Flash Online Articles
Navigating PPA Insurance: Lessons Learned and Tips for Coverage
There’s nothing quite like coming back from a lovely walk in the woods and finding that your car windows are down and your camera, expensive lenses, credit cards, and phone have left the scene without you. Mary Lynn Wolfe, M. Photog., CPP, FP, shares her personal experience of navigating PPA Insurance so other photographers can make more informed decisions about their coverage.
Geminid Adventure
Michael PlesKovitch, CPP, shares his adventures of photographing celestial events, such as the Geminid Meteor Shower. With several ooh and ah moments, Michael gives helpful advice and tips for photographers who want to experience these events and take their photography to another level.
Merits, Credits, Units... Oh My!
MERITS are awarded by PPA and apply toward PPA degrees. CREDITS are earned through VPPA for our state degrees. Learn more about how you can earn your VPPA Degrees!
Written by Lisa H. Carter, M.Photog., Cr, CPP, FP, SP Member of PPA, ASP, PPNC and VPPA
5 Habits of Highly Successful Photographers
"Photography is an art form that demands not only creativity but also a strategic approach for success. Behind every successful photographer lies a set of habits that propels their career forward..."
Written by Cathy Benton, Cr., FP, AFP, SP, Member of PPA and VPPA Tidewater District
Optimizing Your Website's Impact: The Friend-Focused Strategy
"Engaging in a constructive exercise while creating and upkeeping your website can prove invaluable. It's time to delve into the "who do you know" game."
Written by Cathy Benton, Cr., FP, AFP, SP, Member of PPA and VPPA Tidewater District
Overcoming Photographers' Imposter Syndrome
"At the end of each year, I reflect on the images I’ve created and the people I’ve had an opportunity to impact, along with reviewing my successes and failures. And each year, when doing this, I always feel like an imposter. The term Imposter Syndrome is genuine for many professional photographers because, at times, they have a persistent feeling that they are a fraud despite their achievements."
Written by Ty Swartz, M.Ed., MBA, M.Photog.Cr., CPP, USN Ret., Member of PPA and VPPA Tidewater District
Mastering Waterfall Photography: Choosing the Perfect Filters
"Capturing the beauty of a waterfall in a photograph is no simple task. It requires careful consideration of factors such as natural light quality, the direction of the water flow, and the composition of the surrounding environment. Fortunately, a range of filters can significantly enhance your ability to capture the perfect waterfall shot. In this guide, we'll explore some essential filters and techniques to help you achieve that coveted silky water effect."
Written by Michael Pucciarelli, Cr., CPP, Member of PPA and VPPA Capital District
Unexpected Illuminations
"This past September, a small group of photographers (and two of their partners) from the Virginia Professional Photographers Association banded up for an unofficial group trip to Iceland. I had the privilege of being part of that group and finding myself in the right place and time for an evening I’ll never forget."
Written by David Buck Buckwalter, Member of PPA and VPPA Capital District
Unlock Your Creative Potential with These 3 Essential Tips
Are you ready to elevate your art and make the most of your time? Here are three invaluable tips to help you reach your creative goals, as well as the one thing that often holds creators back.
Written by Cathy Benton, Cr., FP, AFP, SP, Member of PPA and VPPA Tidewater District
How Social Media Plays a Big Part in Marketing Businesses
"Most of you know me as the Northern Virginia Photographer who recently opened her first brick and mortar studio. While this is true – I also own and operate 'Fried Rice Social'. It is a start-up digital marketing company also located in Northern Virginia. We love to work with business owners to drive more social connections to their products and services."
Written by Tania Hossain, Member of PPA and VPPA Northern District
Discovering My Happy Place
"I grew up in New Jersey approximately 20 miles from the lights and bustle of New York City and directly under a flightpath into Newark Airport. I can honestly say I don’t recall any stargazing taking place at my house. In fact, it took family trips to Maine, Pennsylvania and eventually Montana to open my eyes to the night sky."
Written by Dan Emmerman, CPP, and Member of PPA and VPPA Northern District
Passion for Photography
"I am passionate about taking photos that make people stop and take a second look. I aim to capture hidden elements that may go unnoticed at first glance and transport my audience to another place and time. I aspire to evoke a range of emotions and sensations. My muse for photography is a combination of various elements that inspire me in different ways. Fine art, for instance, has always been a source of inspiration for me."
Written by Kim Kiely, Cr. Photog., CPP, and Member of PPA and VPPA Tidewater District
A Lifetime with Animals and Coming Full Circle
From my first camera purchased with S&H Green Stamps to the journey of becoming a professional pet photographer, my lifelong passion for both photography and animals has led me on a remarkable path. As a former shelter volunteer and director, I witnessed the profound bonds between humans and their pets, as well as the heartbreaking circumstances that led to their separation. Now, through the power of photography, I strive to immortalize the vibrant personalities of pets and create lasting memories for their families. Join me as I share my journey of capturing the essence of pets in the great outdoors and shedding light on the profound connections they bring to our lives.
Written by Barb Hays, Member of PPA and VPPA Tidewater District
Take the Time
Do you sometimes feel like you’ve fallen into a deep dark hole and can’t seem to get out?
Written by Cathy Benton, Member of PPA, ASP and VPPA Tidewater District Member
How I Improved My Understanding of Competition Through an Imaging USA Pre-Con Class
For those of us still considering Imaging USA & Pre-Con Classes, the "Competition and the 12 Elements" has helped many photographers up their game. Read Christine's experience and how this class has improved her photography.
