ccoonntteennttPresident’s Message.....................................2

Featured Artist......................................1/7-8

WPPA Scholarship Winners.......................3

Fall Print Competition.............................4-7

2013-14 Nominations...................................7

Past vs. Future.........................................8-10

Welcome New Members...........................11

The Buddy System................................11-12

Have We Gone Plum Logo?................12-14

PPA News....................................................14

Convention 2013 Sneak Peek...................15

News from Your EC...................................17

Calendar of Events.....................................18

Mortensen PortraitDesign, LLC, opened withhusband Allen in 1988 inWaukesha County, a west-ern suburb of Milwaukee,WI. During the first three years the studiotripled business as a result of client referralsand an emphasis on marketing programs.The studio has established itself as one of thelargest in the Greater Milwaukee-Waukeshaarea and is well known for its unique style ofphotography and personal approach to busi-ness. In addition to its portrait division, thestudio also houses a full digital lab andschool photography division. Besides theowners, the studio currently employees fivefull-time and seasonal part-time staff member

Mary specializes in the photography of chil-dren and babies. For over a decade Mary haspartnered with the Midwest Athletes AgainstChildhood Cancer (MACC Fund) and the Continued on page 7

on the covermary mortensenwaukesha, wi

W I S C O N S I N

P R O F E S S I O N A L

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pprreessiiddeennttTracy Van Zeeland, M. Photog., CPP

111 East College AvenueAppleton, WI 54911

tracyvanzeeland@yahoo.com 920-739-4306vviiccee--pprreess iiddeennttPaul Hafermann

130 8th Street NorthWisconsin Rapids, WI 54494

hafermannphoto@charter.net 715-424-3979ttrreeaassuurreerr

Greg Loll, M. Photog., CPPW1954 Highway 64

Marinette, WI 54143greg@gregorysphoto.com 715-735-5767

sseeccrreettaarryyJas McDaniel

4126 County Road BWisconsin Dells, WI 53965

contact@studio33photo.com 608-432-2224ppaasstt pprreessiiddeenntt

Tad Meddaugh, M. Photog., Cr., CPP419 Main Street

LaCrosse, WI 54601tdmeddaugh@centurytel.net 608-782-1080

be, please still jointhe group andcheck the postsoccasionally tostay on top ofwhat is happen-ing in your organization.

Another way to stay in-the-know is by visit-ing the newly updated website. Thanks to thehard work of Michael Mowbray and KrystalSutter, we now have a website that is easierand faster to update. With all things new,occasionally there are glitches and going livewith the new site was no exception. Webelieve though that most of those glitcheshave been worked out and look forward tothe new site being easier to navigate, faster toupdate and more relevant.

I know this sounds crazy, but even with allthese ways to keep our membershipinformed, I occasionally hear that membersdon't know what's going on. Do you readyour emails? Do you read the newsletters?Follow us on facebook? Check out the web-site? I know how busy everyone is, but inorder to enjoy all the benefits of membership,I ask that you take the time to read throughthe materials we painstakingly create to keepeveryone informed. So, with that in mind...here's some more information. February 22-25in Appleton at the Radisson Paper ValleyHotel will be the next WPPA Convention.Mark this on your calendar right now!Convention Chair Pat Clifton has coordinateda top-notch group of photographers andteachers to help with many aspects of yourbusiness. The speakers will share theirknowledge on seniors, weddings, families,lighting, posing, marketing and sales (toname a few) and I hope all of you make thisevent a priority.

Again this year, the Buddy system memberdrive is underway. It runs until the end of theyear, so find someone that wants to better

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Hello members!

I want to thank everyone that attended theFall Shoot-out in Baraboo. Tad Meddaughput together an amazing group of photogra-phers to shoot with and learn from in anunique location, ripe with opportunity forlearning, networking and just having someplain old fun. Coordinating an event like this isa group project. Without the dedicated help ofmany board members and volunteers, it wouldnot be possible. So please take the time tothank all those that worked so hard to makethis event successful. Even though there are somany to thank, there are a few I wish to pointout. I especially wish to thank the shooters andspeakers, judges and jury foreman. Also BillJohnson for the use of his hangar and Bryant atthe Al. Ringling Theatre. Our trade show ven-dors; partners to the organization are likewisehere to help you. Please support them as theycontinue to support us. It's the balance betweenthese relationships that is mutually beneficialfor all and without them, we would not be ableto provide such quality education close tohome.

I challenge each of you to become active inyour association. The WPPA is what you makeof it. By volunteering, you secure the success ofthis 117 year old association while helpingyourself by gaining friendships and associa-tions that will help you throughout your photo-graphic career. Your Vice President, PaulHafermann is currently filling next years boardpositions and would love to see some newfaces to keep the organization growing and rel-evant to your needs. So please let him knowthat you are interested in helping out.

