President's Message

Think Like a Professional

Those of us that do photography for profit know that we face a lot of challenges in this digital world. We compete with weekend warriors who's credentials are the receipt for that high end camera that they bought a few months ago. To be a successful photographer you need to think like a professional. You need to be constantly honing your skills, keep abreast of the latest trends and market yourself in effective ways. Don't think that you can learn all that you need from Google and YouTube videos because you can't. You need the one on one contact with other professionals that will give you the first hand knowledge that will improve your chances for success.

Here are a few things that belonging to an organization like PPSNYS will give you that you can't get any other way:

• ·         Frank discussions about local market conditions.
• ·         Contact with like-minded professionals and making lasting friendships.
• ·         Learning new photographic techniques that improve your skills as a photographer.
• ·         Working as second shooter for income and experience with established photographers that need your help.
• ·         Doing Image Competitions in a close network of supportive fellow photographers to improve your skills.
• ·         Having trusted photo colleagues that you can turn to in times of crisis like a sudden illness or transportation problems. (For single person operations this can be a life saver and avoid disappointing your client if you have an emergency.)

If you seriously want to be a highly skilled professional photographer, you should visit one of our nine New York State sections and see if it is the right fit for you and your business. Joining PPSNYS is as easy as clicking on the "Join" tab at the top of this home page. You will receive a warm welcome from our highly talented professional photographers and you will be joining a group of people that have common interests. It will put you on the road to becoming a successful income earning photographer. 

Alan Vollweiler, President,

Professional Photographers' Society of New York State (PPSNYS)