A Professional Photographer’s Guide to Preparing for and Attending Tradeshows and Conferences
A Professional Photographer’s Guide to Preparing for and Attending Tradeshows and Conferences
As a professional photographer, attending photography tradeshows and conferences is a must if you want to stay ahead of the game. It’s a great way to learn about new trends, meet new people, and of course, grow your business. But it’s not always easy. With so much competition out there, it can be hard to stand out and make an impact. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you make the most of your next photography tradeshow or conference.
What are Photography Tradeshows and Conferences?
Photography tradeshows and conferences are events where professional photographers can come together to network, hear speakers, participate in classes, and learn about new brands and products. They are typically held in large venues such as convention centers or hotels and can last anywhere from one to three days.
At photography tradeshows and conferences, you will have the chance to meet and network with other photographers, learn about new photography trends, and see the latest products available to professional photographers. Often, there is also a print competition opportunity to showcase your work, compete amongst your peers, and gain exposure for your business.
The Benefits of Attending Photography Tradeshows and Conferences
Attending photography tradeshows and conferences has plenty of benefits for professional photographers. Here are some of the key benefits of attending these events:
Networking
Photography tradeshows and conferences are a great way for professional photographers to meet and connect with industry professionals and potential clients. These events provide photographers with the opportunity to make important connections, discuss their work, and build relationships with people in the industry.
Exposure
Attending photography tradeshows and conferences is a great way to increase visibility of your business and build relationships with brands that may have ambassador and educator programs. These events provide photographers with the chance to showcase their work through print competitions and recognized by large brands that may be attending.
Learning
Photography tradeshows and conferences offer photographers the chance to learn new techniques and gain valuable insight into the industry. These events provide photographers with the opportunity to attend workshops, seminars, and classes to further their knowledge and hone their skills. A large part of tradeshows is listening to other photographers and business coaches speak and share their expertise on a wide range of topics as well.
Fun
Attending photography tradeshows and conferences can also be a lot of fun. These events usually have plenty of activities, such as photo contests and exhibitions, that give photographers the opportunity to have fun and get creative. Photography tradeshows and conferences are a great way to take a break from the everyday tasks of owning a photography business and reinvest into yourself and your skills.
Creativity
When you attend these shows, you’re going to see many award-winning photographers showcasing their work as well. This can inspire you to look for ways to push your work to the next level and push yourself creatively.
Preparation Tips for Photography Tradeshows and Conferences
Before attending a photography tradeshow or conference, it’s important to make sure you’re prepared. Here are some useful tips to help you make the most out of your experience:
Research the event: Before attending a photography tradeshow or conference, make sure to do your research. Familiarize yourself with the event and the exhibitors, and make sure to check out the list of speakers and workshops. From this you will be able to highlight which workshops and speakers you will want to attend and see if you need to sign up prior to the event. This will help you plan your time and make sure you get the most out of the event.
Set goals: Before attending a photography tradeshow or conference, it’s important to set goals for yourself. For instance, you could have a goal of making good connections with five other photographers, or a goal of attending 3 speaker events. Think about what you want to get out of the event and how you will apply your new knowledge to your business, and then create a plan for achieving your goals.
Bring business cards: Make sure to bring plenty of business cards to hand out to other industry professionals as well as any of the exhibiting brands that you would love to work with. This will ensure that you make a lasting impression on those you meet at the event.
Pack light: Make sure to pack light and only bring the essentials. You don’t want to be weighed down by heavy bags or equipment, especially if you are traveling from far away to the tradeshow. If you’re attending a workshop at the conference, don’t forget your camera, but ask ahead of time if it is necessary to bring other equipment.
By following these tips you’ll be prepared to make the most of the event. Remember, photography tradeshows and conferences can help you grow your brand, attract new clients, cultivate beneficial industry relationships, and much more. Therefore, it’s important that you present yourself in the best light, and you can only do that when you’re well prepared.
How to Get the Most Out of Photography Tradeshows and Conferences
Attending photography tradeshows and conferences can be a great way to further your career. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of these events:
- Take notes: Make sure to take notes during workshops, seminars, and classes. This will help you remember important information and apply it to your work.
- Take photos: Try your best to take lots of photos during the event. This will give you plenty of content to use for your portfolio, website, and social media.
- Talk to exhibitors: Be sure to talk to the exhibiting brands and learn more about their products and services. This can be a great way to find potential partners and suppliers for your business.
- Use the hashtag: Most photography tradeshows and conferences will have an official hashtag that you can use when you’re sharing your photos from the event. This can help you to promote your business and connect with other attendees. Remember to use it!
- Follow up: You should always follow up with the people you’ve met at the event. Wait a few weeks after the event and reach out via Instagram or email with those that you met with a friendly hello. This will help you stay in touch and make important connections.
2023 Tradeshow
ImagingUSA
January 22nd-24th in Nashville, TN
Imaging USA is an educational conference that also has a tradeshow, with over 80 speakers and 130 exhibitors, it’s also one of the most entertaining conferences on the list. Each year, over 10,000 photographers come together to check out the latest technology and learn more about what techniques you can use to elevate your photography skills. You’ll also be able to check out new and exciting products for your customers, including canvas prints and professional photo printing services. Last year, Imaging USA was hosted in Washington, D.C. and this year, it will take place in Nashville, TN, also known as Music City.
WPPI
March 5-9th in Las Vegas, NV
WPPI is one of the most well-known specialized conferences on the list and the premier event for wedding and portrait photographers as well as wedding filmmakers. This event specializes in the creative and business side of your photography practice, giving you advice to grow in all areas. The event includes a tradeshow, but so much more as well. WPPI hosts educational seminars with 75+ speakers, and networking events to help photographers from across the country learn about their trade and make important business connections. WPPI also includes several summit classes that include other areas of photography such as newborn and maternity education. This is one conference photographers and videographers in the wedding and portrait industry will not want to miss.
ClickCon
August 1st -4th in Chicago, IL
ClickCon is an experience as well as a photography and videography conference. Speakers come from around the world to educate you on different photography techniques. ClickCon offers a wide assortment of classes and workshops that photographers can participate in. In 2022 ClickCon offered workshops on topics such as: how to price your services, mastering lighting techniques, lifestyle photography, and many more. This allows you to gain new education while learning from some of the top instructors in the industry.
The Portrait Masters Conference
September 11th - 14th in Phoenix, AZ
Portrait photography is one of the most creative outlets people can explore, and there’s always something new to explore. Portrait Masters teaches photographers the latest techniques to grow their photography knowledge. This conference highlights many speakers including Sue Bryce, Tabatha Coffey, Dan O’Day and more who dive into their experience as photographers and business owners. Demo Stage Sessions showcase products that are perfect for photographers to utilize in their own work. Portrait Masters will quickly become a favorite for anyone looking to increase their portraiture skills in a fun, informative environment.
Conclusion
Attending photography tradeshows and conferences can be a great way to further your career as a professional photographer. These events provide photographers with the opportunity to increase visibility, network, and even find potential clients.
This guide has given you the low-down on everything you need to know to make sure you have the best time and make the most out of attending photography tradeshows and conferences. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start making the most out of these amazing events!
ProPrints is an industry leader in professional photo printing and custom canvas prints. When you’re ready to print some of the new photographs you took at your latest tradeshow or conference, head over to the Canvas Wrap PRO page and start printing today.