All of the sudden, I am very busy

[NicoleScraps]

The photography thing is really taking off for me. I have a TON of photo shoots lined up over the next two months. Of course, they are all unpaid practice shoots, but I am still super excited to have these opportunities!

I have three models that I found on modelmahyem that I will be doing time for print/cd shoots with in the next few weeks.
I have a family coming down from PA for a shoot. I went to HS with the mother. She wants me to do replacement school portraits for her 14 year old son since she said they are always terrible. And then do a family portrait of all of them. She recently adopted 3 young children (siblings) so she wants a good photo. Plus she asked me to photograph her parents 40th wedding anniversary party in Oct 2011.
I am going to be shooting candids at a yoga retreat plus some individuals of the instructor. She wants these for her website.
I have a maternity session, and a newborn session when the baby comes.
I have a grandmother who wants photos of the grandkids as a surprise to the parents.
And quite a few family shoots. Now that school is back in session, I have been hitting up the parents using the flattery approach, "Oh you have such a beautiful family. Your kids are so cute. I would love to photograph you." Most of them are happy and excited to work with me.

So yeah, I am super excited and am about to get some massive practice & experience! I need a day planner though. It is getting to be a little too much to keep track of in my brain.

[Tamster]

Yes, super busy but super exciting at the same time i can imagine! You'll be a pro by the time you're done with all of your practice shoots
Good luck! I have just started with my practice shoots. Had a 5month old on Saturday and man was that hard? haha Everytime i would sit her one way she would tip over the other..
But in the end i think i got some pretty good ones Mommy will be able to actually use! Now just need to practice on my editing skills What type of editing software do you use?
Good Luck and first and foremost have fun!!!

[NicoleScraps]

Originally Posted by Tamster

What type of editing software do you use?

I use Photoshop Elements. I just upgraded from 7 to 8. I know it is not as powerful as CS5 or Lightroom, but I am happy with what I can do with it. Plus I am even more happy with the price

[Tamster]

Is that fairly easy to use as a beginner? I was looking at that the other day actually.

[NicoleScraps]

Originally Posted by Tamster

Is that fairly easy to use as a beginner? I was looking at that the other day actually.

Honestly, no, it is not beginner friendly. It is one of those programs that when you open it for the first time, you are like "uh now what do I do?" It is not like picasa or picnik. There is no "push this button to turn your photos black and white" It all pretty much has to be done through other more customized methods.
However, there are a gazillion tutorials all over the net. You tube has been a great resource for me. Once you get the hang of it, you'll be fine.

[pekelo]

I just upgraded my equipment with the intent of possibly earning little extra income in the future, to suplement my retirement. I've been approached recently to possibly do a photo shoot for a 1st Birthday after they saw some of the photos I took at a Baby Shower. Like you, need lots of practice still, but exciting to know someone likes your work.