That Time I met Gwyneth Paltrow’s Wedding Photographer/4 Life Changing Lessons I Learned at Photo Native

“Is anyone sitting there?!” I said while balancing a plate of food and glass of wine.

He said “No, it’s all yours.”

And I cheered a silent ‘hoooray!’ because I was starving, and the wine was free. So far my day of solo travel had only occasionally been haunted by that painful kind of awkward. You know, the kind that almost always comes along with navigating new environments and experiences. And, dang, dare I say this was shaping up to be a good night.

I honestly can’t remember how the next bit went. But I quite quickly came to the realization that I had parked my clueless little self right beside the star of the show, John Dolan. I had mini-internal battle that went something like, ‘ding, ding, ding! Girl you picked the right chair!’ and ‘Dang, I really wish I had researched the speakers better. I’m gonna seem really ignorant when John realizes I don’t actually know anything about him or any of the other big names here’, and ‘Shit, I hope he doesn’t think I am a total weirdo for just making myself at home beside the keynote speaker.’ Cue internal panic, but like play it cool on the outside….

Fortunately for me, John Dolan seems to be somewhat of an expert when it comes to making people feel welcome. And, just like that, before the conference had even started I had learned LESSON #1: DON’T JUDGE. BE KIND. STAY OPEN. I spent the next several hours completely engrossed in a conversation with the man who had recently photographed Gwyneth Paltrow’s wedding and had spent the past 30 (THIRTY!) years working with most incredible people, brands and editorials. I experienced A-ha moments, soaked up much wisdom and watched as John effortlessly made everyone feel valued. By the end of the night, that little couch was filled and many others had pulled up chairs to hang out and chat. As the conference unfolded over the next few days I came to realize that literally all those people I sat around talking shop with were also instructors..….. So just call me a keener I guess LOL.

But this leads us perfectly to LESSON #2: THE POWER OF REAL LIFE CONNECTION. Don’t get me wrong, I love connecting online as much as the next person. I am a part of facebook groups that are genuinely empowering. And I have made the most wonderful friends through instagram. BUT, nothing, NOTHING, beats true conversation and connection. Some of my favourite moments from the conference did not happen in the classroom. But on the airplane, over coffee and during all those awkward in-between moments where it’s so easy to just stick a phone in front of our faces. Listen, friend. PUT THE PHONE DOWN. Smile at a stranger. Invite someone sitting alone to your table. There is so much to gain and much to lose when we choose to disconnect instead of engage with the people around us. This is something I am 100% going to be incorporating into my business this year. This includes getting my introvert butt out the door and (gulp) taking and making phone calls and maybe even hosting some shoots and events?! Who the heck knows! I just wanna see your beautiful faces IRL, ASAP!

And LESSON #3: THE ABSOLUTE IMPORTANCE OF HAVING INTUITIVE SYSTEMS IN PLACE. I get it, this isn’t my favourite part of the job either. But do you know what reoccurring pattern appeared with all my fav, successful photographers? Diligent, intuitive systems to ensure a stellar client experience. This is something I have worked on within my own portrait biz for a while now, but I have come home with SO MANY IDEAS on how to make it even better for my clients. And hopefully easier on me too! If you haven’t started creating workflows and automation sequences. Please, do yourself a favour and look into it! I use 17Hats, but there are lot’s of other options out there! (If you want to give 17Hats a try, you can use THIS LINK for 10% off!)

And lastly, LESSON #4: IT IS TIME TO START DOING. At the risk of sounding like a humble-brag, a common theme for me during the duration of Photo Native was deep validation. Validation that I am extremely capable, that I am on the right track and that each phase of life and business has equipped me with a unique set of skills. It is time to stop the second-guessing, to be brave and start putting into action what I already know. Fun fact: I am not the only person who struggles with these type of mindset barriers. And I don’t know who needs to hear this right now but see you, I really do feel you. I know how easy it is to dis-credit yourself. I know that stepping into your own potential is scary and uncomfortable. But I’m telling you, it is time to show up! Just show-up. Let’s do this together? Seriously!

