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Schedule of Events!
Thursday, April 24, 2025, 9:30 am - 5:30 pm Jessica Robertson (Pre-Con)
Seven Secrets for Stepping Up Your Profit & Not Every Client is a Model
As a professional photographer for over two decades, Jessica knows a thing or two about maximizing profits. In fact, she recently restructured her entire business to ensure she was serving her clients to the best of her ability and maximizing sales. Jessica shares ”Seven Secrets” to help you step up your profit game. By re-evaluating your process, pricing, and products, you too can increase profitability and take your business to the next level. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this program has something for everyone. So why wait? Attend Jessica's class and maximizing your sales.
Jessica Robertson, M.Photog., Cr.Photog, CPP, FP, SP
Jessica Robertson and her team work from their 3000-square-foot studio in Ashland, VA. She has over 20 years of experience and personally photographs over 200 seniors each year. Her studio prides itself on creating authentic and timeless images that tell a unique story. Jessica holds a degree in Art with a Concentration in Photography from Guilford College. She has earned her Master of Photography (M.Photog.), Photographic Craftsman (Cr.Photog.), and is a PPA CPP. She also serves as an Affiliate Juror for PPA and has earned her Associate Fellow and Fellow of Photography degrees from Virginia PPA.
Thursday, April 24, 2025 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm Kim Kiely
Seeing the Light
Have you ever wondered how Rembrandt would approach photography? Where would he put the light? What settings would he use? What lens would be his favorite (most likely the 85mm), and what editing software would he feel would best enhance his portraits? Kim's sessions invite you to explore this fascinating concept. You'll delve into the art of creating drama, playing with shadows, and embracing light in a way that only Rembrandt could inspire. Through hands-on sessions, Kim will guide you through using specific lenses, camera settings, and posing techniques, all while focusing on the magic of one light source. She will also show you how to take ordinary items (clothing, accessories, props) and incorporate them to tell the story. Get ready to bring your camera and a lens in the 50-100mm range for an immersive learning experience!
Kim Kiely Cr.Photog, CPP
Kim Kiely Photography has been operational since 2006. The journey has been marked by constant evolution, with each new venture presenting fresh adventures. Kim has 18 years of experience in events, portrait, commercial, and fine art photography. She is skilled in natural and studio lighting. Her studio is located in the heart of Williamsburg, VA. She has been a member of the PPA since 2010, CPP 2020, Photographic Craftsman (Cr.Photog.) 2023, and Imaging Excellence August and September 2024. As a member of the Virginia PPA she has earned Service of Photography 2023, Fellow Of Photography 2024 and several awards or imaging excellence. Kim is also a member of PPofPA and has been the house photographer for the Williamsburg Symphony Orchestra since 2015 as well as a volunteer Photographer and Digital retouch artist for the Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep Foundation.
Friday, April 25, 2025, 9:30 am - 5:30 pm Chris Fritchie
AI Unleashed: Redefining Photography in the Digital Age
Join award-winning photographer Chris Fritchie—2024 recipient of the prestigious TPPA AI Fusion Award—for a transformative full-day seminar on how to harness the power of AI to revolutionize your photography business. In this hands-on workshop, Chris will demonstrate how tools like text-to-image generation and ChatGPT have become integral to creating stunning, high-demand portrait work that clients can’t resist.
Discover simple yet game-changing techniques to streamline your workflow, enhance your creative process, and develop unique offerings that will set your studio apart. From breaking down misconceptions about AI’s role in the industry to showcasing innovative applications for client sessions, Chris will show you how to turn technology into an asset for your art and business. Prepare to leave with fresh ideas, practical skills, and a new perspective on how AI can elevate your photography to new heights.
Chris Fritchie M. Photog, M. Artist, Cr.Photog, CPP
Chris Fritchie is an internationally acclaimed photographer and educator, known for pushing the boundaries of portrait artistry through innovative techniques. As the 2024 recipient of the TPPA AI Fusion Award, Chris has been at the forefront of integrating AI into photography, using tools like text-to-image generation and ChatGPT to create unique, high-demand portrait experiences. With multiple top honors from the PPA and Texas PPA, Chris’s expertise spans fine art portraiture, editorial photography, and advanced Santa-themed sessions. Through his global training platform, Magic Makers Academy, Chris and his wife Lori have mentored hundreds of photographers, making them a leading voice in the industry’s AI transformation.
Friday, April 25, 2025, 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm Social at Kelsey's
After a day of learning and networking at our convention, join us for a relaxing evening at Kelsey’s Restaurant. This family-owned Irish pub has been a local favorite since 1994, serving up delicious food and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Enjoy their famous Corned Beef and Cabbage, Shepherd’s Pie, or any of their other classic Irish dishes while catching up with old friends and making new ones. It’s the perfect opportunity to unwind and celebrate our shared passion for photography.
Saturday, April 26, 2025, 9:30 am - 1:00 pm Kristi Odom
Celebrating Wildlife Through Photography
Join Nikon Ambassador, Kristi Odom, as she takes you on a journey around the world photographing wildlife. She will dig into tips on how to create impactful visuals that celebrate our planet and wildlife. Photography is a tool to unlock the secret lives of creatures great and small. From rainbow dung beetles to the milky way, there are mysteries everywhere, with photography opportunities galore. In this lecture she will go through techniques, from simple to advanced that will help you become a stronger photographer all while connecting deeper with nature. Join us for a night celebrating wildlife, art and our planet’s biodiversity!
Kristi Odom
Nikon Ambassador, Kristi Odom is an award-winning photographer and filmmaker known for her work in wildlife photography, conservation, and storytelling. She combines her love for nature and her technical skills to capture images that connect emotionally with viewers and raise awareness about environmental issues. Kristi has received numerous accolades for her photography, including awards from Nature’s Best and National Geographic.
Saturday, April 26, 2025, 2:00 pm - 5:30 pm Samantha Marshall
Perfecting the Headshot: Process, Communication, & Bridging the Gap with Practice
In this Headshot Photography intensive, attendees will gain valuable insights into the art and business of professional headshots through an informative lecture and live demonstration. The session covers essential techniques for lighting, posing, and composition to create polished, professional images. Participants will observe how to direct clients for natural, engaging expressions and utilize both natural and studio lighting for optimal results. By the end of the seminar, attendees will leave with the knowledge needed to elevate their headshot photography, whether they are building a portfolio or expanding their business offerings.
Samantha Marshall M. Photog, Cr.Photog, CPP
Samantha Marshall is an award-winning photographer with over 15 years of experience and holds certifications as a CPP, Master of Photography (M.Photog.), and Photographic Craftsman (Cr.Photog.). Her work, featured in O, The Oprah Magazine, focuses on headshots, events, and branding. As the owner of Studio 151 Photography in Sterling, Virginia, she also mentors aspiring photographers through workshops and personalized guidance.
Saturday, April 26, 2025, 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm Social hour wrap-up and farewells
As we wrap up this incredible convention, join us as we take a moment to reflect on the amazing experiences and valuable lessons learned. Share your favorite moments, be they hilarious or ah-hah in nature. Take a final moment to recognize the importance of continuous learning and staying connected within our community. Most importantly, keeping the laughter and camaraderie alive as we embark on our future photography adventures.