Hey ya’ll it’s Heather and I am super excited to be talking about one of my favorite things today, NETWORKING. You are about to be at one of the biggest photography events of the year so that means you are about to be meeting TONS of new people whether they be vendors, educators, or of course other photographers. I am not going to lie, the thought of thousands of photographers in one place can be extremely overwhelming and scary. So just how do you go about networking with all of these people without feeling awkward? Well the key is to not be afraid to talk to people.Most of these people are in the exact same boat you are.

1. Have your business cards no matter where you go, and yes I mean take them with you when you walk downstairs in your pj’s to get your starbucks. There will be so many opportunities to talk to people in so many different settings. Always always always give out your business card and make sure to get people’s cell phone numbers.
2. After classes never hesitate to talk to people by introducing yourself and discussing some of the overload of information you have gotten. I even suggest going up and introducing yourself to the speakers if the setting allows it. Remember these people are photographers too.
3. During the trade show is another great time to network. You will be visiting so many booths and meeting a lot of the people that you work with on a daily basis. Like I have said time and time before, GO INTRODUCE YOURSELF. Being a vendor myself, we absolutely LOVE meeting our customers as well as NEW customers.
4. Oh the parties at this event are endless so there is always something to do at night. Even the shyest of you will meet people at the parties because people will come talk to you. People like me!!Make sure to attend the parties that are on the schedule if you can.

Networking at a convention can be one of the bests parts of your trip. Out of the tons of people you will meet, some of them will come away being your mentors and even lifelong friends.

Speaking of friends, I am happy to introduce one of mine (who I met at my first WPPI ) George Varanakis. He is the Executive VP of WPPI, so I thought I would ask him a few questions to help better your experience…

I get this question a lot. I’ve been working with WPPI for almost nine years…time flies when you’re having fun! I’ve actually worked for WPPI two different times in my career. My first stint was when I was pretty fresh out of college, and I applied to an ad in Adweek to sell advertising for Rangefinder. I worked there for a couple years and moved on to Ziff Davis for a couple of their tech mags at the time. A few years later, my old boss had retired and they called me to take his spot. Nine years later, here I am….in a much different role but one I really enjoy.

2. What do you think is the best way to manage our time between the trade show, classes and parties?
Whatever you do, don’t “wing it”. In other words, have a plan going into WPPI. Pre-board for your must see classes. Take the time to check out the trade show area and see what products you can use to help your business. Look and see what companies are at the show and which ones you need to see. Don’t just walk around aimlessly. You’re just going to waste time. As far as the parties go, check out the Events Page to see what’s going on – http://www.wppionline.com/show/events.shtml . Food is served at all of the WPPI/Sponsored Parties, plus there’s DJ’s, bands and all kinds of fun surprises.

3. Any advice to those who are first timers on the most effective way to network with other photographers, teachers, and vendors?
You’re probably a little nervous going to a show like WPPI for the first time. The best advice I can give is go in with an open mind. You’re going to learn so much in the week you’re there that it can be overwhelming. Take notes in class, ask questions in the sessions. Stay after and meet the teachers, go on WPPI’s Facebook Page and set up meetings with other photographers. Everyone was a newbie at one point so they know the feeling. Hit all the parties and mingle. The networking part of WPPI is one of the best things you will get out of it. You’re going to have a lot more friends leaving than you did when you arrived. I guarantee it.

4. What is your favorite part of WPPI and can you leave us with one piece of advice you would give to everyone who is attending?
My favorite part of WPPI? When it’s over! I’m kidding. My favorite part is the WPPI Awards Night, the last night of the show. It’s so inspiring to see all the amazing work our attendees put out through the print competition. I love seeing the faces of the people when they win. It’s the best feeling.

My best advice for WPPI attendees – HAVE FUN. This isn’t a dentist convention, it’s WPPI, where the most creative people in the world come together for a week to share ideas, learn from the best in the business, meet fellow photographers that have the same passion, all while having a blast in Las Vegas. Seems like a pretty good deal to me.