Dang, there is so much more goodness that happened at Photo Native, I haven’t even told you about Yan Palmer, Caroline Tran or the dance party yet! And boy do I have some photos to share. But for now I’m just going to leave you with some iPhone shots and a virtual hug. Thanks for hanging out, I truly hope you learned something awesome and that you put it into action instead of just adding it to list of many things you already know. If you wanna chat more DM me on Insta, @karmenmeyerphotography or shoot me an Email, I genuinely adore connecting with you!

Warmly,

Karmen

P.S. Just a friendly reminder to myself (and you, if you need it) during a season of intense inspiration. You can do all this at your own pace. You can still live a life of slow intention and connection while passionately pursuing your dream job. Let’s call it the slow burn.

Lifestyle Portrait Marathon // May 18 and June 22

  So excited to be hosting a Portrait Marathon at Meridian Beach and my home studio on May 18 and June 22nd.  These sessions are perfect for boudoir, couples, families, bloggers, business owners and brands!  Please shoot me an email HERE to book.UPDATE** Only two sessions available on May 18 and a handful on June 22d

Debbie Coleman and Nicole Lorrain | 2018 Women of Excellence Nominees

Wow, I cannot believe another week has flown by!!  This Wednesday I would to introduce you to two wonderful women: Debbie Coleman, Deb is a registered nurse in emergency and endoscopy at the Red Deer Regional hospital. She is an incredible leader; her spirit, engagement and dedication to the cause is awe-inspiring. Deb has been a volunteer with the Red Deer festival of trees for over 20 years. She has been involved in various capacities throughout the years; most recently, as a member of the board of directors, the co-chair of the facilities committee and Chairperson of the Decorating and Trees committee. Deb is always on the lookout for new ways to enhance the event, and believes that seeing the patients and communities benefit from the donations raised is priceless. She believes wonderful things comes from volunteering, and that there is something in it for everyone. 

AND Nicole Lorrain!  A graduate of Red Deer College, Nicole started her professional career as a nurse, focusing on providing support for the elderly. Nicole has lived and worked in Red Deer for more than 20 years, while raising three boys with her husband. With over 16 years in leadership roles, with the Government of Alberta, Nicole is experienced in all areas of human resources and people management. Nicole is currently a board member for the 2019 Canada Winter Games Host Society and has a lengthy history of volunteering across Alberta. Nicole has also served as an elected School Board Trustee, Greater North Central School Division and as president of l'Association Canadienne Francaise de l'Alberta Regional de Red Deer.

#WCW Breanna Fitzpatrick + Lisa Nicholson

It's #WCW!! And I'm very excited to introduce you to Breanna Fitzpatrick. Bre is a leader and creator in the nonprofit community. She is constantly pushing for the small initiatives to grow with her involvement. She is a very busy woman who outside of her full-time schedule at Red Deer College has the alumni development coordinator, volunteers on numerous boards and committees. Her active life doesn't stop her from taking on new projects, or sway her from supporting local businesses. You will find her at the local coffee shop mentoring others or paying it forward by buying strangers coffee. She believes women should help one another out and not be competitive with each other she is here to make red deer a better place by creating a movement in the nonprofit community. AND Lisa Nicholson. Lisa founded Hope4MVCKids Society in 2013, out of a need for children with medical needs support, financially and emotionally. Her own children, biological and adopted, have special medical needs that were not easily met. She knew things had to change. The 'Pay It Forward' attitude that she possesses spread quickly and soon and an entire Society was created. She stepped up to challenges and overcame unfair regulations and laws. Lisa has become highly involved in the Alberta Provincial Parent Advisory Committee to the Alberta Ministry of Health and continues to give to the community by being an advocate for those without a voice. Her empathy and understanding is without comparison. Accomplishments aside, her biggest success is enriching the lives of everyone around her.

