Last week a photographer friend who is planning to attend WPPI next week for the first time (a "WPPI Virgin") told me that after talking to many "veteran attendees" he was considering not going to any of the platform classes. He was told that "they're all the same", so he was just going to hang out at The Tradeshow. I was speechless.
After the initial shock wore off, I think I said something like "No Freakin' Way! You HAVE to see at least some of the Platform Classes!" I went on to argue that the most important reason to go to WPPI (besides the friends, parties, drinking and gambling) was the Platform classes. My life has been forever changed by the information I have received from some of the greatest shooters in our industry. As a proud attendee for 10 years now and an educator for 6 years, I can say without a doubt that there will be many ideas you can learn for your business and your shooting from any program you attend.
Here are my 5 recommendations for making it a great convention.
1. Go to as many Platform classes as you can.
You've already paid, so go! You can actually attend 10 entire presentations if you start on Sunday afternoon and stay until the end. Grab a friend, grab a seat, keep an open mind and practice your listening skills.
2. Take notes.
You will not be able to remember all the great ideas you get from a class. Think of this as school, and take notes in class. It will help you recall the important changes you want to apply to your business.
3. Go easy on the drinking and staying out late.
Vegas is Vegas, and it's far to easy to...well, take it easy. I'm not going to lie to you, it is a blast to go out late and party with your new friends. It makes it very difficult to catch morning programs and walk the trade show when your tired and hung over.
4. Drink lots of water.
Vegas is in the desert and you need to stay hydrated. Alcohol doesn't count. It actually contributes to your dehydration. Drinks lots and lots of water!
5. Wear comfortable clothes.
There is a lot of walking to get through the casino to the platforms and trade show floor. Wear comfortable shoes if you really want to take it easy on your your legs and feet.
Have Fun! Introduce yourself to new people and meet the photographers you admire. WPPI is like a big (dysfunctional) family of mostly warm and friendly folks.
I hope you'll join me for my platform class on the last morning of the convention. I promise you'll be entertained and learn a few things too:)
hey Joe,
I am that aussie girl with the business card that bummed a ride off you at Image x. I just wanted to say hi and say how much I wish I was coming to wppi.its out of my budget this year..maybe next year! I would go to every platform class available. I am sure yours will be amazing. I wish I was going to be there to be inspired and learn from it. Take care,
cheers
Janine Kaye
Posted by: Janine Kaye | February 09, 2009 at 03:00 AM
I am looking forward to my 3rd WPPI and am planing to stick around for your presentation on Thursday! I am sure we will run into each other at some point in Vegas.
Posted by: rustin | February 09, 2009 at 08:26 AM
Hi Janine!! I'm so sad you're not going to be in Vegas. You are so sweet. You'll be missed. I'll think of you when photographers are giving me their business cards:) Thanks for stopping by the blog and saying "hi".
Posted by: Joe Photo | February 09, 2009 at 09:32 AM
Hey Rustin! Congrats on #3! Isn't it awesome? I look forward to this every year!
Posted by: Joe Photo | February 09, 2009 at 09:34 AM
Hi Joe,
Hope it's a blast. If you thought London was cold it was -18.4 here last night.
I have been on fire since we spoke before the swpp award dinner.
Lives your dreams
Posted by: Chris | February 09, 2009 at 12:59 PM
Thanks for the tips Joe! I will be there at your class and actually I will be at the SoCal Day Trip tomorrow. Look forward to meeting you.
Posted by: Alfred B | February 09, 2009 at 03:46 PM
What kind of people would say not to go to Platform classes? Sheesh! They are invaluable... I was so inspired last year. And the price can't be beat... WPPI costs half as much as most other conventions where you'd hear the same talks.
I made the mistake of not going to as many Platform classes as I could last year (mostly because I ran out of time for dinner, and the Body Exhibition was more interesting than I had anticipated!) but this year I plan to be a little more focused.
The sleep thing is important. Again, lesson learned!
I'm definitely coming to your Thursday class. I'll try to not be shy and say hello!
Posted by: Tanya Plonka | February 10, 2009 at 08:34 AM
Don't be shy - just say hello. Joe's a lovely guy and so easy to talk to
Posted by: Chris | February 10, 2009 at 01:06 PM
Joe will you be presenting a master or plus class this year?
Posted by: Jason | July 24, 2010 at 05:29 PM