Houston… we have a workshop!

Houston

Houston never gets the goods. I say this great city gets overlooked way too much. I actually think it’s Tom Hanks fault… Houston does NOT have a problem, Tom!

So, we’re putting an end to it right now! Thanks in large part to the tireless work of my friend Christine Tremoulet

Official Announcement:
I am kicking off my first Fast Track Roadshow Workshop in Houston, Texas on May 20, 2009!

Houston

CLICK HERE to get in while you can!

*psst.. there’s a special discount code at the bottom of this email & is ONLY available to the first 10 who sign up!

UPDATE :: Only 3 Discount Spots Left!

All Images by Workshop Alumni

Here are the details of the workshop…

Get clear on who you are as a photographer & witness a world open up!

> Let me help you get clear on your critical competitive advantage.
> Let me unlock the mystery of real change in your life and business.
> Let me crystalize what you need to do to get your photo house in order.
> Let me help you build modular micro-systems to streamline your workflow.
> Let me give you personal coaching on how to get the most from your subjects.
> Let me catalyze your growth as a photographer.
> Let me empower you with a proven game plan for success.

All Images by Workshop Alumni

The Workshop is designed around three keys elements:

First, you’ll get everything you need to personally own the Fast Track Philosophy.

Second, you’ll discover the perfect Strategy & Tactics for you to truly lead.

Third, you will get the critical Tools and Best Practices necessary to win.

All Images by Workshop Alumni

This workshop is dedicated to one thing: EMPOWERING YOU to Fast Track your creativity as a photographer so that your dreams become a reality.

All Images by Workshop Alumni

If you are just making the transition into the profession or need to take your photo career to the next level, I am committed to making the Fast Track Roadshow Workshop one of the best investments you will make in your photography career!

All Images by Workshop Alumni

MAJOR TOPICS

* The Big Picture in a Tough Economy
* The Law of Change
* Levels of Leadership
* Best Relational Practices
* Comprehensive Branding
* Prolific Productivity
* Ultimate Fast Track Modular Micro-Systems to Streamline Your Workflow
* Resources that Ripple Beyond the Workshop
* Fast Track Shoot-Out
* Commitment: discovering what it will take for you to find guaranteed success

All Images by Workshop Alumni

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT THE WORKSHOP…

Dane’s workshop provided me insight on how to become the photographer I was meant to be, and caused me to stretch myself beyond what I thought I was able. Investing in this workshop has allowed me to begin the process of effectively bringing my business and photography to the next level. Thank you very much Dane!” – Danny D.

I had high hopes for the Fast Track weekend but the outcome far exceeded my expectations. Dane delivered such an amazing balance of philosophical biz advice with the practical how to. It would have taken me years to figure this out on my own.” – Charla B.

All I can say about Dane’s workshop is WOW! It was packed full of practical information that has helped me to make some far reaching decisions for my business. I know by utilizing the things I have learned from this workshop alone I will be able to take my business to a level that I have only previously dreamed of. There was information and experiences that beginning and seasoned photographers both would benefit greatly from. There was also a synergy that was generated by the other workshop attendees that created a community of support and inspiration. I highly recommend this workshop above anything else you could attend to give yourself the momentum you need to succeed!” – Carol C.

What people are saying about Fast Track Photographer

I am forever changed.” – Mike K.

In 5 months, we’ve booked 34 weddings and doubled our prices.” – Cali F.

Fast Track is the defining photography guide of our time.” – Michael E.

What I got from Dane? Confirmation. Determination. Affirmation. Inspiration.” – Nina B.

Just what I needed at just the right time.” – Chris B.

Note: To get the most out of the experience, it’s best if all participants read or listen to Fast Track Photographer and take the pDNA assessment tool. This will really give you a head start going into the workshop.

All Images by Workshop Alumni

Reserve your spot today!

All Images by Workshop Alumni

BONUS: The first 10 people who type in “tomiswrong” in the promo code at check out gets $100 off instantly!
(ONLY 3 LEFT… hurry)

Plus, if you request it, I’ll give you a second code for a FREE Audiobook , eBook and pDNA!

Again, space is super limited, so if you want in, click here!

I wish more workshops came to Houston… maybe this could be the start!

ALSO, if you are planning on flying in and need help finding accommodations or have any questions about the workshop, email me and we’ll help you get set up!

All Images by Workshop Alumni

Keep it simple.
– Dane

PS… Special thanks to all the amazing Fast Track Alumni and Founders who shot the workshop images above. For specific photo credit and to see more of their incredible work, click here!

