ASSOCIATION NEWS

OCTOBER 2010 | by Aaron K, Executive Director

We've been working on developing a number of new AIPA projects recently - part of our ongoing quest to advance the aims of the Association. One of those aims is to promote and cultivate public interest in photography both as an art form and a communication medium. With that in mind we have recently reworked the Image Nation website, turning it into a vehicle for showcasing exceptional concept driven photo essays (and multimedia presentations) by both established and up-and-coming New Zealand photographers. There will be a new feature uploaded every fortnight; a frequency that we hope will encourage viewers to visit the site on a regular basis. It will also continue to be used to promote the annual AIPA Image Nation photography conference, with updates about next year's event posted to the site blog as they come to hand.

Another project that we have been discussing behind-the-scenes for a number of years will finally see the light of day this October - the inaugural AIPA Portfolio Review. Over the course of a single day a small group of lucky photographers will sit down, one-on-one, with leading editorial and advertising photo buyers as they review and critique their portfolios (or websites). This is a unique and invaluable opportunity for the photographers involved to gain honest, critical feedback about their work from the people who really matter - i.e. highly regarded clients who are commissioning photography on a regular basis.

I expect that by the time this column sees the light of day the first workshop will have well and truly sold-out as the number of participants is strictly limited. However we do intend to hold more Portfolio Review events over the coming year, with each one focusing on different photographic specialities. Keep an eye on the AIPA website and facebook page for details. As always, AIPA members will have the opportunity to book first at discounted rates - so if you really want to take part I would suggest you join up.

There was actually another exciting AIPA initiative that I wanted to reveal this month, but unfortunately I've run out of space. I guess it'll have to wait until the next instalment. Until then, happy shooting!


Photo above © Amanda Reelick