photoDUDS

photoDUDS User: Susan Gertz Dogpatch Pix

2011-11-26T09:10:00.002-07:00

I wanted to share this cute card Susan Gertz sent me showing how she had modified the marketing card and how she was using the new wonderland Ornament pack to sell ornaments to the "parents" of her subjects. It turned out so cute and I always love it when photographers share their creations using photoDUDS. You can find out more about Susan and her studio at www.dogpatchpix.com or on Facebook. Good Luck Susan I hope you sell tons of ornaments!

Black Friday Sale, Contest and Freebie!

2011-11-24T07:19:00.006-07:00

I hope everyone is having a Happy Thanksgiving today! I am thankful to be spending the day with my family. Soon I will be busy in the kitchen so I wanted to go ahead and post about the photoDUDS Black Friday events.

First of all we will still have the Wonderland template on sale for 50% off. I created there for our annual Christmas Portrait event and sold over 100 ornaments in one weekend. These are shapes for personalized acrylic cutout ornaments. They were wildly popular this year with our customers. We usually sell a few ornaments but never like the amount we sold this year....You can check out the Wonderland ornament templates here...they will be 50% off now through Friday.

Next we have our annual 40% off any one item...the discount will appear once you log in and you will receive 40% off your highest ticketed item in the cart. So head on over and pick up something great from the photoDUDS store.

And you can be one of ten winners to WIN a free photo prop umbrella when you shop at the photoDUDS store on Black Friday. Here's how:

FIRST CHANCE...
Be 1 of the FIRST 5 to place an order totaling $50 or more on BLACK FRIDAY & get a FREE umbrella. (starts at midnight EST)

SECOND CHANCE...
Make ANY purchase on BLACK FRIDAY & be automatically entered to WIN 1 of 5 FREE umbrellas!

*note the FIRST CHANCE winners will not be eligible for the SECOND CHANCE drawing.

And lastly, we have a Black Friday Freebie for you! It's a simple gift tag that you can make using press cards size business cards. Your clients are going to LOVE this personalized gift tag! A great way to increase your holiday sales.

This template will be available on BLACK FRIDAY, when you can get it for FREE! After that it will cost you 10 bucks!

You can look at it now and get it on FRIDAY for FREE!

The Joy of Marketing Free Event

2011-11-09T15:49:00.002-07:00

Our friend Emily Potts is excited to have joined with amazing industry experts at The Joy of Marketing's newest online learning event, Newbie Basic Training! In this comprehensive course, you will learn how to:
• Use your equipment to capture beautiful images that will get everyone talking.
• Build your business model to fit your budget & goals, & watch your business flourish.
• Position yourself as a top photographer in your market.
• Close EVERY sale, EVERY time to double your sales this year.

The course began yesterday November 8th and will run through November 11th. It's no too late to register. And best of all this information is FREE! Click here to register for this awesome event!

Trick or Treat Sale!

2011-10-17T04:49:00.002-07:00

We decided give give you a treat early this year....Save 20% of everything in the photoDUDS store. (except for those items in Beth's attic.) So go to the photoDUDS store and see what's new and save 20% The sale ends Friday so you'd better hurry!

Christmas in July -- Save 40%

2011-07-31T07:53:00.005-07:00

ok so I know it's really early but as soon as September rolls around we start selling Christmas cards! So I thought a sale would be nice to jump start your business for the Holiday Season. So, now you'll have time to get those samples together and be ready for Holiday card rush! So until Monday August 1, everything Christmas in the photoDUDS store is 40% off! That's right, 40% off! So you'd better hurry on over to the photoDUDS store and stock up!

BTW if you are interested my lab offers a 2 pack sample set of cards....so you can add your photos and get selling right away...check it out at photoproduction.com

One day Sale! Save 40% off any one item!

2011-06-27T21:37:00.003-07:00

The annual Beth's Birthday Bash sale is on! For one day only save 40% off on any one item n the photoDUDS.com store. You'd better hurry cause this offer ends at midnight June 28, 2011 EST.

Camera Kitsch

2011-06-26T06:30:00.004-07:00

Just wanted to share these cute items I found while shopping online in one of my favorite stores shopruche.com. They are all camera things that I found so cute that i had to order..... so I thought I'd share with you too! The first item is a camera tape dispenser. So cute and I had to have it!. The second item is a camera pencil bag I actually am planning on keeping this in my purse so I can keep all my business/photography receipts in it. You should see my purse....you open it up and receipts literally fly out at you! Lol! There are some other great photog inspired things on there as well. So, head on over there and have fun shopping!

Something Old, Something New

2011-06-14T18:05:00.003-07:00

Here's something I thought I'd share with you. Last week, I had to create a quick, last minute graduation announcement. So, I grabbed up my new templates from the sublime iPad, iPhone set and set out to create a grad card. With a few minor changes and adding the ceremony information and my job was done... See what you think!

If you are wondering how I changed the background paper to grey, I simply desaturated the paper and then made a levels adjustment to make it a bit more contrasty. One the frame I also desaturated it and then made a levels adjustment to make it much darker grey.

New Skins for iPad and iPhones are here...save 30%

2011-06-05T04:40:00.003-07:00

Because every client has their own style! We are introducing a NEW Product line... myStyle! myStyle Products are designed to help your customers define theirs. So we've designed myStyle Products to help you keep your style and let your client choose theirs.

SUBLIME is a collection of iPad and iPhone cases/skins. Each design targets a different audience.

Right now you can save 30% off the Sublime set...but you;d better hurry because this offer ends soon!

Where do you get these printed?

GelaSkins $14.95 for a phone skin & $29.95 for a front/back iPad skin + $4.95 shipping.
skinit $19.95 for a phone skin & $34.99 for a front/back iPad skin + $4.95 shipping.

Note that these are retail sites, and you will be paying retail prices for the skins. If you are looking for a lab/wholesale option for the skins try:
Photo Production $9.95 for a phone skin & $19.95 for a front/back iPad skin - Free shipping.

If you want to print your own on you inkjet printer*, take a look at iaPeel. You can purchase 3 skins to print on your inkjet printer for $29.95.

* A side note... all the skins I purchased from the above listed resources (gelaskins, skinit and PhotoProduction) had applied a laminate to protect the skin from scratches and damage. I do not expect these inkjet options to hold up as well with regular usage.

For phone cases, you can go to uncommon, $39.95 for a capsule hard case. iPad cases will be available soon. This is what I currently have on my phone.

I had a custom case printed from zazzle and it fell apart within 3 months. :(

-Beth

New Release--Baby iDesign introductory price $68.00

2011-03-29T10:30:00.003-07:00

"photo-couture for the boutique studio"

A great product doesn't do you any good if you don't have the tools to make money from it. The iDesign line of products, gives you a great product plus all the necessary the tools to sell it.
Everything you need to create and sell custom boutique products in your studio!

Your customers will love personalized items, but they'll love them even more when they help to create the design themselves. With our easy marketing pieces, order form, and layout worksheet your clients can create a custom baby keepsake by choosing their own color palette and design layout. They then finish it off with their own graphic icon choices and personal information.

Let's face it at $68 you could sell one of these custom galleries, pay for the cost of the software, the print and still put money into your pocket! It's a win, win situation and your customer's will love creating "their own" piece of art for their home.

So head on over to the photoDUDS store because this introductory price doesn't last long!

PSD Experience and Giveaway--You and a friend could win 2 free passes

2011-03-21T05:01:00.003-07:00

The PSD Experience is going to give you the ULTIMATE jolt of educational energy and push you and your studio to new heights! Work, shoot, play and learn alongside Beth and other educators such as David Beckstead, Scott and Adina Hayne, Clay Blackmore, Lou Freeman, Steve Ragland and many more! This event promises to be one of the most exciting and inspirational educational events of the year!