PPS… I’ve received numerous requests to bring the Fast Track Roadshow Workshop to a number of cities around the US, Canada, Europe, Australia and New Zealand.

If you’re interested in participating in your town or would be willing to help organize, please let me know.

I’m very willing to come to you guys but I need your help to make it happen. Are you game? Can you help :)? If so, I have a plan on how to work together and on how to make it worth your while… thanks in advance! By the way, I’m really humbled at the interest and super stoked to connect more personally with you guys.

Unusual Suspects in LA’s Confidential Mission Impossible

The usual suspects

What do David Jay, Kenny Kim, Catherine Hall, Chris Humphreys, Jen and Steve Bebb, Mike Colón, Alisha & Brook, Joe Photo, Michele Celentano, Becker, Jasmine Star, Amber Holritz, Bronson Pate, Jessica Claire, Robert Evans, Gene Higa, Ann Hamilton, Jules and Joy Bianchi, Kevin Kubota, Gustavo Fernandez, Jose Villa and me all have in common?

I have no idea.

Well, yes, there is that photo bit. But, apparently we’re going to find out a little more tomorrow. I can’t wait to get started and to tell you guys all about it. If you’re into it, want to tune in and follow along on Twitter?

Woohoo!

– Dane

Hands Free Photography

To strap or not to strap… that is the question.
The R Strap Rules
For the last few years, I have traded in my Canon shoulder straps in exchange for the more stealth wrist strap (Canon’s E1). Even when carrying two bodies, I found the long straps too cumbersome when actually shooting. They only seemed to help when moving between shoots but even then, the strap only served to transport well. When shooting, it ceased having a function.

I’ve been generally happy with the wrist solution but of late given the great ergonomics of Canon’s bodies and my minimalist preferences forced the question, why use anything at all?

Of course, the answer is that I still needed some sort of means to secure the camera when moving from spot to spot. This is exasperated when you have four kids and need to go hands free when shooting things like Halloween and need to grab your daughters hand in a crowd. It’s also handy if you’re in a location where you’d like to hide your camera away but still be able to get to it very quickly. Think photojournalistic, missional or street photography.

Enter BlackRapid’s FastenR Camera Strap: So when I got my hands on a BlackRapid (thanks to Photojojo’s recent post), I was blown away at its simplicity and thoughtful design.
The R Strap Rules
From the minimalistic sheath (I prefer the RS-1) to the camera stop at the waist to the industrial strength bottom-of-camera fastener…
Industrial Strength
… it all added up to the strap many wish they thought of inventing themselves. It’s really that good.

I think all things being equal, I still prefer shooting sans strap but when I’m on the move and inevitably need my hands for other purposes along the way, this is by far the best solution I’ve ever found to keep my camera close by.

Highly recommended.

Keep it stealth.
– Dane

PS… Here are some cool videos to see the R Strap in action. Please note I don’t get any commission or kickback for this endorsement but if you decide to get one, please say hi to Ron and Melissa for me! Thanks!!

Wanna hang out?

Ever wish you could sit down with a cup of coffee and get some tangible help on how to make your photo life work better for you? Ever feel like you’re beating your head against a wall and just need a little help to get perspective?

I like coffee!

Recently, I’ve been stoked to notice a lot of people taking the initiative to reach out for help like this. But, until now I haven’t really had a good way to really carve out intentional time! I’m excited to announce that I think we have that worked out now.

Book a Consult Today!

I’ve decided to start offering 20 minute consults on a limited bases. All topics are fair game!

You can get answers on everything including…

• signature vs. freelance branding
• shooting techniques
• lighting
• pricing
• marketing
• decision making
• business strategy
• workflow
• equipment & vendor selection
• & much more!

You will also be asked to take your pDNA before the consultation so I can get a chance to review your results and give you the most out of your time together. If you haven’t taken the pDNA yet, no problem. A FREE test is included. That’s not all either – see the bonus below!

All the details on how it works can be found here!

*Bonus: Everyone who books a Consult will also receive a FREE Fast Track Photographer Audiobook as well as a FREE pDNA for yourself or to share! I’ll even throw in a FREE eBook so you can follow along as I read to you!

After purchase of the consult, I’ll be emailing you a code to redeem everything listed!

Again, because of my other commitments I will only be offering a handful of slots so if you’re at all interested, I’d really encourage you to confirm your spot today!

I hope this helps!
-Dane

Recession Proof Your Business? Trade Fear in for Trust.

Help!

More than a couple photographers are challenged to make life work given our economy. In times likes this, it seems a lot of us are tempted with whether or not to lower prices and give away more stuff to get more gigs.

