Tomayia Colvin, EdD is a nationally published high school senior portrait photographer, best-selling children’s book author, classroom teacher, and photography educator in Houston, Texas.
Community-Focused Education
Program Type • Education Category
– SPONSORED BY –
Dr. Tomayia Colvin
aka Mama Bear
⇩
Sony
Join visionary personal branding photographer LaJune King for an eye-opening session on mastering social media for your photography business. As the founder of Know YOUR Beautiful™️ and owner of Blk Stry Studio, LaJune will reveal:
1. Strategies for purposeful posting that resonates with your ideal clients
2. Techniques for authentic communication that builds lasting connections
3. Methods to effectively tell your story and showcase your unique brand
Learn how to avoid common pitfalls and leverage social media to book clients with confidence. Drawing from her experience in changing narratives and providing 5-star client experiences, LaJune will guide you in creating a compelling online presence. Whether you're new to social media or looking to refine your strategy, this session promises to provide actionable insights for elevating your photography brand on digital platforms.
5 Social Media Mistakes Photographers Must Avoid with LaJune King
Keynote (45 Minutes) •
– SPONSORED BY –
LaJune King
⇩
Join Katrina Cross-Daniels, an empowering boudoir visionary from Metro Detroit, as she unveils the transformative power of personal projects in photography. In this inspiring session, Katrina will share how pursuing passion projects can reignite your creative spark, refine your artistic voice, and propel your career to new heights. Drawing from her extensive experience as a sought-after speaker and brand ambassador, Katrina will guide you through:
- Identifying meaningful personal projects that align with your values
- Leveraging personal work to attract ideal clients and expand your brand
- Balancing commercial success with artistic fulfillment
Discover how embracing personal projects can not only enhance your portfolio but also lead to profound personal and professional growth. Leave inspired to embark on your own transformative photographic journey.
The Power of Personal Projects: Igniting Creativity and PurposE
Photo Walk - Demonstration •
– SPONSORED BY –
Katrina Cross-Daniels
⇩
Join Atlanta-based photographer Bonnie Blu for an empowering photo walk that will transform your approach to posing. Known for her luxurious aesthetic in wedding and brand photography, Bonnie will demonstrate:
1. Versatile posing techniques for any client or occasion
2. Styling secrets to create visually captivating images
3. Building confidence to take creative control of your shoots
Experience Bonnie's "fabulous with a scoop of extra" approach as she guides you through posing wedding couples, portrait clients, and brand subjects. Elevate your imagery and walk away with the skills to direct clients with ease and confidence. Don't miss this chance to infuse your photography with Bonnie's signature style and expertise!
Enhance Your Studio Session: Studio Essentials + Posing for the Lux Client
Photo Walk •
– SPONSORED BY –
Bonnie Blu
⇩
Millers
Join visionary entrepreneur and storyteller Smitha Lee for an insightful session on transitioning to full-time photography. Drawing from his diverse experience in film, theater, and education, Smitha will share:
1. His personal journey from part-time enthusiast to full-time professional
2. Practical budgeting strategies for a sustainable photography career
3. Honest insights into the challenges of full-time photography
Learn from Smitha's 16 years of experience in visual storytelling and his success in multiple creative fields. Whether you're considering making the leap to full-time photography or looking to refine your existing business, this session promises to provide valuable guidance and realistic expectations for your professional journey. Don't miss this opportunity to gain wisdom from a recognized industry leader and community mentor.
From Part-Time to Full-Time: Navigating the Professional Photography Journey with Smitha Lee
Photo Walk •
Smitha Lee
⇩
Join storyteller and wedding photographer Michael T Davis for an eye-opening session on transforming your photography business through in-person sales. With over a decade of experience in capturing raw emotions and creating albums that sell, Michael will guide you through:
- Transitioning from "shoot and burn" to profitable in-person sales
- Techniques to increase your average sale from $300 to $3000+ per client
- Mastering the art of selling without being pushy
Learn how to leverage storytelling to create emotional connections and drive sales. Discover the strategies that have allowed Michael to work less while drastically increasing his profits. Whether you're new to in-person sales or looking to refine your approach, this session promises to revolutionize your business model and boost your bottom line.
