Workshops & Conferences
In-person learning opportunities to accelerate your growth. Network with peers, learn from industry leaders, and get hands-on experience.
Major Industry Conferences
WPPI (Wedding & Portrait Photographers International)
The premier event for wedding and portrait photographers. Five days of education, trade show, and networking in Las Vegas.
What to Expect:
- 6,000+ attendees from around the world
- Educational seminars from industry leaders
- Massive trade show with latest gear and services
- Networking events and parties
- Print competition and awards
When: Typically February/March in Las Vegas, NV
WPPI Website ↗Imaging USA (PPA)
Largest annual conference for professional photographers, hosted by Professional Photographers of America.
What to Expect:
- Thousands of photographers gathering annually
- 90+ expert speakers covering all genres
- Hands-on workshops and demonstrations
- Major photography trade show expo
- Portrait, wedding, commercial, and creative tracks
When: Typically January, rotating US cities
Imaging USA ↗Creative at Heart Conference
Intimate conference for creative entrepreneurs focusing on both craft and business building.
Creative at Heart ↗Hawaii Local Events
Professional Photographers of Hawaii (PPH) Events
Monthly meetings and educational events for Hawaii photographers. Join PPH to access local workshops and networking.
- Monthly general meetings with educational content
- Workshops on lighting, posing, business
- Print judging sessions
- Networking with local professionals
Oahu Wedding Association Events
Networking events, educational workshops, and "pau hanas" (after-work gatherings) for Oahu wedding professionals.
- Regular networking events
- Educational workshops with industry experts
- Annual celebrations and awards
Island Wedding Association Events
Check local wedding associations for events on each island:
Workshop Resources
PPA Workshops
PPA holds 175+ workshops across the country. Two-week workshop sessions in May and September, open to members and non-members.
PPA Events ↗Styled Shoot Workshops
Many photographers host styled shoot workshops where you can practice shooting a real wedding setup. Check Instagram and Facebook for announcements from:
- Local wedding planners hosting styled shoots
- Wedding venues offering workshop days
- Photography educators traveling to Hawaii
Tip: Follow Hawaii wedding associations and planners on social media for styled shoot announcements.
- Plan Ahead: Review the schedule before arriving and prioritize sessions
- Network Intentionally: Set goals for connections you want to make
- Bring Business Cards: Or use a digital alternative like QR code
- Take Notes: You'll forget 90% unless you write it down
- Follow Up: Connect on social media and send follow-up messages
- Implement Immediately: Apply one thing you learned within a week
- Budget for Travel: WPPI from Hawaii means flights + Vegas hotel - plan ahead!