It’s like being cold in winter and being tempted to start a fire with the wood the house is made of. It’s a bit of a bad bet.

I get that this can intuitively make sense in the short haul if your goal is to sell your products and services to clients when it feels like people aren’t buying like they used to. Long term though, it’s a disaster.

What is the best response for a photographer (or anyone) to make when we’re trying to avoid becoming a commodity in a down economy? Good question.

My friend Jeff Jochum likes to say that the Internet is a great place to buy and an awful place to sell. And, he’s right.

Extend that proverb to our times and it gets even more powerful… a down economy is a tough place to sell and an easy place to buy.

What I mean is that when people have felt needs (which everyone has right now), your best option as a business person is to provide solutions for those people.

Isn’t it true that when you have a felt need?

How driven are you when you want water on a long hike, a bandaid for a blister or have a hankering for McDonald’s in the middle of a foreign country?

Won’t you pay what you need to pay to get what you know you want? No one needs to convince you. Price is not first on your mind. You just want a McAnything and you’re willing to pay.

If you can find people in that place and you have what they want, incentives are not required. But this is true only if what you have for them is unmistakably what they feel they need to have at the precise moment they want to have it.

The good news about a bad economy is a lot of people have felt needs.

A better prescription for our down times? Create unmistakable value and deliver that value in a timely way. Then, watch in amazement as people pay whatever you charge. They’ll even give up on other commodities to have your stuff.

Now, you’re in a new category in their minds and you should do everything you can to stay there.

By the way, if they don’t get the value you offer without thinking about it or if you’re feeling the need to try and sell them or convince them of its’ value, the game is already over. You’re in the selling business and people will be driven exclusively on getting the most bang for the least amount of buck. That’s a tough recipe when belts are tightening.

The flip is also true: If customers are initiating the purchase and you’re just helping people buy what they want, you’re in recession heaven.

Where good business people get into trouble is when they’re driven by fear and desperation. At least that’s been true of me. Driven by fear, I’ve been tempted to become part of the mass that does what everyone else is doing. In contrast, the millionaires that come out of recessions and depressions aren’t just lucky. My sense is they’re thoughtful and intentional and are driven by something stronger than fear and it takes them to places that are creatively unique and they stand out because of it.

Want some free advice? In a down market when everyone is spending credit to make money (or making minimum payments to have a chance to make money), try creating value for free (e.g., sharing knowledge on the internet with those you want to create the most value for). Then, trade that value for trust. That trust will be the incentive for people to go to you when they have a felt need.

So, what should you be doing in the mean time while you’re waiting for that trust to convert into a transaction? Ask and listen very carefully to your clients input on their needs. Listen especially for the solutions that would be the most valuable to them when they have the greatest need. And then, create that product and service to order. Finally, when they’re in the mood to buy, you won’t need to persuade them. They’ll have already sold themselves and be stoked they’re buying from you.

Here’s a dare: While you’re at all this value creation, spend any money you can (even if it’s spare change) paying down debt so that when people start buying, you’ll actually be able to keep what they give you. It’s amazing how much opportunity will show up just by taking that bitter pill.

Keep it proofed.
-Dane

PS… Thank you to everyone who have been saying such nice things to me online and on their blogs and in emails and on Facebook about my book! Your words have been absolute gifts. Bless you!

Lucky 8 = Free Shipping & 1/2 Price Founders Now!

Lucky 8

Three quick things…

First, 8-8-08 is the day the printers say my book will ship (woohoo!). That means, tomorrow (8-7-08) is the last day to get FREE Domestic Shipping (and half-off International Shipping)!

Second, tomorrow will also be the last day to get in as a Founder at the HALF-OFF introductory price. After that it doubles in price until spaces are filled. With people joining all the time, you might want to join quick!

Third, all other products (e.g., the Audiobook, pDNA, eBook, Forums) are available for Immediate Delivery 24/7!

*CLICK HERE* to make sure you don’t miss out!

Thanks for all your support and for celebrating with me. I can’t believe the day is almost here.
-Dane

PS… As you’re trying to decide what to get, please note that the pDNA only comes free with the physical books (when they arrive at your door) and Audiobooks (immediately while it’s downloading). The pDNA is sold separately from the eBook. Thanks again!

Get Your Audiobook Now!

Audiobook

I’m excited to announce that if you want me to read you my book, I’m happy to do it. *CLICK HERE* for all the fun!

Keep it audible.
-Dane

PS… The pDNA is included as is the special ePrize inside!