Now that everyone who owns a digital camera is an aspiring photographer, it is important to carve out your niche and figure out how you are going to stand out in a sea of “unique and creative” photographers.  This program will focus on ways to differentiate your business by mastering three areas: craft, style, and branding.

Lance Johnston Studios opened in 1994 in the garage at Lance’s parents’ house. Eighteen years later, Lance Johnston Studios has locations in Conway and Little Rock, AR.

Lance’s style has been described as comfortable and timeless. He would describe his style as “The New Classic.” He spends time every year teaching his techniques and business practices to young photographers.

Lance obtained the degrees of Master of Photography and Photographic Craftsman from the Professional Photographers of America. He is an eleven time recipient of the Kodak Gallery Award. He has also received the Photographer of the Year award from the Professional Photographers of America – 2005, Professional Photographers of the Ozarks – 2006, Arkansas Professional Photographers – 2007, as well as Wedding Photographer of the Year – 2009 and was awarded Best Portrait of a Child by the APPA. In addition, he is a former president of the Arkansas Professional Photographers Association.

Time & Place: 7:00pm, 5/8/2012, Klassy Glass, 723 Austin Ave.

Don Castello did free lance photography while in High School at Vivian Louisiana and worked his way through Baylor as a student publication photographer. He attended Brooks Institute of Photography In Santa Barbara Calif. where he learned commercial and studio portrait photography.

After his return to Waco Castello ran a small studio on the Baylor campus during the day and worked as a news photographer for the Waco Trib on the night shift. When an opening occurred at the Owens Illinois glass plant as a industrial photographer and editor for the plant newspaper he made a move there. He used his photography in manufacturing as well as public relation.

During an economic down turn there was a reduction in work force and Castello decided to work for HOT Region MHMR as a job placement person who found jobs for people with Disabilities. The remainder of Castello’s working career he did in house photography and was given an opportunity to learn Photoshop.

Nature and travel photography and as well as some free lance work have kept Castello busy during retirement.

Time & Place: 7:00pm, 4/10/2012, Klassy Glass, 723 Austin Ave.

Some samples of Don’s travels: