"Giving Structure to Ineffable Thoughts"
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The making of a Starr... SarahStarr of Model Mayhem. For many of you that know me or have worked with me, you know how much I enjoy interviewing others. Especially prior to working with new talent. Recently I connected with an aspiring model new to the local scene: SarahStarr. No doubt as noted in her bio, she's looking to broaden her horizon through modeling & acting and connecting with others. So while in discussion of our first photo shoot, I took time to ask, just what aspires one to model? Her answers intrigued me so much, I was compelled to create this week's blog post from our interview. So with no further delay, let's meet local aspiring model/actress: SarahStarr. What aspired you to begin (modeling, acting, singing, writing) ? Well let's see...what has inspired me to go for me dreams...I would say myself! My whole life I have been pushed by most of my family to become a doctor and for a long time I was actually pursuing it! One day I looked around and realized that wasn't where I truly wanted to be. I had to refine myself as a person recently and remind myself that I can do anything and that I only get one shot in life to go for my dreams so I'm trying to make it count! What are ways you feel Todd Matherne Photography & Promotions will benefit your goals? I believe that your services could definitely benefit me by helping me expand my portfolio and connect with others! When you picture yourself in front of a lens, what do you see in your mind? When I picture myself in front of a lens, in my mind I picture pure entertainment! (Not to sound conceded but) I am a multi talented person that could entertain even the toughest of critics with looks or personality! How many opportunities have you had to (model, perform, sing, write) etc... ? I have had multiple opportunities to show my talent, I've been in a local musical, done a few photo shoots, walked in a fashion show, had my poems published in school, and I've been in a few plays however I am really trying hard to continue to build my portfolio! When are you generally most available, weekdays or weekends? Mornings or afternoons? I am very flexible however right now my schedule is sort of tight because I am a full time student. I'm currently free mid-week and on the weekends. Hopefully after this semester ends I will have a lot more free time to work with for the summer!
Value of Preservation Have you heard the old saying, "What's here today may be gone tomorrow?" As Photographer's, we know that concept all too well. In fact, that's part of the reason we do what we do! Rather it's a building or person, once those original features are gone, they can never be replaced; only imitated. Do you have a favorite place from childhood that once stood or still stands today? Such as, the above picture of Burger Delight in Gonzales. Todd was able to capture this great shot prior to it's demolish. This particular location was prominent spot for locals, which offered years of unmatchable service. It has now relocated to a new location. However, there's nothing like the original. Shown within our blog is a photo from Historic Photography by Star Roberts. It shows an inside view into an Historic Caboose located in McComb, MS; home of the McComb City Railroad Depot Museum. Unfortunately, it was recently vandalized and is currently being restored. So, Who's Up For A Challenge? Speaking of preserved photos, we want to see yours in comments below. It doesn't have to be professional. Just places you may have captured along the way; from childhood spots frequently visited, a building of interest, or even your grandparents home from long ago. Feel free to share the history behind your photos, too. Thank you for taking time to read our blog! We're looking forward to seeing your responses. Thank you for taking a moment to read and respond! Star Roberts [email protected] Editorial & Marketing Assistant of #TMPP Historic Photographer/Photojournalist The Best of the Best If you're reading this blog post, we want your feedback in the comments below. To ensure we're bringing you "The Best of the Best" content, what topics interest you most? Which one of our blog's is your favorite and why? Your feedback aids in generating fresh and exciting topics each week, while keeping you engaged from start to finish. Next, we'll share with you 6 reasons why your feedback is important. 6 Reasons Why Feedback Is Important: 1. It can help improve content shared and provide insight into the services we provide at Todd Matherne Photography & Promotions/Historic Photography by Star. 2. It gives us a chance to "listen" to your ideas, thoughts, or even constructive criticism. Basically, feedback = effective listening! 3. It can help improve our performance overall in content we share and within the business services we provide. 4. It gives motivation to us and others. Every blog written is what we like to call, "open ended." Meaning...from our own accumulation of insight and advice to yours! 5. It opens up the doors of communication and continuation of learning. 6. It's the same as leaving a Review on a Facebook page. Every ounce of feedback is individually taken into consideration to bring you "The Best of the Best." Now It's Your Turn! Ready, Set, Go! Thank you for tuning in today. What's most exciting about what we do, is interacting with each of you! Let's get your feedback going guys...⬇️⬇️⬇️ Star Roberts
[email protected] Editorial & Marketing Assistant for TMPP Historic Photographer/Photojournalist A Communication Gap This controversial subject is one that we've been wanting to touch base on for quite some time. Do you ever notice that the majority of people are far more interested in texting and online networking? In many ways, Todd and I have to remind ourselves that too much is...simply too much. It happens in this world of increased technology, and of great importance to create our own limitations. While technology continues to provide it's remarkable benefits, a vast amount of marketing advantages, and brings purpose to family far away...there are disadvantages that create a sociable gap. This gap extends into our children and grandchildren in many formats; such as too many video games, TV Shows, and even cell phones at at early age. Even some restaurants have electronic devices at the tables and require cell phone paging to be seated. Ultimately, we are missing out on the sociable aspects of face to face communication with one another, our children, and within business marketing. There is no replacement for showing up in person, a phone call, and to disconnect momentarily. Both have endless benefits that make the difference between "Social Media vs. Sociable." When you give an equal balance to both, it's amazing how quick that communication gap closes. "Rather than counting the number of likes, count the memories in your life, because at the end of the day, that’s all that matters." "What Will Your Primary Form Of Communication Be?" We want to hear from you! Yes, you! How did this blog post inspire you to become more sociable within the social media we are surrounded with daily? We encourage you to share your thoughts and experiences below! Thank you for taking a moment to read and respond! Star Roberts [email protected] Editorial & Marketing Assistant of TMPP Historic Photographer/Photojournalist The Art of Balancing Many talented people like yourself, are endlessly searching for a successful balance between time and talents. Let's face it, we all wish there was more time in a day to get everything done. Right? We know, first hand, how important it is to manage both. So, let's explore four methods to juggle the time you have and continue to develop your expressive talents. 