Getting Started with In-Person Sales: A Beginner's Guide with Michael T Davis
Photo Walk •
Michael T Davis
⇩
Join award-winning boudoir photographer and high school educator Renee Buckles for an inspiring conversation on mastering the art of dual careers. Drawing from her unique experience in education and photography, Renee will share:
1. Effective strategies for time management and setting healthy boundaries
2. Essential tools for automating your photography business
3. Techniques to align your purpose with your passion in both careers
Learn how to leverage skills from your day job to enhance your photography business and vice versa. Whether you're juggling a full-time career with a budding photography side-hustle or considering taking the leap, this session promises practical insights for achieving balance and success. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from someone who has mastered the art of connecting deeply with people across two seemingly different worlds.
Balancing Acts: Thriving in the 9-to-5 and Entrepreneurship Through Photography with Renee Buckles
Dine Around
Renee Buckles
⇩
Join Britney Smith, owner of The Glam Lab Photography and author of 'The Power of IPS', for an inspiring photo walk focused on elevating your high school senior photography. With 15 years of experience and a passion for capturing youthful energy, Britney will guide you through the art of styling, photographing, and posing a Senior Model Team.
Drawing from her expertise as an educator and her success in the industry, Britney will share invaluable insights on:
- Creating eye-catching styles that resonate with teens
- Mastering poses that flatter and empower young models
- Techniques for capturing authentic, magazine-worthy shots
This hands-on experience is perfect for photographers looking to expand their senior portrait skills and build a thriving Senior Model Team program. Bring your camera and prepare to transform your approach to high school senior photography!
Don't miss this opportunity to learn from a seasoned professional who has been a featured speaker at numerous photography conferences. Britney's Southern charm and wealth of knowledge promise to make this an unforgettable and educational photo walk.
Senior Model Team Magic with Britney Smith
Photo Walk • High School Seniors
Britney Smith
⇩
Join diversity boudoir educator and international photographer Olesha Haskett for an empowering session on inclusive posing techniques. As the founder of The Coterie Noir and creator of The Coterie Credential Program, Olesha will share her expertise in:
1. Adapting posing techniques for clients of all sizes, genders, and abilities
2. Implementing flow posing to maximize session efficiency and client comfort
3. Empowering clients through poses that celebrate their autonomy
Learn how to create a truly inclusive brand by mastering posing techniques that go beyond traditional boundaries. Whether you're new to inclusive photography or looking to refine your skills, this session promises to broaden your perspective and enhance your ability to capture the essence of every client. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from a leader in diversity-focused boudoir photography and elevate your posing game for all clients.
Posing 101: Inclusive Techniques for All Clients with Olesha Haskett
Photo Walk •
– SPONSORED BY –
Olesha Haskett
⇩
Join accomplished contemporary photographer and occupational therapist Tosha Gaines for an illuminating exploration of nighttime photography. Known for her vibrant imagery and innovative techniques, Tosha will guide you through:
1. Mastering exposure in challenging low-light conditions
2. Crafting compelling compositions that balance artificial and natural light
3. Experimenting with light painting and special effects for dynamic nightscapes
Drawing from her unique perspective as both a photographer and therapist, Tosha will demonstrate how to use your camera as a tool for self-expression after dark. Whether you're new to night photography or looking to refine your skills, this hands-on session promises to spark your creativity and expand your technical expertise. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from a Stella Pro Lights ambassador and discover the therapeutic potential of nighttime imagery.
Unveiling the Artistry of Nighttime Photography with Tosha Gaines
Photo Walk (75 Minutes) •
– SPONSORED BY –
Tosha Gaines
⇩
Join Sammy Price, an accomplished Engagement and Lifestyle Photographer from Atlanta, for an intensive workshop on elevating your video editing skills. Drawing from his 5-year expertise in both cinematography and photography, Sammy will guide you through:
1. Optimizing camera settings to achieve your desired final look
2. Mastering in-camera transitions and post-production techniques in Premiere Pro/FCPX
3. Crafting compelling soundscapes to enhance viewer engagement
Learn how to plan your post-production workflow for seamless execution of your creative vision. Sammy will share insights on frame rates, editing styles, and audio integration that will transform your video content. Whether you're a photographer expanding into video or a seasoned videographer looking to refine your skills, this session promises to enhance your technical prowess and creative approach. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from an Information Systems grad who brings a unique blend of technical knowledge and artistic flair to video editing.
