DJ's from a Photographers Standpoint

by June Hoffman of Megasound

To be a better “anything” takes stepping back and asking others for help. My goal to be a better DJ/MC is a work in progress. It goes back to the idea of "learning is a journey." To learn more about how to improve yourself; one needs to ask unbiased third parties their opinions. I asked local Fort Wayne photographers their opinions on several aspects of weddings where they work with DJ/MC’s to get their insights.

What is your (from the photographers standpoint) most important expectation of a DJ at a wedding?

Judy Gaulden of Photo Artistry by Judy feels that disc jockeys should “keep things moving in a timely manner” at weddings.

Dave Evans of Picture Perfect Photo said that “I expect the DJ to execute the plan that the Bride and Groom have worked out with the DJ, keeping us (photographers) informed as to what is happening. The DJ should be able to "read" the crowd and play the music that will keep the crowd on their feet while staying within the Bride's and Groom's expectations (music-wise)”.

Sara DeWitt of Regal Photography feels “that he [the DJ] shows direction at the reception and helps things run smoothly without any chaos or confusion.”

Communication and organization are key characteristics for DJ/MC’s to help the other professionals create memorable weddings. I have a few other key areas of feedback from these photographers that I will share in the next several entries. It is wonderful to learn from other people while (hopefully) assisting in making their job easier.

Meet & Greet with the Miss Torrid hopefuls

Last night, Judy of Photo Artistry by Judy and I set in on the “Meet and Greet” with the thirty-some girls interested in entering the first Miss Torrid Pageant. They were all different ages and from different backgrounds. The really neat thing was that the very “first” Miss Torrid was sitting right there in the room. Of course, she hasn’t been picked yet. The girls have about five weeks to get their sponsors and registration fee turned in just to be a part of the pageant.

It is very exciting to be in the beginning planning stages of an event. The staff at Torrid is working really hard to make this a fun event for the girls. Both Judy and I agreed that we will attend the pre-events as they come up and as our schedules permit.

The staff at Torrid is still working on the venue for the pageant. It will tentatively be at the North Side High School Auditorium on Sunday, July 20, 2008 (at 7pm). So as the details are written in stone, I will share the information. This should be a very exciting pageant for all to attend.

"Miss Torrid Meeting"

Miss Torrid 2008

Judy (Photo Artistry by Judy) and I had a great first meeting with Jama from Torrid at the mall last night. Judy and I will be working together with Jama on the first “Miss Torrid” Pageant that will take place on Sunday, July 20, 2008.

This event is set up with a stylish pageant format. This will be a great opportunity for girls in the Fort Wayne and surrounding area as the winner will also have her portfolio submitted to “America’s Next Top Model.”

More details are coming soon so I will share the updates as I get them.