dang thing. The comments are for hate mail and love notes. Leave some.
POSTED IN PHOTOGRAPHY, UNCATEGORIZED

First Wedding of the 2014 Season!

First Wedding of 2014 - 04.26.2014

Meet Christian, Thomas 'T.J' and their beautiful little girl as they have celebrated the most beautiful day Riverside at the Country Club as a family. 

As you take a good look at the proud daddy, such emotion is evoked: "Three is really the perfect number".  The best of gifts received by the couple, and the most cherished, is a beautiful girl named 'Colbie'. The sweet story had its start in January 2010, when these two young lovers met.  Christian had relocated to the Port City in Wilmington, NC and Thomas "T.J" was swiftly introduced by the bride's mom, as a guide.  But, chemistry was evident and as events developed, there was an official first date in March,  2010 and as courtship continued they welcomed their little treasure in the Fall of 2011, and an engagement proposal had already been in the works.  

But, when 'Colbie' was born they decided to place focus in parenting, they were a family already and as life continued, preparations for the special wedding day were in order and in April 26th, 2014 our sweet family of three took part of the most heartfelt and genuine ceremony , as 'Colbie' was one of the most important participants of this amazing day!

The bride and groom decided for their wedding theme to be "Rustic-Classic", and the ceremony and reception were hosted by New Bern - Golf And Country Club in New Bern, NC.

The ceremony was held 'Riverside' in the late afternoon on Saturday April 26th, 2014 and was witnessed by 100plus guests.  Christian, the beautiful bride wore a gown by "Mori Lee  by Madeline Gardner".  Her Flowers were beautifully put together by "Michael's Florist" in New Bern.  Cake and Cupcakes were designed by "Ali Smith Cakes".

A touch of  "Rustic-Classic" details were classically done along with decorations, bridal gifts, bridesmaid dresses as well as the party favors for the day and our bride's favorite cowboy boots.

The colors chosen for the day  were sand for the bridesmaids dresses and classic grayish-black for groom and his groomsmen. 

A simple, yet very meaningful ceremony that was filled with many emotions, especially when 'Colbie' received a bracelet that signify that 'Union' as family being part of the classic observance by the colored sand poured into mason jars, which signifies 'all become ONE', followed by the seal of commitment by the couple with a kiss as they held their sweet treasure.

Finally husband and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Leonard walk away from the ceremony area and are greeted by family and loved ones.

Formal pictures followed and these were not your standard images, as bridal party all together wanted to have fun and so we did, the images reveal the laughter and enjoyment as we worked with them.

the reception was exceptional, couple's first dance along with their sweet girl was memorable. After dinner, the night was filled with great music and entertainment along with a serenade by best friends and dances that completed the moment perfectly...

We are really joyful to see how a wedding can be pondered, especially after a long series of life events, defeating the 'norm'.  So, this family has become a stronger unit and in this day, they enjoy all of God's blessings.

Weddings are all so different and still keep that classic essence.  What will your story be?

We Receive: Blue Wedding Wire Rated | Wedding Industry News!

Allie Miller Weddings | Photography ©
Receives Blue WeddingWire Rated™ Badge

Indian Beach, NC – March 15th, 2014 – 

WeddingWire, the nation's leading online wedding marketplace, is thrilled to announce that Allie Miller Weddings |Photography has received the WeddingWire Rated™ Blue badge for excellence in Commercial Wedding Photography

