Photographer of The Year 2008

The news I'm about to share with you is both exciting for me as a professional photographer and even more exciting as a father. During the Annual Banquet and Awards Ceremony for the Professional Photographers Guild of Florida (PPGF) I was both fortunate and honored to receive several key awards.

First, before I tell you about MY awards, I want to brag on my daughter (Dana). This was her first year competing as a professional photographer, and I'm proud to say that out of the Top Ten Professional Photographers in South Florida she came in 7th Place. I won't tell you how EXCITED she was (and surprised), but let this photograph speak for itself. As your dad, Dana, I'm proud of you and believe that you have a great future ahead of you as a photographer.

Dana receiving "7th Place,
Photographer of The Year"

Second, I want to thank all of my clients whose images I used for print competitions in order for me to win "Photographer of The Year". Many of you know who you are because I've given you the actual print that I entered as well as the ribbon that came with winning. I wish that I could give each of you a piece of the trophy that I received, so please share in the knowledge that I could not have done it without you. This is the second time that I've won "Photographer of The Year" (2006) and it is a difficult task to reach this level to say the least. There are so many other great photographers in PPGF that could have easily won this award.

I'm not certain how much I will compete this coming year both locally and state, but I will continue to enjoy taking great photographs of my clients in 2009. The pleasure of giving my clients excellent photography is equally as rewarding as being recognized by my peers. Thank you!

My first major award for the night
was for serving as Vice-President.

President Hitz awarding

me the President's Award.

Receiving the Robert Becker Award
which is equivalent to "Photographer of The Year".

The 2008 PPGF Executive Board.

It has been a wonderful experience
serving as PPGF's President for 2 years
and Vice-President this year.