And We're Back! | #WCW with Lane Tamalty, Anna Morgan-Wold, Jaycee Bourke

HELLO!! Oh my word it has been so long.  If you follow me on Instagram you probably have already heard that the hard-drive on my computer crashed while were gone to be BC, quite the welcome home gift, UGH.  That combined with a lot of my out-of-town family being home for my sisters wedding has meant an unintended break from blogging/social media and from #WomenCrushWednesday.  But I'm back baby (so lame lol). But seriously, so excited to have my computer running and to start sharing again!  So today I'm playing a little catch-up and sharing THREE awesome ladies. First up, I'd like you to meet Lane Tamalty, born and raised in Red Deer.  She is the owner of Copper Lane Hair Studio, which she opened in 2010 in Red Deer and has been innovating the industry ever since.  Since then, she has opened a second salon in Lacombe in 2015.  Hungry for experience and education at a young age, Lane began travelling independently and has since been to over thirty countries.  As a nominee in the 2017 Matrix hair colour competition, she was voted the winner by her peers across the country demonstrating her talent and the respect she has earned in the industry.  With a passion for her employees, her clients, and her community, Lane has set a new standard for what it means to be an entrepreneur.

Meet Anna Morgan-Wold. Anna was born and raised in Alberta by a family of passionate educators. A graduate of Trinity Western University with a BA in Humanities, she held various positions related to her love of cultural anthropology and teaching before finding her place at Central Alberta Refugee Effort where she shared her talents for over 10 years. Anna taught english as a second language to adult immigrants before lending her gifts to the role of ESL manager. Anna fosters a positive work environment by being an exemplary role model and champion for staff and students alike. She is instrumental in the expansion of existing programs and the creation of programs such as Women of the World and Community Based Care for Newcomer Children

And last but no least for today, one the youngest 

#womenofexcellence

 nominess, Jaycee Bourke. Jaycee is a highly motivated young lady who loves assisting people when she has the opportunity, she is currently 17 years old and an honour student in Grade 12 at LTCHS. Jaycee is actively involved as VP of the leadership program at her school, and is in charge of Student Community 

Involvement. During the summer break, Jaycee is a volunteer camp counselor at Camp Alexo where she makes a positive impact on the youth attending the camp. Jaycee is looking forward to a career in nursing and has applied at Red Deer College nursing program. Jaycee has volunteered with many organizations including the Kinsmen club and the Kinette clubs at many community events, the Red Deer Boys & Girls Club, youth HQ and Festival of Trees.

Lynne Mulder | Women of Excellence Awards

LYNNE MULDER! Born into a family who believes in hard work, education, compassion and community, Lynn's commitment and passion to ensure all the citizens of Red Deer are offered the best quality of life possible comes naturally.  With a Masters in Education, Lynne continues to support and volunteer with various organizations such as Vantage Community Services, United Way Of Central Alberta and the Canadian Mental Health Association.  She is a strong community supporter, animal lover and a generous soul.  Lynne displays compassion, kindness, determination and dedication to creating a vibrant Central Alberta.  A strong, determined leader from nurse to Vice president of Red Deer College to Red Deer City Councillor, Lynne continues to make a positive impact in our community, no matter what capacity!

Nicole Leal | Women of Excellence Awards

 Nicole Leal, a dedicated and passionate artist, is highly regarded as a leader in the arts.  A 2013 graduate from Red Deer College's Performing Arts & Creation program, Nicole landed the position as the first female Artistic Director for Tree House Youth Theatre.  IN addtion, after a long history of volunteer work with Central Alberta Theatre, she was hired as their Production Manager.  Her work as an Actress includes Prime Stock Theatre's Bard on Bower, B.I.T.E, Butt Ugly, and alumna for RDC's main-stage performances.  Her roles in film include Ignition Theatre and the lead in CACHE production's film Are You Listening?.  In 2016, Nicole co-founded Red Deer's blooming Improvisation Group, Improv Jelly.  The arts community values her as a dynamic resource!