The esteemed WeddingWire Rated™ program recognizes wedding professionals who have received positive newlywed reviews about their business on WeddingWire. The program recognizes businesses across more than 20 service categories, from wedding venues to wedding photographers, and requires a minimum of three wedding reviews and an average rating of 3.5 stars or higher.Within the WeddingWire Rated™ program, there are five different levels that wedding professionals can reach based on the number of wedding reviews they have received (Blue, Bronze, Silver, Gold and Black).  The WeddingWire Rated™ Blue badge is awarded when a business receives three or more quality reviews.As a member of WeddingWire, the world's largest wedding review site with over one million reviews, Allie Miller Weddings |Photography's achievement of Rated™ is an impressive milestone and an indication of the positive experiences expressed by their past clients.  As a recipient of the Blue badge, Allie Miller Weddings |Photography is highlighted on WeddingWire, which is comprised of over 200,000 wedding professionals throughout the United States and Canada."With the growing importance of online reviews, WeddingWire is pleased to celebrate the successes of the wedding professionals who have received positive reviews on WeddingWire," said Sonny Ganguly, CMO, WeddingWire. "We are honored to recognize Allie Miller Weddings |Photography for their impressive work within the wedding industry."

"Allie Miller Weddings |Photography is thrilled to have achieved the WeddingWire Rated™ Blue badge for Commercial Wedding Photography in Indian Beach, NC. We would like to thank our past clients for taking the time to review our business on WeddingWire; it means so much to us and our business to have received the positive feedback that helped us earn this badge. 

We are dedicated to providing excellent service to our clients and look forward to increasing to the next Rated™ level in the near future."

For more information about Allie Miller Weddings |Photography, please visit our WeddingWire Storefront at www.weddingwire.com/alliemillerweddings

To learn more about the WeddingWire Rated™ program, please visit  http://wed.li/ratedinfoAbout WeddingWire, Inc.

WeddingWire®, the nation's leading marketplace serving the $70 billion wedding industry, is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding professionals. For engaged couples, WeddingWire offers the ability to search, compare and book over 200,000 reviewed wedding vendors, from wedding venues to wedding photographers.

WeddingWire also offers a comprehensive suite of online planning tools for weddings, including wedding websites and wedding checklists, all at no charge. For wedding professionals, WeddingWire is the only all-in-one marketing platform for businesses online and on-the-go.

WeddingWire offers one simple solution to build a professional network, improve search visibility, manage social media and reach mobile consumers.

Businesses that advertise with WeddingWire appear on WeddingWire.com, ProjectWedding.com and other leading sites, including MarthaStewartWeddings.com, Brides.com and Weddingbee.com.
WeddingWire PressRelease © 2014

WPPI 2014 - The Best Week Of My Year | So FAR!

WPPI 2014 - Best Week YET!

An awaited date in February and March every year, that is what WPPI is for me... It has become one of the two dates I plan for 365 days in advance along with PPA's Imaging USA.

Okay, so not only it is one of the most awesome trips one can endure, but it is an opportunity to see your photography family along with the reuniting with friends that you have made over the years, make new ones and see other incredible people that have created and shaped opportunities and generated immense learning experiences through their work and knowledge.

That said, there are some incredible, off the wall individuals that are true to the profession and its dazzling forces of attraction pull you in directions you never experienced before. This in itself makes it all worth it. We are (like I said: still growing)

After 5 days of classes, workshops, meetings and presentations, along with so many of the incredible vendors that have become part of our everyday life (I know my business could not functions without them) it was gratifying to find out that everyone, that's right "everyone" in here has started at that same point and is looking for growth, friendship and opportunities to advance in our professions as photographers! It is truly humbling.

One thing deserves mention and I am sure everyone who has a blog and has blogged or written about #WPPI2014 has said the same as I am bout to say: Jason Groupp has made WPPI one amazing place for us, he thinks of us and he is incredible at all levels. I say this with great love, appreciation and respect because I have had the honor to sit with him, one on one and he has listened and he continues to give and give, he is worked really hard to make this year the best yet. For that I am thankful and so proud to belong to WPPI.

I had the incredible opportunity to connect with my proofing crew and meet face to face with the forces that drive the detailed operation that allows my studio to give highest service and produce amazing prints, with incredible delivery and service.

