Grand Rapids, MI—Pro Imaging Expo’s newest event, Pro Imaging CONNECT, is aimed at education and networking for individuals in the pro lab, vertically integrated school/sports photography and retail photography.
In addition, Pro Imaging CONNECT announced the major speakers for its inaugural conference. The event is April 12–13, 2019 at the Mission Hills Resort and Club in Howey-in-the-Hills, Florida.
“The goal of Pro Imaging CONNECT is to bring together executives from different segments of the photo-imaging industry to share ideas as well as build relationships,” said Toren Prawdzik, conference organizer and president of Photo EVO. “Digital technology is breaking down the barriers between the amateur photography, the professional photography and graphic arts markets. Moreover, PI CONNECT unites these industry interests to build relationships for the future.”
Gary Pageau, editor of the Dead Pixels Society, a photo-imaging networking group, is responsible for the event’s programming.
Pro Imaging CONNECT Day 1 Highlights
PI CONNECT kicks off on April 12 with an afternoon examining the rapid changes in the volume photography as well as digital photography markets. Here are the highlights.
Kaboom! Thoughts about the Future of School Photography
Mark Schoenrock, PSP Consulting, discusses the changing competitive landscape; the impact of the millennials; and also the emerging role of mobile technology in volume photography. The presentation is sponsored by CaptureLife.
Selling the Digital Experience in Photography
If photography companies don’t react and provide customers a digital mobile experience, the entire industry is at risk. Join TW Woodward, host of the Hanging Pixels Podcast, as he explores the dramatic shift needed for the photo industry to remain relevant in this quickly evolving landscape.
Pro Imaging CONNECT Day 2 Highlights
Saturday, April 13, features a daylong array of executive, legal and marketing information that will inform attendees on ways to grow their businesses.
The Role of Printing & Output in Today’s Photography Market
David Haueter, Keypoint Intelligence – InfoTrends, discusses the drivers and barriers that are impacting the market. He dives into the who, what, when, where and why behind the print and photo merchandise markets. Haueter specifically focuses on books, cards and wall décor products. The session is sponsored by Mediaclip.
The Legal Protection You Need to Know
Darren Spielman, Esq, Kain Spielman PA, discusses trademarks, trade secrets, domain name disputes, copyrights, and also first amendment law. The discussion includes slander, libel and defamation.
Greatest Threat to School Photography
Mike Watkinson, CTO, Edge Imaging, and Dan Boudreau, CEO, Edge Imaging, present this session. They explore why cyber security and privacy is the greatest threat to the industry. They also cover what we can collectively do to mitigate it.
The Big Reveal: Online Design and Digital Marketing Trends Every Entrepreneur Should Watch
Ginger Hartford, EurDesign Studio, highlights emerging digital and marketplace trends. They range from leading brands across online art, e-commerce, designer and also decorative home furnishing channels. The seminar is sponsored by ColorCentric Corp.
Additional Programming
Two interactive panels also offer the opportunity for lively discussion.
In addition, the New Business Concepts panel discussion features Ron Mohney, The Print Refinery, IPI Member Network; and Haim Ariav of Glossy Finish.
Moreover, Output Services in the Home Decor Market features Lisa Nunley of Artsy Couture.
The conference will also feature short vendor presentations from Lablogics, LexJet, Felix Schoeller North America, Softworks Systems and PhotoLynx.
Furthermore, the event is adjacent to the Pro Imaging Golf and Future Imaging Symposium, which takes place April 13–17 at the Mission Hills Resort and Club. Pro Imaging Expo features networking, education and golf events for the imaging industry. Pro Imaging Golf, now partnering with SGIA, hosts more than 144 industry attendees in North Orlando, Florida, for three days of activities. They include golf, parties, networking events and educational events.
