Kenny Rogers Highlights Imaging USA in Phoenix

From Imaging USA:

Annual International Photography Convention and Expo Heads to Phoenix

Phoenix, AZ – November 15, 2013 – Imaging USA, the annual get together for professional photographers, is bringing photography education, networking and inspiration to Phoenix this winter.

Just two months away, the 2014 edition of Imaging USA is set for Jan. 12 to14 at the Phoenix Convention Center in Phoenix, Ariz. More than 10,000 industry professionals will descend upon the Valley of the Sun for the three day convention.

Imaging USA is organized by Professional Photographers of America (PPA), the world’s largest non-profit photography association. The event features a three-day Imaging EXPO tradeshow with more than 600 booths, several all-inclusive parties and more than 100 speeches, presentations and hands-on demonstrations by some of the most respected names in the photographic industry.

This year, Imaging USA will feature a man more known for music than his photography, the legendary singer songwriter Kenny Rogers. Rogers, who was just inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame with a stirring tribute at the Country Music Awards, will be on-hand at Imaging USA to be recognized by PPA for his imagery with an honorary master of photography degree. He will also present his new photography book, give an hour-long Q&A to discuss his life and photography and an exhibit of his work will be display throughout the convention.

“We could see in his work that Mr. Rogers is an accomplished photographer, but when we approached him about the honorary master’s degree, we were immediately impressed with his enthusiasm for photography,” said PPA president, Ralph Romaguera Sr., M.Photog.Cr., CPP, API, F-ASP. “He’s obviously well-known as an entertainer, but he truly is a remarkably talented photographer. PPA is excited to honor Kenny and have him share his passion with us all in Phoenix.”

Rogers will receive his degree along with the 161 other photographers who earned PPA degrees in 2013. Immediately following PPA’s Award and Degree ceremony will be the inaugural presentation of the World Photographic Cup (WPC). Twenty three countries from all over the globe formed teams to participate in the first-ever WPC, an event geared to unite photographers in a spirit of friendship and cooperation, and crown the best photography in the world.

Along with Kenny Rogers are programs from some of the biggest names in photography. Imaging USA’s renowned educational classes are geared to improve a photographer’s business skills, photographic repertoire and use of photography and post-production technologies. The event also features several photographic exhibits, mentoring opportunities, portfolio reviews and much more.

Imaging USA is the longest running international photographic convention, expo and image exhibition in the world, drawing thousands of professionals from across the globe. The event dates back to 1880, when it began as the annual convention and trade show for PPA. It continues to grow and evolve along with industry trends and technology.

Because PPA believes in the value Imaging USA provides, it offers a free full-registration to Imaging USA as a perk for new members. Professional Active PPA memberships are available for $27.92 a month.

For everyone else, there are many different ways to experience Imaging USA, including but not limited to the full conference, a full conference plus pre-conference courses option, tradeshow only, the International Photographic Competition and off-site classes throughout the surrounding areas.

Visit imagingusa.org for complete registration information and pricing options. And keep checking back for updates to the event schedule.