Met some of the most inspiring ladies and was able to actually have a one on one with many, I know consider my fiends! If that was not enough, I was able to get photographed once again by the sweet "shabanger master" Peter Hurley. Also, I was able to sit along for inspiration platform speaker Trevor D and was able to see many dazzled by methods in lighting taught so by the great and ruthless Zach Arias ( this is where I get my whole ONE light set up series but, instead I add only a Prime) 

Sadly, could not see my inspirational "help portrait" founder Jeremy Cowart, unfortunately his brother passed while he was presenting and he had to leave, we all felt that loss. It was sad to all who know him. Like I said a photography family! 

Met some of the most inspiring ladies and was able to actually have a one on one with many, I know consider my fiends! If that was not enough, I was able to get photographed once again by the sweet "shabanger master" Peter Hurley. Also, I was able to sit along for inspiration platform speaker Trevor D and was able to see many dazzled by methods in lighting taught so by the great and ruthless Zach Arias ( this is where I get my whole ONE light set up series but, instead I add only a Prime) 

Sadly, could not see my inspirational "help portrait" founder Jeremy Cowart, unfortunately his brother passed while he was presenting and he had to leave, we all felt that loss. It was sad to all who know him. Like I said a photography family! 

Also, some friends were missed, everyone is excited with all that was going on with off-site workshops and get-togethers, many groups, parties, so there was not enough time. But, there is always next year and we are looking forwards to it!

We are finally home, everyone is gone back to their lives are ready to create and apply all that knowledge we were exposed to while in Las Vegas. I know, I have been working since I stepped off the plane.. It si great!

Wanted to share a tid-bit of our 5 days,  Enjoy the images that were collected and we will see you soon!

CHeers!

Allie Miller

A year later, my perspective!

A path: roads, they may take you, perhaps where you don't want to go, but you will make it and choices will lead you where you need to be!

One year ago I took a leap of faith along with my husband to a place that had nothing to offer to me or the growth for my business; however, made the best possible. 

We were faced with the challenge of empty promises, that lead to many other situations... And instead of dwelling on that we pushed forward...

This is a short story of courage, to never give up and never stop believing in the forces that'd be. He always has a plan for you, and we believe that! 

You may ask what is the relationship of this note and the gorgeous image attached...? Here it is... While living in this distant places  the West (the mountains of southern Utah, to be exact), I had a chance to cross paths with this amazing young girl.  - the reflection is the following: I am now a year ahead and I am blessed to travel back west for a few days to the most famed convention for photographers "WPPI"  in the next few day and now, I know the plan was so clear... 

When I look at the images, these take me to the happy moments while in a truly less happy state in the west. 

Regardless, I have made my business survive. In two different markets and this year we have done re structures, much like starting over... New market, new ideas, new clients, the fact that I re-A path: roads, they may take you, perhaps where you don't want to go, but you will make it and choices will lead you where you need to be!

One year ago I took a leap of faith along with my husband to a place that had nothing to offer to me or the growth for my business; however, made the best possible. 

We were faced with the challenge of empty promises, that lead to many other situations... And instead of dwelling on that we pushed forward...

This is a short story of courage, to never give up and never stop believing in the forces that'd be. He always has a plan for you, and we believe that! 

You may ask what is the relationship of this note and the gorgeous image attached...? Here it is... While living in this distant places  the West (the mountains of southern Utah, to be exact), I had a chance to cross paths with this amazing young girl.  - the reflection is the following: I am now a year ahead and I am blessed to travel back west for a few days to the most famed convention for photographers "WPPI"  in the next few day and now, I know the plan was so clear... I am where I need to be.

When I look at the images, these take me to the happy moments while in a truly less happy state in the west. 

Regardless, I have made my business survive. In two different markets and this year we have done re-structures, much like starting over... New market, new ideas, new clients.  The fact that I have I re-created an established business in two different markets in about 8 months is baffling to me, I know one thing, it has been tough and exhausting, that included new marketing and challenging networking in a much saturated place... And I would not lie, yes, There have the moments of impending doom... Moments, in which I wanted to say forget it! But, these moments they will never win! My goals are clear and the future is wide!