1. Concentration: Because we are often preoccupied with the time devoted in many other areas of life, we may face challenges in getting ideas out, connecting the thought patterns, and utilizing full creativity. Focus on one thing at a time. One way to do this, is write a daily agenda in both life and talents. This creates a basis and layout for each day. Breathe and focus on your breathing. You will be amazed what creativity and concentration can come from being in a relaxed state of mind. 2. Say "no" to others and yourself...when needed! Decide what activities, projects, and tasks have the greatest purpose to you. Prioritize time and talents based on your current life necessities; such as family and work. Ask yourself, "What can be left undone or delegated to a different day and time?" This allows you to organize your priorities within all you do on a daily basis. 3. Define your own balance. Do what works for you and your lifestyle. However, take time to rejuvenate yourself through doing other things outside of life's hectic schedule and talents. Doing so, will bring you fresh ideas and new insight on creating the time management you're seeking. 4. Erase perfection and set obtainable goals. There's no perfect time management chart for any one individual. Be yourself and develop an agenda that works for you, your family, and your talents. Through these four methods, you'll soon discover your own art of balancing time and talents. "Balance, peace, and joy are the fruit of a successful life. It starts with recognizing your talents and finding ways to serve others by using them." Thomas Kinkade Let's Hear From You! How Do You Balance Your Time & Talents? How Has This Blog Benefited You? Star Roberts
Editorial & Marketing Assistant of TMPP Historic Photographer & Photojournalist [email protected] The Start of Many Travels Do you enjoy traveling to remote places around the world and within your local region? Do you find yourself wondering...who once resided there and what were these building structures that still stand strong today? Being a Historic Photographer and Photojournalist, this has always been a passion for me. I find myself deeply fascinated by anything and everything antique. From the architectural dwellings, city culture to communicating with the community...every location brings with it a wealth of experiences and meaning. While I've always been a writer and captured many photos along our travel's, my fiancé taught me proper camera and lighting techniques within the last couple of years, in which continues to define my craft and artistic eye. It became the building blocks that helped shape my passion and visions for historic preservation. There's also nothing more rewarding than the rehabilitation of historic buildings. This greatly enables economic revitalization! One undeniable thing I've taken notice to, "it's the people and their stories that define the heart of each city we visit." Donaldsonville: A City of Growth & Preservation We then returned to Donaldsonville several months back. After capturing several snapshots and documenting that day, I decided to share on Facebook. At the time, it was simply to share our travels with others. The next day, Donaldsonville Development District shared my pictures on their Facebook page. Soon after, a conversation with Lee Melancon; Director of Community & Economic Development led me to attend a Business Luncheon and Trolley Tour. In attendance was the Mayor; Leroy J. Sullivan, Lee Melancon, area business owners, and committee/council officials. Followed by, a presentation of preservation and growth plans within Donaldsonville. Those plans are now being implemented through the development of a new community park and a continued rise in economic development. This is the place where businesses thrive, arts/entertainment are brought to the forefront, where these historic buildings are vibrantly restored and utilized to their fullest capacity. The city of Donaldsonville is on the map as one of the top places to visit, work and live! We Want To Hear From You What does historic preservation and city growth mean to you? How can Historic Photography by Star Roberts benefit you or your business? Thank you for taking time to read and respond! We wish you the very best on your travels. We'll be capturing and sharing many historic towns and cities along the way; emphasizing Donaldsonville. Stay tuned! Star Roberts Editorial & Marketing Assistant of TMPP Historic Photographer & Photojournalist [email protected] Defining Our Creative Resources As a Freelance/Creative Writer, I know first hand how crucial it is to build and grow connections. It's how we expand our creativity and gain a wealth of resources and support. Collaboration is key to a writer's success! From there, we learn an endless amount of what we like to call, "Tips & Tricks" of what works and doesn't work. So, rather your blogging, writing a book, magazine articles or other written piece...this blog {featuring Rachel Hopkins) will bring you one step closer to defining your creative resources! How Does Growing Like-Minded Connections Grow Your Writing Endeavors? Let's ask our featured Freelance/Creative Writer, Rachel Hopkins... "Growing like-minded connections is beautifully beneficial in so many ways; particularly in my writing. It often provides the inspiration that, like most writers, I struggle to find from time to time. Simply knowing that someone else understands and relates to the same strange and often times distorted ways that you do is inspiring." That being said, there's always something to learn from one another. Every freelance Writer has their own unique skill set and when it comes to publishing, submitting to the right resources, proof reading and even finding paid or unpaid work...isn't it fantastic knowing you and I have a growing network? "A successful writer is one who continues to grow, write, expand opportunities, and share inspiration." What Does Writing Mean To You? If you're like me, you probably agree that anything done with purpose...is worth the time and effort given. For me, writing is a way of expressing inspiration, thoughts and creativity. It's another way of connecting with people within the community and world! I could definitely write a book just on this topic, so let's turn to Rachel on one of her favorite topics. "To me, writing gives me the ability to expose the best parts of myself, in words, that I wouldn't know how to do in actions. It's my way of shouting to the world who I truly am with a smile rather than a speech." What Is Your Advice to Other Freelance Writers?
