I just returned from the Imaging USA Conference in Nashville, Tennessee, and it was well worth it.
Like so many of you, I have not felt comfortable attending an in-person conference since pre-COVID. Having attended my first conference in years, I am recharged and glad to be back at it!
These last few days were uplifting and rejuvenating! I was reluctant to attend, but I strongly encourage you to rethink in-person seminars, workshops and more prominent conferences. Imaging USA had a solid regional draw and many other opportunities to attend. An example is the Optic and Depth of Field Show put on by B&H.
Conference attendance is always a go-or-no-go decision, and COVID definitely hurt it. But it’s time to get back to our passion for photography, even if it’s local photo walks, camera clubs or regional events. While it’s hard to say what the attendance numbers were, my best guess — having some experience in running conferences — Imaging USA had about 8,500 + attendees! A high percentage were beginners and first-time attendees. Many expressed interest in school, event and wedding photography.
I was pleased to see and catch up with many of the Ole Guard, and without exception, glad they decided to attend the show. The instructor-led classes were popular and well-attended. Walking the expo and speaking to many exhibitors, they were pleased with the floor traffic, engagement, attendee interaction and especially, the sales.
I noticed for the first time several booths focused on starting or growing your photography business. Seems since COVID many of the traditional business practices have changed or evolved.
So, if photography is your business or your passion, get out, shoot more and get back in the game!
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