The Ultimate Guide for Imaging USA First-Timers

For three days every year, professional photographers reunite at Imaging USA for a conference unmatched in scope and energy. Attendees choose from 90+ classes led by top industry leaders, and enjoy endless opportunities to network, test out new gear, and grow their portfolios in between sessions.

This upcoming January 31 – February 2, 2027, Imaging USA heads to the Charlotte Convention Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. Even for the seasoned Imaging USA attendee, the conference changes every year. That means there's always something new to look forward to! If you’re an Imaging USA newbie, or you're considering investing in your All-Access Pass, you might be feeling a little overwhelmed. We’ve compiled this guide to identify the basic steps you can take to make a world of a difference at your first Imaging USA experience. 

Save With Discounts

Get the Early Bird Discount by registering for your All-Access pass before October 31! View exclusive travel discounts thorugh Southwest and Delta here as well! If you're in need of a roomate to split the cost of a room, theLoop, PPA's online community for photographers, is a great place to leave a personalized ad. Booking at the host hotel will keep you within walking distance to all the fun! 

For our full list of ways to save, read the article here. 

Learn More About Your Speakers, Follow Us On Social Media

If this is your first time attending, read articles on our photography conference to learn more about classes, photography topics, networking events, and special celebrations planned for our 2027 conference.

Another great way to get a clear picture of what to expect is to follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Following us on social media will give you a look into what's new at Imaging USA 2027, and you'll be able to hear from instructors and learn more about the special events, parties, and celebrations we have in store for you.

Want to get to know your instructors better? Check out the Professional Photographer podcast from PPA. Each episode interviews a different intructor who will be teaching at Imaging USA 2026. PPA's YouTube channel also features tons of Imaging USA speakers giving their best tips and tricks for photography and business. 

Attend Classes at Imaging USA 

The Imaging USA website contain all the relevant information on speakers, parties, award ceremonies, and more. Pick sessions that match your goals. Why are you attending Imaging USA? Are you looking to get a leg up in business? Are you in need of motivation and community? Is it time to make some upgrades to your gear?

At Imaging USA, there’s a class dedicated to nearly every specialty. 

For tons of classes designed to inspire you, filter by “Category” on the Schedule page.

Follow your interests and let your curiosity to get the best of you! Take a step outside of what’s familiar. Perhaps you’ve always had an interest in pet photography, or you’d like to sharpen your Photoshop skills. Now is your chance to get outside of your comfort zone in a community of supportive and enthusiastic photographers!

Register for Pre-conference sessions in Advance!

If you’ve visited the Imaging USA schedule page, it’s likely you’ve seen our Pre-Conference Classes. What are these exactly? We’re glad you asked.

It’s impossible to pack everything into the three days of Imaging USA, and even if we could, we wouldn’t. Pre-Cons are a unique opportunity for photographers to receive more personal attention from instructors in smaller class sizes, with instructors such as Lindsay Adler, Carl Caylor, Ahmad Barber and Donte Maurice (AB+DM), Joe McNally, Jenn Lewis, and more! They take place from Thursday, January 28 to Saturday, January 30, the day before the main Imaging USA conference begins. 

Hands-on Pre-Con classes are classes optimized for hands-on learners. These classes allow attendees to practice new techniques on the spot with their instructor. Because of the personal nature of these classes and the smaller class size, these fill up fast! Be sure to claim your spot at a pre-con now!

Shop Deals on Gear at the Expo 

The variety of products and services that are on display at the Expo is vast, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Come prepared with a goal that will help you leave with what you came for! Ask yourself what equipment you’re itching to get this year for your business or studio and do some reconnaissance. The Imaging USA website is updated with new exhibitors all the time. Once you’ve got your top picks lined up, check the Expo Schedule: 
Sunday, Jan. 31, 11:30am – 5:00pm
Monday, Feb. 1, 11:30am – 5:00pm
Tuesday, Feb. 2, 11:30am – 3:30pm 

The first day of the Expo is historically the busiest, and it begins to wind down as the expo nears an end on Tuesday. You’re likely to experience less of a rush on Monday and Tuesday and more time to connect with vendors and brand representatives.

Once you’re here in Charlotte and entering the expo, pick a side (and a numbered isle) and begin there. You could also walk to the center and work your way out in one direction, slowly covering both halves of the expo. Some people find that taking notes of the places they’d like to return to helps break the expo into manageable chunks. Remember, the Expo is huge! There will be many things to see, touch, and try, and you’ll be inclined to come back for more. 

You’re Never Lost, Just Look for a Red Shirt 

The Charlotte Convention Center is expansive, and it’s got a lot going on! If you need help at any time, flag down a PPA staff members or volunteer wearing a red shirt. We will be happy to assist you!

Comfort is Key

Whether you’re moving around the conference by foot or by wheels, we recommend prioritizing your comfort above all else! Bring shoes and clothes you feel most comfortable in. Don’t forget to bring your reusable water bottle to stay hydrated too. And pack some snacks for the road!

Work Hard, Play Harder

Start the conference off on a high note at Imaging USA’s Welcome Party on Sunday from 8–10pm. On the final day of the conference, take a victory lap at Imaging USA’s Closing Party from 6:30–9:30pm in the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Reconvene one last time with your new friends and celebrate a conference done well!