The WPPI Conference and Expo has been off to great start this year at the Las Vegas Convention Center, as the tradeshow floor is jam packed with live demos and presentions from some wedding photography stars. Now in its 37th year, the 2017 WPPI (Wedding & Portrait Photographers International) Conference is the biggest it’s ever been. This is the second year that conference focused on “The Power of Print,” movement encouraging wedding photographers to discover the benefits of keeping up with the latest print technology and methods for wedding photographers.
Wedding photographer Jerry Ghionis’s keynote made an enormous impact early on in the convention. Reflecting on his past 14 years presenting at WPPI, the biggest takeaway harkened back to the importance of empathy and the value of what we do as photographers. Jerry reminded everyone of the importance of printing and to value yourself not only in how we price but also in the time we spend away from our families and loved ones and why it’s important to print our work.
The first day’s sessions included some favorite Adorama and Canon experts: Joe McNally, Tamara Lackey, Vanessa Joy, and Daniel Norton. The photographers spoke on a broad range of topics including lighting, portraiture, business and marketing, and the latest in technology.
There’s also been buzz about the Canon 5D giveaway happening after the trade show ends. (If you are at WPPI this year, just drop by booth 105 and get your badge scanned to enter the drawing.)
The full spectrum of the new TTL Orbit Lighting System is on display with a knowledgeable staff to answer any questions regarding compatibility with your particular camera set-up.
Education & Learning
One of the truly unique aspects of WPPI is the fantastic opportunities to learn from both established and up and coming industry talent.
Rangefinder Editor Jacqueline Tobin and WPPI Director Jason Groupp kicked off the Monday morning keynote with a helpful WPPI Orientation and the 30 Rising Starts of Wedding Photography.
As the throngs of people descended on Las Vegas, those not attending the print competition live judging filled their jam-packed first by focusing heavily on workshop style intensive 6 hour plus classes on topics ranging from Birth Photography, Maternity & Newborns, Sales & Marketing, Retouching, Fine Art & Fashion.
Additional plus classes were taught by industry leaders like Amanda Holloway, Ana Brandt, Kristina Sherk, Brooke Shaden, and Lindsay Adler.
With the show finally under full swing, one of the most exciting classes is the Joe Switzer Filmmaking class that runs for four days. Heads-up that the film will debut live at the awards on Thursday night.
Still To Come
Sue Bryce follows-up last year’s historic keynote that launched the “Power of Print” campaign with her sure to be inspirational “When am I good enough to get PAID?” morning session. Mark this down in the “Can’t miss” category and get there early to grab your seat!
Business & marketing seekers can join Tamara Lackey’s platform class to learn how to maximize profits, referrals and the quality of their life. Vanessa Joy helps traditionally natural light only photographers learn easy set-ups and the first steps to using off-camera flash.
In one of the most eagerly anticipated programs, Tracey Taylor & Dee Green of 37 Frames are sure to grab the attention of wedding photographers and anyone who wants to do a better job with their customer service and find out how they booked a $50,000 wedding they didn’t even shoot.
Other notable topics and classes are Ben Shirk’s Seniors program, Susan Stripling talking on how to get a proper exposure in camera.
The 2017 WPPI Annual stands out as the most international field ever assembled. With over 55% countries coming from almost every continent in the world, it truly is one of the best educational and informative experiences in wedding photography.
