PPA membership?

[Steelsun]

Hmmm, I too wonder about being forced to purchase insurance through the organization in order to join the organization. I thought that was illegal in Texas (and most other states).

[bondarnes]

Originally Posted by boxofrocks

Don--thanks for that. What option is that? I can't seem to find anthing other than Professional Active, Aspiring Photographer (limited to 2 years and fewer benefits), and Additional associate (add ons for family/employees).

Here's what I could find.

Thanks

Try this link http://www.ppa.com/files/public/mem_app.pdf

[AndrewCCM]

Originally Posted by CobyPhoto

Andrew,

I don't think the definition alone is what guides the membership requirements of PPA. I don't doubt you do put as much into the work as you do the primary job. But the response that you quoted is very applicable in a case like this. PPA is there for those people that DO make their primary income in this area and this is one of the organizations that works on our behalf and our industry.

You have to understand, this isn't aimed at any one person, there has to be requirements in order for PPA's ultimate mission to be sussessful, even thou it keeps certain individuals from being active professional members.

CJ

Sure.. but for photogs that may happen to have a "day job" that they make less at than their photography biz. (For instance, lots of spouses that are supported by another's primary income)...Why should they be afforded the benefits of membership where I cannot? I am penalized because my "day job" pays me more than I make as a photographer? I can almost guarantee that I probably make more at photography than many of the PPA members. Certainly not the vast percentage...but I bet many... But.. I am penalized because I happen to have a higher paying "day job" and my wife is a stay at home mom.

I need to just drop it. It annoys me and reeks of old school narrow minded mentality. I am not knocking the members of PPA btw. I am knocking their current requirements and labels.

On a side note: I was just hired to shoot a wedding in Los Cabos in the fall.. That should be fun. Too bad, I'll have to get insurance elsewhere since I am not a "pro".

[bondarnes]

Originally Posted by AndrewCCM

I need to just drop it. It annoys me and reeks of old school narrow minded mentality. I am not knocking the members of PPA btw. I am knocking their current requirements and labels.

On a side note: I was just hired to shoot a wedding in Los Cabos in the fall.. That should be fun. Too bad, I'll have to get insurance elsewhere since I am not a "pro".

Might be a good idea. Do you really think that PPA or any other group actually checks your IRS filings? As an officer of TPPA which requires you to be available for assignment at least thirty hours per week to be considered an active member, we have never actually checked on any of our almost 1,000 active members.

Every organization has to have rules, guidelines and boundaries, but those are usually more of a service to most members rather than a deterrent to the few. If you say you are a professional photographer then that's good enough for me.

Now what was Kalee's original question?

[AndrewCCM]

Originally Posted by bondarnes

Might be a good idea. Do you really think that PPA or any other group actually checks your IRS filings? As an officer of TPPA which requires you to be available for assignment at least thirty hours per week to be considered an active member, we have never actually checked on any of our almost 1,000 active members.

Every organization has to have rules, guidelines and boundaries, but those are usually more of a service to most members rather than a deterrent to the few. If you say you are a professional photographer then that's good enough for me.

Now what was Kalee's original question?

Points taken. Seems like I read the 30hrs had to be during business hours...But I could be wrong there. I definitely qualify for the 30hrs if it includes nights and weekends where most weddings occur anyway. Anyway, you're right...What was the original question? I apologize for taking it this direction.

Thanks Don.

[na4m]

The PPA does have a student branch - the SPS - Student Photographic Society.

If you qualify the membership is $29/yr. See: http://www.studentphoto.com and look for the link "Join now for $29/yr" for details.

You get the PPA's monthly magazine, student newsletter, some equipment insurance, free access to PPA's annual convention, and other stuff.

Phil