Members Profile
 Name: John Weninger
Business Name: Photography by Top Shots
Address: 37 Reema Blvd Endeavour Hills Vic
PC: 3802
Phone: (03) 9700 6658
Mobile: 0418 121 729
Fax: (03) 9700 2639
Email: info@topshots.com.au
Web Address: www.topshots.com.au
SELF
Q. Tell us something about you – your philosophy, your lifestyle, your ethics, your hobbies etc.
A. This is my 44th year on earth and I think my visa is good for 50 more. I’m 12 years happily married to
my Maria, have 2 fantastic boys who give me great material for my comedy stand up work.
My midlife crisis consists of mountain bike racing, stand-up comedy, Toastmasters, learning the guitar,
continuing my Passion for photography and our business as well as surrounding myself with good friends.
I value quality of life and family/social time.. I don’t set too many specific goals as I believe that I am
guided by a Universal Intelligence. I believe life takes us where it needs us to go and gives us the skills to
achieve its objective. I therefore trust in it, and like a passenger on a airplane, just strap in, hang on and
enjoy the ride and the food and the alcohol.. I believe if I follow the universal laws, my life will be one of
prosperity and ease. So far so good.
BUSINESS DETAILS
Q. What is it that your business does?
A. We capture beautiful and engaging photographic memories for families, wedding couples, businesses, and
pet owners. We give exceptional customer service and offer a fun experience during the process.
Q. Do you work from home?
A. We are based at home but work all over Victoria and southern NSW.
Q. How many do you employ?
A. We don’t employ. We keep our overheads low and use Contractors when needed. I use young photographers
as my second shooters on weddings in order to give them experience.
Q. How long have you been in business?
A. 7 years
Q. What makes your business unique?
A. Mostly my style of work and creativity but we are great at customer service, which in this industry is
lacking a bit. Most photographers have too big an ego and that sometimes prevents them from getting the work.
MARKETING
Q. What is the most important Marketing/Networking tool/strategy your business has had success with?
A. Data bases in over 60 locations throughout Victoria. We contact our customers through e mail and SMS
(Skype) in order to inform them about upcoming photo sessions in their town. It’s cheap and effective.
AWARDS
Q. Has your business been nominated for, was a finalist in, or won any awards or other commendations?
A. No I’m awarded when people love my work and tell others. I also get fan mail from happy customers.
That’s my award.
ADVICE
Q. What is the most helpful piece of advice you could give to other businesses?
A. Keep your overheads down and over deliver
SUPPORT
Q. What is it you are looking for as a member of MCEI?
A. Business socializing and networking, discover new ideas, contribute my own ideas if asked.
Q. What is it you can offer to MCEI members?
A. I’m big on customer service. In fact I go beyond customer service. People feel good about dealing with
me within the first 30 seconds of our meeting and that’s before business is even discussed. It converts queries
into business. I can also offer you great deals on corporate photography.
Q. How do you envisage demonstrating your support and loyalty to the association of MCEI?
A. By attending as many meetings as possible and helping out when I can.
MILESTONES
I now shoot for magazines and my corporate work has also increased.
Our studio is becoming busier due to word of mouth and a great looking website.
I’ve developed better lighting techniques to make my work look even better than before.
I now revolve work around my lifestyle rather than in previous years when it was the other way around.
We now also do graphic arts work due to client demand
I’m doing stand up comedy
Learning guitar for my stand up shows
Competing in mountain bike races
| 