Hey everyone! It’s Angela here talking to you about what to bring with you! I don’t know about you but I tend to obsess about clothes and even more so when I’m going into a situation that is a little out of my everyday norm. The right outfit can give actually help give you confidence which is something you will need as you go through this amazing week! Seriously, I feel SO much bolder and confident when I’m in a well-put together-ensemble as opposed to sweats/hat/uggs (seriously, more preferred but I promise I won’t be wearing these during the day). SO, let’s do a little pre-planning together BECAUSE……

1. you are representing your business AND at the same time need to be very comfortable so a professional yet comfy wardrobe sometimes takes a little bit of thought
2. Sometimes it’s so easy and fun to style our clients but then not so fun and/difficult to do it for ourselves.
3. you are going to be SO overwhelmed with the sights and sounds and info thrown at you all week (not to mentioned tired from staying up late and getting up early) that the last thing you need to worry about it your clothes. Pre-planning can check that right off the list
4. the majority of us will be having roommates. I don’t care how big the closets are, there is never enough room for one person let alone two, three, or more! Careful packing can help with more space
5. speaking of space, you don’t want full luggage! You need to be prepared for the week but gotta save room for goodies purchased from the trade show or amazing items from shopping on the strip (there is an All Saints store in The Cosmo hotel. Save some room in your luggage. Just sayin’).

So let’s talk about wardrobe!

Last year I found the classrooms to be rather chilly and the tradeshow to be rather warm. Your best bet in planning is to have a layered wardrobe so that you can accommodate for the various temp changes in the hotel. Plus, layers look amazing (as long as you are not adding bulk) and are incredibly comfortable as well.  Layering is also helpful in that it will allow you to bring fewer pieces of clothing. I was in Moscow last fall and the women there were SO fabulously dressed. Seriously, I could have sat and people watched for days the clothing was so amazing. One thing I noticed though from the girls I spent the week with was that they would have a few nice pieces they wore several days in a row and then would change the look out by adding an accessory or a jacket or different shoes, etc. I wish this would catch on more here in the US because then it would make me feel better when I wear the same cardigan  three or four times in a week (it might be possible that there have been times my husband has asked me exactly how many days I’ve worn something). Don’t worry about repeating an outfit within a four or five day span. I can assure you that no one will be keeping tabs on how many times you wore what. Try to pack a few basics (cardi/jacket/dark denim/leggings/tanks) and change out your looks by mix and matching and adding with accessories.

Here are some pics from pinterest I have found that are AMAZING examples of this:

I know all the rules of layering (and use them all the time when working with my clients) but I often get stuck with my wardrobe because, well, I’ve looked at it too much! These pictures have HUGELY inspired me to go into my closet see things in a new light. I have been able to put together some completely “new” outfits from pieces I’ve had for a long time. So take some time to play and experiment with mix and matching. Try to see what “new” outfits you can make without going shopping. I think it’s part of a woman’s DNA to have to shop when going out of town…but try your hardest to see what you can come with before hitting the mall!

Above I mentioned comfort…also be sure you have comfortable shoes. Not only is the MGM the largest hotel in the world (well, it’s not really but it feels like it when you are tired) but at the convention itself you will be doing a lot of standing, walking, running (if you are late to pre-board for a class because you overslept…ummm…not speaking from experience or anything) not to mention waiting in the FOREVER long lines at Starbucks in the hotel (the lines were always long).

Your shoes need to be comfortable. Seriously comfortable. So when choosing the super cute boots or flats or heels (eek….I don’t know about that) think comfort AND cute (which is easily possible, thank goodness!). Target has some AMAZING shoes right now, fyi.

