Blog
Staying competitive means continuously improving your skills and business strategies. Here you’ll find exclusive insights for photographers, creative directors, and all types of creatives who want to sharpen their craft and grow their business.
Whether you’re looking to improve your photography techniques, boost your brand visibility, or stay on top of industry trends, this practical, actionable advice is based on years of experience working with leading brands and publications.
From expert business strategies and marketing tips to creative inspiration and photography skills, this blog gives you the tools you need to succeed in the competitive photography and creative industries.
Behind the Scenes with Arizona Coyotes Team Captain Shane Doan Photo Shoot
At the start of 2017 the James Patrick Photography team was hired to do an editorial photo campaign of Arizona Coyotes team captain Shane Doan. Personally I love working with athletes, but was particularly excited to work with Doan as he is one of the rare athletes...
Tips for Negotiating Rates
Negotiating rates can be a stressful endeavor because you are being asked to stand by what you say you are worth when someone is questioning you or wanting to pay you less. The first step is to do your research. Talk to others in your business to find out what...
New Studio Space
The James Patrick Photography team is opening our new photo studio! We have partnered up with Imprint to open up the new Imprint Studio in Scottsdale, Arizona. For the past 15 years we have simply rented locations when we have photo shoots; but now are entering the...
Photo Shoot Openings
The James Patrick Photography team has photo shoot openings on the following dates in Arizona. Please contact us to schedule your session before they fill up! March 19 March 22 (Afternoon Only) April 14 (Afternoon Only) April 15 May 20 Space is limited for ALL of...
My First Big Mistake
Here is an interesting question to answer. In your current profession, what was the first BIG mistake you made and what did you learn from it? Mine was one that most photographers and models fall prey to. It was in believing a prospective client when they said “if you...
Internalization vs. Externalization
Early in my marketing career I externalized all failures. When we chased a project and didn’t win I would find any excuse for how and why it went wrong outside of blaming myself. Perhaps I would blame our project manager for waiting too long to meet with the client,...
Important Question Models Must Answer
I had a model tell me they only wanted to pay a third of what my price was for a portfolio photo shoot because that is all they were used to paying other photographers. So the question is – which option is better? Option A: Hiring a low-priced amateur who will deliver...
Missed Opportunity
A colleague of mine was looking for a student photographer to photograph an event they were hosting. They posted the casting call up on a job board and had about 50 applicants which both surprised and overwhelmed them. As a result they asked me to collate through the...
Worst Projects I’ve Ever Had
Imagine having to walk off set because the client won’t stop insulting you. That is a position I was in about 15 or so years ago. I often will get asked by clients on what was the worst project or projects I’ve ever had. I’m fairly fortunate in that I’ve managed to...