I must honestly say that without the support I receive from a loving husband, family (parents ans sister) especially as well as my friends and clients, not to mention my mentors, and educating figures and other inspirational figures I have followed. My relations with each single one if them have allowed me to carry on and grow.

Although, I re-structured in less than 8 months ... I have been able to travel the states, while earning a living. My visions have been embraced by many individuals and corporations, and I know that the guys next door have the studio, the better and bigger and more expensive tools of the trade, I rely solely on my creativity and knowledge and always a prayer! So far these have been my best tools.  My focus on people, not the income. When you give, that is when you become the person you are meant to be, everything is full circle and always returns to me.

My perspective, a year later is to inspire you. Somehow, I know there are still many roads to travel and many hearts to touch via my work and vision.

Do good to others, stay great and true to yourself... Never, never give up... No matter how grim and narrow the tunnel seems... There is always a light, that never goes out! 

I thank the man above for that journey a year ago, that leap of faith... Somehow a long road, but obviously truly worth it!

Love always,

Allie

Color Casting On Images - Important Educational BIT!

 

Photo credit courtesy from © Peter West Carey

Today's BLOG - is about COLOR CASTING - Why? You will see...


Let's begin by the definition of Color casting - Color Cast is a tint of a particular color, usually unwanted, which affects the whole of a photographic image evenly.

I am fortunate enough to be trusted to review portfolios and work by others, and endless times I have ran across images that have this issue.

Many of the technical aspects and techniques that allow photographers grow with their skill is education, their knowledge of managing their White Balance settings assertively and knowing when and how to avoid these color castings from appearing.

Clients, they may not notice - However, a trained eye will.

When you offer 'professional' services and in fact you are charging for these services, you must keep in mind that striving for a professional outcome in your images, re-enforces not only the factor of running a professional business, but also the matter of delivering images that are in fact handled with extreme knowledge and skill.

That being said, it is a good practice to pay close attention to these details, it will set you apart from the rest, not mentioning your images will take off with grand speed.

Examples of color casting may be: white wedding dresses - has a hue or hint of blue... Reds that reflect in some skin as well as green on light {white shirts} clothing... etc

So, the reason for my blog today is that only to raise awareness, so that gorgeous, professional images are delivered with exquisite quality. Oh, and do not worry... I have in the past been a victim of this color casting, but you learn - and move ON So, Do not fret- Time, skill and practice will allow YOU to avoid that pesky detail from happening! Learning is endless....

Hope this invites some to entertain the thought of learning how to use their White Balance accordingly and carefully use some great techniques during post processing... :)

Someday you will say: Hey - I am glad I learned more about this!

Hoping this helps a few...

allie miller
Enjoy these links from DPS

http://digital-photography-school.com/why-is-the-snow-in-my-pictures-so-blue

http://digital-photography-school.com/introduction-to-white-balance

http://digital-photography-school.com/precise-color-cast-correction-with-gray-fill-layers
∞

Our Family Sessions 2013

Mahoney-Phipps Family Session 2013 | <<< CLICK ON LINK!



Nothing compares to that feeling and emotion… The #love of #family and of parents for their babies.I love the #HolidaySeason I get to capture moments that last a #LIFETIME and I get to witness these changes. Blessed to have such dear clients who have trusted me year after year with their family yearly portraits, they know the value of an essential investment and as time passes, children grow up and life moves on.. It is#inspiring to have the power to freeze these moments for them!


For BOOKINGS - www.amillerfoto.com

Cheaper is not always BETTER.

Cheaper is not always BETTER - KNOW the difference! 

Had to re-post this - while I discussed this with friends this a.m and they could not agree more with me.. 

Although they do not live here, this is their story: 

Parents had a 'friend' do their photography as a 'gift' for their day - Photographer was someone who was not a seasoned, full time 'wedding photographer - That said - the pictures were just snapshots.. no editing.. just pictures - The bride's words: Looked like pictures were taken with a point and shoot" Well as a result my friends have no canvas {pics resolution were too low} - NO Wedding Album - The 'friend" had no idea how to put one together and the pictures did not have the 'quality' for an album.

