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by Bill Hedrick, Editor
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Dixie Dobbins worked as a photojournalist in West Texas for several years before realizing her dream of owning her own studio. Before that time, she used to marvel at the works of Plainview photographer Bill Weaks. Even as a child, Dixie was encouraged to pursue her dream by her mother who would frame and display the young girl's vacation pictures taken with her mother's Brownie camera. One day, her dream would eventually come true and Dixie Dobbins would become a familiar name in Wichita Falls and throughout Texas.
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About 18 years ago Dixie read a book called "Do What You Love, The Money Will Follow" by Marsha Sinetar. This proved to be a major turning point in her life. She knew exactly what she wanted to do and now she had the confidence to make it all happen. Then, while stationed in Japan in 1991 with her Air Force pilot husband, Bruce, she began creating portraits for American servicemen and their families all over Southeast Asia from Korea, to Hong Kong, to Thailand. This valuable experience gave her the foothold she needed to launch a successful studio operation after the couple returned to America and settled in Wichita Falls, Texas. She began her photography career as a photojournalist in a small West Texas town and photographed some notable celebrities including Texas Governor Ann Richards, Senators John Connelly and Phil Graham, and millionaire Ross Perot. Her formal training in photography began with courses at Odessa College, Amarillo College and Texas Tech University. She even took some correspondence courses from the New York Institute of Photography while living in Japan. "However, I've learned the most from attending the Texas School of Professional Photography," explains Dixie.
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In 1999, with $39 worth of computer software, Dixie Dobbins finally designed her dream studio. Located in the Country Club area of Wichita Falls, the studio looks very much like a home on the inside, complete with a fireplace, hardwood floors, and plenty of natural light. It is only 1,100 square feet but since Dixie designed every aspect of the studio herself, the layout is quite efficient. "My camera room is 22 x 25 feet and the sales room is 16 x 12 feet," she explains. "The sales room is the most important part of my studio, followed by the camera room," she adds.
One of Dixie's goals for her dream studio was that it should appeal to all five senses. "When our clients walk into our studio, they immediately see large canvas prints on the walls, illuminated by halogen lights. The scent of fresh flowers is in the air and clients are seated in comfortable chairs with soothing music playing in the background. Then, there is always a bowl of chocolates or mints nearby. People frequently remark about how comfortable they feel in our studio and that is no accident!"
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The grounds outside the studio are the envy of any professional photographer. "Just outside are large Magnolia and Elm trees and a nice park and water fountain just across the street. I can even make portraits under the front porch overhang. It's been a great location for us and I love it," says Dixie.
One thing that can be said of Dixie Dobbins is that she is not afraid to try something new. She quickly embraced digital technology and practically everything she photographs now is done with her Canon D30. Her sales staff uses Kodak ProShots and she recently purchased a data projector for the sales room. Wedding album design is done with Art Leather's Montage software and Dixie has become quite proficient with Adobe Photoshop. "I've had a ball going digital," explains Dixie. "I enjoy being able to manipulate my own images instead of trying to communicate to a lab tech what I want. I love the instant feedback from digital because it is right there for me to see. It has made me a better photographer."
Obviously, Dixie likes photographing people. She enjoys the challenge of a regular day at the studio... a baby, a bride, a family... they "keep her limber." But her favorite client is the high school senior. "They are loads of fun to work with and they all have different personalities and seem to really enjoy themselves when they come to my studio." With her digital capabilities and her use of Photoshop, Dixie has also earned a reputation for creative and unique senior portraiture, specially designed for each individual personality.
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Although she is pretty content with her present situation, Dixie is constantly striving to improve her skills. She enters print competitions on a regular basis and attends as many seminars as she possibly can. "I can honestly say that I would not be where I am today if it weren't for the Texas PPA, Professional Photographers of America and our local guild. I never miss the TPPA Summer Seminar in Kerrville and I look forward to the learning and fellowship I receive while attending these seminars. The friends I've made along the way have enhanced my life so much."
Just as Bill Weaks inspired her to reach her own goals, Dixie Dobbins hopes that her life and career will motivate and inspire others. In fact, she has some pointers for anyone who wants to enter this profession. "First, I highly recommend getting a business degree first or at least work for another photographer for a few years to learn the ropes. Then, join professional associations and take advantage of every learning experience they have to offer. Develop your own style and be careful not to underprice your work. Another important thing to do, to keep from getting into a rut and losing your enthusiasm, is to go out and photograph things that interest you personally, just for fun."
The road to her dreams has taken many years and has come as a result of a lot of hard work and perseverance. That early fascination with a Brownie camera has now come full circle. Dixie Dobbins has arrived.
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