Knife Show Photographer needed

[HTMD]

If there's anyone out there who is coming along in knife photography as Coop did, and as I did, who is interested in stepping up to being a show photographer, the Professional Knifemakers Association would love to know.

The PKA does a nice custom knife show in Denver third weekend in August and its relatively modest size is perfect for taking the next step.

I did the show for 5 years after Terrill Hoffman's long tenure. Terrill gave me plenty of advice and help, just like I will for the next photographer.

The PKA officers are great to work with and the show is totally wired after all these years. It'd be a great opportunity for someone and I'm sure Coop would agree based on his experience, as would Terrill, Eric, Chuck and others, that it will make you into a professional - if you do it for a few years and do a reasonable job with it, you will become bullet proof in the process. It's a great gig for the aspiring photographer because you don't have to have pro skills starting out. Any advanced hobbyist can take the step assuming they've been shooting knives at home, their images have appeared in the forums and folks left positive comments... that kind of thing.

Basic studio lighting is a must, whether strobes or continuous lighting - plus the usual stuff like white foam boards, mirrors etc. - the stuff you already use at home. You don't have to make prints at the show. We can thank Coop for breaking that trail for us - that takes a lot of the pressure off. The show promotors provide hotel room and a nice photography studio room - at their expense. Etc. Etc. Etc.

I'd be happy to talk with anyone who is interested.

[SharpByCoop]

Well, Buddy put the message and the advice out clearly. Getting your foot in the door at a show is a way to boost your skills and prominence, as well as the makers you will serve.

My first show was in 2002, which was an NCCA local show. I shot images for $30. I brought a printer thinking I could shoot, edit, and print. Didn't happen. I learned that was impossible for me.

I have found makers are quite willing to wait for print quality. Just deliver when promised.

It's ten years later, but the message is still the same: Build your prominence and get paid while learning.

Awesome post!

Coop

[jasonp]

Man, I'd love to do this if I had time, sounds fun.

[SharpByCoop]

Buddy, did this ever get filled?

Coop