They, however did get a disc and they printed most of their pictures at 'Costco' - they were not happy with the quality of the paper. All I can see in their faces was sadness and a sense of 'We wished we had invested in a good photos" look.

Well - I guess SOMETIMES - 'CHEAPER' is not better 

Here is my little article on this topic...

Your Wedding Day.. Ahhh {bliss!} - You have waited for this moment almost all of your life... And now, here comes the planning... And along with all preparations, it is a good time to start shopping for a photographer - after all you do not want to trust those images to some hobbyist who "loves to take pictures" or someone in your party with a point-n-shoot {usually a good hearted friend}, right? 

If you are reading this blog, you have probably landed here and the title has caught your eye - I am so glad you've decided to check out this article, because finding a wedding photographer can be a bit overwhelming. 

I know, prices range from almost nothing (friends with cameras, the hobbyist) to prices as high as $30K-50K dollars!! And no! This figure is not a typo. I can let you in a little secret, since you got this far - 

Good wedding photography is not cheap, but it is the most important investment you will make on your special day.. It is not an expense {key word} you are investing a lot into your big day. In easier terms, when your wedding venue is over, the food will be eaten, the transportation will be returned, tuxes taken back and the dress and decorations packed away (possibly will never worn or used again - my gown is pretty in a box). Now, your photos, Ah {Smile} - these are usually the only remaining evidence of all the hard work you put into your wedding day. 

What we are saying is, that If you are hiring a wedding photographer, just make sure you hire a photographer that you are comfortable with and feel like you can actually trust to take on your day personally.\Even if it is not our booked wedding, just make sure you are truly confident they can handle the work load, the day, the guest, the lighting {that their gear can handle most lighting situations?} etc and treat you and your party with respect. Professional photographers, we come in all shapes and sizes. We all have various levels of experience and education. 

So to say not all wedding photographers are created equal. We can say that we are not the low end cheap, but we are not the most expensive either. We do shot many weddings, and have multiple PRO camera bodies, PRO lenses and flashes, and we are ready for anything, for example if one of our cameras break down, you can trust we have backups, again not missing a moment. And this is exactly what you want when you are hiring a photographer. 

Also, do not forget planning for the worst, is your photographer affiliated? Do they have insurance? What is the contract read? Are they professional? When you first met - Were they dressed appropriately to your interview? With my wedding packages, there are always two of us taking photos. I've used other photographers before, but the second photographer is USUALLY my husband. 

We love what we do and we have fun shooting weddings. Honestly, we are so grateful to work with so many couples who truly understand the value behind our craft. And we have created some pretty sweet relationships as well as with the many clients that we have photographed. Sometimes in conversations with friends and colleagues, we are always amazed at some of the horror stories we hear about their wedding photographers and the stuff we come across in social media. There are of course lots of talented photographers too, but, the way of handling your day's captures are different. So, it is important to meet and survey the professional photographers you are considering for your special day. 

Not everyone is a good fit ( whether be for you {client} OR the photographer). Your overall experience is an important factor for all those involved, when you have a great rapport. For some reason if you are not comfortable with their style. Do not settle. Find someone that you will be comfortable with, remember they will be on your every moment on your day. Keep in mind that good professional photographers get booked real FAST! Make sure they are not double booking on your day or taking other sessions during your day. A story last year we had to turn away 5 brides requesting wedding dates in September and November. 

We simply could not shoot them because we were already booked - our attention is solely to you, and if hiring someone - expect nothing less! If you find someone you really like, make sure you get in touch with them as soon as possible. If for example, our style suits your taste - send a message - even if not in the area... {hint} Perhaps, you are just researching - give us a ring- or Skype with us and feels like you would would just like to come by and visit. 