I can't stress enough how important I think it isto join the facebook group "WI Prof PhotogAssoc." I know, it may not be where some ofyou wish to go. Ugh...facebook. I completelyunderstand your reservations about this formof communication. But...the most up-to-dateinformation can be found there, along withhelpful discussions on all things photographic.So even if you don't want to be sucked into thegreat time consuming muck that facebook can

Tracy Van Zeeland, WPPA President

Master Photographer, CPP

message from the president

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their business and photography skills andsign them up! (And save some money too!)

And now for the most important part of thismessage. Have a safe and enjoyable Holidayseason and I'll see all of you in February!

Tracy

wppa scholarships awardedEach year the Wisconsin ProfessionalPhotographers Association awards four of itsmembers scholarships to further their pho-tography education. Both $250 scholarshipsare given for members to use for registrationand hotel costs to attend the upcoming 2013WPPA Spring Convention. The $500 scholar-ship may be used for any photographycourse approved by the WPPA. The MAIPPscholarship is to help with tuition for theweek long educational course at the Mid-America Institute of ProfessionalPhotography at the University of NorthernIowa in Cedar Falls, IA.

The WPPA Scholarships for 2013 were award-ed at this year’s Fall Shoot-Out held inBaraboo, WI on October 21-22. The commit-tee selected the following recipients:

Up to $250 Gerhard Bakker ScholarshipShellie Kappelman (second right)

Up to $250 Norm Swanson ScholarshipGinny Otto (left)

Up to $500 WPPA Board Approved CourseJon Allyn (second left)

$200 MAIPP ScholarshipCarl Caylor (not pictured)

fall shoot-out 2012 - barabooMembers congregatedat a local airporthanger. The weather-man cooperated!

WPPA photographerstook over the streetsof Baraboo!

A mud-hill with adump truck providedanintriguing back-ground.

Of course a small plane with redcarpet treatmentwasn’t bad either!

Shooting demos continued into the latenight and the next day!

Thanks to Christopher Pittshis photographic coverageof this convention.

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I want to thank everyone who came and sup-ported Print Competition at the FallConvention this year. It ran so smoothlythanks to our wonderful Print Crew – yourhard work and dedication are so appreciatedIf any of our members wish to be involvedfor Spring Convention, please let me know.

A BIG thank you to Dan Stoller, our JuryChair and to Randy Petersen, Al & MaryMortensen, Ken Martin, Jim Schoonover andPaul Tishim, our judges. Again, it was alearning experience for those entering for thefirst time and for those who have been enter-ing for years.

We had 71 entries of which 26 merited.Congratulations to the following Award win-ners!

Now it’s time to gather your images for theSpring Convention on February 22nd, 2013.Print competition starts at 9am Friday, thedeadline for walk-in prints is 7:30am and thedeadline to get your prints to me by mail isFebruary 15th. You can send them to:Jas McDaniel1006 North Gammon Rd,Madison, WI 53717

Remember that your regionals will have pre-state print competitions so that you can getan idea of how your print will score andwhat you might do to take it to the next level.The following awards are available to com-pete for in the Spring.

WPPA Awards

Photographer of the Year - Awarded to theindividual photographer who has the highestscoring print case total with all portraitentries. If there is a tie, the title is awarded toeach individual.

Photographer of the Year - First Runner-UpAwarded to the individual photographer who

fall print competition Jas McDanielWPPA Print ChairmanStudio 33Wisconsin Dells, WI

Best of Show Portrait - Carl CaylorBest of Show Illustrative - Laurie Rossiter

Best of Show Wedding - Shellie KapplemanBest of Show Album - Jas McDaniel

Best of Show EI - Jon AllynBest of Show Commercial -

Tracy Van ZeelandNext Generation (8-12yrs) - Josie Gerber.

SENIOR FOLIOCOMPETITIONWINNERS

Senior Boy - Todd KunstmanSenior Girl - Todd Kunstman

Senior Boy - People’s Choice - Dan Frievalt Senior Girl - People’s Choice -

Kathleen CaylorSenior Photographer of the Year - 2012-13

Todd Kunstman

Left to right: Shellie Kappleman, Tracy Van Zeeland, Jas McDaniel, Jon Allyn, Laurie Rossiter

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has the second highest scoring print case totalwith all portrait entries. If there is a tie forthe Runner-Up position, the title is awardedto each individual.

Photographer of the Year - CombinedAwarded to the individual photographer whohas the highest scoring print case total ofPortrait, Wedding, Illustrative, and/orCommercial entries. If there is a tie, the titleis awarded to each individual.

Photographer of the Year - Combined, FirstRunner Up - Awarded to the individual pho-tographer who has the second highest scoringprint case total of Portrait, Wedding,Illustrative, and/or Commercial entries. Ifthere is a tie for the Runner-Up position, thetitle is awarded to each individual.

