Professional Photographers of America Members Offer Photography Labs and Workshops

Professional photographers are quite often willing to share their knowledge and mentor members of the trade who are just starting out or want to learn new techniques. The next chance is coming to photography studios around the country October 26, with Professional Photographers of America's (PPA) "Super Monday" event.

"Newcomers to our photographic events often comment about how pleasantly surprised they are with the warm welcome they receive and the openness of other photographers in sharing success stories and tips of the trade," says Ron Nichols, PPA's president. "These days, anyone with $1,000 can purchase a quality camera and call themselves a photographer; however, the best camera in the world won't compensate for poor technique. In photography, as in other professions, producing a quality product requires training and mentoring."

Super Monday features educational classes around the nation, hosted by professional photographers for photographers. A wide variety of subjects are available in many cities, so photographers (and those who seek to learn photography) can find the education they want at almost any skill level. Classes feature instruction on posing and lighting techniques, business and marketing training and better use of software tools (like Adobe® Photoshop® and Corel® Painter™).

These classes are designed to be hands-on and deliver practical knowledge that students can put to work immediately. Getting photographers face-to-face in a small group, lab-like setting allows them to better learn techniques and practice with professional photographers who have successfully used the skills being taught. PPA members who teach classes earn merits toward photographic craftsman degrees.

"Super Monday classes are working sessions--as much perspiration as inspiration," says Nichols.

October's attendees will also receive bonus packs filled with valuable coupons for products and services from photographic industry sponsors.

Super Monday workshops are offered twice each year, in the fall and spring. To find out more, or to register for fall 2009 Super Monday opportunities, visit www.ppa.com/supermonday.