Berg Blog

Photographed Dan and Veronika’s wedding on July 3, 2010 on the south side of Chicago.
They were wonderful to work with, open to trying new things, pushing the envelope creatively.
Though it was a long day, I had a blast documenting their special day and wish them the best of luck.

Just returned from a relaxing week in New Mexico visiting my sister and other family/friends.
My sister Marian (www.marianberg.com) is a gifted artist that recently earned her MFA from the University of New Mexico. She has be an inspiration for my own life both as an artist and compassionate, caring human being.
During my weeklong trip, I also visited the Gila Wilderness in the southwestern part of the state.
I’m always amazed at the beauty of this state, the beautiful of the landscapes, clear blue skies and genuine warmth of New Mexicans.
I always return recharged and rejuvenated from my visits to this magical “land of enchantment”.

Photo © Paul Berg

The Chicago River, long used as a depository for sewage and industrial waste continues to experience a renaissance.
Wildlife is more abundant, people are using the river for sporting, old buildings are being restored, parks developed along the banks.
All in all a wonderful re-birth to a natural resource many take for granted.
On June 26, 2010 I will be leading an Urban Photo Safari that will focus on the south branch of the Chicago River and the Chinatown neighborhood.
Lots of opportunities to photograph the unique combination of industry and nature in an urban environment.
Only in Chicago will you find a river that runs backwards, yet looks forward to the future.

Came across these beautiful wildflowers during a walk in the woods on the NW side of Chicago last weekend.
Beauty is everywhere – sometimes in the most unusual of places.

My Urban Photo Safari on April 3, 2010 was a rousing success. Twenty-four participants, myself and Steve Ostrander (Tiffen/Tamron) traveled to the south side for the all day excursion. Though it rained for the first half of the day, the sun broke through in the afternoon.
Stops along the way included Sherman Park, Hyde Park Union Church and Rockefeller Chapel.

My next Safari will be on June 26, 2010 and focus on the south branch of the Chicago RIver.

If you haven’t read Who Moved my Cheese by Dr. Spencer Johnson, get your hands on a copy now. Read it in short order, preferably in one sitting.
The premise of the book has to do with change and the different ways one can react to change.
The book features four rodent protagonists: Sniff and Scurry (proactive to change) and Hem and Haw (resistant to change).
I first read the book when I was laid off for not one, but two full-time jobs in a 18th month period.
I’ve re-read it as a freelancer, where the “cheese” ( gigs, steady clients, rates, technology, etc) moves quicker.
I played the role of all the characters in the book at different times of my career. Sniffing/scurrying, hemming/hawing.
Holding on to old paradigms, feeling resentful, feeling excited about change, finding new cheese, losing old cheese.
It’s natural to get comfortable with the status quo and unsettled, angry, when things change.
While it’s easy to grip about the changes in the photography industry,
it’s far more productive to use that energy to be a creative problem solver.
The photographers/creatives that are surviving and thriving are moving forward, being proactive.
They are learning new skills, collaborating with other creatives, expanding their horizons.
What are you doing to assure your “cheese” supply stays current, is plentiful for the years to come?

This past week I phoned a client I’d worked with over the past few years.
When I asked her about upcoming events/projects she replied,
“We’re all set…we’re using another photographer. We have your information on file.” OUCH.

I sent this client an e-mail a few days later and asked if there was anything that influenced her decision to work with another photographer.
She responded that the vendor they chose to work with had a “very competitive price point”.
In other words, I was too expensive.
Though it was disappointing, I was also relieved and appreciated the feedback.
It wasn’t the quality of my work, or something I said or did to offend someone.
They found a vendor that was willing to charge less for photography (50% less) that was “good enough”.
In the 7 years I’ve been self-employed,
I’ve lost some clients (usually low -paying ones) but in hindsight, that loss seems to open up new opportunities.
My take away from this experience: keep the lines of communication open with your clients, find out what their expectations are. Ask them to complete a survey periodically to see if they are satisfied, if the relationship is working.
It’s also important to have a clear idea what YOU ARE WORTH.
Determine your own bottom line, your line in the sand.
It’s temping to lower rates during tough times, especially when business is slow.
It’s better to find a way to add more value to your services (quicker turn around, better customer service).
You’ll feel better about yourself and your clients may just respect you for sticking to your principles.

Sure there’s a lot to be gloomy about these days: millions out of work, millions more underemployed, our healthcare system broken, natural disasters in Haiti and Chile, the US at war on two fronts. It’s enough to make you want to sing the blues.
Earlier this week, I was ruminating about the challenges I face earning a living as a freelance creative. “It’s not fair” I decried. “Everyone’s a photographer now!” Rates are sinking, my expenses (including health insurance premiums) are rising, the phone is not ringing for assignments.
Then I stopped, changed my perspective and looked at the situation with new eyes.
I have my autonomy, I have my health, wonderful friends and family.
I can learn new skills and adapt to change.
My sister, a registered nurse, just returned from a week volunteering in Haiti. She shared heartbreaking stories about the devastation and squalor the earthquake caused in a country poor beyond belief.
When I shared with her my anxiety about the economy, the state of the photography industry, she reminded me how much I do have. A roof over my head, running water (all day- hot and cold!), electricity, plentiful food, a nice car. “You’re a wealthy man Paul”.
Indeed, a man with a lot to smile about!

The Bethesda Biker event continues to generate lots of media attention. The local NBC affiliate has run a piece, and with several other media outlets picking up the story. Thanks again to Ruth!

On February 11, 2010, I photographed residents/staff of the Bethesda Home and Retirement Center  (Chicago). I documented their miraculous transformation from calm, serene seniors and care workers into hardcore “bikers”.

After their makeovers, the residents/staff headed over to the Evil Olive bar , 1551 W Division, Chicago, IL (www.evil-olive.com) for a private reception. Members of the Chicago Latin American Motorcycle Association (L.A.M.A.) were on hand at the Evil Olive and passed out caps for the residents.

Thanks to Ruth Werstler, Director of Life Enrichment at Bethesda Home for coming up with this great idea and coordinating all the volunteer talent.

You rock Ruth!