Wisconsin’s Top Ten Imagers - Awarded tothe top 10 imagers with the highest casetotals regardless of the category. In the eventthere is a tie that brings the total to more than10, THE TIE WILL BE BROKEN utilizing thehighest scoring print in the case.

Best of Show Awards - Chosen by the Judges- Each judge selects their top one or twoimages. These images are placed together andthe awards are selected by the panel ofjudges. Images are chosen from all imagesscoring 80 points or above. Best of ShowAwards are given in the following categories:

PortraitIllustrativeWedding Commercial

Judges Choice – Awarded by each judge andjury chair, to their personal favorite imageregardless of score. (Pink rosette ribbon,preferably with judge’s signature on it)

Court of Honor Awards – The number ofawards in each category are determined bythe number of prints entered. One Court ofHonor is chosen for each 40 prints entered.When there are not 40 images in a category,that category is combined with another todetermine Court of Honor prints. Images arechosen from all images scoring 80 points orabove.

Example: Wedding has 28 images entered.Illustrative has only 14. These two categoriesare then combined and one court image isselected. The same is true for all categories.(Plaque and blue rosette ribbon)

Kodak Gallery Awards – Chosen by thepanel of Judges from all images scoring 80points or above. It is presented in the follow-ing categories: Portrait, Illustrative, andWedding.

Clean Sweep – Awarded to all individualswho scored 80 or above on all 4 entries.

Outstanding Achievement Award –Awarded to the highest scoring non-masterprint- case total. If there is a tie, title isawarded to each individual.

The ASP State Elite Award - Presented to theASP member in good standing for the highestscoring entry at his or her State PrintCompetition. This means that he or she is amember in good standing with PPA as perour Bylaws and that he or she must be cur-

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rent with their ASP dues PRIOR to the com-petition. In the event of a tie, total case scorewill be the first tiebreaker. In the unlikelyevent that a tie still exists, the second highestscoring entry in the case will break the tie. Inthe really unlikely event that a tie still exists,the third highest scoring entry will break thetie. If by the remotest chance a tie still exists,ASP will declare co-winners of the award andprovide an additional trophy. Both recipientsshould be duly recognized at the awards cer-emony for their accomplishments.An ASP member is eligible for the State EliteAward only in the state in which he or sheresides, or the state listed as their primaryaffiliation.

CPP Award – Awarded to a CPP individualwith the highest scoring print. If there is a tie,additional awards will be given.

Elite Collection - Awarded to the top 40-50highest scoring images. The cut-off score

must be 80 or higher; typically it has been 82,83, or 84, but varies from year to year. (PurpleRibbons)

Outstanding Artistic Quality Award –Awarded by three independent judges toprints regardless of score. Judges must not beprofessional photographers, but some artbackground is encouraged (teacher, curator,artist from a different field). Awarded to 12images.

Wright Award - Awarded to the regionalassociation based on a formula that computesthe best attendance, participation, and printscores.

There will be an email going out explainingprint competition entry this year. Keep aneye out for it.

Have a wonderful Holiday Season!

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2013-14 nominationsThe next WPPA annual meeting will be heldon Monday, February 25th at 8:00 AM at thePaper Valley Hotel, Appleton, WI. One of theitems on the agenda, will be to vote on yournew slate of officers. The following membershave been nominated for the state positions:Vice President: Greg LollTreasurer: Jas McDanielSecretary: Jackie Boyd(3) Elected Directors:Michael MowbrayKathleen CaylorMatthew Bennett

Per our WPPA Constitution, the followingnomination procedure may be enacted upon.

4.3 Nominating Procedure(B) AT-LARGE NOMINATIONFollowing publication of the nominatingcommittee’s proposed slate, a member maychoose to run for any of the elected offices upto and including Vice President, proved theymeet the requirements for such an office. Ifsuch an “at large’ nomination is desired, thefollowing procedure shall be followed:

1) Secure an official At-LargeNomination Form from the NominatingCommittee Chairman (Paul Hafermann)within 21 days after notice has been given ofthose nominated.

2) Complete the form according to thespecified instructions on same.

3) Return completed form to theNominating Chairman by the deadline linedate specified on the form.

4) The determination of theNominating Committee as to the authenticityand legality of the completed form(s) shall befinal.

(C) NON CONTESTED ELECTIONIf no At-Large nomination forms ar filedwithin the designated period, the nomina-tions shall be closed and the nominated slateof candidates shall be declared elected by themembers at their annual meeting.

(D) Contested ElectionIf At-Large nominations are received, thenames of all candidates shall be arranged on

the ballot in alphabetical order.Instructions will be to only vote for the num-ber of candidates to fill the vacancies. Thisrevised slate shall be published in the Januarynewsletter.