The goal of the event is for you to not only learn how to pose and light, create amazing images and video footage, and build your portfolio, but also to grow the business side by learning from the most successful professionals about marketing, pricing, editing, Photoshop, album design, and more. We want you to leave the PSD Experience with an expanded portfolio and with the tools necessary to implement your newly found skills into your business.

You can learn from Beth at one of her programs @ the PSD Experience:
Senior Portrait Round Table & Critique, Portrait Theory, Top 10 Tips to Increase Your Sales, Off Camera Flash and ettl, Studio Lighting Basics, Photoshop Design

To learn more about The PSD Experience, click here:
www.psdexperience.com

Want a chance to Win Passes for you and a Friend?

photoDUDS is happy to provide you and a friend a chance to win scholarships to the PSD Experience in Norfolk, VA (an $800 value).

Here's how to do it!
1. Go to www.photoduds.com
2. Look for the circle that says WIN
3. Type in your name, email address and phone number and submit!

Hurry entries will be closed Tuesday , March 29th, 2011 11:50 p.m. EST !

Good Luck and see you at PSD!

photoDUDS New Release Senior Rep Card Templates-"FAB"--on sale for $24.50 this week only

2011-03-15T10:12:00.002-07:00

I got my creative juices going last week and created some new Senior Rep cards for the studio! So since it's time to jump start next year's class of 2012, we decided everyone could use these templates to get a head start on next year's marketing. So, here they are "Fab" senior Rep card templates for you to use in your studio! They are on sale in the photoDUDS store all this week at the introductory price of $24.50 so you'd better go shopping right away before you miss out on this offer!

NEW Photographer's Toolkit, Journey- Save 20%

2011-03-06T18:25:00.002-07:00

We just released a new toolkit with all sort of amazing things for you to use on your photos, cards, albums and marketing pieces. It has all sorts of graphic design elements for use in photoshop: brushes, multi-layered image masks, embellishments, papers, textures and overlays. I have been playing with it for weeks and i just keep finding great ways to use everything. Here are a few images of what's included in this great set. Head on over to the photoDUDS store to check it out and save 20% for a limited time.

Up-coming Release "Journey"

2011-02-09T06:46:00.003-07:00

We are diligently working on a new release. It's a photographer's Toolkit and it's called Journey. It's travel inspired and has a great mixed-media feel. If you have ever read the Griffen and Sabine trilogy by Nick Bantock, you'll notice it is loosely inspired by those books. (which are great by the way!) Anyway, here are some of the frames and image masks for the new set. The image masks in this set are multi-layered giving you a lot of creative options for layering the mask together. The set will be released at WPPI and then on the store in early March.

New Release-- Vive Collage Guides Sale 20% off

2011-01-05T06:50:00.004-07:00

Hey need a jump start in the New year...we've got just the thing for you...a new collage guide set, Vive!

CollageGuides are the PERFECT partner for photoDUDS Toolkits & Collections! CollageGuides will help you layout multi-image galleries or cards quickly, giving you freedom and control over your final product while not compromising design.

VIVE contains 10 NEW CollageGuides to jumpstart your creativity and design a variety of products to sell at premium prices. I sells hundreds of collages at her studio each year and wants to make more of them available for your studio. Hurry! Offer ends on January 12th...and oh don't forget...you will also get a $25 film strip collage for free..that's a $25 added bonus!

Give Thanks Sale-Umbrella Winners

2010-12-01T04:51:00.002-07:00

The Give Thanks sale was a big success....many thanks to those who ordered. And for our annual Black Friday event we gave away umbrellas!! YAY! This year the umbrellas were awarded to the first 4 people who ordered, 4 random choices from all orders placed that day and then to those who ordered over $300 in photoDUDS software. There were 15 winners overall and here they are: (the drumroll please)

Debbie Herring
Mary Baird
Nancy Thompson
Nicole Arnt

Janne Peterson
Natalie Orchard
Christina Guivas
Dana Stine

Mira Wieczorek
Beverly Brey
Linda Moore
Shane Bruer
Louis DiChello
Kimberly Stone
Bobby McFall

Here is one of my favorite images shot with one of my many umbrellas. Congrats to all the winners!

Give Thanks Sale--Black Friday 20-50% off everything!

2010-11-24T06:04:00.002-07:00

Our annual Black Friday sale is this week and this year we've decided to mix it up a little bit and call it our "Give Thanks" sale! Here are some of the details..it's a really awesome sale and you don't want to miss out!

We couldn't think of a better way to thank our loyal customers than with a sale!
20-50% OFF EVERYTHING in our store!

Here's what will be on sale:
50% OFF ALL MINIs
40% OFF ALL SENIOR Collections
30% OFF ALL DUDlets
25% OFF ALL Business Tools
20% OFF Everything else

Start making a list and checking it twice, because this sale will only run for 24-hours on November 26, 2010, midnight to midnight EST!

Real Photo DUDS!

2010-11-11T05:25:00.003-07:00

This post is about photo DUDS you actually wear on your body. lol I was on the internet the other day looking for gift for a photographer friend and found these items. Too cute for words...... The boxers are currently available at gap.com The shoes....well, I might have to order myself a pair of these! They can be found on zazzle.com. There are all sorts of styles with various printed versions...Really cool...you should check it out!

New Release-"BUZZ" Viral Marketing Kit-Save 25%

2010-11-02T10:36:00.003-07:00

Our newest release is now on the website and for a limited time you can get this great new set for 25% off the regular price. It's everything you need to jump start your viral marketing campaign. At my studio, we rely solely on word of mouth marketing and have so for years. And now with social media sites, the news about our studio can spread faster than ever before. So, I've gathered up 9 of the templates we use in our studio to drive word of mouth marketing by making it easier to blog, to get referrals and to help spread the word about town. This is a must have for any studio trying to stay ahead in this ever changing fast paced society. So head on over to photoduds.com and check it out!

Halloween Treat--50% off any DUDlet

2010-10-31T22:10:00.002-07:00

Happy Halloween everyone! I've got a special treat for you. From now until midnight November 1st you can get 50% off any DUDlet template in the photoDUDS store. In order to receive the 50% off your DUDlet you must enter the following code: treat50 So put away your candy and head on over to the photoDUDS store and check it out!

Create Something New with photoDUDS

2010-10-15T07:48:00.004-07:00

People always ask me what set our products apart from others....well it's the versatility! I created the first set because I was so frustrated with so many of the other products out there. And I hated templates! I wanted to be able to create something new and unique for my clients. So, as you all know, that the majority of our products are NOT TEMPLATES. However, we do offer card sets for special occasions that are templates. But here's the real kick...we include all the parts we used to create the templates. So, what does this mean for the user? It means you can completely start a new cards from scratch or you can modify any of the existing card templates. So here is a card from the new NOEL set which I completely changed into a grad card for a client of mine using papers and overlays from the set. Oh yeah and today is the last day for 20% of the newest card set release NOEL. So, you'd better hurry on over to the photoDUDS store if you wanna get it on sale.

***Please note that the DUDlets differ from the full-blown sets; they are a cheap and easy template option and they are not meant to be modified.

F Stop for Breast Cancer Mentor Auction with Beth Forester

2010-10-15T05:12:00.003-07:00

I am very happy to be participating in the f stop for Breast Cancer charitable event. f/stop breast cancer is a groundbreaking photography auction that includes both mentor sessions and photography products where 100% of the proceeds go straight to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation.
I along with tons of other photographers have donated their time and products to help raise money for The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. If you would like to bid on the auction for my 60 minute mentor session and $375 worth of photoDUDS products you go visit the auction here on ebay. We can talk about anything you want via the phone or through a video chat. It's a great cause and I hope we can work together to raise tons of money for breast cancer research. The Auction ends on October 19th so head on over to ebay and check it out! If you have any questions about the auction you can e-mail me at beth@foresterphoto.com

Easy Image Gallery

2010-10-15T05:00:00.003-07:00

I created an image gallery today and I wanted to show it coming together.....I actually created this in just about 5 minutes using color fill and an overlay form the Debonair collection.

