Building a Business, Part 1. It Takes a Village.

Relax, all right? My old man is a television repairman, he's got this ultimate set of tools.
– Jeff Spicoli Fast Times at Ridgemont High

In the previous post, I talked about the decision-making I was doing with my wife Kari about my career.

Whoa. Wait a second, dude? Your wife?

I know what you're thinking — having your friend/relative consult on your website is like hiring the same to take your wedding photos
(see "Disaster, Recipe for…").

When people do that, it's like having Spicoli use his television repairman dad's tools to fix a wrecked car.

However, in this case, Kari comes solid credentials. She's a consultant and project manager for a firm that produces websites for some of the most well-known companies both nationally and internationally.

If only I had their budgets!

Along with Kari, I also rely on the
experience and advice of some of my close friends in the business. Guys
like Grover Sanschagrin of Photoshelter,
freelance studs Brad Mangin,
Robert Seale and David Bergman.
People who will give me their honest opinions.

And that's only the start.

My point is, it takes more than
just one's self to succeed.

As the incoming Secretary of State used to say, "It takes a village."

But at the end of the day, I know the final decisions are mine. Much like a head coach in any sport, I can collect all the advice and feedback I can, but only I know what's best for me.

Man-to-man or zone? Punt or go for it? Bunt or swing away?

Those are the decisions I'll have to make. I'm so comfortable making split second decisions with my cameras. Years of experience have made it easy to make choices like shooting with a medium zoom or going with the wide-angle in the end zone.

How will I do in business?

I know this: I am doing all the training I can to prepare.

More to come.