Questions can be direct to Paul Hafermann,Nominations Chairperson at 715-424-3979

cover story continued...Women for MACC in their fight againstchildhood cancer. Through photographicprograms developed by the studio, theMortensens have raised over $100,000 forchildhood cancer research. Mary received theprestigious PPA AN-NE award for charitablemarketing in 1999. She has been featured onNBC Channel 4 in the Greater MilwaukeeArea for her work with children. She wasbeen featured in Wisconsin WomenMagazine, M Magazine and AlvernoMagazine.

Mary has been recognized locally and nation-ally for her work. She was the first inWisconsin history to receive the most awardsgiven at one convention. Her work hasappeared in the PPA Loan and ShowcaseBooks, the Professional Photographers ofAmerica Magazines and in the ASP EliteCollection. Mary served as WPPA Presidentin 2005-06 and in 2011 Mary was the recipientof the PPA National Award.

Mary has worked with mothers interested inentering children for pageants and modeling.Her photography has helped clients winawards, including a 6-month old who won“Most Photogenic” in a national beauty con-test. She has also worked with upscale beautysalons in the Milwaukee-Waukesha area thatcompete in hair color and makeover nationalcontests sponsored by international hair sup-pliers. Her clients have received three firstplace awards and her photos have appearedin international hair magazines.

Mary is currently a member of PPA’sApproved Photographic Instructors, ACI LabSpeakers Team Fuji Talent Speakers Team andis a PPA Affiliate Judge. Mary’s style is sim-ple but artistic. Her knowledge of portrait

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artists and work with art galleries has set thetone for the studio’s emphasis on producingfine art and selling wall decor and galleryframing.

The story behind her competition prints...Bed Time StoryThis image is from a newborn session of ouremployee Jill’s daughter Mia. As in all mychildren’s sessions, I try to photograph some-thing timeless and original and also some-thing that tells a story. For this image Al andI were rummaging in northern Wisconsinshortly before this and found this extraordi-nary lamp. I knew I wanted to incorporate itinto this session and I got the idea of usingthe light source from the lamp to set the toneand convey the story. Everything else just fellinto place. Although I photographed thisoriginally on a low-key background, I felt thebackground should have an “old attic” feel.Through the use of overlays and blendingmodes, this was accomplished. The piecewas finished with a border containing a scriptoverlay to complement the theme “Bed TimeStory”.

Medieval MinstrelsThis image was originally photographedabout 15 years ago on film. I have a “favs”folder where I tuck away images that “speak”to me and maybe some day I would enter orpaint. This was a studio session, the boys’grandmother made the costumes. I pho-tographed them with a 4x6 softbox and areflector on a low-key background. I told thestory using the musical props and beautifulsoft lighting. For competition, I had ACI scanthe negative. In the computer, the image wasmade so it was cropped slim and widened.The boys were placed on the right side of theimage and the castle was inserted as well asthe grassy moss in the foreground. A fewlayers of texture was blended into the imageto give it that old feel.

Outside Looking InThis image was part of our annual Cute Kidscontest that we have done for over 20 yearsto raise money for childhood cancer research.This boy came in with a suit and tie and myjob was to create a story. We had just pur-

chased this lovely door from an antique shopand I was inspired to use it with him. I havea “generous” collection of old hats and thebackground is one of my favorites from yearsago painted by Lynn Saunders. To keep therealism (and Mille always said), I did notclean the glass. My main light was a 4x6softbox placed at a 45 degree angle in front ofthe door and a silver reflector placed insidethe door. Also used was a background lightwith an amber gel and a kicker light behindto accent the hat and coat.

SophieThis image was from a child’s session. Thedress was hand-made by the girl’s mother.As soon as I saw it, I had a nostalgic feeling.The antique chair was purchased many yearsago at a WPPA auction; it originally belongedto Keith Robinson, a - photographer many,many years ago. A few small props wereadded for storytelling. The main light used isa 4x6 softbox and a soft reflector and anamber background light. A texture overlaywas used to enhance the antique feeling.

past vs. the future

...pass it on. Manyyears ago, a newfilm called “Fuji”was introduced.Unlike the natural hues of the Kodak film, it’spallet was bright and vibrant. It was excitingto me. About that same time I read of anupcoming parade in Delavan, WI, completewith a 1,000 clowns. What a great place tochallenge this new film.

That led to my photographing the inducteesfor the “Clown Hall of Fame” for a numberof years, as well as the circus parade inMilwaukee. It was exciting indeed. I methundreds of famous clowns from all over theworld. As a result, I was asked to cover thefirst real clown wedding at the Big Top in

Ginny Otto, CPPWPPA Regional DirectorPhotographic ArtistryStevens Point, WI

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Baraboo, WI. What an honor it was to workside by side with ESPN and to provide imagesfor the news media, as well as the bride andgroom.

