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• MDPP-A - Day at the Races, and Tailgate

  • When
    May 18, 2025
  •  
    10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Location
    Bittersweet Field: Parking at 15598 Hughes Rd, Poolesville, MD 20837
  • Registered
    6 registrants

  Register

  
  

  MDPP-A - Day at the Races, and Tailgate

  Outing Leader: Phil Fabrizio 

  Date: May 18, 2025

  Event Times: Gates are open 10 AM until 7 PM, the event starts at 12 noon and runs to 6 PM.  Shuttle services are available from 9:45 AM to 6 PM.

  Parking/Cost: Polo Grounds at 15598 Hughes Road $15 entry fee

  
  

  
  

  Join Phil Fabrizio on Sunday, May 18, 2025, for a day at the races in Poolesville, MD.  It’s a tailgate, an invite for his friends, clients and associates from MDPPA to this annual event at the Potomac Hunt Races.  He has purchased an outside rail pass that enables participants close to the action, right on the track’s fence line.

  The Potomac Hunt Races is an annual steeplechase race hosted in Poolesville, MD, just outside Washington, DC. Multiple races run throughout the day, and horses jump timber and brush fences.

  It’s both a springtime tailgate and a photo opportunity to catch fast action.  I will be on hand to provide guidance, tricks of the trade in capturing action.  Also, there will be plenty of “derby hat” portrait moments.

  The race is held at Bittersweet Field on Partnership Road in Poolesville.  The Polo Grounds at 15598 Hughes Road offers shuttle Pass and Reserved parking for $15, which is the entry fee.

  The event is close to the Mckees-Besher Wildlife fields, famous for its summer Sunflowers, which many have visited in the past.

  The class aspect of the event for all attendees will be how to photograph a fast-sporting event from different angles.  Our railside location at A49 provides steeplechase action, but you can walk the grounds taking street photography of dressed-up participants.  Phil will also provide a crash course on the pre-editing of PhotoMechanic software.

  
  

  What to bring: It’s a photographic tailgate.  A sharp eye and fast camera with long lens, such as a 70-200mm zoom, or long prime lens 85 or 135mm will do.  Longer prime/zoom lens only work on straightaways.  Phil will supply a laptop, display unit, and storage device for those who want to share their best shots of the day.

  It's a tailgate.  Bring only what you can carry in/out. Phil will have ice and water for all.  Derby hats, khaki’s, sunscreen, shorts, muck shoes or boots (yes, there can be horse poop) and sunglasses.  Think dress your best, it’s a horse show!

  * Register for this event by 5/16/25.

  Check out their website here for more information.  https://potomachuntraces.net

  
  

  
  

  Phil Fabrizio
  

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• Let's Earn That Degree!

  • When
    May 28, 2025
  •  
    6:00 PM - 9:30 PM
  • Location
    Howard County Art's Center 8510 High Ridge Rd, Ellicott City, Md 21043
  • Registered
    14 registrants

  Register

  PPA offers four degree programs for photographers who want to take their education to the next level.  We will cover how merits are earned and the value they add to one’s skill set. Exploring the fundamental guidelines of Merit Image Review, with a focus on the twelve key elements of merited images will help us see what makes a merit worthy image.

  Participants will analyze examples of merited images and discuss how presentation can enhance their impact. Additionally, we will compare the judging process for state competitions with MIR judging, highlighting key differences and insights. We will also discuss strategies for strengthening competition entries, from technical execution to storytelling elements. By the end of the session, attendees will have a clearer understanding of the degree process and how to create images that meet professional standards and achieve recognition.

  
  

  
  

  Della Watters M.PhotogM.Wed.M.Artist.Cr., CPP

  
  

  Della Watters, a Bedford County, Pennsylvania native, began her photography career as a community events and news photographer for the local newspaper. She pursued professional training through the Triangle Institute of Professional Photography and later with the Professional Photographers’ Association of Pennsylvania (PPA of PA), where she served two terms as president. She serves as a Councilor for PPA and is a member of several other Community Network Partners.

  Della is one of only four photographers to have earned all four degrees through PPA. In 2024, she was a member of Team USA for the World Photographic Cup, contributing a top 10 entry that helped secure the silver medal for the team. She specializes in wedding photography at the Omni Bedford Springs Resort and enjoys capturing families and professional headshots.

  
  

  
  

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• June Photo Review featuring Teri Whittaker

  • When
    June 12, 2025
  •  
    7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    Zoom
  • Registered
    5 registrants

  Register

  Level Up Your Photography with MDPPA's New "Photo Review"!

  When: Thursday, June 12, 2025

  Where: Virtual (Image submission and Zoom instructions will be provided after registration)

  Join us for the second session of our "Photo Review" program, featuring Teri Whittaker. Teri's work transcends traditional photography, venturing into the realm of fine art with her unique vision and style. Her imagery is characterized by its evocative mood, painterly quality, and a deep connection to nature and emotion.

