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All sides of photography
Found out about WPPI through a social media ad. Loved taking photos entire life. After checking out conference, could see how attending would benefit FireCity. Not disappointed in the slightest. Special thank you to customer service! Before purchasing ticket, could not decide between Conference Pass and Platinum. Wanted to have best experience. Based on what I told the person, they suggested Conference Pass for first year (less expensive). Was very surprised they did not try to sell me on high priced passes. Conference Pass was perfect! Gave me a great idea of conference / layout.
Honestly, hesitated at first. Looking through website, thought I was way out my league. Even told someone my skills were not even close to people at conference. Realized I was only looking at Portrait Masters part. Not entire conference. WPPI is for photographers of all skill levels. Tuesday, at conference, was first time I switched to manual settings on camera for a crash course.
A very nice aspect of seminars / conference:
Even though I am not a portrait / wedding photographer, found ways to adapt what I learned. My style, photojournalist / in the moment. Seminar on setting up lighting taught me how to use natural lighting. Taking practice photos outside, realized aspects I missed; including what is focus of photo. The business side taught me a lot, examples: website / social media. Walked out of an Instagram seminar realizing I was doing almost everything wrong. Learned a lot from seminars on editing. For FireCity, rarely edit. Have upcoming creative projects they seriously helped.
Conference has other aspects in addition to seminars: Photo walks (skipped this year) added to the price. Depending on your skill level / if photography is your business, seriously worth it. Great practice and learning experience. Photo bays on show floor are an excellent way to use everything you have learned. Important note here: Remember, the models have a long day posing. Always be respectful and think about it from their side. Most times, you have 2 minutes. I only needed a few photos at each. Plus, I didn't want to hold up more experienced photographers.
Honestly, hesitated at first. Looking through website, thought I was way out my league. Even told someone my skills were not even close to people at conference. Realized I was only looking at Portrait Masters part. Not entire conference. WPPI is for photographers of all skill levels. Tuesday, at conference, was first time I switched to manual settings on camera for a crash course.
A very nice aspect of seminars / conference:
Even though I am not a portrait / wedding photographer, found ways to adapt what I learned. My style, photojournalist / in the moment. Seminar on setting up lighting taught me how to use natural lighting. Taking practice photos outside, realized aspects I missed; including what is focus of photo. The business side taught me a lot, examples: website / social media. Walked out of an Instagram seminar realizing I was doing almost everything wrong. Learned a lot from seminars on editing. For FireCity, rarely edit. Have upcoming creative projects they seriously helped.
Conference has other aspects in addition to seminars: Photo walks (skipped this year) added to the price. Depending on your skill level / if photography is your business, seriously worth it. Great practice and learning experience. Photo bays on show floor are an excellent way to use everything you have learned. Important note here: Remember, the models have a long day posing. Always be respectful and think about it from their side. Most times, you have 2 minutes. I only needed a few photos at each. Plus, I didn't want to hold up more experienced photographers.
Show floor:
Conference Sunday - Thursday. Show floor Tuesday - Thursday. When it opened, everyone rushed to it, in an orderly way. Thankfully, had experience of Fan Expo on a Saturday. In other words, knew how to navigate crowd and plan it out. Exhibitors for every aspect of your photography needs. I will be upgrading to a mirrorless camera this year. Canon reps easily answered my most basic questions. Made a perfect suggestion on camera and lens.
Closing this one out:
Icon Awards Judging / Ceremony, parties, networking, and more all add to how this is a very important conference to attend. Not only for photographers, even 3d designers / graphic artists / possible film makers and other industries can benefit here. It is not only about improving your photography skills, you learn about the business side.
WPPI is already on calendar for 2025 as a top event for FireCity Illusion. Due to requirements, did not request credentials. Honestly, glad I didn't, giving you the "attended and paid for it" perspective. WPPI does their best to make sure almost everyone can afford the conference. Extending sale on passes (show floor only free during sale), travel expenses different story. I paid $99 for conference pass. Was it worth the money? From what I gained / everything involved attending, 100% easily YES!
Conference Sunday - Thursday. Show floor Tuesday - Thursday. When it opened, everyone rushed to it, in an orderly way. Thankfully, had experience of Fan Expo on a Saturday. In other words, knew how to navigate crowd and plan it out. Exhibitors for every aspect of your photography needs. I will be upgrading to a mirrorless camera this year. Canon reps easily answered my most basic questions. Made a perfect suggestion on camera and lens.
Closing this one out:
Icon Awards Judging / Ceremony, parties, networking, and more all add to how this is a very important conference to attend. Not only for photographers, even 3d designers / graphic artists / possible film makers and other industries can benefit here. It is not only about improving your photography skills, you learn about the business side.
WPPI is already on calendar for 2025 as a top event for FireCity Illusion. Due to requirements, did not request credentials. Honestly, glad I didn't, giving you the "attended and paid for it" perspective. WPPI does their best to make sure almost everyone can afford the conference. Extending sale on passes (show floor only free during sale), travel expenses different story. I paid $99 for conference pass. Was it worth the money? From what I gained / everything involved attending, 100% easily YES!
video review
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