An association of photographers is a group that brings together passionate professionals with common experiences, who want to share that knowledge with others. They offer members networking opportunities, a source of support and practical solutions in the photography industry. Whether you're a still or television photographer, editor or representative of a business that serve the photojournalism industry, you can join a photography organization.

Use a professional photographer association to collaborate with others through courses, seminars and workshops to understand emerging trends and challenges in the industry. You exchange ideas and thoughts about the industry and in return, enhance your professional development. Consider:

1. Using photography organizations to network and and grow as a professional.

2. Reviewing several association of photographers membership levels.

3. Taking advantage of educational tools and industry resources.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Join commercial photography organizations to network and meet other professionals

Photography associations range from international groups to statewide or local organizations. The main goal of these groups is to advance the photography industry.

I recommend: American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) is a photographers association focused on motion picture photography. ASC offers tools and resources for professional craft development. Participate in forums online where you can ask experts questions and meet other professionals. PMA acts as a liaison between equipment manufacturers and independent camera repair businesses. Members are given business information through sessions at an annual convention. Participate in online member forums with your peers.

Pay annual dues to belong to a photo association

Photography associates can expect to pay a range of dues, depending on the membership level and the organization. Once you decide to join a group, decide what level of commitment you want to make.

I recommend: Advertising Photographers of America's (APA) goals are to promote an awareness of the role of advertising and commercial photographers within the creative community and to promote the highest standards of business practice within the industry. Join as a general (or voting) member or an associate member. Commercial Industrial Photographers of New England (CIPNE) is a photographers association with a goal of raising the standards of industrial and commercial photographers. Download membership forums and pay online with PayPal. Editorial Photographers (EP) is a discussion group for photographers working in the editorial market. Subscription entitles you to access the members-only section of the website. Fill out a subscription form online.

Benefit individually and professionally from joining a professional photographers association

When you join a photography organization, you're getting access to many career development tools such as magazines, business reports, a career center, courses and seminars. These tools allow you to advance your career and increase your skills.

I recommend: National Press Photographers Association Online (NPPA) is dedicated to the advancement of photographic journalism. NPPA offers workshops, seminars, mentoring and self training resources to further your career development. International Association of Panoramic Photographers (IAPP) is a professional photographers association that educates and promotes artists, while allowing for the exchange of artistic and technical ideas and information. Submit material to publish in the IAPP newsletter or on the website via email.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Consider a company membership instead of individual membership to a photo association, so that several employees can benefit.