Helen McConnell's Studio Visit

Talk about 'Grande'... wow what a house, what a studio and what a woman-- oh ! and what a couple!!!

Helen and her lovely supportive partner Mark and her personal assistant Ruth hosted a fab night for all of us lucky attendees. 

                                                       Helen cooking up a storm...

Mark with Sophie

Helen 'Red' and Ruth (Photographer and PA)

The PPAQ council put on an awesome spread of nibbles and drinks for everyone to enjoy as we chatted for the first hour in the huge courtyard. 

Glen 'President' and new member Annette from Antonietta's Photographics

Some of our regulars-

Dave Paton, Kris Singleton and Adrian Nicholson

New faces- Alex and Andrew Kwintowski with Lesley Downie

Jan, Grant and Yohti

Deep in discussion

(it's serious business being a photographer)

After our courtyard mingling we headed inside to hear Helen share her story of how she use to be a Court Reporter for the Supreme and District Courts, and the journey she undertook to get where she is today.  It was very informative and her bright, bubbly personality kept us all intrigued as we sat in her beautifully decored studio.  To finish off her presentation we had the pleasure of viewing her beautiful slide show of weddings. Helen really strikes me as a woman who is the true representation of a passionate photographer.  It was so evident as she spoke of her clients and shooting weddings, just how much she loves her job.  Helen refers to herself as a 'specialist wedding photographer' as this is the main thing she does and she does it superbly.

Helen our lady of the hour...

Her business has grown so much over the last six years that she now employs a personal assistant Ruth, who is training up to be a wonderful shooter for Helen as well.  I also have to mention her partner Mark as Helen talks very highly of him being a huge part in the success of her business.  She said he gave her so much encouragment in the early days and continues to be one of her biggest fans.  I'm sure though that Helen has many more fans amongst us.  If you don't yet know Helen, she is a woman who will make you laugh, inspire you, encourage you and support you and is one who is a great example of how to run a successful photography business.  Thanks Helen for just being you.

After the presentation we all 'elegantly' pigged out on pizzas and talked some more till the late hours of the night.  (I haven't got a photo of that as I was too busy eating hehe)...

Oh I mustn't forget to mention we had some new members presented with their certificates:

Annette Rolley from Antonietta's Photographics, Normy B from Divine Studios, Jo Hodge from Johanna H Studios and Frances Suter from Frances Suter Photography.  Congratulations to you all for your successful applications and we look forward to having your input of valuable experience in the PPAQ.

Normy B from Divine Studios receiving his certificate as a new member

Last but not least we were delighted to learn that one couple who travelled all the way from Caboolture actually found us on Facebook. Modern day internet networking is certainly doing the industry a favour. Welcome to all new and old faces and we trust you had a wonderful time and please don't hesitate to contact the council for further news of the PPAQ and what we can do for you!

SEE YOU ALL AT THE NEXT EVENT!