Not long after that wedding, “Cookie theClown” from the “Bozo Show” was married. Iwas not chosen as the photographer. Instead,William, son of the curator of the museum,was the only one allowed to photograph theirwedding. William was 4 years old. He wasgiven 12 disposable cameras to use that day.Cookie wanted his wedding photographed“through the eyes of a child”. It was special tohim, as was every child he ever met.

A couple months ago I sat silently, as Iwatched children being entertained with danc-ing, games, and other activities at DisneyWorld. I couldn’t believe the number of smallchildren, as young as 2 and 3 years old, whowere using their parent’s cell phones and cam-eras to capture the other children having fun.They would run back to show their parentswhat they had taken. I am guilty. I leaned overto see the images out of curiosity. They weregreat. I thought back of William, so manyyears ago. Nowadays these children have usedso many electronic items it is simply like usinga spoon at an early age. These children are ourfuture.

Their parents tend to intimidate the best ofphotographers with access to equipment, pro-grams and products we use in our businesses.Everyone is a photographer today. Equipmentis every where, unlike when I was a child, andwe had to go to a studio to get a decent pic-ture taken. It seems everyone has some formof camera within their reach. The level of tech-nology obtained by people today has sky rock-eted as well.

Life is about change. The world now is aboutspeed and excitement of the moment. It maypass us by. But one thing will not change, andthat is the skills we have obtained over theyears. Our images will someday be appreciat-ed like the great artists in the past.

The images that were taken at the FallConvention were incredible. This is the truebeauty of understanding light and posing, and

all it takes to create these wonderful images.We must liken our images to that of a greatartist, because that is what we have become.It didn’t happen overnight and it won’t forthose who simply find it fun to take photo-graphs. We are creating images and memo-ries that will last in homes forever. Somedaypeople will look through their family imagesand know that we made a difference. We canbe very proud of our work.

I had the opportunity last year to become amentor to a young woman who truly wantedto become a “real photographer”. She washungry to learn about proper lighting andposing, and to join the organizations thatcould provide an education for her. She isnow so busy in her studio that her headspins. She is young and full of energy, con-stantly in touch with her audience throughher web site, Face Book, and her IPhone.

Unlike William, we may not have startedphotographing weddings at age 4, but we allstarted somewhere along the way. We gath-ered our education as we grew, taking in allthe educational opportunities we couldthrough our organizations. They have provid-ed us with educational tools and skills,friendships and support to help make us suc-cessful in our business. Think of the greatphotographers who mentored us in the past.They left their legacies to us, so that we couldpass it on to others.

Take time to meeta new person inyour area and invitethem to join us. They aretoday’s generation, fullof enthusiasm and newexpectations. Sharewith them your photo-graphic skills, how to run abusiness and do it successful-ly. It is up to us to carry onthat which was handeddown to us. Andremember, youmay receive farmore than yougive.

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welcome new membersWe happy to introduce our newest mem-bers:

Roberto Amezcua- Primary Amezcua PhotographyMadison, WI

Kimberley Anderson - PrimaryKB Image PhotographyMilwaukee, WI

Charlene Champion - AssociateKimberly-ClarkNeenah, WI

Marla Cummings - PrimaryABE PhotographyStevens Point, WI

Cindy Gackenheimer - PrimaryCinderShots, LLCHilbert, WI

Bill Gellerman - PrimaryBill Gellerman PhotographyLittle Chute, WI

Jerrad Hamilton - PrimaryHamilton Photo DesignSun Prairie, WI

Michelle Hammen - PrimaryMichelle Hammen PhotographyCombined Locks, WI

Ann Kantola - PrimaryBe Still PhotographyNegaunee, MI

Olivia Lothary - AssociateBeautiful Portraits by MichaelDeForest, WI

Rod Oman - Out-of-StateThe ImageryBurnsville, MN

Bobbie Petersen - PrimaryThe Salty Peanut Photography, LLCSun Prairie, WI

Kerry Quade - PrimaryMoments to Memories PhotographyMarkesan, WI

Shannon Schaapveld - PrimarySMR PhotographyMilton, WI

Callie Strouf - StudentMcFarland, WI

Emily Vara - PrimaryEmi Nicole PhotographyJefferson, WI

Joy Vertz- PrimaryShoot the Moon PhotographyMequon, WI

Ron Wimmer - PrimaryWimmer PhotographyWauwatosa, WI

Cherie Zogleman - StudentPittsville Photography LLCPittsville, WI

Anna Zoromski-Linde - PrimaryZoro PhotoAmherst Junction, WI

the buddy systemPaul Hafermann Vice President, Membership ChairmanHafermann Photography,Wisconsin Rapids, WI

Don’t Miss the DeadlineThe program ends on12/31/2012

We have had such a goodresponse to the BuddyProgram last year that we’re running it again.You have your yearly member dues applica-tion forms, so take advantage of this offeronce again to help our organization grow.Dues are $198 for the upcoming year. If yourecruit a new member, you will both be ableto join for half price! Yes, that is $99 for eachof you.

