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It's been seven years since I joined the Studio Photography editorial staff. During my time as editor, the most consistent request we've received from our readers—individually and collectively—is to offer more support with the business side of their operations, e.g., marketing, selling, pricing, sharpening their competitive edge. And so on.
This focus guides us as we plan each and every issue. The challenge is to create a rich blend of success strategies and business basics, new and novel products and services, in a fashion that entertains, stimulates, and motivates you to discover new ways of reaching your goals.
The current issue of Studio Photography achieves this balance well. Our cover story, about wildlife photographer John Hyde, "Hyde & Seek," by managing editor Jennifer Gidman, delivers many business, technical, and creative tips that Hyde has learned from his wild subjects over the past two decades.
Our profile on children's portraiture photographer Sheri Geoffreys, "Good Connections," by Christopher Appoldt, conveys her story as a balance between the power of marketing with a passion for life, photography, and her subjects.
Our third success profile, "Unity & Contrast," explores the art and business of architectural photographer Jim Roof. Assistant editor Tara Propper shows how Roof uses the power of lighting to create his uniquely energetic compositions.
As a counterpoint to the popular sport of blaming photojournalists and digital technology for the decline of professional photography, photographer Giovanni Vascariello encourages his peers to "Rejuvenate the Art Form," by sharpening your competitive edge and educating your clients as to your value.
Because traveling, especially by air, has become an increasingly daunting proposition, we introduce a Travel Advisory: How to Protect Your Gear—and Yourself—When Traveling on Assignment" to share vital lessons learned from readers and introduce great new products.
If you've ever been audited, or want to prevent that eventuality, read "You've Been Audited: What to Do—and Not to Do," by Greg Stangl, who recently was the subject of a random audit. Well worth the read!
"How Do You Keep Your Competitive Edge in a Smaller Market?", by Wes Kroninger and Dave Humphreys, is an upbeat discussion on this vital topic.
If you're thinking of trying an online solution for your proofing needs, read Brian Geraths' thumbs-up review of www.morephotos.com and how it has helped boost revenues in his operation.
As always, we present an array of new products to help you develop solutions to your current workflow problems. Check out Innovations, Industry Scene/Product News, and Jennifer Gidman's Onsite Printer Roundup for some of the hottest products from PMA. Also read Russell Abraham's review of Adobe Photoshop Lightroom for a candid, detailed reaction to this leaner, faster alternative to Photoshop.
Vincent Versace brings us an excerpted digital workflow lesson from his new book, " Welcome to Oz." Be sure to read his book for more details.
Calumet Photo Contest winner Ken Fischer explains how he illuminated his grand-prize-winning image in "The Lighter Side of New York" and discusses the inspiration for his Nightlight series, from which that image came.
Do you have a digital assistant that helps with your studio workflow? This month's Peer2Peerlooks at the role played by digital assistants.
With spring in the air, I imagine you'll be spending more time on the go than usual. Stay current with industry news by visiting our website, www.imaginginfo.com, and by subscribing to our biweekly enewsletter. They're both designed with the pro on the go in mind.
Remember: Studio Photography means business.
Have a splendid spring!
author: BY ALICE B. MILLER