I’m a WPPI veteran now… actually, I only have one attendance under my belt, but I feel like I know what to expect.

1. Learn. Experience. Grow. Even more this year.
2. Attend a photo walk with Rocco Ancora—one of Australia’s top wedding photographers. This will be my first WPPI photo walk.
3. I also purchased one master class this year. A master class is a smaller more intimate class that is offered in addition to all the platform classes-or regular curriculum included with the registration fee. Master classes, plus classes and photo walks all cost extra. Last year, I didn’t participate in any extra classes. The master class I’m attending this year is called Rockstar Seniors with David Hakamaki! This sounds exciting!!
4. In addition to the photo walk and the master class, I will attend classes during each instruction time. I have the opportunity to attend about three platform classes each day and I’ll take full advantage of this.
5. I’m considering the Fun Run… which is a bit weird, because I AM NOT A RUNNER. I’d like to be a runner. I used to enjoy running. But, these days I prefer more fluid motions on my joints. However, if I do participate in the Fun Run, I’ll only have 30 minutes to get dressed and ready for the following platform class. 🙁 I don’t know if this is possible. (For the record, I took a short run through a cross walk this past Friday and decided the Fun Run may NOT be for me. At this time.)
6. I’m going to take my time through the Expo. This is chance to look at and touch products to consider including in my own lineup. There are literally hundreds of vendors offering all kinds of things. My goal is to find quality, unique and  products to consider adding to my collections.
7. I want to sit through as much of the live judging as possible. Last year, this was, by far, the way I gained the most knowledge. It’s so insightful and intriguing to experience the actual thought process a master photographer goes through when judging a competition print. It’s hands-on learning and to me, second best only to one-on-one mentoring sessions.
8. I want to meet more photographers/attendees than last year. Hearing others’ stories and listening to their experiences and plans is energizing in and of itself. It’s refreshing and reassuring to meet people who are in the exact same boat as yourself. If I see anyone that I met last year, I will definitely say hi and inquire about their past year of growth.
9. In addition to meeting photographers, I also want to try and connect with anyone who is also attending Shutterfest 2015 in St. Louis in April. However, since Shutterfest is limited to only 1,500 participants, it may be a bit like looking for a needle in a haystack. I think some 20,000 photographers filter their way through WPPI.
10. Last but not least, I’d like to learn a recommended lab for competition prints. A few weeks ago, Susan Stripling admitted that changing labs really enhanced the success and changed the course of her competition prints. However, I didn’t see that she divulged that information, but she did say that it was gleaned from Rocco Ancora–whom I happen to be attending a photo walk with. It will definitely be a question that I ask.

There you have it–my complete plans for WPPI. Be photographed.

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I am a professional wedding and senior photographer based in South Texas near San Antonio. I pride my business in offering a premier and personal service coupled with an unforgettable photography experience. I cater to clients who appreciate quality photography and help them to create family heirlooms that will last for generations. As a full-time professional photographer, my sole purpose is to provide amazing, memorable and full-service photography.

I started Ata-Girl Photography Co., LLC in 2010. I firmly believe that the unique set of circumstances I have faced in life has prepared me to take a personal and genuine interest in my photography clients. I enjoy documenting the important milestones and captivating moments in people’s lives. I love being a part of people’s journey and consider myself privileged to document their legacies.

When I’m not photographing a wedding, family or high school senior, I love to spend my spare time hiking, cycling, reading, listening to Elvis and Prince. The most important things in life are for me to see my two daughters happy and to create a family history my grandparents would be proud of!

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