Professional organizations...???

[klynam]

My wife and I have a long term goal of transitioning to full time photography. Along that path, there are many milestones...equipment, studio, education, structure, compliance, and associations to name just a few.

Today, I'm curious about Professional Photography Organizations / Associations.

For those of you who ARE members...

• Which organization(s) did you choose and why? (PPA, WPPI, etc.)
• What have been the primary benefits to you in a real world sense? (not the "benefits of membership" blurb from a website)
• Are you an active member of a local chapter/group?

For those of you who ARE NOT members...

• Why not?

[CaptainTom]

I am most active in my local PPA chapter.
Monthly dinner meetings with a presentation/seminar, photo judging, camaraderie, information, etc.

Secondly is TPPA
Texas School, Texas School, Texas School

PPA
insurance, national representation, advice

TPF
daily commiserations and interesting interactions.

[klynam]

Thanks Cap'n...

[bondarnes]

You will get the most benefit from joining the Photopolis Professional Photographers Association and attending their monthly meetings. They usually have a nice meal and a decent program. They are kind of a small group, but a great opportunity for networking.

Second or third depending on whether or not you do weddings would be to become a member of your Stateicus Professional Photographers Association. You will receive free convention registration and the opportunity to attend their internationally acclaimed annual week long Beer Bust and Photography School.

If you photograph weddings I recommend PPA for their indemnification insurance and other insurance, Copyright infringement advocacy, legislative lobbying for photographers rights, and a great annual convention.