We would be glad to let you look more closely the work we do, and our process and see if you like what I offer. Goodness! I never imagined I could really write this long blog, but I know it has gotten longer than intended. 

Final words - When hiring a professional wedding photographer just make sure you like them as a person/people and you can tell a lot by first impressions. So, If you are a fit {like peas in a pod} you will likely click with them during your day and it will reflect in the outcome of your photos. 

Also, make sure they have good gear and backups to handle your wedding and most lighting situations. (Plus, make sure they actually know how to use it!) If you're not having an outdoor wedding with a nice cloud cover and a brightly lit reception, you might run into issues. 

Saying that also, make sure you like their past work and this perhaps will be the best predictor of the outcome. So, even if their price might be right, but their style might be wrong... 

Cheaper is NOT always better. Sometimes cheaper is just CHEAP and the product will be shown and discussed for times to come among friends and family....True story! Remind me to tell you when we meet! Now, there is a lot of work ahead... Let's plan YOUR day!

Allie

www.alliemillerweddings.com

An Elizabeth Halford RE-BLOG "I WANT TO START A PHOTOGRAPHY BUSINESS. BUT I’M NOT A PHOTOGRAPHER.”

Re-BLOG & Not in anyway, form or shape a "amillerfoto" BLOG | But something that a fellow photographer, business owner and educator has blogged and I thought it to be extremely relevant to followers and subscribers....

Carry ON and READ and sign up for her BLOG updates, she is AMAZING | http://www.elizabethhalford.com/


“I WANT TO START A PHOTOGRAPHY BUSINESS. BUT I’M NOT A PHOTOGRAPHER.”


OCTOBER 3, 2013
Posted in Taking Pictures,The Business of Photography


“Elizabeth, I loved, loved, loved how you handled this!” -Elizabeth Hope





I got this in my email this week:


“I want to start a photography business but I don’t have a camera. What camera should I buy?”


Face. Palm.


*sigh*


Guys, how has it come to this? I’ve literally felt so sad since receiving this question. Why, oh, why does photography look like a cash cow to people? Since when has this art become so very disguised as something else? And don’t you dare tell me it’s because DSLRs are more readily available than ever before.


Because so are computers. I have two and I’m not thinking about becoming a programmer.


I have a drawer full of paintbrushes. I haven’t once considered selling paintings.


I have an entire dresser full of hair products and tools I use for myself but I’m not going to go and try to be a hair stylist.


I have a stove – it doesn’t make me a caterer.


So now tell me…why do people who have a camera that they use personally (or in this case, no camera at all!) think it makes sense to start an enterprise to make money with it? It’s baffling to me. Truly.


I’m not despising small beginnings or big dreams. Because I started super small. But long before I ever thought I could establish a business, I fell in love with photography and started my artistic journey. Then people started asking if I could do it for them, too, and that’s when the penny dropped that I could do this for a living. I didn’t start learning photography to make money. That just feels so wrong. Where’s the heart in that? And worse, what happens when there’s no money coming in? Because the photography business is largely fueled by love and passion, not money.


It’s like getting married for sex. What you gonna do when your marriage to this art isn’t putting out?





Oh this occasion, I answered this email. And this is exactly what I said:


How are you going to establish a business in the arts when you’re not even (yet) an artist? Consider the following questions:


“I want to sell paintings. What paintbrushes should I use?”


“I want to get published. What pen should I write with?”


“I want to make a record and get on the radio, but I’m not a singer.”


Photography is art. It’s not just something you decide you’re going to do if you’re not an artist or you’ll get eaten alive. This is my suggestion…


Get the cheapest DSLR you can (Nikon or canon. Doesn’t matter). Learn the art. Excell in composition. Learn to harness the decisive moment. Learn how light behaves. Learn how to work with people. Make lots of mistakes. Pour your blood sweat and tears into your art. Learn to make something amazing without much to work with and then graduate up in lenses and cameras when/if you can afford it.


