Meet TogDrop and Their Revolutionary Photography Mounting System
How cool is it when one small idea leads to something that can change the game for an entire industry?
Let me explain!
Last May, Gary and Elaine (G and E Studios) attended a transformative workshop led by the renowned photographer Chris Fritchie. Chris introduced an innovative technique involving metal walls and magnets to secure backdrops. This method, though creative, had its flaws. The backdrops often ended up crooked, requiring multiple adjustments.
Inspired by this experience, Gary began developing a more efficient solution, leveraging his extensive CAD drawing and programming expertise. Gary's initial concept focused on a corner unit that would ensure seamless integration of backdrops in a studio setting.
This innovation aimed to eliminate the common post-production hassle photographers face when aligning corners, thus saving valuable editing time. The idea was to create a room-like environment with perfect backdrops straight out of the camera, significantly enhancing the final image quality.
TogDrop was born!
What is TogDrop?
TogDrop is a modular system designed to evolve with photographers' changing needs. As photographers tweak their business models, TogDrop adapts accordingly. The system includes main components and bases, with the flexibility to add specific parts as needed.
For example, renowned mentor teacher Rosalind Guder from California discovered the pole adapters through a conversation, showcasing how the system's adaptability can meet various requirements. See Rosalind's setup below.
Product Testing and Evolution
The development of TogDrop was driven by feedback from photographers. Earlier this year, the team initiated a "Tell Us What You Need" campaign, receiving five key requests, including a camera stand body. Although initially intended as a quarterly initiative, it has been adjusted to occur twice a year to manage the feedback effectively.
The Future Vision
Looking ahead, TogDrop envisions a future where photographers increasingly utilize backdrops. They aim to see backdrop companies offering more room setups rather than single backdrops, promoting more creative studio work.
This shift could transform small studio spaces, enabling photographers to regain their creative freedom without the logistical challenges of hanging backdrops. A cleaner, more professional environment would also enhance client experiences, allowing photographers to charge higher rates and backdrop companies to thrive.
One specific challenge identified is the need for backdrop companies to scale their products correctly. Currently, some companies produce rooms that cater to shorter individuals or children. TogDrop hopes to see these companies grow and offer more options to accommodate various client needs, thus expanding the possibilities for photographers.
Embracing Innovation in Photography
In the ever-evolving world of photography, staying ahead of the curve requires innovation and adaptability. TogDrop exemplifies this by continuously refining their products and services to meet the dynamic needs of photographers.
TogDrop represents a significant step forward in backdrop solutions, offering a versatile and user-friendly system that enhances the creative process. Their commitment to supporting photographers and backdrop companies remains unwavering.
By fostering an environment where creativity can flourish without technical hindrances, they are helping to elevate the art of photography to new heights.
Their vision for the next five years reflects a deep understanding of the industry and a dedication to enhancing the photographer's experience. With TogDrop, photographers can look forward to a future where backdrops are no longer a source of frustration but a seamless part of their creative process.
Connecting with TogDrop
Elaine and Gary are always eager to connect with fellow photographers!
They encourage readers to schedule a call to discuss how TogDrop can revolutionize their studio setups.
You can follow them on social media and even join their Facebook community here.
A Glimpse into Their Personal Lives
While photography has taken a back seat in the past year, G and E Studios, located in Powder Springs, GA in the northwest suburb of Atlanta plans to resume their popular Santa sessions and some very specialized family sessions. They are also rebranding to focus more on fine art and specialty events like "Santa" and "Gone Fishing" sessions. Despite their busy professional lives, Gary and Elaine cherish spending quality time with their three grandchildren.
Do you know an amazing business that's serving the photography community? Let me know! I'd love to feature them.
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