You might be wondering are photography conferences worth it with all of the time, expense, and possible travel? We would say a big, resounding YES! Conferences can offer you a lot, but you want to make sure you choose one that best fits what you are wanting to focus on. Here are four reasons why you should add a conference to your to-do list this year:
To get smarter: One thing that conferences offer that workshops don’t is the chance to learn from multiple industry leaders. Workshops are great when you want that specific one-on-one intensive education from someone. At a conference, however, you’ll be able to learn about a variety of topics from handling clients, marketing, new techniques, finding your voice, or just gaining an overall new perspective about your business.
To build your community: Let’s face it, being a photographer can get lonely at times. Many times, our “co-workers” are those that we’ve connected with online through social media. Conferences can offer you a chance to meet face-to-face with people you may know only online and make new industry friends in the process.
To reset: After a busy season, creativity can sometimes take a hit and leave you feeling burned out. A conference could be just what you need to get a refresh and gather some inspiration from others. You can see what new trends are taking place, find a new perspective of photographing your clients, or even find a new technique to implement into your process. There are so many ways to get your creative juices flowing. Hearing someone else speak passionately about their craft could be just what you need to get motivated again.
To find new stuff: Most conferences have a great vendor expo and it’s a great time to find what you need for your business. Whether it’s a new album vendor, a new kind of camera strap, or an online gallery company, you can make it your mission to stop by and see what the companies are all about. Having the chance to see or touch the products is a great advantage to going to the expos.
Do you incorporate conferences into your calendar? If so, we’d love to know where you’ll be this year!
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