MTPPA Shoot Out

The second Tuesday of every month I attend meetings of my professional organization, Michigan Triangle Professional Photographers Association (MTPPA). Triangle refers to the geographic area it covers- Lansing, Jackson and Battle Creek, although we do have members from other places. This month was our annual business meeting, followed by a fun 'shoot out', where some pretty young gals posed for us in exchange for images for their portfolios.

Family Reunion

At the end of March, Jeff and I drove to Illinois for a long weekend to visit his side of the family. I really miss these folks; Jeff has such a nice family and we only get to see them once a year. Among the various activities I usually try to squeeze in a family portrait. This year we had unseasonably nice weather so we went out in the field across the street. The dog, Molly, is quite old and this may be her last portrait (not so for the people, I hope!)

2103 Senior Model Reps Wanted!

Class of 2013! I need some outgoing, stylish students who will be seniors this fall to spread the word about Karen Muse Photography. Here's how it works- We'll do a short model session in March or April, from which I'll give you a booklet of your images and some cards to hand out to other 2013 graduates. (Don't worry- later in the summer or fall we will do your regular senior session) No hard sell required, just talk about the fun time you had here and show off your great images. In exchange for your good work, for every person who books with me and brings in one of your cards, you will receive $25 off of your own senior pictures. You could get your pictures for free! And there's a bonus- If you refer 10 paid clients to me, I will give you a beautiful 20 page hard-cover book from your own senior session! That's at least a $400 value!

And the people you refer to me get something, too- $25 off of their own orders!

Images from the model session may be used by me for promotional purposes. And don't forget- your parents need to be on board for this venture. If you're interested in being one of my fabulous models and have what it takes to spread the word, email or call me pronto! I'm looking forward to meeting you! 517-788-5538 karenmuse.com

Meet the Family

Here are I and the other half of the team- my husband Jeff. I was taking a photo of us to put on our Christmas cards this year. Incidentally, he does a lot more than give me rides across the lawn. He answers phones, delivers packages, keeps the books, does the taxes and just plain gives moral support! I'm lucky to have him!

Happy Winter!

Well, here we are in winter again! Waking up to see that first snowfall was a shock, but soon I was enjoying seeing the interesting new shapes out in my yard.

Certified Professional Photographer

I forgot to mention-- this spring I attained the CPP (Certified Professional Photographer) designation. Testing and judging is handled by the Professional Photographic Certification Commission based in Atlanta, GA. I had to pass a written test and submit images from 20 different clients for review. Achieving this rating helps assure clients that their photographer is technically and artistically competent. These days there are a lot of people calling themselves professional, but many of these actually have very poor photographic skills. I decided to get the formal designation in order to let people know that they have a right to expect more from a pro than just someone who "likes to take pictures".

I Love Seniors!

Now is senior picture time, and I am enjoying myself thoroughly! I am always amazed at the cool stuff people are involved with. I love capturing the beauty and energy of young people on their way out into the world. Photos can also be very powerful- they enable the subjects to see themselves through someone else's eyes. Sometimes kids are surprised when they realize what neat individualse they really are. www.karenmuse.com