January 31 - February 2, 2027 • Charlotte, NC

NEXTGEN AT IMAGING USA 2027

ATTEND IMAGING USA FREE AS A NEXTGEN STUDENT

Students ages 16 to 22 can attend Imaging USA 2027 for free. Sign up for NextGen to get your own NextGen badge and a 3-day All-Access Pass (a $599 value) to classes, the Expo, and the photography community.

Program Requirements

WHO CAN JOIN NEXTGEN

NextGen is open to students ages 16 to 22. You'll need to show proof that you're currently a student, and anyone under 18 needs a signed parent or guardian consent form.

Experience

THE NEXTGEN EXPERIENCE

NextGen gives students a free pass into the main conference. Explore classes, networking events, the Expo, photo walks, competitions, and other Imaging USA Experiences included in an All-Access Pass.

All-Access Pass Benefits

The Full Imaging USA Experience

As a NextGen student, your All-Access Pass opens up the full conference. Use the time to learn, explore, meet people, and see what a professional photography conference can unlock.
THE CLOSING NIGHT PARTY

Celebration

THE CLOSING NIGHT PARTY

Closing night encourages attendees to celebrate, connect, and feel the energy of the photography community before heading home.

Meet other young creatives, photographers, educators, and PPA staff.

Experience the celebration side of the conference.

Make memories and take a victory lap at the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

Stay Connected

Keep the show going before and after Charlotte

Imaging USA is just the start. Here's how to keep the momentum going before you arrive and after you head home.

How to Sign Up

READY TO JOIN NEXTGEN?

Sign up below and we’ll take care of your Imaging USA registration and NextGen badge. You’ll just need proof that you’re a current student, plus a signed parent or guardian consent form if you’re under 18.

SIGN UP FOR NEXTGEN.

Use the form below to save your spot.

If the application does not load, open it here: NextGen Sign-Up Form.

Under 18? Parent or guardian consent is required.

Students under 18 must submit a completed Parent/Legal Guardian Consent Form before their NextGen registration can be finalized. Email the signed form to [email protected].

Download Consent Form

NEXTGEN FAQ

Questions young people ask before signing up

NextGen is PPA's program that brings students to Imaging USA free. NextGen students get a 3-day All-Access Pass and a NextGen badge, so exhibitors and attendees know who they are. Pre-Convention Classes aren’t included and require separate registration and an additional fee.

Current students ages 16 to 22, including PPA student members. Proof of student status is required, and students under 18 need a signed Parent/Legal Guardian Consent Form.

No. There's no volunteer shift. Sign up, show up, and make the most of the conference.

No. NextGen students are responsible for their own travel, lodging, and meals outside included events.

PPA reviews your sign-up, registers you for Imaging USA, and prepares your NextGen badge. You'll get an email with details on where to pick it up.

Start with the First-Time Attendee Guide for keynotes, IPC, the Expo, and tips for planning your schedule.

YOUR FIRST IMAGING USA IS ON US.