Professional Associations
Connect with professional organizations for networking, education, and resources. Join local Hawaii associations and national organizations to grow your business.
Hawaii Local Associations
Professional Photographers of Hawaii (PPH)
A non-profit organization advancing photography in Hawaii as both an art and profession. Open to professionals, aspiring photographers, students, and industry suppliers.
Regular networking events
Workshops throughout the year
Improve your craft
Connect with Hawaii pros
Workshop Topics Include:
- Marketing and Business Development
- Digital Workflow and Editing
- Commercial, Wedding, and Portrait Photography
- Lighting Techniques
- Studio and Location Tips
Oahu Wedding Association (OWA)
Fellowship of wedding professionals promoting professional service, integrity, accountability, and collaboration. Active networking community on Oahu.
Pau hanas & gatherings
Legislative updates
Educational sessions
Connect with vendors
Why Join: Stay informed on Hawaii wedding industry news, access permit guidance, and build relationships with coordinators, venues, and other photographers.
Visit OWA Website ↗Hawaii Island Wedding Association (HIWA)
A 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization serving wedding professionals on Hawaii Island (Big Island). Focused on advocacy, professional development, and collaboration.
Get listed for referrals
Regular member events
Industry representation
Kauai Wedding Professionals Association (KWPA)
Non-profit association offering information and connections to the best wedding vendors on Kauai. Excellent resource for photographers new to the island.
13+ categories
Kauai-specific guidance
Planners, florists, etc.
Note: KWPA provides valuable beach permit guidance for Kauai, where enforcement is strictest.
Visit KWPA Website ↗National Associations
Professional Photographers of America (PPA)
The largest non-profit photography association in the world. PPA helps working photographers make more money and improve their craft.
Up to $25,000 coverage
Available to members
Annual conference
Across the country
Key Member Benefits:
- Professional liability and equipment insurance options
- Access to Imaging USA conference
- Online education platform with 1,000+ classes
- Sample contracts and business resources
- Photographic competition and certifications
- Student and mentorship programs
Insurance for Hawaii Permits
PPA insurance can often fulfill Hawaii's $1M liability requirement for permits. Contact PPA to confirm coverage details: PPA Insurance Benefits ↗
Wedding & Portrait Photographers International (WPPI)
The premier industry event for wedding and portrait photographers and filmmakers. Annual expo draws 6,000+ attendees from around the world.
Las Vegas, NV
Industry-leading speakers
Latest gear & software
Connect with peers
Perfect For:
- Portrait photographers (weddings, families, seniors, boudoir)
- Wedding filmmakers and videographers
- Photographers at all skill levels
- Anyone wanting to improve business and creativity
WPPI 2026: Check the website for dates and registration. Early bird rates available.
Visit WPPI Website ↗Videography Associations
Wedding & Event Videographers Association (WEVA)
International association for wedding filmmakers providing education, networking, and industry advocacy.
Online learning
Creative Excellence Awards
Member forums
Online Communities
Facebook Groups
Active communities for connecting with other wedding photographers and videographers:
- Hawaii Wedding Photographers - Local Hawaii community
- Rising Tide Society - Creative entrepreneurs supporting each other
- Wedding Photographers Network - Large international community
- Wedding Filmmakers Community - Videographer-focused group
- Fearless Photographers Community - Documentary style photographers
Search these groups on Facebook to join. Most require approval.
r/WeddingPhotography (Reddit)
Active Reddit community for wedding photographers. Great for advice, gear questions, and sharing work.
Visit Subreddit ↗- Insurance Access: Many associations offer group rates on liability insurance required for Hawaii permits
- Referrals: Local associations connect you with planners and venues who refer to members
- Education: Stay current with workshops, conferences, and online learning
- Advocacy: Local associations represent photographers when laws and permits change
- Community: Build relationships with other professionals for second shooting, backup, and support
- Credibility: Membership signals professionalism to potential clients