We asked some of the photographers and educators who are speaking at WPPI 2019 to tell us about their experiences attending WPPI, the largest wedding and portrait photography conference and show in the U.S. Here’s what Trevor Dayley had to say.

What was your first year attending WPPI?
My first year attending WPPI was 2006. I have been every year since.

What is your fondest WPPI memory?
My fondest memory might have to be the keynote talk that Jerry Ghionis gave some years ago. He had us crying and laughing at the same time.

What are you excited to see in 2019?
Like every year, I am super excited to see all of my friends that attend WPPI each and every year. While there are a lot of photo conferences, it seems like WPPI is always the one that everyone can’t miss. It’s like a big reunion each year, and I always look forward to it. For those attending their first WPPI, be sure to get involved and get to know people. Introduce yourself and ask questions about others so they have a chance to tell you about their businesses, their experiences and maybe even some tips about WPPI. Reach out to others and start building that group of friends that you will then look forward to seeing each year. And come find me—I’d love to be your friend!

Why do you come year after year?
Being that this is my 13th year in a row, it’s become a bit of a streak now that I have to keep going. [laughs] But truly, the reason I love WPPI is that even after being in the industry for as long as I have, I continue to learn new things each year at WPPI. After attending the show, I feel like I’ve learned, I’ve laughed, and I head home feeling refreshed for the year to come.

How has attending WPPI helped you propel your business?
It has helped me stay on top of the new and interesting techniques that photographers are using in their work and check out all the great products at the trade show. The print competition judging has helped me be more aware of the photographs I am taking and catch the little things that will help make me a better photographer.

WPPI combines exceptional programming with unforgettable networking, unlike any other event. Join us for 5 days of awe-inspiring seminars, hands-on sessions and exciting photo walks from the industry’s most rousing photographers and content creators.  Register now for WPPI 2019 and get a FREE Expo Pass »