Well, here is the scoop on why I got it. I've always said, "... always get the right tool for the job." The Windows world has some "drop dead" killer apps for photogs out there, and I wanted to see what the MAC side had to offer - I'll keep you posted and/or feel free to email me with some of your best apps for the MAC.

Here's the plan - I want the best of both worlds so I'm setting my Mac Book Pro to run Windows too. I was going to install Apple's Boot Camp but installed Parallels instead - I was intrigued by some of Parallels new features - I installed RC 3120. The installation of Parallels and Windows was a "piece of cake". This is all very "cool" the way they co-exist on the same machine. No problems with any Windows applications yet.

OK - what about the additional cost for Windows. Well, I would recommend Windows XP home for starters. It's fairly inexpensive at Sam's Club - only $99.00 for the full version. I also have seen it very reasonably priced on-line. I don't want to get into a debate on XP Pro vs. XP Home. I think for the application XP Home will work fine and doesn't break the bank. I'll give you an update next month.

Parallels for MAC »

Heck with the weather, as warm as it has been in Cincinnati this year, we will probably still get some outside shooting opportunities. But, if it's a bit too cold we've got some great indoor venues scheduled.

Two of the highlights for me are the Wine and Cheese party on Tuesday eve and the Gourmet Dinner on Thursday. Wow - Over 40 hours of "eating, sleeping, and breathing photography, Photoshop, digital design, marketing and sales. We hope to see you there. Give Susan a call at 800.292.2994 to register. Please check out the link below for further info on the Winter and Spring Master Classes.

David's First Winter 2007 Master Class info »

There were several new and exciting things to see at the trade show. One of my favorites was from Blurb.com. They make the best bound book I have ever seen - from jacket cover, binding, web Interface - all make it a breeze to get up and running in no time. Books are available in 8x10, 7x7, and 11x13 horizontal or vertical. The 7x7 and 11x13 are brand new and may not on their website yet. And get this - 40 pages in a hard cover book with dust jacket - only $29.95. We brought back a few samples - they look as good as any bookstore book. Check out "Quick Links" below for more info.

Another great bargain we found at the show was Neil Enterprises new "peel and stick" books. You won't believe this - 8x10 to hold 20 prints - $12, 4x6 to hold 10 prints - $6 - plus many more sizes. These would make great promo books, Inexpensive add-on albums, and vendor books - very good quality, great price. Check out "Quick Links" below for more info.

More Info on Professional Photographers of America »

1. Know who is boss. We are in a business to service customer's needs, and we can only do that by knowing what our customers want. When you truly listen to your customers, they will let us know what they want and how to provide great service. Never forget that the customer pays our salary and makes our job possible.

2. Be a good listener. Take the time to identify customer needs by asking questions and concentrating on what the customer is really saying. Listen to their tone of voice, body language, and most importantly, how they feel. Beware of making assumptions---- thinking you intuitively know what the customer wants.