Edited to add: We have a winner! Megan Borders of Photography by Meg is the lucky girl! (Check out her gorgeous newborn work while you’re being nosy and clicking the link…) Thanks to so many of you for entering, and for expanding my ‘To Read’ list exponentially.
There is a constant battle in my house for supreme domination of Book Island. You see, for every book that enters the Island, one has to leave. This helps me to keep the book count in my house from overtaking the population of the city of Philadelphia. And its suburbs.
So, through no fault of their own, these books have been voted off Book Island. They are still absolutely fabulous, but the science fiction reads have been really bangin’ lately, and so some of the business ‘reference’ books have come down. I only read non-fiction books once, no matter how long I keep them on the shelves, so I might as well make a nifty giveaway for someone, right? (Edited to add: just 1 someone will win ALL the books and the merit badge.)
Photo taken with the makes-me-jump-up-and-down-it’s-so-awesome Hipstamatic App for iPhone. From top to bottom:
Fast Track Photographer, Dane Sanders.
This book is fabulous reading for understanding the WHY behind what you’re doing in your photography business. (I was sent a signed copy, so the unsigned one is off the island.)
Dirty Little Secrets of Buzz, David Seaman.
DIY ways to get people talking about your product or your business – many suggestions aren’t for the faint of heart, but some of the tips are fabulous for photographers!
Secret Service, John DiJulius III
Explore ways to make your customer service remarkable and consistent over time, between employees, and for each client that crosses your path. Sure to get you thinking about policies and protocols that can add a smidge of discipline to your business. Also ideal for those considering taking on associate photographers!
Book Yourself Solid, Michael Port
After reading this book, I got myself onto TV for the first time. His thoughts about making yourself an expert and getting others to view you as such are phenomenal.
Digital Portrait Photography and Lighting, Catherine Jamieson
This one stuck around for a few years while I was gleaning knowledge from it — and now, it’s your turn to learn! No business here, all camera goodness.
The Creative Entrepreneur, Lisa Sonora Beam
This is the ideal book for those who are afraid of business plans, think business plans are only for MBA’s, or think that your business is A-ok without having a plan. (Buy it if you don’t win it, please.)
Search Engine Optimization for Dummies, Peter Kent
This book is incredibly helpful for establishing the basics of SEO. Purchased before I found SEO School, which you should buy right this minute. 
Lighting and the Dramatic Portrait, Michael Grecco
Eye-candy and lighting inspiration. A gorgeous book!
The Art of Children’s Portrait Photography, Tamara Lackey
Tamara puts into words much of interacting with children that I didn’t think could be verbalized — no small feat! Plus, Tamara‘s a peach. Another book you should buy if you don’t win.
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