October DUDlet of the Month- Halloween Template $5

2010-10-10T07:27:00.004-07:00

Here it is and isn't is cute...it's the October DUDlet of the month and it ready for you to pop your Halloween photos in and sell to your clients. In the last few years I've really seen the Halloween industry grow immensely! And I've seen my clients spend hundreds of dollars on costumes for their children. So, why not offer cards and sessions designed specifically for the Halloween theme? You know your clients want to capture memories of that special costume.... and you might want to check out last years October DUDlet of the month too. It's a Halloween card and the name is Emma. Here are some samples of my clients in their cute little costumes. Happy Haunting!

Our Newest is here...NOEL, Christms Card Templates--Save 20%

2010-10-07T15:29:00.002-07:00

Our newest Holiday card set of templates are here! And for a limited time they are on sale for 20% off. Plus, we have an extra special bonus for you...a free marketing card with the purchase of the Noel set. So, update your studio's look with these fashionable new cards for the Holidays and with our easy marketing postcard you can start marketing your studio's Christmas cards right away!

Busy, Busy! Sneak Peek at new Christmas card set

2010-10-02T05:26:00.003-07:00

Well, I have been super busy lately! Running the studio, filming segments for the upcoming 2011 photovision season and working on upcoming photoDUDS releases. I wanted to share a sneak peak at the new Christmas card set, Noel, which should be released early next week. They cards have turned out so cute and it's really been fun to populate with some of my recent studio images. Enjoy and watch for that release early next week!

September DUDlet, Tip of the Month

2010-09-29T04:10:00.003-07:00

Just a few tidbits about things goin' on over at the photoDUDS website! First, it's the last few days to grab the September DUDlet of the Month for just $5. It's an Image Box template and it's only available for a few more days.

Also, you want to head on over to the "the photoDUDS Loop" to check out September's Tip of the Month. Each month, I'll be sharing tips from our studio to help your studio be more productive and more profitable.

New photoDUDS Website! 20% off the entire store plus Freebies and more!

2010-09-01T06:32:00.002-07:00

Very Exciting! Yesterday we launched the brand new photoDUDS.com store and site! There are loads of exciting things going on there now.... everything in the store is now offered as either a DVD or download...well, excluding DUDlets. Plus, we have tips, new freebies, and a huge sale...yes, that's right for a limited time everything in the store is 20% off in celebration of the new site. Oh yeah, I almost forgot, ANYONE placing an order between now and September 11, 2010 will be entered to win one of 5 photo prop umbrellas we will be giving away. So head on over to the photoDUDS.com and check it out!

Red Tag Clearance--50% off Select Items

2010-08-02T14:57:00.002-07:00

Hey we are getting ready for the launch of our new site and we are cleaning house....and having a sale: 50% off Storyboards, DUDdles and select Christmas Card Sets. Once the sale is over these items will be removed from the store. So, this is your last chance to purchase these items...when they're gone they are gone! The sale ends Thursday so you'd better hurry...some of these items won't even last until then! Head on over to the photoDUDS store and check it out!

Scott Butler-SYNC Album of the Year

2010-07-25T11:18:00.006-07:00

We'd like to extend a BIG CONGRATS to Scott Butler of Butler Studio of Florence, Alabama!! He was the winner of the SYNC album of the year! And guess what, he created the entire album using the photoDUDS, photographer's toolkit Heraldry. Way to go Scott! So, I am sharing several pages from this award-winning album with you. Enjoy and congrats again Scott! Can't wait to see what you come up with next!

Newborn Image Before and After

2010-07-21T10:51:00.005-07:00

I wanted to share a before and after of a newborn image I created today. The after image was created using a texture and brushes from the Vintage Photographer's toolkit. The texture was darkened and set to soft light blending mode.

Ambience mPre-release Save 20% plus get an accordian mini template for free

2010-07-15T04:06:00.003-07:00

I wanted to share a couple of images form the pdf to show how awesome this set is and how you can use these great textures to give a vintage look to your images. Then, Add one of these really great frames and viola....... a masterpiece! Be sure to go the photoDUDS store because the pre-sale ends on July 18th.

Pre-Release AMBIENCE Save 20% plus get an accordian mini book template for free

2010-07-13T21:58:00.004-07:00

We are working diligently to finish or newest release Ambience photographer's toolkit v.4 and we just couldn't wait any longer...I am so excited about this set! I have been playing with it for a couple of weeks now and I am having so much fun!
And we have a special treat for you...if you purchase Ambience this week you're also going to get a template I created for an accordian mini book for FREE.....So, that's a $50 savings....what's not to love about that.....So, go to the photoDUDS store and check it out!

Friday's Winners

2010-06-21T20:28:00.003-07:00

Sorry it's taken me so long to post the winners of Friday's contest...I have been away in Kentucky speaking and I just returned home. Anyway here are the winners:

1. After Dark Scholarship--Ron Crain
2. GhostRighters Logo Design or write up--Rikki Knight
3. Simply Color Lab Sample Book--Carolyn Christine
4. PPS 50 Press Cards--Robin Florence

Congrats to all the winners! If you are a winner I am working on getting in touch with you to help you redeem your prizes...feel free to contact me at beth@photoDUDS.com

Thursday's Winners

2010-06-18T21:53:00.002-07:00

Sorry it's taken me so long to post the winners of yesterday's contest...But here they are! Congrats!

1. SYNC Scholarship--Melissa Sewell
2. photo talk forum-- Patty Warren
3. Digital Doctor--cherisgow
4. Marathon Webinars--Elizabeth Joy, Kim Mattox White & Carol @ McFarland Photography

Congrats to all the winners! And good luck to everyone in the next round.

Beth's Birthday Bash-Friday's prizes from After Dark, GhostRigthers, Simply Color Lab and PPS

2010-06-18T03:11:00.005-07:00

It's the LAST DAY of the biggest photoDUDS sale of the Year! 40% off any one item in the photoDUDS store. (DUDlets and collage guides excluded)

It's Friday and I have had a wonderful birthday week...So many well wishes and just plain fun sharing with all of you! I want to thank everyone for all the kind comments and now down to the prizes. The firs prize we have for today is another scholarship to an After Dark event. This is the one for the New Orleans event which I know will be a great experience! Next up, we have a logo design or a write up from my friends at GhostRighters. Have you ever not been able to find the right words for your web pages or marketing materials? Well, this is the answer for you.... let someone else write it for you...I've used them numerous times and it's a life saver for me. Next up we have leather paper album from Simply Color Lab...they will print up one of your favorite images on each of their paper products and include it in one book for you to show your clients. And last but not least we have 50-Bi-fold press cards from my lab PPS...we sold over 3,000 graduation cards last season and they were all printed here!
Thanks for a great week and good luck!

So, here's how you enter:

1. Post this to your twitter or facebook account
photoDUDS.com is have a 40% off sale + giving away prizes from After Dark, GhostRighters, Simply Color Lab and PPS

2. Leave a comment below telling why you would love to win each of the four prizes given that day.

You can leave up to 4 comments (one for each prize of the day, that means 4 chances to win)
You must mention the product in your comment in order to be eligible for that prize.

Please note that if you're having trouble leaving a comment you may need to sign up for a google acct.

Daily Prize Contests end at midnight MST. Winners will be announced the following day on the blog.

Wednesday's Winners!!

2010-06-17T07:33:00.002-07:00

Here are the results for Wednesday's Prizes~! Yay Winners!