Level Up Your Video Edits: From Capture to Final Cut with Sammy Price
Photo Walk - Demonstration (75 Minutes) •
– SPONSORED BY –
Sammy Price
⇩
Join Angelica Pompy, owner of Pompy Portraits and six-figure photography business success story, for an energizing conversation on the power of networking. With a focus on empowering women and building strong communities, Angelica will reveal:
1. Networking techniques that extend beyond social media to create a lasting impact
2. Profitable strategies like model calls and collaborations that boost your brand
3. Fun and effective ways to implement marketing efforts that resonate with your audience
Learn how to stand out in a saturated market by leveraging Angelica's proven methods for building a strong network while fostering a supportive community. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale your existing business, this session promises to provide actionable insights for growing your photography brand. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from a photographer who scaled her business to six figures in just two years, and discover how to turn networking from a challenge into a powerful tool for success.
99 Problems But Networking Ain't One: Innovative Strategies with Angelica Pompy
Dine Around
– SPONSORED BY –
Angelica Pompy
⇩
Join Brenda De Los Santos, a seasoned portrait and wedding photographer with a rich background in photojournalism, for an enlightening conversation on creating a truly inclusive photography business. Drawing from her Puerto Rican heritage and commitment to diversity, Brenda will guide you through:
1. Adopting an inclusive mindset that enriches your work and personal fulfillment
2. Implementing practical tools to make your business welcoming to all clients
3. Leveraging inclusivity to expand your market and boost your reputation
Learn how to create a safe space for clients of all backgrounds, including different races, ethnicities, genders, sexualities, ages, sizes, and abilities. Brenda will share insights on cultural competence, diverse community engagement, and adapting your approach to capture the full spectrum of human experience. Whether you're starting out or refining your existing business, this session promises to provide valuable strategies for building a more inclusive and successful photography practice. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from a photographer who views inclusivity as both a social responsibility and a key to business growth.
Building an Inclusive Photography Business: Capturing the HUMAN Experience with Brenda De Los Santos
Dine Around
– SPONSORED BY –
Brenda De Los Santos
⇩
Join Tiffany Crenshaw, a lifestyle motherhood and family photographer based in Huntsville, Alabama, for an insightful session on creating a thriving and sustainable motherhood photography business. Drawing from her experience of rapidly building a successful business during a major life transition, Tiffany will guide you through:
1. Mastering consultations to foster deep connections with clients
2. Balancing profitability and creativity while avoiding burnout in lifestyle photography
3. Developing a personal motherhood project to boost brand awareness and stand out in a saturated market
Learn how to infuse emotion and connection into your images, creating a unique brand that resonates with clients. Tiffany will share her strategies for building lasting relationships and weaving them throughout your business model. Whether you're new to motherhood photography or looking to refine your approach, this session promises to provide practical insights for creating a sustainable and fulfilling career. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from a photographer who has successfully navigated major transitions while building a thriving business centered on authentic connections.
Building a Sustainable Motherhood Brand with Tiffany Crenshaw
Photo Walk (75 Minutes) •
– SPONSORED BY –
Tiffany Crenshaw
⇩
Join accomplished photographer Farah Dailey-Reese for an immersive personal branding photo session. Drawing from her expertise in storytelling and corporate experience, Farah will guide you through:
1. Crafting visual narratives that authentically represent your brand
2. Capturing images that resonate with your ideal clients
3. Creating a versatile portfolio for various online platforms
Experience Farah's keen eye for detail and passion for evoking emotion through imagery. This hands-on session promises to provide you with professional photos that tell your unique story and elevate your online presence. Whether you're updating your website or refreshing your social media, don't miss this opportunity to work with a photographer who blends creativity with strategic brand building.
Personal Branding Photo Session with Farah Dailey-Reese
Photo Walk (75 Minutes) •
– SPONSORED BY –
Farah Dailey-Reese
⇩
Join Malik Mack, a dynamic serial entrepreneur and digital marketing expert, for an electrifying conversation on revolutionizing your photography marketing with AI. Drawing from his experience working with major brands and his passion for empowering entrepreneurs, Malik will guide you through:
1. Strategically integrating AI into your marketing efforts to automate tasks and drive decision-making
2. Leveraging AI-driven personalization to create meaningful connections with potential clients
3. Maximizing efficiency and results through AI tools, from data analytics to automated campaigns
Discover how to shake up traditional marketing approaches and stay ahead in a competitive market. Malik will share insider AI tactics that boost creativity and streamline your workflow, allowing you to focus more on your craft. Whether you're new to AI or looking to refine your digital marketing strategy, this session promises to provide actionable insights for elevating your photography business. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from a powerhouse entrepreneur who combines infectious energy with cutting-edge marketing expertise.
