Las Vegas, NV—The annual Wedding & Portrait Photography International (WPPI) Conference + Expo is host to 100+ seminars, classes, photo walks and networking opportunities. In addition, more than 13,000 photographers will gather to view the latest imaging technology from cameras to printers, software and accessories from 200+ manufacturers.
The three-day WPPI Expo is the biggest photo event of the year for professional, amateur and emerging wedding and portrait photographers. While exploring the trade show floor, they can test-drive the latest products, discover new trends and solutions and also grab up some special show deals on photo equipment and accessories. The event also provides ample occasions for networking and community. Whether an early bird or night owl, attendees can learn, share and participate in activities tailored for the photographic community at WPPI.
WPPI’s day begins with the annual Fun Run as well as Photo Walks led by leading photographers and instructors. A full day of seminars, the WPPI Expo and a variety of other experiential activities follow. Then when the sun goes down, check out some of the hottest nightclubs and social gathering places in Las Vegas.
“Education has always been the foundation of WPPI, but education comes in all forms and occurs in places outside the classroom,” says Theresa Raffetto, director of Conferences at WPPI. “Opportunities for attendees to learn, share and network with friends and colleagues during WPPI literally begin when the sun comes up and continue long after it sets.”
WPPI 2018 Networking Events
Live Print, Album & Filmmaking Judging
Great Hall, Excalibur Hotel, Las Vegas
Saturday, February 24: 8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
Sunday, February 25: 8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
Over the course of two days of intense discussion and learning, more than 3,000 entries are judged in eight rooms by 40+ judges. Full Platform Pass holders will have the opportunity to watch entries get evaluated while hearing direct feedback from the judges. A Full Platform Pass is required to attend.
Launch Pad
Islanders A-H, Mandalay Bay
Sunday, February 25: 3:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.
Launch Pad offers an exclusive look at innovative products and software solutions from dozens of WPPI exhibitors before the expo officially opens. The event is also an opportunity to mix and mingle with the media, leading imaging manufacturers and colleagues in a friendly social setting.
LIGHT Nightclub
WPPI Kick-Off Party at Mandalay Bay
Sunday, February 25: 8:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.
$25 admission includes an open bar: Photo+ members only.
Dance the night away with the WPPI community before the conference and expo begin. Open to PHOTO+ members only, LIGHT combines cutting-edge creativity with great music to produce a new kind of nightlife experience.
WPPI POP (Power of Print) Live
Expo Floor in Bayside C, Mandalay Bay
Monday, February 26 and Tuesday, February 27
Photographic prints are still a thriving part of any photographer’s business. During the expo, WPPI teams up with the editors of Rangefinder to discover the photographers who are using the Power of Print to build their businesses. Attendees are welcome to hear their stories and learn how they can grow their own photography business through the Power of Print.
#WPPIStudio
Monday, February 26 through Wednesday, February 28
Sponsored by B&H Photo
#WPPIStudio offers attendees a unique opportunity to put a variety of new photo and video gear to the test. They can try out cameras, lenses and lighting in a series of photo vignettes complete with interesting objects and live models.
WPPI 2018 Fun Run
Tuesday, February 27: 7:00 a.m.
Start the day with a 1.5 mile run (jog, walk or crawl) up the Vegas Strip. The annual WPPI Fun Run is a great way to get the creative juices flowing before taking on another day of learning, sharing and networking.
WPPI After Hours
Eye Candy at Mandalay Bay
Late Nights Sunday, February 25 to Wednesday, February 28
The unofficial official hangout of WPPI 2018, the Eye Candy bar at Mandalay Bay is the perfect place to meet, connect and hang out with friends and colleagues throughout the conference.
It’s also a great place to begin the evening’s festivities, because the fun continues long after the sun goes down. That is when WPPI hosts “After Hours” at the hottest nightclubs in Las Vegas. Beginning at 10:30 p.m. each night, WPPI attendees 21 years of age and up (with valid ID) can party the night away with complimentary access to the below clubs by displaying a WPPI badge (dress codes apply).
• Sunday, February 25: Hakkasan at MGM (DJ Borgeous)
• Monday, February 26: Jewel at ARIA
• Tuesday, February 27, the Official WPPI After Party: OMNIA at Caesars (DJ Burns)
• Wednesday, February 28: 1 OAK at Mirage