After Dark Scholarship--Adaliaphoto
photoDUDS Debonair Toolkit--KC Coleman
photoDUDS umbrella--Pamela Davis
GNP Frame corners and mat samples--Patti Warren, Tami Haught, Teani Parker Photography

Congratulations to Everyone and Good Luck in the next round!

Beth's Birthday Bash-Thursday's prizes SYNC, photo talk forum, Marathon Press & Digital Doctor

2010-06-16T22:14:00.007-07:00

First of all...It's ON!! the bigest photoDUDS sale of the Year and it's only for 2 days! 40% off any one item in the photoDUDS store. (DUDlets and collage guides excluded)

It's Thursday and we have some great prizes for you today. First, we have a scholarship to SYNC. I had the pleasure of attending SYNC this past January and it was such a great conference! Darty and Colleen have really got it going on! Bravo! Next up, we have a year subscription to photo talk forum…they too are having a birthday celebration this week with all sorts of prizes and giveaways you'll want to check out as well. Next up we have 3 scholarships to any of the great educational webinars at Marathon Press. (Please note that there will be three winners who will each get a scholarship to a webinar…Yay! More prizes to spread around!) And last but not least, we have an photoshop training DVD from the Digital Doctor and my good friend, Mark Campbell. Let me tell you, Mark will give you some great tips to speed up you workflow and teach you all sorts of secrets to mastering photoshop.

So, here's how you enter:

1. Post this to your twitter or facebook account
photoDUDS.com is have a 40% off sale + giving away prizes from SYNC, photo talk forum, Digital Doctor & Marathon Press

2. Leave a comment below telling why you would love to win each of the four prizes given that day.

You can leave up to 4 comments (one for each prize of the day, that means 4 chances to win)
You must mention the product in your comment in order to be eligible for that prize.

Please note that if you're having trouble leaving a comment you may need to sign up for a google acct.

Daily Prize Contests end at midnight MST. Winners will be announced the following day on the blog.

Tuesday's Winners!!

2010-06-16T14:40:00.003-07:00

Sorry it's taken me so long to post the winners of yesterday's contest...I am in the middle of moving into my new studio and well, let's just say it's a little crazy 'round here!

1. Chicks Scholarship--T. Marie Pollack
2. Design Revolution Tutu set--Monica Martin
3. Craig's Actions--Richard L. Crow
4. Simply Canvas 16x20 Wrap--Studio Sarah Photography

Congrats to all the winners! And good luck to everyone in the next round.

If you are interested in attending The Chicks Who Click Conference and you weren't a winner I have a special offer for you...you can receive $50 off of your registration fee if you register by June 21st. Please e-mail me at beth@foresterphoto.com so I can send you the special registration form.

Don't forget our BIG SALE....40% off any one item starts tomorrow. Trust me it's one you don't want to miss and it only last for 48 hrs.

Beth's Birthday Bash-Wednesday's prizes from After Dark, photoDUDS and GNP Frame

2010-06-15T21:34:00.003-07:00

It's Wednesday and we have some great prizes for you today. First, we have a scholarship to After Dark in Portland. I participated in the first After Dark in Austin and it was the most awesome experience....trust me it's one not to miss! Second, we are giving away our newest photoDUDS Photographer's Toolkit, Debonair. I have gotten so much mileage from this set. I can't tell you the number of cards and galleries I've sold containing elements from this set. Next up we have 3 frame and corner sample sets from GNP Frame. We carry all their frames in our studio and they are by far our most popular sellers. No doubt, yur customers will love 'em. And last, but not least, we have one of those great umbrellas we often give away at photoDUDS.com

So, here's how you enter:

1. Post this to your twitter or facebook account
photoDUDS.com is giving away software + prizes from After Dark, photoDUDS and GNP Frame

2. Leave a comment below telling why you would love to win each of the four prizes given that day.

You can leave up to 4 comments (one for each prize of the day, that means 4 chances to win)
You must mention the product in your comment in order to be eligible for that prize.

Please note that if you're having trouble leaving a comment you may need to sign up for a google acct.

Daily Prize Contests end at midnight MST. Winners will be announced the following day on the blog.

Monday's Winners of photoDUDS Beth's Birthday Bash

2010-06-15T00:38:00.000-07:00

Wow! I was so blown away by all the birthday wishes and all the great comments! You guys rock! So, here's what you've been waiting.....the winners!

1. KYPPA Scholarship--Renee Kunkel
2. Animoto 1 yr subscription--Shelley at Aperture of My Eye
3. GP Optimus Album--Haythe Studios
4. Photo Umbrella--Golden Vision Photography

Congrats to all the winners! And good luck to everyone in the next round.

If you weren't a winner we do have some special offers for you:

1. Sign up or renew a 1yr. subscription with Animoto and get 2 months free using the code: forester

2. GP Albums is offering 20% off any Optimus albums order this week--mention Beth's Birthday Bash in the comments section when you order to receive your 20% off

Beth's Birthday Bash-Tuesday's prizes from Chicks Who Click, Design Revolution, Craig's Actions and Simply Canvas

2010-06-14T21:06:00.005-07:00

It's Tuesday and we have some great prizes for you today. First, we have a scholarship to Chicks Who Click where I will be speaking later this month with some fabulous ladies. I'm telling you that is an awesome line-up and I am super-excited to learn as well ....and you know what, I've seen the roster of attendees and you need not be a "Chick" to joins us...we welcome all you dudes who click too. Second, we have the cutest little tutu set, Lemon Loves Leopard from Design Revolution. I have several of their awesome tutu sets and my clients love 'em! Next up we have a great time-saver from Craig's Actions....it's the action Toolkit and it will definitely not only make you look good but also speed up your work flow! And last, but not least, we have a 16x20 Canvas Wrap from Simply Canvas.

So, here's how you enter:

1. Post this to your twitter or facebook account
photoDUDS.com is giving away software + prizes from Chicks Who Click, Design Revolution, Craig's Actions & Simply Canvas

2. Leave a comment below telling why you would love to win each of the four prizes given that day.

You can leave up to 4 comments (one for each prize of the day)
You must mention the product in your comment in order to be eligible for that prize.

Please note that if you're having trouble leaving a comment you may need to sign up for a google acct.

Daily Prize Contests end at midnight MST. Winners will be announced the following day on the blog.

Oh Yeah, and don't forget to go to photoDUDS.com to download your daily Free Software

Beth's Birthday Bash-Monday's prizes form Animoto, GP Albums and KYPPA

2010-06-13T23:14:00.001-07:00

Ok ... We have some great prizes for you today. First, we have a scholarship to the KYPPA Summer School where I will be speaking next weekend in Lexington, KY. I have a full day planned photographing babies, seniors both indoors and out, and tons of great tips on marketing and sales! Second, we have a full-year subscription to Animoto for photographers...with this awesome software you can create stunning video-slide shows in just minutes. (if you are not a winner, you can get two months free with a full-year subscription using the code: forester) Next we have a Opitmus album from GP Albums. We create all of our senior storybooks using the Optimus ablum and the best part is that the pages are re-positional for 24 hrs so you don't have to worry about messing up! An last we have some of those great umbrellas we often give away at photoDUDS.com

So, here's how you enter:

1. Post this to your twitter or facebook account
photoDUDS is giving away software and free prizes from Animoto, GP Albums and KYPPA...go to http://photoduds.com to check it out!

2. Leave a comment below telling why you would love to win each of the four prizes given that day.

You can leave up to 4 comments (one for each prize of the day.)
You must mention the product in your comment in order to be eligible for that prize.

Daily Prize Contests end at midnight MST. Winners will be announced the following day on the blog.

An don't forget to go to photoDUDS.com to download your daily Free Software

Celebrate with photoDUDS!