Written by Christine Grosshans. Master photographer, CPP and FP.
Understanding Situation (SWOT) Analysis of Your Marketing Plan
A new Flash Article by Tidewater member, Ty Swartz, M. Photog., Cr., CPP, is now available to view online.
"This article will cover element 2—situation (SWOT) analysis. A SWOT analysis is an essential part of any business marketing plan. It allows you to create a plan of action based on your interest and not rely on your gut feeling about what you need to do in the given market situation. The SWOT considers your marketing capabilities against competitors and examines opportunities created as new technologies are introduced."
A Costly Lesson: Protecting Your Gear with Proper Insurance Coverage
On a scorching July 4th in 2005, our family gathered around the pool, enjoying the summer heat. Eager to capture the joyful moments with the kids, I reached for my trusty camera, a Canon EOS 1DMKll, my prized possession. It was my very first digital camera investment. Little did I know that this day would teach me a valuable lesson about the importance of insurance coverage for my photography gear.
Unbelievable Baby Photoshoot Story!
Cathy Benton shares the second craziest thing that she ever experienced during her career as a photographer. It's moments like these when we, as professional photographers, can shine through with composure, compassion, and gorgeous imagery that our clients will love.
VPPA Leadership
Let's Talk About the Leadership Structure of VPPA
Gwen Meehan, Northern District Governor, lays out a comprehensive roadmap of the VPPA Leadership Structure and the responsibilities of the different positions. This is an excellent read for any member and visitor that wants an overview of how our organization operates... and it all starts with you!
How to Maximize a Sale, Pt. 4
Effective Marketing Strategies
Marketing is an ongoing effort that should be integrated into your daily routine. Read Cathy Benton's Flash Online Article series, "How To Maximize A Sale, Pt. 4" to discover some effective means to market your business.
Is It Time To Go Mirrorless
Have you sworn to be buried with your DSLR in hand? Does a camera without a mirror just seem wrong? Have you scoffed at mirrorless much the same way so many of us once scoffed at digital? Or are you just on the fence as to whether you want to make an expensive change?
Mary Lynne Wolfe, a Northern District member, shares her opinion on the matter in this week's Flash Online articles. Click on the link below to read her article now.
Mastering Portrait Lighting
When it comes to capturing captivating portraits, lighting plays a crucial role in shaping the subject's face, setting the mood, and adding a touch of creativity to your images. Throughout history, photographers have utilized various lighting patterns to tell their stories effectively. In this article by Lisa Carter and Cathy Benton, we will explore some of the classic lighting patterns that have stood the test of time, providing you with the knowledge to create stunning portraits that convey your desired narrative.
The Great American Eclipse
Capital District member, David "Buck" Buckwalter, shares his incredible experience photographing the astronomical phenomena of 2017, The Great American Eclipse. This article brings you with him to the awe-inspiring event that he witnessed and photographed in the heart of the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee and his current plans to prepare for the next total solar eclipse in April 2024.
Capturing the Bluebird Life Cycle Through Photography
Edward Haynes brings us another beautiful article about his experience with wildlife photography. "Capturing the Bluebird Life Cycle Through Photography" is an inspirational and informative read for anyone who appreciates wildlife photography and photography by itself. Haynes' artful process of portraying these gorgeous birds comes with a great amount of understanding the subject and creating an inviting environment for them to flourish. Take a moment in your day to enjoy his article and stunning wildlife photography.
Making the Move
Many of us start our photography careers from home. We begin working part-time, nights and weekends, often while juggling a full-time job, raising a family or both. Finding the time is one thing; finding the space for a camera room or studio is another. Lisa Carter, VPPA Blue Ridge member, writes about the pros and cons, and her own journey expanding into a commercial studio space.
VPPA: The Business Partner I Didnʻt Know Iʻd Have
When our Tidewater District member, Jamie Young, joined VPPA about a decade ago, she couldn’t have imagined the huge impact that relationships and education would have on her business, self-confidence, and overall accomplishments. In her story below, Jamie describes her journey of realizing that “VPPA isn’t just an association of like-minded individuals. VPPA is truly my business partner.”
Hummingbird Photography
Edward Haynes shares his step-by-step process to create beautiful wildlife photography of hummingbirds using his Olympus camera, off-camera flash, Photoshop, and more.
Adorable Dog Images Sell Greeting Cards
Northern District Member, Kathy Kupka, shares her experience with pet photography and the evolution of printing these adorable pet portraits onto profitable greeting cards.
Helping Teens Gain Confidence Through Photography
Tidewater Member, Casey Scalf, created a program to help middle school teens with their self-confidence.
Learn More By Teaching Photography
We invite you to read our latest Flash online article by our Northern District member, Gwen Meehan. She discusses the educational benefits of VPPA and how we get more when we give more. Please contact our Flash Editorial Team (Cathy Benton, or Jenny Lijana) with your ideas for future articles or to contribute a written article of your own.
Fisherman's Island
Tidewater District Member, Kelly Durham (Poppy), wrote an article about her outing to Eastern Shore with a group of members from VPPA from around the state. There was plenty of history, wildlife photography, and landscape photography to enjoy! Click below to read more.
How to Maximize a Sale: Pt. 1: Planting Seeds
Tidewater District Member, Cathy Benton's nine-part series on "How to Maximize a Sale."
Reflecting on Imaging
Capital member, David "Buck" Buckwalter's impressions of PPA, Imaging USA, January 2023.