Stepping into Service: Real Talk About Leading PPETN in 2026

Quick Answer

As the PPETN Chairman 2026, my goal is simple: build a year rooted in service, strategy, and community. But let’s be honest—none of it moves without a collaborative board and a membership that shows up. This isn’t about titles; it’s about doing the work that actually matters.

A New Season of Service in 2026

Here’s the thing: stepping into the PPETN Chairman 2026 role isn’t some “watch me shine” moment. It’s more like: Alright, let’s fix what needs fixing and build what actually moves the needle.

When I was elected, there weren’t fireworks.
There was responsibility.
And opportunity.
And the quiet hum of a community wondering, “So… what’s next?”

This isn’t a press release.
It’s a real look at what leadership requires—and what this year deserves.

The Heart of PPETN — A Community That Grows Together

PPETN isn’t defined by one person.
It’s defined by a room full of photographers who teach each other, challenge each other, and occasionally prevent each other from throwing their cameras during a session.

Encouraging Emerging and Seasoned Photographers to Share Knowledge

You can’t automate chaos.
And you can’t grow an industry if its members are hoarding information like it’s a competitive sport.

Cross-generational learning is one of our greatest strengths.
We’re going to lean into that.

What I Hope to Build in 2026

This isn’t a dreamy vision board. It’s a practical roadmap for a year that actually works.

None of This Happens Alone — The Strength of a Collaborative Board

Let’s not pretend the Chairman sits on a throne making magic. Every single thing we accomplish in 2026 will be because the board works together.

Ideas are easy. Execution takes teamwork, accountability, and people who show up without ego.

• Bringing in Speakers Who Inspire Both Artistry and Business Savvy: Because if your artistry is brilliant but your business model is duct tape and hope, we’ve got a problem.
• Creating Workshops That Go Beyond the Technical: Let’s talk mindset, storytelling, sustainability, and service—the things that build businesses that survive past busy season.
• Strengthening Pathways Toward PPA Degrees and Certifications: Structure matters. Credentials build confidence. And confidence builds careers. 2026 is a great year to level up.

Leading With Heart (And a Strategy That Works)

Leadership isn’t about being the loudest in the room. It’s about showing up with integrity, humility, and a willingness to fix what’s broken.

• Ensuring Every Member Feels Seen: The goal isn’t a louder spotlight. It’s a wider table.
• Helping Photographers Find What Feels Authentically Theirs: Trends come and go. But authenticity keeps a business steady when everything else shifts.

Let’s focus there.

Strengthening Our Presence in East Tennessee

PPETN shouldn’t feel like a secret society. We’re part of the creative backbone of this region—and it’s time the broader community sees that.

• Building Relationships with Local Businesses and Creatives: Partnerships open doors talent alone can’t.
• Showcasing Member Work in Local Spaces and Events: Visibility isn’t vanity. It’s strategy.
• Raising Awareness of What Professional Photography Brings: Because the “my cousin has a nice camera” era needs a firm, polite ending.

Looking Ahead With Pragmatic Optimism

Here’s my commitment as PPETN Chairman 2026:

This year won’t be about doing more for the sake of more. It’ll be about doing what matters—and doing it well.

With the board, the membership, and a shared willingness to build smart—not just big—we can create a year worth remembering.

Fix the foundation.
Then go be fancy.

FAQ

Will there be new workshops or programs?

Yes. In fact, our schedule for 2026 is already up on the website. Make sure to check out all the amazing programming here: https://ppetn.com/events

How can photographers get involved with PPETN?

Attend meetings, ask questions, volunteer, and share your expertise. Community happens when people participate. 

Is the Professional Photographers of East Tennessee a good fit for new photographers?

Absolutely. If you’re ready to learn and contribute, you’ll find support, education, and a community that cares.

Betsy Bird, M.Photog.Cr., CPP, TPM, TSD, of Ride the Sky Equine Photography, spends her days doing insane things to make animals look at her. Clearly, she’s desperate for attention. When she’s not mentoring photographers, wrangling teenagers, or acting like a total goofball, she’s hanging with Derby—the puppy currently training to be office assistant (jury’s still out on whether “chewing cords” counts as a legitimate job skill).

Betsy has earned both her Master of Photography and Photographic Craftsman degrees from the Professional Photographers of America (PPA). She also holds the CPP, TPM, and TSD designations and currently serves on the Board of Directors of both the Professional Photographers of East Tennessee (PPETN) and the Tennessee Professional Photographers Assocation (TNPPA).

An award-winning photographer, Betsy is also a published author, national presenter, and frequent podcast guest. Her book, Equine & Equestrian Photography Poses that Sell, has become a resource for photographers, and she’s been featured on The Profitable Photographer Podcast, The Business Animal Podcast, Cowgirls with Cameras Podcast, The Focal Points Podcast, and more.

Through her digital tools, courses, and mentoring programs, Betsy teaches photographers how to build profitable businesses without the overwhelm. She is an expert in her field (which isn’t that surprising given how much time she actually spends outstanding in a field… get it?).