  Beyond her work today creating fine art, Teri’s path included making portraits and photographing weddings. She also undertook a daily project that lasted 15 months, during which she fell in love with photographing flowers.

  This Photo Review offers a unique opportunity to gain insights from Teri’s extensive experience and diverse photographic skills. Whether you're interested in travel, landscape, portrait, or event photography, you'll benefit from her expert feedback and learn valuable techniques to elevate your own work. Her work is available for purchase and exhibition. You can see more of her art on her website: teriwhittakerfineart.com/shop-art.

  What is the process?

  • Expert Insights: In the first 30 minutes, our guest reviewer will share their creative passion and top tips and tricks for creating amazing images. They will share some of their own stunning work to illustrate their points and inspire you.
  • Your Turn in the Spotlight: In the remaining 90 minutes, we will cycle through your images. All creative or client work is welcome. You’ll submit up to 3 images ahead of time, indicating which ones you want reviewed in the first, second, and third rounds. We'll go through as many rounds as possible in the allotted time.

  

  Teri Whittaker
  

  
  

  
  

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• Illuminating the Basics: Dynamic Lighting and Posing for Boudoir

  • When
    June 18, 2025
  •  
    10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
  • Location
    Howard County Arts Center, 8510 High Ridge Rd. Ellicott City, MD 21043
  • Registered
    16 registrants

  Register

  Illuminating the Basics: Dynamic Lighting and Posing for Boudoir 

  Attendees will be guided through several dynamic boudoir posing and lighting setups designed to create images that your clients will desire in their albums and on their walls. Step by step I'll break down the poses/lighting and point out the details that take an image from just OK to wall worthy. I will discuss how incorporating just a few of these techniques will result in larger sales because clients will not only not be able to let them go from their albums, but want them displayed big and boldly on their walls. This will be a PPA CE merit class.

   

   Shawn Black is an international award winning boudoir photographer, author, and educator with a studio, Couture Black, in Boston, Massachusetts. He has also been the owner and president of AIBP (Association of International Boudoir Photographers) since 2021. Shawn is best known for the dramatic lighting and editorial look of his images which has made him one of the most recognized photographers in the genre.

  

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• Cherry Springs Stargazing

  • Start
    June 26, 2025
  •  
    3:00 PM
  • End
    June 30, 2025
  •  
    9:00 PM
  • Location
    4639 Cherry Springs Rd, Coudersport, PA 16915
  • Registered
    4 registrants

  Register

  Photographers and Stargazers!

  Join Lee Bostic as he travels to Cherry Springs State Park! Spend the weekend in the beautiful mountains of North Central Pennsylvania photographing the Milky Way and star trails (our main focus), sunrises, sunsets, and wildlife.

  
  

  
  

  When: June 26-30, 2025

  Where: 4639 Cherry Springs Rd, Coudersport, PA 16915 Meet-up details will be forthcoming.

  Accommodations (two options): 1) A rental house for 10 people has been secured and is only 7 miles from the park. The rental cost will be evenly split among guests. Details: Check-in time is 3:00 PM June 26. If you can’t arrive until Friday the 27th your cost will be calculated according to your arrival day. 2) Find your own lodging. Registration tickets are available based on your selection.

  CHERRY SPRINGS STATE PARK

  It’s been named the best place on Earth (yep, the whole planet) for stargazing by the Travel Channel and has been designated a Gold Level Dark Sky Park by the International Dark Sky Association.

  Basic equipment needed to photograph the Milky Way or Star Trails

  1. A camera – any DSLR or Mirrorless camera will be fine.

  2. A ‘fast’ lens - one with an aperture of f/2.8 or faster. Generally, a wider lens (24mm or less), is easier to work with when starting out.

  3. A tripod – most tripods are fine, but make sure it can hold your camera completely still!

  4. A remote shutter release – you can use a wired, wireless, or phone app release. Your camera’s built-in self-timer is a good alternative. (Intervalometer)

  5. A head flashlight with a red-light mode – is not essential, but it can make a huge difference, as red light doesn’t affect your natural night vision.

  
  

  Useful Websites:

  Cherry Springs Park PA gov. site
  

  Visit Potter-Tioga site

  Cherry Springs State Park-Star Gazing Page

  
  

  

  Lee Bostic 

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• MDPPA 2025 Summer Image Competition

  • When
    July 23, 2025
  •  
    1:00 PM - 7:00 PM
  • Location
    Zoom
  • Registered
    Be the first

  Register

  MDPPA Summer Image Competition!

  Date:  July 23, 2025

  Time: 1:00 p.m.

  Location: Zoom

  
  

  Join us via Zoom to view and hear the judging live. Zoom details are provided after registering for the event. Viewing the event is free to everyone who registers!

  The themed category for this competition is AI-Assisted Image Editing.