2010-06-13T08:01:00.002-07:00

So you wanna party with us?! Last year we had a very small party when Beth turned 40. And this year we’ve decided to ramp it up by celebrating Beth’s last week as a 40 year old. So, come on an join the party because we have great prizes, daily donwloads of free photoDUDS software and a great 2-day sale! It all starts tomorrow on Monday, June 14th!

Connect with us on twitter @bethforester and on our Facebook Fanpage to keep up with daily prizes and free photoDUDS software!

So here's the 411 on how to enter for the awesome daily prizes!

In order to enter for each day’s prizes you must
1. Go to the photoDUDS blog and check out the great prizes available for that day

2. Post the photoDUDS “comment of the day" (as stated in the blog post) on your FB or twitter

3. Leave a comment telling why you would love to win each of the four prizes given that day.

You can leave up to 4 comments (one for each prize of the day.)
You must mention the product in your comment in order to be eligible for that prize.

4. Daily Prize Contests end at midnight MST. Winners will be announced the following day on the blog.

Please note that prizes have no cash value.

It's a Party all week long on photoduds.com!!

2010-06-11T08:40:00.002-07:00

Join us next week for daily free photoDUDS software downloads, tons of great prizes from some really great vendors!

Here are some of the things we have planned:

Daily FREE software downloads

A sale you won't want to miss

LOTS of giveaways from these sponsors:
After Dark
Chicks Who Click
KPPA
Photo Talk Forum
Animoto
GP Albums
Craig’s Actions
Marathon Press
GhostRighters
Digital Doctor
SYNC

and we have more umbrellas :)

This week long Birthday Bash starts June 14.
Watch for more details.

DUDlet of the Month for June--Only $5

2010-06-06T20:25:00.003-07:00

Check out this Rockin' birth announcement which is the DUDlet of the month for June. Each month we feature a DUDlet of the month and for that entire month the featured template is 50% off ......that's right only $5! Go to the photoDUDS store and check it out!

New Release "Spark" with Limited-time Special offer

2010-05-24T19:01:00.004-07:00

Hey--Have we got a great new product for you! I get tons of calls from photographers from all over asking if my collages we sell in the studio are for sale in the photoDUDS store....well, now they are! We've taken some of our studio's most popular selling collages and put them together for you in the new photoDUDS product, Spark. Plus, for a limited time, we have a special offer where you will get also get our newest DUDlet Plus, Montage for free when you purchase Spark. It's a great 20x24 template with vintage frames and a great overlay to give your images that antique look. Hurry, cause the offer expires on June 8.

Sneak Peak of our new Collage Guides

2010-05-19T04:25:00.002-07:00

We are busy working on a new release for the photoDUDS store...it's called Spark and it's a set of awesome collage guides to "spark" your creation and give you some great products to sell in your studio. We sell tons of collages at our studio and we wanted to make them available for you. Spark should be released sometime next week so stay tuned! Here is a sneak peak.....

Monthly Featured photoDUDS user--Adina Hayne, Scott Hayne Photography

2010-05-13T01:51:00.004-07:00

Well, In trying to improve the photoDUDS site and the blog I am hoping to post a monthly featured user of the photoDUDS product line....hope you will enjoy the posts and gather some great info in from some of our users. We have several features in the works so stay tuned for lots on insight and inspiration! So, here is the very first feature of Scott and Adina Hayne. Enjoy!

Scott Hayne Photography
Scott & Adina Hayne

In early 2007, Adina Hayne left her family business to help her husband Scott manage his courier business. Not even a month later, in a twist of fate, Scott lost his major client and the Hayne family was left wondering what to do. Everything happens for a reason though, they told themselves.

Scott, a photography hobbyist, and Adina decided now was the time to turn Scott’s talent into a business. After just a few months, they opened up Scott Hayne Photography studio in Norfolk Virginia, specializing in Weddings and High School Seniors.

By May of 2008 they were photographing full time, having booked 37 weddings and 45 seniors for the year. Scott, the main shooter, takes care of all the post production and technical work while Adina runs the business end, handling all marketing, sales and client communications as well all the design work.

Scott & Adina Hayne have a unique style and an interesting story, which is why I wanted to showcase them this month as the very first PhotoDuds Featured User!

PD: When did you start using PhotoDUDS?
Adina: Actually, just recently! We picked up a bunch of PhotoDUDS DVD’s at WPPI this past March and I haven’t been able to put them down.

PD: What made you decide to try PhotoDUDS?
Adina: Well, I was custom creating all our client albums, grad cards, collages – everything. And it was taking me forever. I realized I was losing money by doing the designing myself. I saw some of the PhotoDUDS designs and I just loved it all. It’s hard to find people who match our style of photography and Scott and I make it a point to align ourselves with vendors who do match us. PhotoDUDS matches our style and compliments our work – which we love.

PD: What is your favorite thing about PhotoDUDS?
Adina: Besides saving me all that time and money? Well, I just love that I’m able to use the different designs and tweak them - change them up so I can still make them my own and provide our clients with a unique, original design. I also have to tell you that the tutorials on the photoDUDS website are extremely helpful. I’ve only been using photoDUDS for a couple months but I immediately got on the site and watched a few of those tutorials. They break everything down so easily!

PD: Do you have any tips or suggestions for new photographers entering the industry?
Adina: Yes. First of all – define yourself. Take your craft and make it your own. Think outside the box and be unique. We all have to stand out somehow – especially in this economy. Take the photoDUDS designs as inspiration and build off of them. Create your own individuality.

Thanks Adina & Scott! If you want to learn more about the unique style and story of Scott & Adina Hayne Photography, you can visit their website at www.ScottHaynePhotography.com.

DUDlet of the month-$5 off--Last Day

2010-05-05T05:21:00.002-07:00

Today is the last day to get the Monica DUDlet of the Month for only $5...It's been a great seller in my studio this year. So head on over to the photoDUDS store and check it out!

Show us your DUDS and you could win $200!

2010-05-04T05:35:00.003-07:00

That's right, we're having a contest and the winner will receive a $200 cash prize! We are looking for anything you have created with the photoDUDS product line. It could be an image, an album page, a card, a marketing piece and accordion album....really anything you have created!

Oh yeah! I almost forgot....if you need some new DUDS for your creation we have an offer for you! Enter the code design 20 to receive 20% off your photoDUDS order.

So how do you enter? Well, head on over to the photoDUDS Facebook page and register and submit your entry. Hurry the contest ends on May 10. Good Luck!

Chicks Who Click

2010-04-29T05:19:00.001-07:00

I am so excited to be a part of this event....and so honored! What a great line-up of speakers!

On June 24-27 you'll have a chance to learn from some of the industry's top mentors, connect with other photographers and enjoy some girlfriend time in beautiful Scottsdale, Arizona, at the fabulous Firesky Resort & Spa. This boutique hotel features an incredible spa!

Whether you are a seasoned pro or brand new to the industry, this conference offers something for everyone. We will feature many topics including Boudoir, Marketing, Sales, Seniors, Children, Posing & Lighting, Weddings, Photoshop, and much, much more. The fabulous speaker lineup features Kay Eskridge, Mary Fisk-Taylor, Beth Forester, Jen Hillenga, Julie Klaasmeyer, Julieanne Kost, Cindy Behnke, Britney Fullgraf, Lori Nordstrom, and Cheryl Ridgeway.

Early registration is only $249 for PPA members and $279 for non-members; after April 30 pay $299 for PPA members and $329 for non-members. Registration includes top-notch programs, social events, mentoring opportunities, some meals, boutique shopping and plenty of great girlfriend gifts.

If you want more information on the event check out the chicks website.

Using a photoDUDS template from the new Whimsy collection

2010-04-20T05:35:00.012-07:00

Hey, I just created a tutorial on using your images with the photoDUDS card templates from our newest set, Whimsy. Right now, Whimsy is on sale for 20% off in the photoDUDS store but the sale ends in 2 days so you'd better hurry! Hope you enjoy the tutorial!

