Exciting News: My Role on the TNPPA Board of Directors
Well, here’s some news that’s worth shouting from the rooftops—or at least from the barn aisle!
Not only do I get to capture stunning moments with horses every day at Ride the Sky Equine Photography, but I’ve also stepped into a new leadership role. I’m honored to announce that I’ll be serving as Secretary on the TNPPA Board of Directors for the 2024-2025 term.
This isn’t my first time riding with the Tennessee Professional Photographers Association. I’ve been part of this incredible organization for years and even served on the Board before.
But this year, I’m taking on a new challenge—keeping track of meeting minutes and making sure we’re all on the same page. If I can get a horses and pets to cooperate for adorable images, surely I can handle a little note-taking, right?
What Is the Tennessee Professional Photographers Association?
For those who might not be familiar, the Tennessee Professional Photographers Association (TNPPA) is the ultimate hub for photographers who are serious about their craft. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting your journey, TNPPA offers tools, resources, and community to help you thrive.
Here’s what makes TNPPA so special:
- Education: Workshops, seminars, and hands-on learning experiences to sharpen your skills.
- Networking: A supportive community of photographers ready to share knowledge and encouragement.
- Growth: Resources to help elevate your photography business to the next level.
Think of it as the backstage pass to photography excellence in Tennessee. I’m so proud to be part of a group that’s passionate about empowering photographers to reach new heights.
Why This Role Matters to Me
Sure, having “Secretary of the TNPPA Board” on my resume is pretty cool. But this role is about so much more than a title. It’s about giving back to a community that has supported me through every twist and turn of my photography journey.
The TNPPA Board of Directors works tirelessly to foster a thriving community where photographers can share ideas, challenge themselves, and grow their businesses. I’m excited to contribute to that mission and help create opportunities for photographers across Tennessee to achieve their dreams.
Plus, let’s be honest—I’ve never been one to shy away from a new adventure, whether it’s capturing the perfect equestrian portrait or taking on a leadership role in a professional organization.
Looking Ahead
As I step into this role on the TNPPA Board of Directors, I can’t wait to see what the year has in store. From collaborating with talented photographers to tackling new challenges, this is going to be an exciting chapter.
Stay tuned for updates from both my work with Ride the Sky Equine Photography and my adventures with TNPPA. And if you’re a photographer in Tennessee looking to grow your craft and connect with a supportive community, check out TNPPA’s membership options. Let’s make this year one to remember—both in front of and behind the lens.
Betsy Bird, Cr. Photog., CPP, of Ride the Sky Equine Photography spends her days doing insane things to make animals look at her. Clearly, she’s desperate for attention. Outside of acting like a total goofball, she invests in growing her business, mentoring photographers, dealing with her teenagers' angst, and hanging with Nitro, the best dog ever.
Betsy has earned her Photographic Craftsman degree from the Professional Photographers of America (PPA) which honors photographers who contribute to the photographic industry through speaking, mentoring, and publishing. Betsy is also a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) with PPA. The CPP designation is held by fewer than 2,500 photographers nationwide and is a hallmark of consistency, technical skill, artistry, and professionalism.
Additionally, she serves on the Board of Directors for the Professional Photographers of East Tennessee (PPETN) and the Tennessee Professional Photographers Association (TNPPA). She is also a professional member of the Equine Photographers Network (EPN).
Betsy's award-winning work has been featured in a variety of publications and is found throughout homes and stables in the United States. She is also the co-author of the book, Equine & Equestrian Photography Poses that Sell: The Ultimate Guide to Posing Horses & Humans. She has also been featured on Scenic Trend, the Profitable Photographer Podcast, The Business Animal Podcast, Chatter Magazine, Cowgirls with Cameras Podcast, the Chattanooga Times Free Press, the Chattanoogan, and the Focal Points Podcast to name a few.
Ride the Sky Equine Photography specializes in on-location photography for horses and their equestrians. Ride the Sky Equine Photography is based in Chattanooga, TN and works in Tennessee, North Georgia, and beyond.