Imaging USA 2016

Last week I attended Imaging USA in Atlanta Georgia. It's a convention and expo, hosted by Professional Photographers of America.

 My husband accompanied me. We joined thousands of other attendees.

The event took place over a 3 day period and was a combination of seminars, displays,networking, special events and more. 

The board of directors for PPA introduced the event followed by an inspiring keynote speech by Amy Purdy, a world class snow boarder and 2014 Paralympic bronze medalist, with numerous other accomplishments. I was wondering why the keynote wasn't a famous photographer. After hearing her speak, it was obvious why she was chosen. Her contagious spirit and determination would be inspirational to anyone. 

Wedding photographer Kristin Privette and her  husband, lead the first seminar that I attended. They taught simple sales techniques that generate  results. Their talk was very interesting and was illustrated by a number of helpful slides. They were passionate and motivating. You could tell they loved their craft and their clients were special to them.

Drake Busath lead a very practical session using a  family  to demonstrate techniques used is his successful family portraiture business. 

This session was lead by Chris Orwig. It was on helpful editing tips. Being a past teacher myself, I could tell he had a teaching background. He was concerned that we were learning and remembering what he taught. I liked his style. He has written a book about creativity, The Creative Fight. I Purchased it on amazon and have been reading it. It is an inspiring and reaffirming book containing great photography.
​ http://chrisorwig.com

The vendor area, called Expo, was packed with lots of interesting products, displays, ideas and presentations. Here are a few shots of that part of the convention.

 The hotel we stayed at was The Ellis.  It was about a half a mile away from the convention, which was at the Georgia World Congress Center.

The longest escalator I have seen, was in the rapid transit station across the street. I found the subway well organized and convenient  for our needs.

Back at the convention, it was exciting to come across Lindsay Adler, famous fashion photographer, leading a session right in the hallway.

The event ended with a closing party at the Atlanta  Aquarium. It was quite a venue to have a party at.

I truly enjoyed my time in Atlanta and I learned  so much.