New Whimsy Grad Card Set-revamped

2010-04-15T10:27:00.003-07:00

I thought I'd share this design with you...I started with a card from our new grad card set, Whimsy. Anyway, I took the senior announcement and changed to make the cutest little birthday party invitation for a client of mine! I also added a little something extra by adding the business card sized insert for the invites. I thought it would be a nice add-on that the invited guests could carry around with them. So, don't be afraid to change our designs around to suit your needs. By the way Whimsy is available as a download and is on sale for 20% off until next week.

New Release Whimsy Grad card set--Save 20% off

2010-04-08T07:22:00.002-07:00

We just released our newest set and just in time for you to get all those senior announcements ready! Kit includes all your favorite press card templates for announcements, thank yous, 411 cards, seals and it even has a great 16x20 gallery composite! The set is on sale until 4/22 so head on over to the photoDUDS store and check it out!

oh yeah and you can get it right now! We have had sooooooo many requests for downloadable products that we are testing out the waters and offering this product as a download as well as a DVD.

GNP Frame Special--Save until April 14

2010-04-07T13:47:00.003-07:00

Hey my friends over at GNP frame are offering a frame special inspired by a gallery wall I created for my clientele. So, if you want to check out this great offer head on over to this link.

Moms with Cameras--blog site Free photoDUDS giveaway

2010-03-30T19:50:00.001-07:00

Recently, I was interviewed by the sweet Emily Potts for her Blog site--Moms with Cameras. The Moms with Cameras blog is meant to inspire and celebrate professional photographers who happen to be moms as well. Emily's hope is to teach, to inspire and to provide insights on how to balance life, work and family. So, head on over to the Moms with Cameras blog because we are helping Emily out by giving away a free Debonair toolkit to one of her lucky readers. All you need to do is share this information on your blog, Facebook or twitter and pop over to the blog and leave a comment telling where you posted about the giveaway.

PS there's also, a photoDUDS discount code that's good til the end of the week...so you'd better hurry on over if you want to pick up some more discounted DUDS!

SMART Marketing Kit--30% off ends tomorrow

2010-03-28T11:08:00.007-07:00

Meet our newest release, Smart, a senior marketing kit that was created with all the goodies we use in my studio, Beth Forester Photogrpahy. It contains everything from full senior price list, promo cards, senior newsletter, rep cards, coupons, 411 cards, proof contract, marketing pieces and so much more! And, it's all neatly organized in a fully editable templates so you can just drop in your photos, modify the test to suit your needs, drop in a paper or two to complete your style and print. Here are some samples of how you can modify this great kit with papers from our other sets to make a whole new look for your studio!
So, you'd better hurry on over to the photoDUDS store to take advantage of these savings. Remember there is only one more day to save $75 off of this amazing set!

Marathon Webinar

2010-03-23T20:44:00.003-07:00

Last fall I did a free webinar for Marathon Press as part of their popular webinar series featured on their site. Great news! This free webinar which is an hour long video on designing with photoDUDS is still available for you to view.
If you'd like to view this hour long tutorial with all sorts of great designing tips....Here is the information on how to get to the video....

Go to the following photoDUDS link and click the Marathon logo to start the recorded webinar.
Approx. running time: 1 hour.

Topics covered:
Working with Brushes
Using a Photo Mask
Using a photoDUDS template
Creating a Card Template
Creating an Image Gallery

Sneak Peak of upcoming Grad card set release--Whimsy

2010-03-23T13:18:00.001-07:00

We are working tirelessly on a new grad card set which will be released in the upcoming weeks. Just wanted to share a quick sneak peak.... It's really turning out great!

Animoto Offer-Get 3 months Free

2010-03-06T04:55:00.005-07:00

I'm a very excited! I am heading out to WPPI today! I will be giving a program on "Selling the Senior Client" on Monday at 3:30 p.m. Hope to see you there!

Anyway, for a while now I have been working with Animoto and using their awesome service for creating video slide shows. Well, they recently asked me to do a self-portrait for the Animoto site. And in conjunction with WPPI and the launch of my Animoto page, they have allowed me to offer you 3 months free of Animoto when you sign up for a year's subscription ....so you'll get 15 months for the price of 12! Now you can still take advantage of this offer even if you already have an Animoto account...all you have to do is re-up for a year and you'll get the 3 months free as well.

Here's how to do it! When placing your order enter code

wppi10bf

And this special offer is only good until March 10th so you'd better hurry!

If you want to go and check out my Animoto page you can do so at
http://animoto.com/go/beth

Winners of the WPPI free passes!

2010-03-01T05:13:00.002-07:00

Well, I have the results and I am going to make several of you very happy! I received a few extra passes from WPPI...so there are going to be three winners. Drumroll please.....

The Lucky winner of the 2 passes is:
Comment number 17 Kristi! Yay!

The two extra winners each for 1 pass is:
Comment number 11 from Bella Nova photography
and
Comment number 16 Stacy B

Congratulations to all the winners!

Last Day to Save 20% on Debonair

2010-02-28T08:49:00.003-07:00

Tomorrow is the last day to save 20% on our newest photographer's toolkit release, Debonair. So, you'd better hurry on over to the photoDUDS store and check it out because it's really awesome!
Last night, I received an e-mail from photoDUDS user, Diane Munsun telling me how much she loved the new Debonair set. Attached to the e-mail was her first creation with the new product. I absolutely loved it so I thought I'd share! So creative and what great use of the Debonair elements in the kit! Thanks Diane for sharing.
It's always so interesting to me to see how others are using the elements from the sets...and that's what I love about the product---it's NOT a template so everybody's creations look so different!

VEGAS Baby--WPPI Beth Forester--Free passes

2010-02-25T07:27:00.007-07:00

Well.. I am really gearing up for Vegas and WPPI now... I am trying to finish the new Beth Forester Photography website. Diane and I are working hard to finish a new product which will be released at WPPI...a marketing kit with editable files for a full senior campaign. Tweaking my program "Selling the Senior Client" which will be on Monday, March 8 at 3:30 p.m....I was excited to find out today that my program is 2 hours long! I thought it was only 1 and a half hours and I wasn't sure if I could share all the information in that short amount of time. Whew! Anyway, if you would like more information about the event or would like to let me know you're coming, drop by Facebook and give me a shout out!

The winners will be announced on Monday morning, March 1

Now for the really big excitement!! Drumroll please!

I have two free full-registration tickets to WPPI to give away! That's right FREE! It's full-registration and is valued up to $399 ...so if you're not already registered (sorry, no refunds if you already have your tickets) All you have to do is blog, tweet, share information about my program and then come back here and leave a comment letting me know where you shared it!

Debonair Pre-release Save 20%

2010-02-17T17:49:00.004-07:00

It's finally here! The newest photographer's toolkit, Debonair, is full of great patterns, frames, overlays, edges and masks. And right now you can buy it before it's released and save 20%. The DVDs are expected to start shipping next Monday, February 22. Go to the photoDUDS store and check it out!

PPA Webinar--$39

2010-02-12T08:57:00.003-07:00

Hey just wanted to let you know that my upcoming PPA webinar is next Wednesday...If you're interested in the senior portrait business and you want a brief overview of how we run our senior business this seminar is for you. From proofs to original product ideas, I will be talking about all the things that we use every day in our studio to drive seniors through our doors. You can read an article and get more information on the seminar at the PPA Blog. Hope to see you in the virtual classroom!

Debonair- How to use Blending modes

2010-02-12T08:13:00.004-07:00

I have been playing around a little with our upcoming Photographer's Toolkit Release--Debonair. I wanted to share an image I created by simply using 2 of the photo edges and blending modes. The photo edges begin as as a png...they are generally shades of black but when you lay them onto of your images or papers you can change the blending modes to create new possibilities. Here are some images so you can see the image in progress. In this image I used two of the photo edges in the Debonair DVD..one is set to soft light blending mode and one is set to overlay mode.