Study business. Learn how people think. Make a business plan. Study psychology and sales. Choose your genre/niche. Stick with it.


Your camera is a paintbrush. It’s not what you use to start your business.


I wish someone told me this when I started.







ENJOY!


ALLIE

Lynn & Lisa | Destination Wedding in Mammoth Creek Panguitch, UT 09.21.2013

Lynn & Lisa… 09.21.2013 | Mammoth Creek, UT

I believe in love.

I believe in love as one of the strongest forces… No time, No distance, No obstacles can come between the love of two people, who adore and care for one another…

The reason of travel for family members simply involves more than a mere couple of hours - try 10+ just to be there, at that one place that holds the significance in itself, where so much has been shared and experienced… A simple site which for many may be only a camping ground… To our sweet couple it signified their ‘time’ together, away from it ALL -

A simple ceremony, involved plenty of planning… And much surprising to be revealed to the groom and it was successful all around!

For me as a photographer, a destination wedding entails more than meeting a bride and closing a deal, a lot rides in my ability to create that amazing relationship with the sweet trust given, the details and such… There are other responsibilities other than delivering their captures…

Just to be there a day prior as well as making sure all my gear works and it is not lost during transport, my destination work involves long hours at airports, sitting in the most odd spots somewhere to find good outlets to connect and work, eat, sleep to be ready for their day… Driving, scouting, be that person with the one pin that may hold a dress together, who knows? All you know, is that YOU have to be ready for anything!!! And this is the aspect of my travel that I love so much.

Finally.. After a day of happiness… We obtained all the images that were envisioned and I have met some incredible new friends, who I cannot wait to see soon! My client, my bride and now, well… I cannot wait to hear more about her great time in the mountains with the love of her life!

Proofs have already been delivered.. And now we wait… :)
At their own time and pace, when they are ready!

Congratulations to such amazing pair… We shall see you really soon!!

I am the lucky one, I have the best clients!

allie miller

Getting INVOLVED and giving back DOES feel great!

PINK HEALS - OCTOBER

CANCER AWARENESS MONTH 

WEAR PINK

OCTOBER is APPROACHING - but, no matter - any-day any month is a good time to get involved, support and recognize!

It was a real great day in company of extraordinary people.

PINK HEALS TOUR ‘s mission is about Men Supporting Women in the fight against #cancer Their overview: These men #honor those who can no longer #fight, stand with those who can fight and #inspire those who watch.

Creating #cancerawareness through everyone’s support!

So #grateful I was able to spend a few #hours in company of such fine individuals and was able to #photo them ….

Such #inspiration - Hope this #inspiresomeone to #follow this#amazingworld of #love & #hope

www.amillerfoto.com

My Personal Approach To A Maternity Session

Maternity Glam | Beach Session

My Approach To My Maternity Session…

I believe, that having a sweet being growing inside is the most incredible miracle of all!

I know first hand, although I have no children… What pregnancy can make you feel like… {I had gotten pregnant and lost the baby} and as I am revealing a very personal side of my on going journey, the page has been turned and now, I help others in the state of expectancy feel gorgeous.  I know that when I was expecting, I never felt great about the way I looked…

I strive to make my maternity clients beautiful, because I know that it makes a huge difference….Today’s session represents exactly what pregnancy should look and feel like - BEAUTIFUL and still have that sexy feeling ALIVE in you!! - 

Being pregnant should not make you feel less gorge, instead it should empower you to see that you are still beautiful and radiant…  

My reasons for shooting maternity “MY WAY” relies in none of of the conventional hold your belly, blown up, uncomfortable look, in all the opposite…I will glam you up - Your hair and make up will be done as well as the style coordination in clothes and look. - My website has some great ideas under the contact tab.

I want to thank my adored friend & client Alleigh Bradshaw for demonstrating just that! She looks stunning and happy - This is what want my clients to experience when they book their maternity session with me.


Visit www.amillerfoto.com for details if interested in one of my sessions!

 allie miller | Photographer