After weeks of preparation, Imaging USA 2019 has come to a close. During our time at the Focus Camera booth, we met a number of inspiring photographers, buyers, and hobbyists interested in growing both their businesses and skills.
The overarching theme of this year’s event was bridging the gap between photographers and consumers. The secret? Authenticity. If you listen to your instincts and act as your authentic self, clients will follow. The speakers driving home this message included Karyn Temple (the acting Register of Copyrights for the United States) and Scott Stratten (marketing expert and author of the “UN” series). A wide range of classes were also available from lighting and portrait lessons to food photography and tips from “the pet portrait dude.”
Imaging USA’s Past & Present
The story of Imaging USA goes far beyond their most recent Atlanta-based event. Today, the conference is a 5-day photography forum that revolves around a host of speakers, networking events, demos, and—most importantly—gear. However, the organization dates back to 1880 and is the longest-running photo conference in the United States. Its original purpose was to act as a trade show for the Professional Photographers of America; it still holds that title to this day.
As mentioned above, the muscle behind the event is the Professional Photographers of America, more commonly known as the PPA. For those who don’t frequent trade shows, the PPA is a nonprofit that acts as an advocate for independent photographers and small photography business. The organization asserts that they regularly send delegates to Washington, D.C. to speak directly with U.S. lawmakers and stakeholders regarding copyright protection for creators across the country. They also insure members’ gear, offer data loss protection, and provide a 3-day pass to Imaging USA. By all appears they are the Robin Hood of the photography industry.
Thank you again to everyone who dropped by the Focus Camera booth this year. We appreciate you coming by and look forward to seeing you again next year!