Lens and Learn: Mastering AI Techniques for Marketing Your Photography Services with Malik Mack
Dine Around
– SPONSORED BY –
Malik Mack
⇩
Join Ashley Kay Smith, owner of Last Forever Images and high school senior photography specialist, for an inspiring session on creating a thriving niche photography business. Drawing from her success in consistently generating four-figure returns per client, Ashley will guide you through:
1. Crafting a comprehensive senior experience, from initial contact to final product delivery
2. Developing an authentic online and in-person presence that resonates with teens and parents
3. Differentiating your brand in a competitive market
Learn how Ashley transformed her passion for storytelling into a successful full-time career focusing on high school seniors. She'll share insights on building confidence in your clients and capturing their authentic selves, drawing from her 15 years of teaching and mentoring experience. Whether you're considering specializing or looking to refine your existing senior photography business, this session promises to provide actionable strategies for success. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from a photographer who has mastered the art of creating memorable experiences and profitable outcomes in the high school senior market.
High School Seniors: Building a Profitable Business with Ashley Kay Smith
Photo Walk (75 Minutes) •
– SPONSORED BY –
Ashley Kay Smith
⇩
Join Anthony LaMothe, the visionary principal photographer behind Capture Studio Photography, for an illuminating exploration of headshot lighting techniques. Drawing from his extensive experience in wedding, lifestyle, and branding photography, Anthony will guide you through:
1. Mastering the art of sculpting facial features with one to four light setups
2. Adapting lighting configurations to evoke different moods and expressions
3. Tailoring your approach to meet diverse client needs and preferences
Learn how to transform simple setups into stunning portraits that capture the essence of your subjects. Anthony will demonstrate how his passion for storytelling and attention to detail translate into creating impactful headshots. Whether you're new to studio lighting or looking to refine your techniques, this session promises to enhance your ability to craft professional, versatile headshots. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from a photographer who brings a unique blend of technical expertise and artistic vision to every shoot.
Headshots: 1 Light, 2 Lights, 3 Lights, 4 with Anthony LaMothe
Photo Walk - Demonstration (75 minutes) •
– SPONSORED BY –
Anthony LaMothe
⇩
Join Dr. Renee Reynolds, a visionary branding strategist and digital media expert, for an enlightening session on mastering drone photography and navigating FAA regulations. In this comprehensive intimate conversation, you'll gain insights into:
1. Key Part 107 regulations for commercial drone operations
2. Fundamental principles of aerial composition and camera settings
3. Post-processing techniques to enhance your drone imagery
Whether you're preparing for the Part 107 exam or looking to add aerial photography to your creative toolkit, this session promises to provide valuable knowledge and practical tips. Learn from Dr. Reynolds' expertise in visual storytelling and project management to elevate your photography business to new heights – literally! Don't miss this opportunity to explore the exciting world of drone photography while ensuring compliance with FAA guidelines.
Elevate Your Perspective: Part 107 Exam Prep and Drone Photography Essentials with Dr. Renee Reynolds
Dine Around
– SPONSORED BY –
Dr. Renee Reynolds
⇩
Coming Soon!
AI workflow for fast, clean, and beautiful edits
Demonstration •
– SPONSORED BY –
John Branch IV
⇩
Imagen
join us!
One-Part Photo Conference + One-Part Family Cookout
no matter what, we've got you covered, Cousin. Let's cook up some magic together!
"Joining the Photo Cookout family changed my entire perspective on photography. The connections I've made with my Cousins have been invaluable to my career!"
—
SARAH L
PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER
★★★★★
"The energy at our family reunion is unmatched. I've attended for 3 years straight, and each time I leave feeling inspired and recharged by my Cousins."
—
MICHAEL T
LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHER
★★★★★
"As a new Cousin, I was worried about feeling out of place. But our Photo Cookout family is so welcoming + supportive. I learned more from my Cousins in 3 days than I had in the past year!"
—
EMILY R
HOBBIEST PHOTOGRAPHER
★★★★★
"As a new Cousin, I was worried about feeling out of place. But our Photo Cookout family is so welcoming + supportive. I learned more from my Cousins in 3 days than I had in the past year!"
—
EMILY R
HOBBIEST PHOTOGRAPHER
★★★★★
"The energy at our family reunion is unmatched. I've attended for 3 years straight, and each time I leave feeling inspired and recharged by my Cousins."
—
MICHAEL T
LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHER
★★★★★
"Joining the Photo Cookout family changed my entire perspective on photography. The connections I've made with my Cousins have been invaluable to my career!"
—
SARAH L
PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER
★★★★★
