Vice-President
Tammy Graham
Ft. Worth

From what I have heard, it looks like many of you had a great finish to 2017. Congratulations!  I know I was especially busy with many more sessions and better than expected sales.  This got me thinking, “Why do some finish strong while others do not?”

I think the answer is, “planning”.  Successful photographers plan to be successful.  I believe the key begins with creating a year-round marketing calendar.  A few hours of your time spent examining the marking and promotions that follow seasonal changes can pay big dividends.  Many photographers began their planning for 2018 back in the fall of 2017, but it is not too late to get started if you start right now.

The year-round calendar allows you to have a clear understanding of the cycle of sales that takes place during the year.  For example, spring is filled with sessions that take place outdoors.  From bluebonnets to azaleas, from amazing spring colors to Easter pastels, there are a lot of ways to get clients excited about portraits.  Have you already started encouraging spring sessions?

Summer is filled with excited kids who have finally reached their “Senior” year.  They are motivated and looking for a great senior portrait experience.  Have you planned how you will get their attention?

The fall brings so many opportunities for amazing outdoor color and the early appearance of Santa.  Many photographers cash in on this important time of year, but you can’t wait until September to get your clients ready…that process begins in July when you should be creating marketing materials and creating your promotions.

The year-round calendar is your guide to success.  I hope that you will spend at least a couple of hours this week working on yours.

Speaking of planning, TPPA members have a lot to look forward to in 2018.

The Texas 10 Workshops start up in late this month and run through March.  These are small workshops hosted by TPPA members who volunteer their time to share their talents and skills to help you become a better photographer.  Classes range from getting started with Lightroom to business and marketing and everything in between.  Learn more at tppa.org/texas10.

There is still time to register for Texas School.  Even though some of the classes have sold out, there are still plenty of outstanding classes.  Texas School is an immersion in photographic education with just the right amount of fun.  The trade show is always a hit as many of the vendors provide the best prices of the year on equipment and services at Texas School.  All the evening meals and entertainment is provided with your Texas School registration.  There is no better value in photographic education.  Learn more at texasschool.org.

have found that I accomplish more when I have a plan.  I hope that you have taken some time to plan an outstanding 2018.