Just a reminder of how the programworks…..Find a photographer that is current-ly NOT a member and invite them to join theorganization for half price.Continued on page 12

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Our goal is simple. We want to save youmoney and we want to grow our member-ship. Wisconsin has always been a strongstate with a strong organization and we wantthat to continue. With more members, we willbe able to continue with top-notch speakersand vendors attending our events so you cancontinue to grow your business.

Here is how it works:

1. Please fill out and send in your applicationalong with your payment information beforeDecember 31, 2012.

2. Have your Buddy fill out their applicationand send in their payment before December31, 2012. Both member applications and pay-ments must be received within one month ofeach other. (Makes it easier for bookkeeping.)

3. A new member is anyone that is not cur-rently a WPPA member, including priormembers that did not re-join the previousyear.

4. To help find a Buddy:> Google photographers in your area.>Search the list of PPA photographers andcross-reference with the WPPA photogra-phers directory online.> Ask around at the local camera store.

5. Everyone must still have a sellers permit(sales ID) to be a member. We no longerrequire set studio hours or a minimumearned income in photography to be a mem-ber.

Any questions, please contact me PaulHafermann, WPPA Vice President at 715-424-3979, or email hafermannphoto@

have we gone plum logo?When I’m viewing portraits in someone’shome or images on Facebook, I like to knowwho did them. IN MY OPINION, if there isno logo or signature, it tells me that either thephotographer was a beginner, or the photog-rapher was too timid to sign his/her work.Yes, I realize there are some seasoned photog-raphers who choose not to sign their work. Ijust disagree with their reasons.

When most studios start their businesses,they usually sell prints without a logo or sig-nature. Often after a few years, however, pho-tographers realize the benefits to us and forthe client of adding a studio identifier. Thosereasons include the fact that artists sign theirwork, and signatures or logos provide a pos-sible source of future referable business; aswell as offering additional protection againstillegal copying.

When I was new to the business, I was hesi-tant to sign my prints and even wall portraitsbecause I feared that it would adversely affectthe beauty of the image, and risked lookinglike an advertisement. However, after I decid-ed to write my signature in Photoshop andsimply stamp prints with this signature

rather than an actualstudio logo, I was sat-isfied that it not onlydid NOT harm thelook, but rather itenhanced the portrait’s “finished” appear-ance. The logo can be gold or in a color thataccents the image.

Which should you use to identify yourwork… a logo or a signature? The answerdepends on how attractive or obtrusive yourlogo is. If it needs to be large to see necessarydetails, it could be too large to stamp on animage. Or, of course, if it’s a poorly designedlogo, you might hear complaints. In that case,write your signature in Photoshop and makea stamp brush from it.

(Create a new image about 400 pixels wideand 100 pixels high with the background setto be transparent. Then sign your name witha small, hard edge brush using black at 100%.Do one letter at a time if your penmanship isweak, and if needed, step back to repeat a let-ter. Then Edit>Define Brush Preset. This will

Fuzzy Duenkel, M. Photog., Cr.Duenkel Portrait ArtWest Bend, WI

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put this new signature brush in your brushespalette.)

Some photographers fear that clients willconsider a logo to be our advertising on theirprints. If you ask someone if they want a logoon products they buy, the answer will dependon the quality or status of the product. If theyhad a Rolex, would they not want that brandname on it? If they had a Rembrandt, wouldthey not want his name in the corner?

Indeed, many products are sold BECAUSEthey include the brand name visible some-where on the product. That is the heart of thisdiscussion. If your clients don’t want yourstudio logo or your name on your work, thenyou may have to evaluate your studio’simage in the community. Conversely, I knowof several studios that had forgotten to puttheir name on a print, and clients brought itback to have it signed by the artist.

If you are still reluctant to sign your work,consider creating a “Signature Series”, whichwill be your higher line of work. Then proud-ly explain to your clients, “Mrs. Client, theway I distinguish my day to day work frommy finest work is done with my signature onthe art piece. The Signature Series takes moretime and represents my absolute best effort.Which would you prefer an ordinary imagethat doesn’t bear my signature or my finestart that does?" By doing this you will bebuilding the value of the logo or your signa-ture.

Get over it people… SIGN YOUR ART!

Here's a subject near and dear to all ourhearts: health insurance. Ever had to look forcoverage on your own? It's confusing, frus-trating and just plain un-fun. Plus, how doyou know the plan is right for you? Well,PPA is pleased to announce that PALLAYINSURANCE AGENCY is our new medicaland dental insurance plan partner!