NIGHT

Last year I did not pack any dressier items because I didn’t know what to expect! In retrospect I wish I had packed at least one nicer outfit. For most everything, nice jeans will suffice but for some events a little bit more is expected. If you don’t have any party plans on the books, still take one nice outfit. You might decide last minute to go to something or might get invited and don’t want to not go because you don’t feel like you are dressy enough. dress pants, a jacket, a little black dress…just bring something that is a step above everyday dress so you are ready! This year I know in advance a few parties I’m going to so I’m doing a little shopping in my closet to put together something nice to have on hand (and yes, I will probably wear something twice…gasp!).

Are you freaking out yet? Don’t! Also, don’t feel like you have to go out and buy a whole new wardrobe. I have gotten a few new pieces but have been having fun going through my closet and mix and matching things. We have started a pinterest board to help you get ideas. Don’t go look now…but be sure to check in out when you are done reading!

OKAY, so you have your wardrobe planned out. Wasn’t that so easy? Perfect. Now on to your business essentials.

Don’t forget a spiral notebook/ipad/laptop to take notes on in the classes. I am old fashioned and have to hand write my notes in a class. For some reason, I learn better that way, but some people love to type. Do what you have to do but just make sure you have some sort of note taking material on hand!

Business cards. Bring a box and make sure you have them on you at all times (ummm..not talking from experience again or anything). They are not helpful to you sitting in your luggage up in your room. You will be handing out and receiving a lot of those!

Camera. So, we have gone back and forth about bringing our cameras and basically it comes down to the fact that you should bring it. What if you have time to go sight see? What is you get asked to go do a shoot out for fun? Just bring it.

Camera bag AND purse? Camera bag only and use it as both? You don’t want to lug your camera around everyday so use your camera bag as your purse OR if you don’t have one that you LOVE be ready to shop for one at the trade show.

Cell phone and charger. A no brainer but make you have it on you and that it’s charged up every morning!! You will need it because texting is your lifeline at the event. It’s too loud to chat on the phone and the only way to find your friends (that you have lost or maybe who have lost you) in the tradeshow is through text.

Water Bottle. This falls under business item in that it will cost your business a ton once you add up the receipts the end of the week. Water costs five thousand dollars a bottle in the hotel (well not really, but it adds up quickly) and Spanki and I didn’t feel like walking down to a convenince store on the trip to buy water and haul it back so we paid the high prices. I was talking to a friend about this a week ago and she had the MOST brilliant idea. Buy a Brita water sports bottle and fill it up before you leave your room. These bottles can be found in the water filter section at Target and only cost $9.99. Why am I not this smart? Done. Add that to your list. You may laugh at me, but you will be shocked at how much bottled water costs and how thirsty you all of sudden will get that week and how much of it you drink!

Wardrobe. check. Business items. check. Toiletries and all that jazz (we don’t need to go over that). check.

If you have not traveled much lately or at all and aren’t used to the weight restrictions now placed on luggage, please please please pack your bag the night before you leave and weigh it. If you only take one piece of luggage and it’s very overweight the additional weight fees are HIDEOUS! Know ahead of time and either have a carry on to move stuff to or take away some items from your suitcase (gasp…hopefully that doesn’t have to happen). Poor Spanki had to put layering into major practice last year in the airport because her bag was too heavy and she didn’t have a second bag to transfer too (and in case you were thinking I wasn’t a good friend, and mine was already over the weight limit but a couple pounds so they wouldn’t let her put any stuff in mine).

Hopefully this gives you a good start to being the process of putting together your packing checklist! Don’t forget to check out our pinterest board HERE for lots of outfit ideas from ensemble inspiration to links of items currently available from our favorite stores! Also, if you have any questions about our topic today, post them in the comment section below and we will answer them during Friday’s Q&A post!

Come back tomorrow to hear Spanki  talk about planning your schedule and then Thursday Heather will talk about networking and fun locations.

Throughout this week are going to discuss many topics just a few of which are: how to plan out your class schedule and attack the trade show, what to pack for your wardrobe, and strategies for networking for your business. Friday will end with Q&A about all the topics and hopefully at the end of this week you will be even more excited about the amazing experience that is coming soon!

View full post »