So I'm at the point where I'm starting to figure out my advertising & networking budgets, and how best to utilize them. And as I've been thinking things through today, I started researching these two orgs a bit.

I know there are some definite advantages to PPA (the legal stuff comes up frequently). They have an option for what they call "aspiring" photographers that does not include being part of the referral database, and you can only use this option for the first two years of membership. Is being the referral database important in the first two years of business? Am I likely to get even a single referral from them? And of course, how important is it really to join?

For WPPI--similar questions. I can see a little more appeal here because it's so specific to weddings, but realistically, is this a good investment or should I be dedicating that money elsewhere?

Any advice is appreciated!
--V

Hi,

I'm a member of both. I think they compliment each other. WPPI offfers a great conference in Las Vegas every year and if your not a member or unlucky enough not to have a friend that will share their buy one get one free admission with you, you will be charged the $99 membership it you attend. Rangefinder is a great magazine although I don't know if you need to be a member of WPPI to get it.

PPA on the other hand offers gerat year round support. From the ongoing educational seminars, to the large and small conferences, Lobbying in Washington DC on behalf of Professional Photographers and finally the ability to pick up the phone and get advice (from the Indemnity Trust for Wedding and Portrait photographers)all make PPA a great organization to join. Also keep in mind that PPA offers the option to join a State affiliate where you will receive most if not all of the benefits of the national organization at a cheaper rate.

I forgot to mention that PPA also offers certification and degrees which I don't think that WPPI offers. And Professional Photographer magazine.

I can't speak to the value of the referral database. I've always been skeptical if a bride would really search there for a photographer or not. I don't think joining will make or break your business, but I'm sure it doesn't hurt to have their logo on your website or marketing material.

You need to decide what you want from the organization. If you can join both do so. I think it's a good investment.



Ryan

being a member of PPA is COMPLETELY worth it. the ~$300/year membership is a nominal price to pay for the legal protection that they offer, and their "find a photographer" database is pretty neat. you can download all kinds of legal forms and information off the PPA members website, and you can call them any time should you ever have something come up or if you just have a question for them.

not being a member of WPPI, i can't go into much detail about their membership, but i do know that you can get rangefinder magazine for free by going to http://www.rangefindermag.com

I'm a member of PPA's first 2-year program, so I'm not in their referral database, but they've been super helpul so far. I've called them on a few occasions for legal advice and they were very thorough. In addition, you can tell potential clients that you're a member. I think it adds to credibility.

WPPI- 1 HUGE vote YES.

Worth every dollar!

dennis

I wouldn't categorize WPPI and PPA under advertising/networking, professional development is the best fit. While the benefits of joining these organizations are clear (A voice in Washington, Professional development, Access to resources, Conferences, Magazines, etc) I certainly wouldn't say they bring clients through the doors, not in hoards anyway.

Your membership in any professional organization is like any other, you get out what you put in. Do get involved with your local chapter, volunteer to set up chairs, make phone calls or cleanup at events. Offer to help plan. Do the work no one else wants to do. You'll get acquainted with some of the other photographers you admire. You'll also find opportunities open up that haven't before. Most importantly, some of the brilliance another photographer has might just rub off on you.

IMO, WPPI is a must. I started my photography business only a few years ago, after attending the WPPI convention in 2004. The information I received helped me jump start my business very rapidly, and today I am very busy and successful. I attend every year, and it is the best monetary investment I have made towards my continual success in this field. Between the seminars, and networking with the 10,000+ photographers that attend, you will gain the knowledge you seek.

Ron

As mentioned above, these should not in any way be considered advertising/marketing costs. WPJA might actually fall into that category, but WPPI and PPA are going to benefit you more in professional development opportunities rather than in marketing opportunities. Of course, if you attend the professional development opportunities, you are likely to find better ways of marketing your business... but I would not use either of them as a marketing strategy.

PPA - for the sheer wealth of knowledge, resources, and connections
WPPI - for the convention and link to relevant vendors