Exciting Photography Events to Look Forward to in 2017

Now that 2017 is almost upon us, it’s time to start getting excited about the wide range of photography-related conferences, expos, and shows coming up within the next 12 months.

Whether you’re a beginner or pro photographer, or someone who specializes in weddings, portraits, fashion photography or more – these are the exciting photography events in 2017 that you’ll want to look forward to!

The PDN PhotoPlus International Conference + Expo

When: October 25 – 28, 2017
Where: New York City

Over 19,000 professional photographers, photography enthusiasts, videographers, students and educators flock to this world-famous event each year. Known as the largest photography and imaging show in North America, The PDN PhotoPlus International Conference + Expo features absolutely everything from educational seminars (there are over 100 in total) to master classes, photo walks, an ‘official portfolio review’, and an exhibition of the latest photography-related products and services.

The popular event began back in 1983 in order to help as many people as possible to discover the latest in photography, video and digital imaging. Located at the Javits Convention Center in New York City, the 2017 version of this conference and expo is set to be its biggest one yet.

Imaging USA

When: January 5 – 10, 2017
Where: San Antonio, TX

The Professional Photographers of America (PPA) is the host of Imaging USA, and this group is actually the world’s largest non-profit association for professional photographers. With over 27,000 members in 54 countries worldwide, it’s safe to say you’ll be in trusted hands when it comes to this hugely-celebrated event.

Imaging USA dates back to 1880, making it the longest running national photographic convention, expo and image exhibition in the United States. The event will feature classes “geared to improve professional photographers’ business skills, photographic repertoire and use of technologies”, as well as 3 days of trade shows and multiple presentations by some of the biggest names in photography. There’s even several “all-inclusive parties”, meaning that you can mingle, network, and have fun with fellow, like-minded photographers.

This year, the huge event is being held at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, TX.

The 22nd Annual FOTOfusion

When: January 24 – 28, 2017
Where: West Palm Beach, FL

This 5-day event brings approximately 100 instructors from all around the country to teach an array of classes, seminars, and photo shoots. Held in January every year, 2017 will mark the 22nd Annual Festival for FOTOfusion. As well as educational activities, the event also features ‘Fuse & Schmooze’ parties, panels, hands-on computer workshops, book signings, and portfolio reviews. All of these are catered for both beginners to the more advanced also, meaning that every level of photographer will thoroughly enjoy the festival.

WPPI Wedding and Portrait Photography Conference & Expo

When: Conference – 5 – 9 February, 2017. Expo – 7 – 9 February, 2017
Where: Las Vegas

Each year, up to 13,000 professional and aspiring photographers and filmmakers attend the WPPI Wedding and Portrait Photography Conference & Expo. It’s the “premier industry event for photographers and filmmakers specializing in the creative and business aspects of wedding and portrait photography and filmmaking”, so attendees certainly have a lot to gain from partaking in this event!

The event’s website thoroughly explains what wedding and portrait photographers can expect from the conference and expo, stating:

“WPPI is a week-long event combining educational seminars with a major industry trade show and networking events, all designed around learning the latest techniques, building new relationships and growing a business in a friendly, fun environment – all at one time, in one place.”

Activities and individual events include highly educational and hands-on classes (lasting from one-and-a-half hours to a full day), as well as photo walks, an intensive filmmaking class, a 3-day show floor expo, a relaxing ‘photo den’ to take time out, a shooting bay with live models, an interactive Canon printing mobile trailer, as well as the Honors of Excellence Gallery (a first for 2017!).

The 37th edition of The Photography Show presented by AIPAD

When: March 30 – April 2, 2017
Where: New York City

The highly-anticipated 37th edition of The Photography Show is presented by The Association of International Photography Art Dealers and will be held at Pier 94 in New York City for the first time in 2017.

At this prestigious event, you’ll find “exceptional photography from early masters, modern luminaries, and rising and established contemporary names from more than 100 of the world’s leading fine art galleries”.

The show will also present a wide range of museum-quality work, including contemporary, modern, and 19th-century photographs as well as photo-based art, video, and new media, so there’s truly something for everyone. This work isn’t just limited to US-based creators, however, as The Photography Show will feature galleries from around the world, including Canada, Mexico, South America, Europe, and Asia.

Will you be attending any of these photography events in 2017? You’re sure to gain a wealth of photography knowledge and experience if you do!