Skip the Excuses—Imaging USA 2026 Is Where Photographers Grow Up

Ready to level up your photography in 2026? The year’s most significant creative jumpstart is happening at PPA’s Imaging USA, and you don’t want to miss it.

Since 1868, Professional Photographers of America has supported photographers and now serves more than 35,000 professionals who want to elevate their craft and business. Through education, resources, community, and the most significant event that brings all of this together—Imaging USA—PPA helps photographers grow. While the first conference was held in 1869, the name Imaging USA emerged in the early 2000s. Unlike many trade shows, Imaging USA is fully staffed by a fun, knowledgeable, member-focused team based in Atlanta.

Education 

Education is the heart of Imaging USA. The programming is designed to meet photographers’ needs, addressing technical, creative, and business pain points with classes that inspire growth, build confidence, and strengthen long-term success. Nowhere else will you find this level of education.

Get in on the action before Imaging USA kicks off with pre-conference classes January 8–10. These classes take place before the main conference and give you the chance to:

• Maximize your overall conference experience.

• Learn new shooting techniques or business strategies.

• Get hands-on practice before the show begins and connect more deeply with peers.

• Build confidence for long-term professional growth.

Attend hands-on and deep-dive pre-con classes with minimal lecture time, instructor demonstrations, and structured coursework. During the main conference, January 11–13, attendees can explore a broad range of classes, including live demos, hands-on learning, and focused sessions across all genres of photography. There is something for everyone, unlike many photography conferences.

New Events + Initiatives in 2026 

PhotoVision Theater: Take a seat at the PhotoVision Theater and watch new feature films and videos from PhotoVision Educators, including Mitzi Starkweather, Kevin Dooley, and Vanessa Joy. On Tuesday, January 12, there will be a special live session featuring eight PhotoVision educators, giving their best tidbits of wisdom, advice, and motivation to photographers. It will be a great way to close out the conference experience! Stick around till the end for a meet-and-greet. The event runs from 3:30 pm to 4:45 pm.

The Listening Room on the Road: Writers Room: Soak up the talent of Nashville’s most remarkable songwriters. Chris Blair, founder of The Listening Room Café and host of the Stories Behind the Songs podcast, is bringing “The Listening Room on the Road: Writers Room” to Imaging USA 2026. Three local musicians will share the stories behind their greatest hits and treat attendees to a live acoustic performance of their songs. Join Adam Hambrick, Emily Shackleton, and Emmet Stevens Jr. on Sunday night from 5:00 pm to 6:15 pm.

Spanish Classes & Live Translation Services: Building on its commitment to accessibility and community, Imaging USA will now provide new ways for Spanish-speaking photographers to learn, connect, and succeed. For 2026, attendees can access real-time interpretation through Interprefy, a cloud-based technology that offers live translation and captions directly on their devices. With Interprefy, Spanish-speaking photographers can follow all English-taught classes during the main show days (January 11–13) in Spanish. For attendees who are deaf or hard of hearing, Interprefy can also deliver live captions in your chosen language. Spanish-speaking interpreters will also be available in our Registration area to assist with check-in and answer any questions you may have.

Top Highlights

Opening Keynote: Matthew Emerzian is the  2026 Keynote Speaker. His powerful message will inspire you to embrace your impact, reignite your purpose, and remember why you matter—in life, work, and photography. You can learn more about his presentation here. The opening keynote kicks off Imaging USA on Sunday, January 11.

Networking Avenue: Links photographers from various specialties with peers in specific topic areas. It offers them an opportunity to expand their portfolios by photographing professionally styled models at our designated photography bays. Additionally, a cash bar is available.

Imaging USA Expo: Whether you’re looking for gear, camera lenses, or services to enhance your photography business, the Imaging USA Expo offers everything you need. Experience new products firsthand from 130 reputable vendors, enjoy free expo merchandise, and take advantage of exclusive discounts throughout the event.

Ways to Save

Save on your registration to the show with discounts on hotel stays, flights, and more!

Learn more here.

If you're a new photographer or a seasoned pro, Imaging USA has something for everyone. Take the time to improve your photography by investing in yourself, discover lifelong friends through networking, and learn from the best in the industry!