A Long Overdue Update
Long time, no see?
I've written this email several times...I think I've got the details right now 😉
OK - it hasn't been that long ago... But I suppose that is where the story starts... That photo is from the World Series of Poker, 2003...two decades ago 😕 and I had already been a professional photographer for 3 years by that point. Time flies...
This one is almost the same age! But this one is one I don't talk to my "photography family" much about. For the past 20 years, I've led a double life. Mild-mannered paramedic by day, rockstar photographer on weekends/gaps. Its worked out pretty well for me, so far... I've always struggled with how to balance the two careers. I kept telling myself that "someday" I'd retire from EMS and be a full-time photographer.
6 months ago, I set the goal that it would happen 2 August 2023. That would mark 20 years of EMS employment, and felt like the appropriate time to cap off a career.
I hoped this message was going to come to you announcing that goal and the imminent success. But life has a funny way of happening while we make other plans...
Instead of "retiring" this summer, I'm actually going be be "doubling down" and settling in on the ambulance for a few more years. ...but in doing so, I'm going to also be making more time for photography.
Until now, photography has been a "second income" for me. I've used it to pay for itself and to slowly expand what I can offer. I've priced myself competitively within the market based on my skill level and experience.
That's changing.
Starting this month, I'm going to be relying on photography to become a regular part of my income to support my family. Yes, this scares me!
I've never been good at marketing or the "business" side of things, and I'm trying to learn it all on the fly.
Here's where I need your help
I find it pretentious and annoying when people beg their friends & family for money. That's not exactly what I'm going for here.
I do want your support...
and I'll take your money....
but I have something else in mind for you.
From my friends and family, I'd like your help with referrals. Tell your friends and family I exist. When they are looking for a wedding or portrait photographer - you knowaguy!
I photograph weddings and portraits.
I don't do babies. I don't do pets. I don't do kids by themselves. I know people who do them and do them exceptionally well...I don't have the patience or props to pull them off; I’d rather be good at what I love to do. I'm not for everyone. I know the value of my work and I am priced accordingly. I am not for those looking for the cheapest photographer around. I choose the clients I work with and choose to work with those who value photography and the experience I can give them.
What's in it for you?
I'm glad you asked! I don't offer sales on my work. I know my value, and it doesn't change for a special season. I'm not going to start offering sales now. BUT I also usually work with my friends and family to NOT pay full price. That's becoming an official thing. I'm also creating a group I'm calling my "Street Crew" - to put the word in the streets...other photographers might call these their brand ambassadors. They are a group of people who are willing to help share the news about what's happening with MDKauffmann Photography in exchange for a discount on regular photography services. If you'd like to apply to be part of the "Street Crew", slap this link and let me know. Limited slots are available.
With all the new stuff happening, the best place to stay informed is going to be in the Facebook Friends/Family group. If you're not a member of that yet, hit the button below and I'll hook you up. This group is where you'll learn about discounts and opportunities. Be a cool kid
Thank you!
Lastly, I'd like to say a heartfelt "Thank You" for supporting me. I'm looking forward to the next 20 years!
See you soon!
MDK
Learn more about all my St Louis photography services at https://www.mdkauffmann.com
