The lessons from an article I wrote five years ago are still valid. Photography learning season is ramping up. For me, the next convention is Imaging USA in Grapevine, TX at the Gaylord Convention Center. I’ve attended a lot of conventions over the years and learned a thing or two about getting the most bang for the buck in this environment. Let me know if you have any other ideas in the comments below!
Education programs
List the programs that you want to see and keep that a working list. Choose the ones that will help you with business, marketing, sales and, of course, photography and lighting skills.
Get to the programs early and introduce yourself to your neighbors and ask questions. I’ve learned as much doing this as I have in programs, which can double your take home info!
Don’t try to write down everything a speaker is saying. Make general notes on “take-aways” that you wish to implement in your business. You will probably have 8-10 from each program. Don’t get bogged down into taking too many notes, as you’ll end up missing lots of info. This is extremely important! Learn about things you need to learn… Don’t try to learn it all on site. (See post-convention advice below.)
Clothing choices
Be comfortable in your clothing! But in my opinion you should still look professional. You never know whom you are going to meet. Remember that you never get a second chance to make a first impression. One of those professionals you meet could mean serious recommendations for work. I recommend a business casual. And, really important, wear comfortable shoes! There’s a LOT of walking getting from class to class and on the trade show floor. The convention is in a completely covered complex under roof and climate controlled. I recommend having a sweater or fleece you can pop on or off to stay comfortable in rooms that might be a bit on the chill side. Layers are important.
Stay hydrated
I carry a refillable water bottle. To make it more convenient, I use an old 70-200mm lens case to keep my hands free. IUSA is working toward being greener and will be selling refillable water bottles. There will also be refill water stations on site. Staying hydrated is not only important for your comfort; it keeps you healthy as well. Not to mention it saves you money (a bottle of water can cost the Earth in convention hotel environments). Drinking enough water each day is important. It helps to regulate body temperature, keeps your joints lubricated, helps prevent infections, delivers nutrients to your body and aids digestion. Being well-hydrated also improves sleep quality, brain function and keeps your mood up. Did I mention it’s a good idea to drink plenty of water?
Make the most of the trade show floor
Make a list of companies you want info from so you don’t miss out on the trade show floor. Folks who run conventions are supported by the vendors that attend. You can often get special deals and prices by spending your money with them. That makes it a win-win-win. You get a deal. the vendor gets a new client or makes a sale and the people who run the convention get a return trade show business the following year. Here’s the list of exhibitors so you can start your list for this year.
Do you have vendors with which you already work that are showing? Go meet them. Putting faces to names, and getting your face in front of them, can lead to extra service.
Make a list of new equipment and/or software you are interested in and visit with those vendors. See your listed vendors first and if there’s still time wander and see what’s new.
Get inspiration
By the way, in my opinion, participating in an Image Competition is one of the strongest and fastest ways to improve your photography. If you wait until you think you are “ready” your improvement will be much slower. Use the inspiration to get you going.
This year, the IUSA image competition has been ramped up. There will be live judging, and for the first time, cash prizes. Attend the judging events and visit the image display. Inspiration awaits there!
Networking
Rubbing elbows with new people is a great way to learn more. If you travel with another photographer from your hometown don’t hang with them the entire time because it’s more comfortable. Expand your network.
Meet up with other photographers for a coffee, an adult beverage, lunch or dinners. I have learned tons over a beer at the bar. At the PPA convention if you see people with ribbons and metals around their neck think of that as permission to ask questions. These are people who have participated in image competition and sharing their knowledge through teaching programs throughout their careers.
Post convention
Following the convention, set aside a day or at least a morning to review your “take-aways” and prioritize them in order of importance. Calendar in hand, schedule time each week (or each day) to work on the items on your list in order of importance. You should probably have about six months or more worth of things to learn, practice and implement. This will ensure that you actually use the info you learn rather than going back to the next convention saying “Oh, that was a great idea! I meant to do that last year…”
Best of luck to you on your convention. If you are in Grapevine for IUSA look for me. If have any questions don’t hesitate to ask.
Yours in Creative Photography,
Bob