Here is what the png edge looked like when I opened it.

DUDlet possiblities

2010-02-08T06:02:00.006-07:00

I recently changed one of our newest DUDlet releases, Mia, from a baby thank you card to a graduation announcement. This bright and whimsical card made great addition to our line of graduation announcements we are offering at my studio, Beth Forester Photography, this year. With photoDUDS the possibilities are endless.

photoDUDS DUDlet of the month $5

2010-02-04T08:31:00.002-07:00

Yes, it's that time of the month again....time for the DUDlet of the month. Since it's February and love is in the air we have created a cute little photo valentine card for you and your clients. And the best part, it's only $5. So go the the photoDUDS store and check it out!

Speaking at SYNC--Beth Forester Senior Photographer

2010-02-01T09:07:00.002-07:00

Having a great time here at SYNC...my program was awesome and I want to thank all the people who came out for it! I was pretty wired and did some serious speed talking...too much inforamation...too little time. It really had been a great conference and I've learned so much here.

DUDlet of the month-$5 off

2010-01-25T08:42:00.004-07:00

This month you can pick-your-own DUDlet of the Month! That's right...you choose any DUDlet you want, use the coupon code when you check out and you'll get $5 off! So you to can create a card like the one below for only $5. That's right ONLY $5

You MUST use a coupon for this discount!
coupon code: pick5

Hurry on over to the photoDUDS store to check out this great offer!

Code expires February 4, 2010 {when we release the February DUDlet of the Month!}

Beth is featured on the Image Quix blog

2010-01-22T16:23:00.000-07:00

Recently, I was interviewed by one of my favorite people in the photography industry, Shauna Harris. Shauna who used to work for WPPI, recently moved to the east coast and started working for Image Quix. Anyway she asked me to participate in a Q&A and you can read it on the Image Quix blog. Thanks Shauna!

PPA Webinar--Get Wired for Senior Success!

2010-01-13T22:31:00.002-07:00

Sit Back, Relax and Learn

February 17, 4pm ET
with Beth Forester, M.Photog, Cr.
$39 for PPA Members
Click here for more information or to register.

In this program, Beth will discuss how to “wire in” to the teen mind and run a senior business that caters to the wants and needs of the teen client. From the initial phone call to the final sale, she will reveal her everyday tips and tricks for running a successful high school senior business. Topics Beth will cover include:

* Viral marketing: Facebook and beyond
* Creating brand demand
* Senior sessions and digital effects
* The art of the up sale
* Creating the senior experience
* Price structure and profitability

Finally, Beth will discuss traditional paper proofing and how she uses this “timeless” means of presentation to increase her average per client sale and keep her studio moving forward into the future.

Imaging USA

2010-01-08T23:03:00.004-07:00

Well, I am on my way to Imaging USA...be sure to stop by the photoDUDS booth 835 for lots of show specials! Plus we have a giveaway...the first 7 people to make a purchase at Imaging USA will receive a photo prop umbrella! We only have 7 so you'd better hurry! I am also attaching a coupon for you to print and bring to the show...See you in Nashville!

End of the Year Sale--40% off any 1 item!!

2009-12-29T07:00:00.002-07:00

It's that time of year again...time to make that last purchase to write off of your taxes before the new year! We are offering 40% off any one item for two days only!! So you'd better hurry cause this offer doesn't last long! Go the the photoDUDS site and check it out!

My Christmas Card

2009-12-29T06:49:00.004-07:00

Well, I hope everyone had a great holiday....I know I sure did. I work so much that it's nice to have a few days away with my family. Anyway, this season was crazy for me and I didn't finish my card until December 23rd...(I had to finish everyone else's work first before I could even think about my own stuff) And, for all off of you all wondering out there....yes I do own a donkey as a pet and he is the greatest! And another side note these images were taken this December....we had a big snow and lost power for two days...that meant no working on the computer right before my Christmas deadlines and YES I was in a panic!!! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

photoDUDS Fun

2009-12-12T21:26:00.004-07:00

One could hardly tell it was a Saturday here in this house...I was at the computer bright and early designing Christmas cards and populating galleries from my recent Christmas Special event....it's been a long day and an even longer week.....month.....and still there is no end in sight to my endless hours of retouching, color-correcting and designing.....But, I did take a short moment to do something for my self today... I designed a gift tag for my presents with my pet donkey's photo on it.....(yes, you read that correctly, I have a pet donkey..lol) Anyway, here it is...isn't he cute?!

Birthday Invitation

2009-12-08T16:39:00.002-07:00

Just wanted to share this cute little Birthday Party Invitation I created to Garrett. It turned out so cute!! Hope you had a great party Garrett!

Black Friday Sale--Save up to 30%

2009-11-27T05:57:00.006-07:00

Well, the photoDUDS Black Friday sale has started and we have our first winners of the fabric umbrellas from India... these people logged on right at midnight and placed their qualified orders just in time...and the winners are.....(there was one tie so we added a 5th winner)

Barry Stephenson
George Brown
Rick Fow
Cyd Byrd
Tania Finn

Congratulations to you all!!

Black Friday Sale--Save up to 30%

2009-11-26T06:39:00.003-07:00

Shop early to save more!
Between Midnight and Noon SAVE 30% off EVERYTHING in the store.
Between Noon and Midnight SAVE 25% off EVERYTHING in the store.
No other discount codes may be applied during this sale.

Still take advantage of our "Make Your Own Bundle" quantity discount:
buy any 3 products regularly priced at $100 or more & receive an additional $55 OFF!

WELL, we have EIGHT of these uber cute umbrellas up for grabs during this sale.

How can YOU get one? Easy, we give you two ways to try:

Number 1 - Be quick:
Be one of the first FOUR customers during the sale to spend over $250 and automatically win one.
We will select a fabulous umbrella from our assortment (which varies from the above photo)
and send it directly to you.

Number 2 - Be random:
We have FOUR umbrellas for randomly selected customers.
Simply buy anything during our Black Friday sale and have a chance to win.
Only one chance to win per customer; placing multiple purchases does not increase your chance to win.

All winners will be announced on Monday and umbrellas will ship early December.

Christmas Special

2009-11-21T02:41:00.006-07:00

It's that time of year again...time for our studio's annual Christmas Portrait Event. Every year the weekend before Thanksgiving we have this event...it two days and we shoot appointments every 15 minutes...around 34 appointments a day. WHEW!! I create a special Holiday themed set design as well as galleries and cards to coordinate with the theme. This year my background was created with DUDdrops. If you're not familiar with the DUDdrop line, they are huge graphic files that enable you to create custom designed large format inkjet prints to use as backdrops. You can change the colors, as I have done to create various backdrops from the same file. The one in the set is the Damask. I created a 10 foot by 8 foot drop and then had it printed in 3 separate pieces which I then taped together and hung on the wall with thumbtacks....I was a little worried that it wouldn't all come together, but it turned out pretty awesome!

Here are some samples of a couple of galleries I created using various pieces from some of our Christmas card sets.

Get more Mileage out of your DUDS!

2009-11-14T06:08:00.003-07:00

1. Open the Card Template and save a copy.
The senior example above started as the TODD Family DUDlet (the DUDlet of the Month).

2. Using the guides lines, crop the image to remove the bleed area.
All photoDUDS Card Templates include guide lines indicating the bleed area for press products (not needed for photo paper).

3. Delete any layers that you don't want. (in this example the leaf word art design was deleted)
The card may have some word art or embellishments that may be specific for the card, but not the portrait.

4. Drag and drop your photo.
All photoDUDS Card Templates allow photos to be added by dragging, dropping and transforming as desired.

