I was chatting with some newer photographers the other day, and wow, the buzz around the Professional Photographers of America’s Imaging USA 2025 is already happening.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or stepping into your first conference, there’s no denying that Imaging USA is a whirlwind of activity. But don’t worry, I’ve got your back!
Here are some essential Imaging USA tips to help you not just survive, but thrive at this epic photography event.
List It, Prioritize It, Crush It
Let’s start with some real talk. Imaging USA is an information overload waiting to happen. Between the meetings, the classes, the pre-con workshops, the parties, the International Photographic Cup, the speakers, the expo, and the thousands of photographers running around, it’s just organized chaos.
The secret to conquering it? Be picky about what you take in. I’m not just talking about the event itself, though sure, it’s definitely wise to think carefully about what things you attend.
For example, little ole introverted me can’t think of anything she would like to do less than attend a huge ruckus opening night party. But, dinner out with some photographer friends from across the country that only see once or twice a year in person? Sign me up!
I’m also talking about during the classes and workshops.
Attending 3 days of non-stop speakers can be a lot of information coming at you fast and furious.
IUSA Tip #1
Be Picky about what you take in.
One great tip is to make notes during each speaker of the most actionable nuggets they give you. In other words, what did they say that you can implement in your business in one week, one month, or one quarter?
As you go from speaker to speaker, keep adding to your list of actionable items. In your downtime during the expo, or immediately upon arriving home, prioritize the actionable tips. Aim to implement at least three of these takeaways. You’ll walk away feeling like you’ve truly leveled up, without the post-conference overwhelm.
Expo Strategy: Less is More
The expo at Imaging USA? It’s like a candy store for photographers.
But here’s the thing— it can be super tempting to buy ALLLLL the things! After all, you might need that $5,000 printer in order to get your business off the ground…right??
IUSA Tip #2
When it comes to the Expo, have a plan.
if you try to see everything, you’ll end up with a case of decision paralysis or a lighter wallet.
And, if you are an introvert like me, a place like the expo with all the noise, chaos, and something happening everywhere you look can be an auditory and visual nightmare.
Instead, take a look at the expo map beforehand and pick out a few key booths to visit. Last year, I narrowed it down to seven and let me tell you, it was a game-changer. I got what I needed, skipped the fluff, stayed within my budget, and most importantly, didn’t feel like I needed to go take some ibuprofen and lay down in a quiet room for an hour to recover.
Don’t Settle for Less: Make the Most of Your Time at Imaging USA
Let’s be real for a second. We’ve all been there — sitting in a session that sounded amazing on paper, but once you’re in there, it’s just not hitting the mark. Maybe the speaker took a left turn into a topic that doesn’t quite jive with what you need, or maybe it’s just not as relevant to your business as you hoped.
Here’s my advice: don’t stick it out just to be polite. Seriously, if it’s not helping you grow as a photographer, get up and leave!
I know, it can feel awkward, but trust me, no one’s going to give you the side-eye.
Everyone at Imaging USA is there for the same reason—to soak up as much valuable information as possible. And with so many sessions happening simultaneously, odds are there’s another one that’s a better fit for you just a few doors down.
In fact, I often find myself torn between two or more sessions that I’m eager to attend.
IUSA Tip #3
Not Interesting? Find something that is!
If the first one isn’t delivering what I need, I don’t hesitate to head to the next. Time is too precious, and there’s too much gold to be mined at Imaging USA to waste a minute in the wrong room.
Real-Life Connections > Online Likes
Sure, we’re all about that online life, but nothing beats connecting in person. Imaging USA is your chance to catch up with your photography crew and make new friends.
IUSA Tip #4
Make time to hang out with your Zoom photographer friends!
If your life has been anything like mine over the last few years, much of my connection is done with other photographers through Zoom and other online meetings.
It’s great to be able to meet up with the people that I see smiling at me on Zoom in-person. Those in-person connections are vital to making us feel connected in the photography world. I am active in several photography organizations that are spread throughout the United States. And, imaging USA offers me an opportunity to see my friends in those other organizations in person.
Whether it’s grabbing a coffee or just a quick chat, those face-to-face moments will recharge your creative batteries like nothing else.
Make the Expo Your In-Person Sales Playground
If you’re into in-person sales or considering launching it in your business, the expo at Imaging USA is a great opportunity to see, touch, and feel the products you’re thinking about offering. WITHOUT having to spend the money to purchase a sample.
So often we end up purchasing a sample product for a few hundred dollars only to discover it doesn’t resonate with ourselves or our clients, or the quality isn’t what we wanted.
Take your time to check out the labs and vendors that catch your eye. And remember—don’t waste money on samples you’ll never use. Go in with a plan, explore, and make smart decisions.
Pro Tip: Don’t be intimidated in talking with the people who are there representing the photography labs. Ask them questions. Pick their brains. If they don’t know the answer, they will find out and get back to you after the expo.
IUSA Tip #5
Learn about products BEFORE you buy samples.
Pick their brains. If they don’t know the answer, they will find out and get back to you after the expo.
Don’t Miss the Hidden Gems
Heads up—some of the best insights at Imaging USA don’t happen in the main sessions. Keep an eye on who’s speaking at the expo booths. Those 20-minute talks can be packed with gold.
IUSA Tip #6
Make sure to check out the speakers on the Expo floor.
In the past, these speakers have not been listed in the IUSA app for your phone. You actually have to go down to the expo floor and look at which booths are hosting speakers. There is usually a sign outside those booths with the dates/times and speaker names.
It is well worth a time in trouble to check out who is expected to speak and make a plan to attend the ones that sound interesting to you. So, take a quick scan of the schedule and mark down any that catch your eye.
Community Leaders, This One’s for You
If you’re a community leader – whether on your local or state photography board – you won’t want to miss the community leaders meeting.
This meeting is usually held the day before Imaging starts. It is a chance to connect with other leaders, share ideas, and tackle challenges together.
Trust me, you’ll leave inspired and ready to bring fresh ideas back to your community.
IUSA Tip #7
Network, Connect, & Inspire and Be Inspired
Pace Yourself: It’s a Marathon, Not a Sprint
IUSA Tip #8
Balance is the key to a successful IUSA.
Imaging USA is a three-day marathon of learning, fun, and—let’s be real—noise. And, if you attend any pre-con classes, you might be there for up to six days. It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement, but remember to pace yourself.
It’s okay to take breaks, skip a session, or retreat for some quiet time. Balance is key to soaking up all Imaging USA has to offer without burning out.
Ready to Rock Imaging USA?
So, are you feeling ready to take on Imaging USA like a pro? With these tips in your toolkit, you’re all set to make the most of this amazing event. Got any questions or need more advice? Drop a comment below or reach out—I’m here to help you navigate the chaos and come out on top!
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. She also tries to spend some time educating and entertaining aspiring photographers by teaching and blogging about whatever catches her fancy at the moment.
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 is based in Chattanooga, TN, Ride the Sky Equine Photography works on location in Tennessee, North Georgia, and beyond. With a strong background in entrepreneurship, brand building, goal setting, time management, and business workflows, Betsy is an expert in her field (which isn’t that surprising given how much time she actually spends outstanding in a field...get it?)