This is the interactive and fun part of the blog. We cordially invite you to share your thoughts, ideas, expertise and creative input below! First, we'll tune in to Rachel's advice... "My advice to other writers would be to write things that you actually want to write more often than the things you have to write. Creativity provides freedom much like freedom fuels creativity." So there you have it, fellow writer's! We are looking forward to a remarkable time collaborating with each of you. Let's give our featured Freelance/Creative Writer, Rachel Hopkins a warm shout out! Now it's your turn to share your comments with us! Star Roberts [email protected] Editorial & Marketing Assistant - TMPP Freelance/Creative Writer, Singer & Actress
How Social Networks Create Opportunities
Social Media platforms provide access to millions of people worldwide. Basically speaking, it's the one essential spot where you can grow an endless amount of professional relationships. As for us, our business continues to expansively and effectively grow through the power of social networking. It has greatly enabled us to reach a large audience, in a shorter amount of time. The ultimate key to growing online opportunities, is to create face to face marketing. This makes a substantial difference in establishing *long term* business relationships and making opportunities happen. Two important things to remember: 1. It's all "full circle!" Meaning, what you do now, tomorrow and thereafter...will benefit you and those around you at some point. Every bit of effort you put forth, will bring you one step closer to fulfilling your opportunities. 2. On social networks, anyone with something people want...can and will be found. Do your research and reach out! Building opportunities starts with your ability to effectively network. 3 Ways to Create Opportunities by Blogging • Blogging enhances your chances of being found by a target audience. • Your target audience will then experience your expertise and can greatly benefit from your authentic advice. • It can lead to additional opportunities in networking, employment and invitations to events around what you do. In addition, Blogging helps us to meet unique individuals and to share their message publicly.
Expand Your Network Through Social Media
First and foremost, be personable! People like people who are like them. Don't come across as a hardcore salesperson, yet as someone who has a service "even you would invest in" if presented by someone else. Research better posting times and be helping in sharing knowledge, while promoting others work. Easy Going or Hardcore? Networking, both online and in person, is about individuals meeting and getting to know one another in a professional setting. Be both fun and helpful! Engage with your professional audience the same as you would with your friends. You will gain and maintain your professional contacts on a more relatable level. Find enjoyment in what you do and your audience will greatly benefit. Thank you for taking time to read. Share your insight with us below! Your thoughts and ideas are the *bread & butter* to what we do. Star Roberts Editorial & Marketing Assistant Writer, Singer, Actress & Historic Photographer Many often ask us, "How do you organize your goals and grow them effectively?" Prior to each new year, my fiancé and I thoroughly communicate and evaluate our direction in life and business together. We find purpose in what is showing growth, verses what needs adjusting or change to give us a baseline of: 1. First and foremost, an objective way to look last years accomplishments. 2. Secondly, to show where we are so we can determine where we need to go. From the verbal development of a baseline idea of where we're heading and how we'll get there, which leads me to the third step: 3. We then put it in writing. When your goals are put in writing, it breathes life into your spoken words. It gives a visualization of what you're reaching to attain. 4. Next, we organize {on one sheet} those who goals into four categories: Together, His, Hers & Business. 5. We then discuss each individual goal outloud and how to implement both together and individually. 6. Followed by putting them on the refrigerator, front and center, as a daily reminder. 7. From there, it's inputed into "Notes" on our iPhones as an extra motivation. 8. Every Sunday, we reflect, evaluate and prepare...both within our goals and financially. Of what we like to call, "Family Meeting!" These 8 steps are the life saver to each new and productive year! I encourage you to choose your goals wisely. Be positively sure they are: Measurable, Specific, Attainable, Time-sensitive and Realistic. So, how can I achieve my set goals?
Great question! The answer is simple... The most important thing isn't in achieving your goal. The greatest benefit, is in your ability to grow within the success and achievements along the way. So, give yourself a pat on the back. You're half way there...just mapping out a plan of action and how you'll get there. Share with us your "goal setting" ideas or leave a comment below on how this article has helped you to define your path. Thank you for taking time to read! Star Roberts Editorial & Marketing Assistant of TMPP Historic Photographer Writer, Singer & Actress |
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