Notes from an IPA Juror – July 2021

. ChatterPresentations . ,

Observations on being a Juror for IPA, and General Advice for Awards & Contest Submissions 

I have had the honor and privilege to be a juror for IPA (International Photography Awards) for a few years now. And, after reviewing hundreds of entries and thousands of images, certain qualities have stuck out for me, both good and bad, so I wanted to share some of them with you.

Brian Hodges – Odilo Lawiny – Handmade Soccer Balls – IPA 2020

As a juror, you are by yourself, and you go with what speaks to you. Sometimes I wonder if the other jurors are raving about the same work as me, or am I the only one? Last year, I was right on the money when it came to my favorite portrait series by Brian Hodges. Apparently, everyone else loved it too because he won his category! But why did Brian win? What was it about his particular series that impressed so many of us? What makes a successful series?

Continue reading →

“Nine Lives – Twenty Images” – Dr. Julie Butler and The 145th Street Animal Hospital

. ChatterStories

Introduction: Many years ago when I was starting out on my photographic journey, I went to an open house at SVA (School of Visual Arts) where several faculty members were giving mini presentations about their specialty and classes. Nothing really grabbed my attention until this one teacher spoke and showed us some of his images, and for the record, this was the only presentation that really got me excited that evening, which is why I signed up for his class.

The teacher? Rick Falco. The class? Photo-Journalism. I knew I didn’t want to be the kind of photographer documenting war-torn countries (and God Bless those who do). That wasn’t my thing, but I still loved the idea of capturing something in the moment, an un-staged moment in time that could not be repeated. More along the lines of Henri Cartier-Bresson and “The Decisive Moment.” I also loved (and still do) the idea of story-telling through images and for that Photo-Journalism class, we had to pick a subject that we could go back and photograph over a period of several weeks, and I chose my veterinarian, Dr. Julie Butler and The 145th Street Animal Hospital. She became more than just my vet; we also became friends during that time. Continue reading →

Portfolio Reviews at ICP – June 2018

. ChatterPresentations

Portfolio Reviews at ICP – June 2018

Although I have reviewed photography portfolios for many many years, on Wednesday, June 27, 2018 I participated for the first time as a reviewer at the ICP (International Center of Photography) Portfolio Reviews. It says it in the name… International Center of Photography… and that’s exactly what my reviews were, very International, which I loved, along with some very interesting and thought-provoking projects ranging from addiction to gender identity, sexual abuse, suicide, health & aging, Staten Island, living in gated communities in Brazil & Dubai…

It’s not only the reviews themselves that give me great pleasure, but what touches my heart and makes it all worthwhile is when I receive “thank you” notes afterwards, such as these from Rebecca Morello, Catalina Reyes & Bruca Moreira, as well as a wonderful email from Betty Young Kim:

Continue reading →

ChatterPresentations over the years…

. ChatterPresentations

This section is an overview of the many events I have created, produced and presented over the years.

I was the “Panel Queen” for some years, assembling both enlightening and informative panels comprised of diverse professionals from all areas of the photography industry. These discussions, presentations and round tables were both candid and humorous whilst also inspiring photographers to be the best they can be and how best and where to show their work.

To read more, please click here

Continue reading →

Refresh Your Presentation and Reach The Right People for ASMP DC – April 2015

. ChatterPresentations

Refresh Your Presentation and Reach The Right People for ASMP DC – April 2015

DESCRIPTION: In this fun and informative presentation, marketing consultant Louisa J. Curtis of Chatterbox Enterprises covers everything from websites to promotions, personal projects and creating your own PR. Whether you are just starting out, or have been in business for a while, this seminar will inspire you to revamp your presentation and marketing – make it fresh, focused and more personal. With lots of visual examples and plenty of time for Q&A, you’ll walk away with a new enthusiasm for marketing your work and a solid understanding of how to communicate what you do in the best light possible.

To see more from this presentation click here

Continue reading →

Marketing: One Size Does Not Fit All! for ASMP NY – PBNY – February 2015

. ChatterPresentations

Marketing: One Size Does Not Fit All! for ASMP NY – PBNY – February 2015

They Say One Size Fits All – Or Does It?

Should you have all of your work on the one website, and if so, how do you organize it? Or should you consider multiple websites for multiple markets?

Each photographer is different and no, from experience – “one size definitely does not fit all!”

When Cookie Cutter Marketing Simply Doesn’t Cut It…

You’ve all heard the expression “square peg in a round hole” – as an artist, you are already fitting that description – so take that same attitude to your marketing and think outside of the box. What worked for Chuck in the 80’s may not work so well for Carmelita today!

To read more about this event and see photos, click here

Continue reading →

Multiple Markets Panel at Adorama – March 2013 and at PPE – October 2013

. ChatterPresentations

Multiple Markets Panel at Adorama – March 2013 and at PPE – October 2013

The Business of Photography: Presenting Your Work To Multiple Markets

Date: Tuesday, March 12th, 2013, 5:30pm – 8:00pm
Location: Adorama, 42 West 18th Street, 5th floor (between 5th & 6th Avenues), New York City

Date: Friday, October 25th, 2013, 8:45am – 11:45am – Session FA4
Location: Photo Plus Expo @ The Jacob K. Javits Center, New York City

Event Description: They Say That “One Size Fits All” – Or Does It?

These days it’s quite common for photographers to be promoting to and working in multiple markets in order to maximize their exposure and their earning potential. Since you’re working hard on expanding your brand and income, is there a right or a wrong way to approach each different market, or can your “brand” simply speak for itself?

To read more about this panel, who was on it and my write-up afterwards revealing “who said what” – click here

Continue reading →