9 Reasons to Attend Imaging USA in Dallas, Texas!

Year round, you work ceaselessly to deliver the quality product your clients have come to expect. Imaging USA can help professional photographers grow their business, expand their network, and improve their photography skills. It provides valuable opportunities for networking and business growth.

Additionally, photographers can enhance their skills through the resources and photo workshops offered at Imaging USA. For three days, soak up inspiration like a sponge and take your business to the next level. 

Imaging USA will take place at the Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center from February 2-4, 2025, in Dallas, Texas. Experience a photography conference and expo unmatched in scope and opportunity. 

1. Acclaimed Keynote Speaker

Shola Richards is recognized as an authority on workplace happiness and engagement worldwide as well as a best-selling author. He’s the CEO and Founder of Go Together Global™ as well as the author of “Making Work Work” and “Go Together.” At his keynote address he will introduce the transformative concept of Ubuntu (“I am, because we are”), sharing actionable strategies for building a business effectively through relationships, alliances through shared humanity, and resilience in the daily grind of being a business owner. 

2. 90+ Classes Led by Industry Experts 

No matter what type of photography you do, there will be a class for you at Imaging USA! Check the schedule for classes on Adobe skills, headshots, photography workflow, family portrait posing tips, and more. You’ll gain insight on the topics you value and walk away with new strategies to elevate your photography business and artistic pursuits. 

3. Bridging the Gap Sessions

Bridging the Gap sessions are special to Imaging USA with the goal of educating photographers on topics of entrepreneurism. You will learn how to confidently make business decisions and meet client expectations. Additionally, you'll learn how to attract the right customers.

Finally, you will learn how to take charge of the sales process. No better way to develop your mindset as an entrepreneur and feel empowered to take control of your business. Visit the schedule page and filter by “Bridging the Gap” to see the classes available next year!

4. Imaging USA Photography Expo

This photography trade show impresses photographers so much, they return year after year! You’ll love interacting one-on-one with all the vendors and checking out the newest gear and equipment.

Photographers love the live demos and mini-education sessions too. You’ll leave the expo with a fresh photography toolkit and an arsenal of techniques to impress your clients. Don’t miss the most impressive photo expo you’ve seen to date at Imaging USA!

5. Pre-Conference Classes

Think intimate class settings and in-depth instruction from a rainbow of subjects. Pre-cons are available as an add-on in the days leading up to Imaging USA, from February 2-4, 2025.

Sessions range from half-day to multi-day classes on topics like Photoshop techniques, lighting, business and so much more. To become a Certified Professional Photographer, you can attend a 3-day CPP class at Imaging USA. This class will help you pass your exam. 

All in all, Pre-cons are a great way to make the most of your conference experience. 

6. Networking Opportunities for Photographers

With thousands of photographers and industry professionals, Imaging USA is your one-stop-shop for growing your professional network. You’ll find your photography community here, build profitable relationships with vendors, and connect with colleagues in real life. In total, this conference is a photographer's networking dream! 

7. International Photographic Competition 

The International Photographic Competition is a competitive event where photographers showcase their skills and compete for top image. Photographers vie for the Grand Imaging Award, the top prize in the industry. This prestigious award includes a trophy and a $10,000 check.

Witness live head-to-head judging rounds on February 1 and February 3 at the Grand Imaging Award Ceremony. Experience the excitement of the event. Don't miss this competition! 

8. Awards Ceremonies

Imaging USA is all about celebrating photographers and their achievements, which is why the Award and Degrees Ceremony exists! Photographers honor their peers who are earning degrees and awards, including PPA's Lifetime Achievement Award. After the Award & Degree Ceremony, photographers head to the Closing Party to eat, drink, and dance!

9. Opening and Closing Parties  

The photography conference kicks off with a Welcome Party in the beautiful Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center. Photographers enjoy dinner, refreshments, and live music as well as the chance to  expand their professional network.

Imaging USA finishes on a high note with the Closing Party. We will provide food and drinks at both events. Photographers with the All-Access pass get into the Opening and Closing parties for free with their ticket purchase.

Hotel and Travel Information   

Staying at the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center or the Embassy Suites by Hilton Grapevine DFW Airport North are two of the easiest options for Imaging USA attendees. Rooms are limited, so be sure to book early! 

When booking your hotel, be sure to log on and book your room via desktop, rather than your mobile. In order to access the discounted hotel rate, you must go through Imaging USA's Travel Page to access specialized links for each of the hotels.

Be sure to use the links on the Travel Page to book, to ensure you receive the discount. If you receive a message that all hotel rooms are booked, return to the Imaging USA travel page. From there, you can book a room at either the Gaylord or Embassy Suites using the provided link.

Navigating the host city of Imaging USA will be simple. Historic Downtown Grapevine is pedestrian-friendly. Additionally, there are buses, taxis, and shuttles available for longer distances. This year's event at the Gaylord Texan is conveniently near the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport. 

Texas offers a variety of activities for all interests. You can explore the beautiful scenery around Lake Grapevine. You also have the option to visit the city of Dallas. 

Register now and save $50 with the early bird discount when you get your tickets on or before December 6, 2024. We here at Professional Photographers of America (PPA) can’t wait to welcome you to the photography convention!