2018 Year End
2018 was a dark year for me personally with the passing of my father. I juggled caring for someone with stage 4 lung cancer, my shoot schedule, and running the WNY chapter. What I learned this year was that relationships are the key to survival in life, and in this business. I have been able to forge new relationships this year and watch the experience of old ones flourish with new projects and bonds. I became involved with ASMP for personal growth, community involvement, and business relations. What I have been given is far greater and unexpected. I have been afforded an opportunity to meet and work with amazing people in all stages of their careers, and help build a community. Thank you all for all you do. I’m looking forward to what the new year has in store.
~Stephen Gabris/WNY Chapter President
Here’s a look back at 2018 Programing!
We kicked the year in off in March with our 1st ever “Speed Dating Portfolio Review!” In attendance we had: Elizabeth Licata of Buffalo Spree Magazine, Brian Grunert of White Bicycle, Michael Tsanis from The Martin Group, Lillian Selby Pawloski from Crowley Webb, Amber Rampino from 19 ideas, Doug Levere from the University at Buffalo, Rhea Anna Photography, Biff Henrich of IMG_INK, and KC Kratt Photography
Next Up, April! “National Speaker Series” with Todd Joyce. Todd provided help with pricing, workflow, client relationship guides, and creative budgeting proposals in his workshop. This was an awesome piece of programing giving photographers better understanding of local and national markets for stills and film for small and large budget projects!
One of my favorite and true privileges of ’18 was our May event, Crit night with Clay Patrick McBride and David Turner from RIT. Clay is a world renowned 1st class photographer of celebrities like Jay-Z, Beyonce, and Norah Jones. One of the nicest people I’ve ever met too. This event took place in an intimate setting at the state of the art ad firm, Truth Collective.
Moving on to June. We worked our summer coverage to include our brethren from the wedding/ event world- partnering with Western New York Wedding Photo Chat, Delaware Camera, Riverworks Buffalo, and brought in Sony to demo all their wares over casual conversation and gastro pub cuisine riverside.
In July we got serious with Copyright by resident expert Jim Cavanaugh, and hosted by CEPA Art Galleries. Jim gave us the state of the state, and broke down how to handle workflow, protect your rights, and where to go when infringed. Truly crucial and timely programing.
In Late July we kept the ball moving with another social gathering at The Curtiss Hotel rooftop bar!
In September we rolled out our 2nd assistant workshop. Our panel included some of my favorite people, respected colleagues, and industry experts: Chris Santucci, Lindsay Cave Sisting, KC Kratt, Kathryn Freidman, and Greg Addo. We were hosted by dPost, a truly amazing production house right here on Main St. in downtown Buffalo.
In November we had “Photobeers” hosted by Ballyhoo and National President Luke Copping. It was great to see so many new and familiar faces alike!
And finally in December we had our annual holiday party at Victory Studios with ping pong, photbooth, playstation, and amazing industry conversations with creatives throughout the industry. A great way to close the year. See you all in 2019!
Thank You!