Pallay Insurance Agency is independent andrepresents a number of leading medical anddental insurance companies. That meansthey're able to assist PPA members and theirfamilies in choosing a plan* from a number ofinsurance companies--they'll help you findthe best fit for your coverage and budgetneeds in the following areas:

* Medical Insurance* Short Term Medical Insurance* Limited Medical Insurance* International Travel Medical Insurance* Medicare Supplement Insurance* Prescription Drug Plan* Dental Insurance

But the benefit doesn't stop there. After aplan is purchased, Pallay is there to assist youwith any premium, coverage or claims assis-tance you may require from your new insur-ance company! (Are you getting the warm-fuzzies right now? We are.)

Oh, and get this: Pallay Insurance Agencyalso offers members a FREE DiscountPrescription Drug Card! Members and theirfamilies can begin using this free mail orderdiscount prescription drug card immediately,meaning you could get your prescriptions at30-80% lower than retail!

If you’re not a PPA member, go tohttp://www.ppa.com and join today!

ppa news

next newsletter deadline JJaannuuaarryy 66tthh

Please e-mail your articles todwiltsey@hotmail.com

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Friday, February 22ndPrint Judging begins at 9:00 AM - come jointhe fun as you watch and learn as the judgesscore and critique the entries.

In the evening, get inspired by renown pho-tographer, Tyler Stableford. This program issponsored by Canon USA. Aspen photographer and cinematographerTyler Stableford has earned a worldwideclientele for his work. Men's Journal namedhim "One of the Seven World's GreatestAdventure Photographers,” and he is one ofCanon’s prestigious Explorers of Light.

Tyler has won numerous photo and filmmaking awards from Communication Arts,PDN, American Photo and The InternationalPhotography Awards, among others.He and his staff volunteer to shoot at leastone week per year for non-profit, and he is anactive member of the environmental-businessorganization "1% For The Planet."

Check out his amazing images athttp://www.tylerstableford.com/portfolio.php

Saturday, February 23rdEarly start at 8:30 AM with Blair Phillips ofNC. From a difficult childhood with nodreams of a flourishing career to becomingone of the most sought-after photographersand educators...Blair’s story is exhilarating!Blair has a sincere desire to see other photog-raphers inspired to grow a business as he has.His topic, “Become the Coolest Kid inSchool” shows you how you can implementimprovements to your senior business, mak-ing you become the coolest kid in school! Tolearn more visit http://www.blair-phillipsworkshops.com

VISIT THE TRADE SHOW!Our vendors will be on-hand to show you thelatest and greatest in products and services.Visit with them and gear up for a great 2013!Hours: 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Our afternoon program is Lora Yeager, ofWV. Lora has been truly blessed with the gift

convention 2013 sneak peek of gift of telling a story through the lens. Shehas been named West Virginia Photographerof the Year 2011, 2010, and 2008. This was ahigh honor for her as it was the first time sheever entered competition. She has only com-peted four years and was able to earn herMaster’s Degree in the first three of competi-tion. During the years of 2010 and 2011, shehas scored perfect 100’s on three of her prints.Come and see where her inspiration comesfrom and how to photography from yourheart!

GURU LOUNGE - Saturday eveningA time to relax and network with your WPPAfriends and get involved with hands-ondemonstrations.

Sunday, February 24thIt’s a full day of Clark and Rachel Marten ofMT. Their program poses the question of“How do you make a LIVING in photogra-phy?” The Martens studio specializes in highschool seniors, family and children's por-traits. Their home studio attracts clients fromover 350 miles away and they enjoy anunprecedented $3,000 senior sales average ina population of only 6 people per squaremile! Your time with Clark and Rachel will beREAL...real teaching, real examples, and realresults!

MORE TRADE SHOW TIME - 11:00 a.m. to3:00 p.m. is your time to wrap up your pur-chases!

Sunday evening - The annual Awards Gala.This evening of celebration is an open invita-tion to all attendees. Enjoy a filling buffet din-ner and applaud the winners!

Monday, February 25thThe last day of convention will be reservedfor Mark Garber and Jennifer Gilman, OH.This information packed photographicinstruction by Ohio's highest awarded por-trait & wedding photographers! You'll learnposing, lighting, workflow, design, marketingand more!

On-Line registration will open December 21.Convention Registration packets will bemailed in early January! Save money and reg-ister early!! See you there!

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from your exec. coordinatorDeb Wiltsey, Cr. F-WPPA

WPPA Executive CoordinatorI’m a huge fan of syndicated columnist andcareer coach, Joan Lloyd. Her recent columnechoed a holiday sentiment and she agreed tolet me share with you...Happy Holidays from my family to yours!

DebExercises for the HolidaysFeeling a little frantic? Running like a decapi-tated rooster? It must be the holiday spread-ing its comfort and joy.