5. Add any embellishments or brushwork.
The example uses an embellishment from Natural, Senior Card Set v.1

6. Personalize with text.
Seniors LOVE that!

Baby Shower Invite!

2009-11-09T07:09:00.002-07:00

Just recently had the greatest idea for add-on sales for Maternity Sessions.....Baby Shower invitations. Here is a sample of the shower invitations I created for a customer of mine. As a bonus you could also create coordinating thank yous as well. Fun Stuff!!

Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation

2009-11-06T08:12:00.002-07:00

Thanks to everyone...we were able to raise over $600 for the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation. Plus, the ribbon was downloaded 286 times helping others create awareness about the fight against breast cancer.

DUDlet of the month-Only $5

2009-11-05T06:15:00.001-07:00

It's that time again... The FIRST Thursday of the MONTH!
Please welcome the TODD family as the November DUDlet of the Month. If you have never thought of offering a Thanksgiving Card, now is the perfect time! This downloadable Thanksgiving card template will be offered at 50% OFF (until the next DUDlet of the Month is released). That's ONLY $5.00!

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2009-10-17T06:49:00.003-07:00

As you all know October is breast cancer awareness month. So, this month we are donating $5 from every photoDUDS sale over $50 to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation. Also, we created a special pink ribbon freebie and placed it on the photoDUDS site for you to use to promote breast cancer awareness in your area.

New Holiday Card Sets Released

2009-09-29T07:55:00.002-07:00

We just released two new holiday card sets--Merry and Bright. They are packed with press product templates for folded and flat cards, as well as address labels and seals. there are also papers, embellishments, frames and word art so you can create your own custom designs. Act now and save 30% if you buy the bundle which includes both DVDs!
Go to the photoDUDS store and check it out!

Heraldry Release--Save 20% off

2009-08-24T13:49:00.002-07:00

We just released the new Photographer's Toolkit, Heraldry. It is inspired by the widely popular designer clothing brands like Affliction, Ed Hardy and Sinful. I have been playing around with a few of the new things from the kit and my seniors are loving it. Almost every other senior that walks through my door is wearing at least one of these designer pieces....so we decided that in order for our studio to look hip and current we had better start using some of the "inspired" designs in our marketing pieces, galleries and our storyboards. The Heraldry kit will be on sale, 20% off, in the photoDUDS store from now until September 4th.

Heraldry--New Photographer's toolkit

2009-08-19T12:09:00.001-07:00

The response to Vintage was so great that we are diligently working on a new photographer's toolkit. It should be released soon as we are putting the finishing touches of the set. It is going to be an awesome set geared towards the male client and in the style of the popular clothing trends like Ed Hardy and Affliction. It ROCKS!!! Here is a quick sample.....stay tuned!!

DUDlets

2009-08-14T05:08:00.002-07:00

We have some new and exciting things in store for you at photoduds.com. Ever need a quick birth announcement, save the date card, grad card or even that obscure bah mitzvah invitation? Well, we have your solution..... quick and cheap options of downloadable templates. Now these are what I like to refer to as "quick and easy"....just pop in the photos change the text and your done. We plan to put up a couple of new ones every month and we will also feature a DUDlet of the month which will be on sale for $5 for the entire month. Go to photoduds.com to check it out.

Vintage Released

2009-07-12T08:06:00.002-07:00

You asked for it and now you've got it! Textures, overlays, edge effects, photo masks..... Vintage is now available in the photoDUDS store and on sale until July 21st. So act now and purchase this exciting kit and receive $25 off the regular price.

Vintage to Release on Monday

2009-07-09T18:18:00.002-07:00

Well, senior season is in full swing and I have been playing around with the new release Vintage quite a bit on my senior portraits. Here is something I created a few moments ago by altering a template which will appear on the DVD. Enjoy and watch your e-mail on Monday!

Creating a Custom Frame

2009-07-06T17:52:00.007-07:00

I have been meaning to add some tutorials on the blog for quite sometime now. (sorry for the delay) Anyway, in the future, I hope to start adding more tips and tricks on how to use the photoDUDS products. So, stay tuned and let me know if you have any questions or suggestions for future posts.

So, in this lesson I took a frame for the Modish collection and used a brush from the Bebe collection, in order to breathe a little new life into something I use all the time when designing. So here goes:

1. Open your photoDUDS frame
2. Create a new layer (make sure new layer is above the frame)
3. Grab desired brush, select desired color and stamp on your design
4. In the menu bar go to Layer>Create Clipping Mask
(this will clip the brush into only the frame)
5. Add your photo behind the frame

PS click on the images below to see larger versions

Coming SOON!!

2009-06-30T05:27:00.002-07:00

We are working on a finishing a new product to be released soon. It's called Vintage and it's going to be a photographer's toolkit. It has lots of frames, edge effects, textures and masks, all created really large so you can use them on 16x20s and larger. Here are a few things I created using some of the new things from this exciting new kit.

WPPI Road Trip

2009-06-17T08:04:00.008-07:00

I am so excited to be a part of the upcoming WPPI Road Trip. This September, WPPI will be bringing a mini convention cross country to a city near you. Each city will feature four speakers and I will be appearing at the Minneapolis venue on Wednesday, September 23 along with Jim DiVitale, Robert Lino and Jim Garner. Visit the WPPI website to find out more information on cities, times and speakers. Hope to see you there.

Sale!! My daughter is graduating!

2009-05-25T18:25:00.002-07:00

We're having a sale but it's not just any ordinary sale. My daughter, Katherine, is graduating from high school and getting ready to attend college in the fall. So, the college bills are already starting to appear and I decided to have a sale to generate some extra cash for college. It's 20% off of everything in the store and the sale ends on June 5th. So hurry on over to the photoDUDS store and check it out. When you check out enter the code mygrad20 to receive your 20% off. Thanks!!

I need your VOTE!

2009-05-23T13:23:00.005-07:00

Hey! I need your help! I submitted a photo for the WV Executive Magazine and I was chosen as a finalist and now I need your vote to win! Please go to wvexecutive.com and cast your vote for my portrait, Coal Miner, which features the late Casset Bias of Madison, WV.

Survey! We want your opinion!

2009-05-18T11:11:00.002-07:00

Hey! We want to hear from you. We have all sorts of ideas brewing for new products and we want your feedback. Just answer a few quick questions and as a thanks for your help, at the end of the survey you will be directed to a page where you can download 2-FREE senior templates! Click here to go to the survey and to get started. Thanks for your help!!

pssst . . . we will be starting a very special sale next week in honor of my daughter, Katherine's graduation. (Yes, those college bills are already starting to add up!)

Grad Card Set

2009-05-07T20:34:00.003-07:00

Hey! Check out this awesome grad card set I created with pieces from our newest release, Wild. Isn't is funky! I have been having so much fun with this set!! I can't get enough of it and the seniors are going crazy over all the awesome designs!! I have been getting a lot of e-mails asking where I get the 2" round seals printed. I have those and the return address labels printed at Marathon Press in the mprint section. Yesterday, I conducted my first of two webinars through Marathon Press. It was fun! I was a bit nervous at first . . . I wasn't sure if I could be an effective speaker without actually being in the room with my audience. But, people seemed to enjoy it and I received loads of kind comments and e-mails today from many of the attendees. Thanks to Marathon Press and to everyone who attended!! Be sure to join me for my next Marathon webinar on June 3rd!!

Pre-Sale Wild Grad Cards

2009-04-06T08:26:00.002-07:00

We just announced the upcoming release of our newest release, Wild! Senior Card Set. It's a collection of senior gradation announcements, thanks you cards, seals and a signature board. It's also loaded with some cool animal print overlays. For the new few days, you can order the set for 20% off until Friday, April 10. So, head on over to the photoDUDS store to check it out!