Kickstart Scholarship Winners for 2026 Announced!

We are very excited to announce this years four photographers who are the winners of a Kickstart Scholarship. Each winner has received a complimentary 3-day All-Access Pass to Imaging USA 2026, as well as admission to a free pre-conference class!

In order to be considered for this scholarship, those applying must be a full- or part-time photographer, an active member of PPA, and have not previously received a Kickstart Scholarship. Learn more about the Kickstart Scholarship and how to apply next year.

Congratulations to this year’s winners! Keep scrolling to learn more about these dynamic photographers.

James Slade

I've been doing photography for about 5 years, but I started taking it more seriously about 2 years ago. I work in Austin, TX and surrounding areas. I love shooting fine art and anything that is in the studio. I also like to take my photos and manipulate them in Photoshop to create colorful and surreal digital artwork out of my photos. 

I'm most excited about the 2-day business intensive pre-con class because I desperately need to improve my skills on the business side of photography at Imaging USA. I am also looking forward to all of the events, keynotes, and vendor booths! 

Jessie Collins

Jessie Collins is an equine and portrait photographer based in Kentucky, known for creating soulful, heirloom artwork that captures the bond between humans and animals. With over 20 years of experience in the equestrian world and behind the lens, Jessie brings both artistry and authenticity to every project.

In reponse to winning this year's Kickstart Scholarship she says, "I'm deeply grateful for this scholarship and the opportunity to learn from such a talented lineup of educators. This year, I'm excited to focus on refining excellence in lighting, growing my artistry, and connecting with other passionate creatives in the PPA community."

Kim Silverstein

I'm a family, wedding, and birth photographer based in Los Angeles and my photojournalistic style is centered around my desire to create joyful images and authentic relationships with my subjects. I've grown and evolved my photography over the last decade and recently launched into a new era of my business. When my camera is not in hand, you can find me marathon training, coaching my daughter's high school cross country team, watching baseball on TV with my son, or taking in live theater and stand up comedy with my husband. I love hosting meals in our home and spending as much time in the ocean as possible. 

I am most excited to step out of my comfort zone. I want to push myself to learn new skills and cultivate ideas in areas of photography I don't normally explore. I can get very shy when it comes to networking, but I can't wait to meet other photographers and talk about our shared love of the craft. Since this is my first Imaging USA, I am there to soak up everything it has to offer to become a better photographer. I love learning and there is always more growth to achieve!

Lucy Richardson

I'm a photographer and graphic designer with over 15 years experience as a designer. Photography is a passion and I try to help clients see their best selves through my lens with various genres including headshots, events, corporate headshot booths, and portraits. I try to approach every shot from the perspective of a designer, balancing composition and color to produce images that are unique and professional.

I'm excited to leran more about the business end of photography as well as lighting techniques at Imaging USA. The expo is a great place to source new gear and of course the networking!

Kickstart Scholarship Applications Open Next Year

This could be you! Keep an eye out next year for our 2027 Kickstart Scholarship. You could attend Imaging USA for free at the Charlotte Convention Center from January 31 – February 2 in Charlotte, NC!

For everyone else, we look forward to seeing you in Nashville, Tennessee! Get ready for three days of education, inspiration, networking, and events to start your year off on the right foot. We can't wait to welcome you.