I’m always dismayed when the promise of“peace on earth” turns into “give me mypiece and get out of my way.” Shopping forgifts, entertaining, decorating, baking, all addto frayed nerves and stretched wallets. Andthis year could be a prize winner, with unem-ployment, frozen salaries, or higher expecta-tions at work adding to the crush.

I propose a little holiday exercise to clear thehead and burn off stress, and I’m not suggest-ing the physical variety (although that willhelp, too). The holiday exercise I have inmind not only helps you, it adds to the healthof those around you.

If you are interested in spreading around alittle peace on earth, read on for some simple,considerate calisthenics.

Praise Push Ups (3 reps a day)Notice and comment when someone doessomething well: To a waiter, after he carefullyexplains what wine will pair with dinner: “Ican see you really know your wines!”

To your colleague, after he reaches out toseek your opinion, “Thanks for asking for myinput. I admire the way you collaborateacross departments.”

To your kids, “I noticed you did your home-work without me nagging you—that wasgreat--very responsible.”

Kindness Curls (once a day)Hold a door when a colleague has an armful(or you just happen to reach it first). Thischivalrous act seems to be lost along with

actually looking atsomeone when you talk(versus texting at thelunch table).

Pay a toll for the carbehind you.

Pay every bell-ringingSanta you walk past, even if it’s only smallchange.

Offer to babysit your neighbor’s childrenwhile they shop for gifts.

Make a big pot of chili and give some to eachneighbor, so they don’t have to cook.

Offer to help a colleague who is swampedwith work, by taking a task off their shoul-ders.

Laugh Lunges (a guffaw, chuckle, bellylaugh/2 reps each day)Start by laughing at yourself—take it fromme, there is plenty of raw material.

Find the bright side and share it, especiallywhen the pace is killer. That’s when everyoneneeds it most.

Surround yourself with people who makeyou laugh. Better yet, be the person whomakes others laugh.

Empathy Presses (Name the emotion youthink they are feeling/1 rep per conversation)

Notice the harried store clerk and commenton what she might be feeling, “This time ofyear must require a lot of patience.”

Pay attention to your employees’ stress lev-els, “It must be tough to juggle everythingthis time of year with three young children--all the holiday activities plus our extra work-load at year end.”

To a peer, “You worked for weeks on thatpresentation, how frustrating that your timegot cut to five minutes.”

Although it might seem that these exercisesmight add to your own overloaded schedule,

WPPA EVENTS www.wppa-online.com

WPPA Board MeetingJanuary 9, 2013Paper Valley Hotel - Appleton, WI

SPRING CONVENTIONFebruary 22nd-25th, 2013Paper Valley Hotel, Appleton, WI

FALL SHOOT-OUT October 20th-21st, 2013The Mead Hotel - Wisconsin Rapids, WI

SPRING CONVENTIONFebruary 20th-24th, 2014Radisson Hotel - Green Bay, WI

PPAwww.ppa.com

January 20th-22nd, 2013Imaging USA - Atlanta, GA

January 12th-14th, 2014Imaging USA - Phoenix, AZ

FOXES www.fvppa.comRegional Director: Mike Kallies

INDIANHEADwww.indianheadphotographers.orgRegional Director: Cindy Van Prooyen

January 14, 2013 - MerrillDan Frievalt

February 11, 2013 - Eau ClaireMichael Mowbry

SOUTH CENTRALwww.southcentralppa.comRegional Director: Jackie Boyd

January 28, 2013 - WaunakeeChristie Kline - Babies & Pre-State Judging

SOUTH EASTERNwww.sewppa.orgRegional Director: Shirley Duenkel

January 9th, 2013 - MilwaukeeImage Critique & Enhancement

calendar of events

I think you might be pleasantly surprised tofind that it actually has the reverse affect. Thecomfort and joy you bring to others will addto your own.

Good managers know that employee satisfaction is essential tohealthy teamwork, initiative and productivity. Joan Lloyd’sbooklet, 86 Creative Ideas for Having More Fun & Less Stressat Work, is packed with ideas for building employee satisfac-tion and work/life balance while reducing stress in your work-place. Guaranteed to give you fresh ideas any company canimplement in categories such as: Fun with a Purpose, Buildinga Family Atmosphere & a Sense of Community, Having Fun atWork for the Sake of Fun, Rewarding Great Performance &Stress Busters! PDF format - no shipping charges!

Joan Lloyd is a Milwaukee based executive coach and organi-zational & leadership development strategist. She is known forher ability to help leaders and their teams achieve measurable,lasting improvements. Joan Lloyd & Associates, specializes inleadership development, organizational change and team-building, providing: executive coaching, CEO coaching & teamcoaching, 360-degree feedback processes, customized training(leadership skills, presentation skills, internal consulting skills& facilitation skills), team conflict resolution and retreat facili-tation.Contact Joan Lloyd & Associates at (800) 348-1944,mailto:info@joanlloyd.com, or www.JoanLloyd.com

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