Posted by TJ Dinsmoor on Tue, Sep 29, 2009 @ 09:00 AM
Wedding & Portrait Photographers International (WPPI) began in the 1970s in response to an industry-wide demand for a professional organization devoted to special interests and needs of wedding photographers.
The organization serves as an important need of an often neglected segment of the industry, wedding photography. Back in the 70's, wedding photographers were referred to as "weekend warriors," or part-timers who were on the low end of the status scale working hard to improve their craft. They were a viable force in the marketplace, purchasing new equipment and consuming film and paper at increasing rates.
In association with Rangefinder magazine, WPPI saw these "weekend warriors" as a well defined niche. None of the professional photographic organizations had the wedding photographers' interest at heart.
In 1979, an advisory board comprised of the foremost names in wedding photography was organized, and at the first meeting WPPI was created to recognize the organization's many members from around the world.
WPPI provides a much needed forum for photographers who had long asked for guidance. The organization also offers training, professional competition, directory services, convention and trade shows. WPPI recently completed its 29th annual Convention and Trade Show, drawing over 12,000 attendees and 365 exhibitors to its new convention space, the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas.
To become a WPPI member you have five different options to choose from. Memberships start with a student option at $25, associate option at $50, three year option at $237, two year option at $178, and $99 for a one year option. Membership fees also include a subscription to Rangefinder magazine.
By becoming a WPPI member you will have receive some nice perks. Members receive discounted registration for the WPPI Convention and Trade Show, discounted rates for print and album competitions, first opportunity to register for workshops, as well as money-saving Wells Fargo financial services that offers student loans and membership banking programs.
The next WPPI event is Special Kids Photography of America accreditation 1-day workshop which is held in Houston, Texas. The next WPPI Convention and Trade Show will be held from March 4-11 at MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas.
Apollo is pleased to say that we will be at the next WPPI Convention and Trade Show in March, so be sure to stop by our booth if you will be attending.
Join WPPI on Facebook and Twitter to receive updates on upcoming events and network with photographers alike.
