ASSOCIATION NEWS

MARCH 2013 | by Aaron K, Executive Director

This year we've decided to re-launch the AIPA's Propel initiative, which is all about helping New Zealand pro photographers advance their careers by running industry focused educational seminars and training courses. Last month we kicked off the 2013 Propel schedule with our first ever "Knowledge Share" event. The topic for the evening was Adobe's Lightroom 4 programme, with AIPA member and experienced Lightroom user Andrew "Moppie" Hales stepping up to deliver a highly informative presentation and encourage discussion from the 37 other photographers in attendance.

I have to admit that in the lead up to this event I was somewhat concerned that an audience comprised of reserved Kiwi photographers wouldn't really embrace the sharing element of a Knowledge Share - but I needn't have worried. It was a fantastic success, with plenty of attendees contributing to a vibrant discussion that got better and better as the night progressed (a plentiful supply of beer and wine probably helped).

Looking back on it now this particular event is perhaps one of the best examples I've ever seen of how an association like the AIPA should function. We had a large group of freelance photographers (i.e. solo practitioners), from a wide variety of different photographic backgrounds but with a common shared interest, coming together to help one another advance their knowledge and skills. From my perspective as AIPA Executive Director it doesn't get much better than this. Which begs the question; why not run regular Knowledge Share events that address other industry topics? And I'm not just talking about software applications such as Photoshop, or Capture One. What about a studio lighting or assisting Knowledge Share? Or how about addressing important business issues - like copyright, pricing, marketing and negotiating? Well, with the support of my fellow AIPA members, I believe we can run regular Propel Knowledge Share evenings covering all of these subjects and more. Keep an eye on the Propel website (www.propel.ac.nz) and "like" the AIPA Facebook page (www.facebook.com/aipa.org.nz) in order to find out about future Propel events.

Last month I promised that I'd reveal more information about the 2013 Image Nation Photography Conference, so I better not disappoint. I can confirm that the conference will be held at Unitec in Auckland on the weekend of June the 22nd and 23rd. At this early stage I don't want to give too much away regarding the roster of presenters, but I can reveal two of our star attractions to whet your appetite. The first is Ingvar Kenne, one of Australia's leading contemporary photographers whose award winning work is highly regarded in both the advertising and fine art spheres (no mean feat). The second is our very own Tony Drayton, current AIPA President and New Zealand's preeminent fashion and beauty photographer. And this is just the tip of an iceberg of Image Nation awesomeness!

Start saving now because limited early bird ticket will go on sale later this month. Visit imagenation.co.nz for further details.

Photo above © Emma Bass