If you follow me on Instagram, you might have seen a sneak peek – yep, I was invited to be the keynote speaker at the 2024 Photography Industry Night hosted by the PPBN (Professional Photography Business Network) in Brisbane. Now, let me tell you, this wasn’t your average networking event. This was a night bursting with inspiration, knowledge bombs, and enough friendly faces to make even the shyest photographer feel welcome.
Here’s the thing: after 30 years in this business (can you believe it?!), I still get a kick out of connecting with other photographers. We share a passion for capturing those precious moments, those fleeting smiles, and the messy, beautiful chaos that defines family life.
A Star-Packed Panel
And let me tell you, the panel discussion that night was pure gold! We had rockstars from every corner of the industry:
- Paula Brennan: The headshot and personal branding queen herself! Who doesn’t want to project confidence through their photos?
- Kris Anderson: Need I say more than “award-winning”? This guy’s talent is undeniable, and apparently, he’s the world’s nicest guy too!
- Tanha Basile: Gold Coast’s fearless and unapologetic newborn and family photographer, and also an educator.
- Natasha Simpson: Okay, with over 600,000 social media followers, I think we can all agree Natasha has a thing or two to teach us about building an audience!
But seriously, folks, it wasn’t just about the big names. The energy in the room was electric. Sharing tips, swapping stories (we’ve all had those “interesting” family sessions!), and learning from each other – that’s what makes these industry nights so special.
Sustainability and Longevity in Business
Reflecting on the night, I’m filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share my insights and experiences with such a passionate and engaged audience. My talk focused on the importance of sustainability and longevity in the photography business, emphasizing the need for photographers to continually adapt and evolve to meet the changing demands of the industry.
And let’s not forget the amazing suppliers! We got to see, touch, and some incredible products – perfect for taking our craft to the next level.
The night left me buzzing with ideas and feeling absolutely inspired. It’s a reminder that even after 30 years, this industry is still full of passionate, talented people who are constantly pushing the boundaries and making magic happen.
So, the next time there’s a photography event happening near you, I urge you to go! You’ll be surprised by the incredible community you’ll discover. And hey, who knows, maybe you’ll even get to meet your new favourite Aussie family photographer there (hint, hint)!
Now, spill the beans! Are you a photographer yourself? What inspires you the most about capturing families? Let’s connect on Instagram and Facebook.