  This category highlights the integration of artificial intelligence in the creative editing process, showcasing images enhanced or transformed using AI-driven tools. Entries may demonstrate advanced techniques like automated retouching, intelligent compositing, AI-assisted color grading, or creative effects that amplify the artist's vision. This category celebrates the synergy between human creativity and machine learning, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in photography.

  
  

  Entry Details:

  • You may enter up to a maximum of ten entries in any one category.
  • Digital entries only via PrintCompetion.com. Announcements will be made when the portal is open for submissions. The deadline for entry is 7/20/25 at 11 p.m. EST.
  • Zoom information for the event will be provided after registration.

  
  

  Entry fees:

  Members $12 
  

  Nonmembers $20 

  Note: Before submitting your images, all entrants need to read and understand the current Image Competition Rules document on the Image Competition tab of the MDPPA website. 

  If you have any questions, please contact printcomp@marylandppa.com

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• August Photo Review with Joe Campanellie

  • When
    August 14, 2025
  •  
    7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    Zoom

  Register

  Level Up Your Photography with MDPPA's "Photo Review"!

  When: Thursday, August 14, 2025

  Time: 7:00 PM

  Where: Virtual (Image submission and Zoom instructions will be provided after registration)

  Join us for a special "Photo Review" session featuring Joe Campanellie, a Life Member of MDPPA and PPA. He is a Master Photographer, Photographic Craftsman, Certified Professional Photographer, and one of only 135 individuals worldwide to hold the prestigious Fellowship Degree from the American Society of Photographers (ASP). Joe will be able to give us his unique perspective as someone who has competed for 34 years and who has been a PPA Approved Juror for 14 years.

  
  

  Joe's journey into photography began serendipitously, evolving from a casual hobby to a lifelong passion. After building a renowned portrait studio in Maryland for 30 years, he relocated to Florida, allowing him to dedicate himself fully to his first loves: avian and nature photography. Joe brings 53 years of professional photography experience to this session. His passion shines through his work, capturing the ethereal beauty of wildlife and the natural world.

  
  

  This Photo Review offers a unique opportunity to gain insights from Joe’s extensive experience and diverse photographic skills. Whether you're interested in travel, landscape, portrait, or event photography, you'll benefit from his expert feedback and learn valuable techniques to elevate your own work.  You can see more of his art on his website: https://campanellies.com

  
  

  What is the process?

  
  

  ·        Expert Insights: In the first 30 minutes, our guest reviewer will share their creative passion and top tips and tricks for creating amazing images. They will share some of their own stunning work to illustrate their points and inspire you.

  ·        Your Turn in the Spotlight: In the remaining 90 minutes, we will cycle through your images. All creative or client work is welcome. You’ll submit up to 3 images ahead of time indicating which ones you want reviewed in first, second, and third rounds. We'll go through as many rounds as possible in the allotted time.

  
  

  

  Joe Campanellie M.Photog.Cr., CPP, F-ASP
  

  
  

  
  

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• MDPPA Annual Picnic

  • When
    September 21, 2025
  •  
    10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Location
    Patapsco Valley State Park, 5120 South Street Halethorpe MD 21227
  • Registered
    6 registrants

  Register

  JOIN US FOR OUR ANNUAL PICNIC!

  
  

  Date: Sunday, September 21, 2025

  Time: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Grilling from 12-2!

  Location: 5120 South Street Halethorpe MD 21227 Patapsco Valley State Park - Avalon Area  (Picnic Shelter Avalon 105)

  
  

  We have two ticket types available when you register; please see the details below.

  1. MDPPA Member Ticket: The picnic is free to MDPPA members and their families; please indicate the number of guests when you register (dropdown menu). We are asking you to help contribute to the side dishes for the event. A SignUpGenius link will be provided at a later date.  
  2. Visiting Guest Ticket: Part of the Photography Community, but not a member of MDPPA, this ticket is for you. This ticket costs $10,  and no food sign-up is required. You can bring guests; each guest is an additional $10 to help offset the cost. 

  Entrance and Parking Fees are Already Covered—do not pay at the gatehouse! If you are asked, tell them you are part of the Maryland Professional Photographers Picnic event. The entrance and Parking Fees have been covered for you.

  If the Picnic isn't enough to get you motivated to join us, we are including a Gear Swap as well! So, bring your old gear and wallet! Don't miss this chance to clean out some space to make room for that new stuff you want!

  But wait...there is more! Get ready to snap, search, and smile! Join our wild and wacky scavenger hunt. We've cooked up a list of quirky, cool, and downright hilarious items for you to capture, so grab your gear and race against the clock to be the first to snag them all! Not only will the fastest shutterbug win a fantastic prize, but everyone who participates will be entered into a prize drawing, so get ready for a picture-perfect adventure filled with laughter and friendly competition! 

  Last but not least, what kind of gathering would this be without an educational component? We plan to have a short member-led program that everyone will enjoy! Details are coming soon!

  
  

  Entrance and Parking Fees have been paid for you!
  

  Click Here for more information about the Patapsco Valley State Park - Avalon Area!

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