Member Benefits and Services

Monthly Programs

Regular meetings are generally held on the third Thursday of the month at 7:30 p.m. (except June and December). Each meeting features outstanding speakers who come to PPGBA from all over the world to bring new ideas, fresh perspectives, and a wealth of information about their photographic specialties – from portraiture to commercial photography, fine art to wedding photography.

Professional Networking

Want to learn more about what industry suppliers and manufacturers have to offer? The finest major product and service providers in northern California are members of PPGBA. PPGBA also hosts special social events including awards celebration so members can build professional contacts, form friendships, kick back and have FUN!

Four Nights Workshops

Four Nights workshops feature visits to local photographers who present their personal approach towards a particular specialty of photography.

Leadership Experience

PPGBA also offers many volunteer opportunities, where members can serve their profession while building their organizational and management skills.

Golden Gate School of Professional Photography

Part of the nationwide Professional Photographers of America Affiliated Schools network, the Golden Gate School photographic workshop program is recognized as one of the foremost providers of professional photography seminars in the U.S. Founded by PPGBA in 1984, GGS offers a selection of well-known instructors who present an intensive learning experience, often with hands-on activities. The school is committed to helping students to increase their artistic, technical, and business skills. The team of experienced association volunteers who organize and operate the school are dedicated to providing affordable, quality education for all career levels.

Scholarships

Through various scholarship programs, PPGBA and Golden Gate School also offer opportunities for association members to attend photographic workshops at a reduced or no cost.

Member Promotion

A listing of PPGBA members and a gallery of members’ images can be found on the association website. Members can also link their personal web sites to the PPGBA site and vice versa. Professional Active members may also use PPGBA’s logo on on their marketing materials for increased credibility and consumer awareness.

Seminars

Full-day seminars are offered during the year to give more extensive exposure to a speaker or topic. Many of these programs feature hands-on exercises and/or live demonstrations with models.

Photographic Competitions

At most monthly meetings, members have an opportunity to have images evaluated and critiqued by a panel of jurors. Award ribbons are presented to those who score above certain levels. Entrants qualify for year-end trophy and “Photographer of the Year” competitions. This is an effective way to develop and refine a personal style and is also an opportunity to earn recognition that can be used to publicize your business within your community.

Publications/Web Site

The monthly Bulletin, recognized by PPA as an award-winning association newsletter, includes articles on events, techniques, business ideas, and industry news.

PPGBA also publishes a printed annual membership directory – this is an excellent resource for referrals and other information about local colleagues.

The association’s web site contains listings and details about PPGBA activities and events.

Affiliation

PPGBA is one of the largest local affiliates of the Professional Photographers of America, an international association of more than 20,000 members. Membership in PPA is optional and separate from PPGBA and the two organizations are independently managed and governed. Through its “merit and degree program,” PPA also supports a nationwide network of speakers on photographic topics. PPGBA’s 1978 president (and honorary life member) Bill Martinelli was president of PPA in 1996.

Categories of Membership

Categories are available for business owners, employees, as well as aspiring professionals and students enrolled full time in photography programs. There are also membership categories for persons and firms who provide products and services to the trade. Some benefits listed are at no additional charge to members and the remaining benefits are always available at the lowest price for PPGBA members.

How to Join

Complete and send the membership application along with the appropriate payment. (click here to apply online) If you have any questions about membership, please contact Fred English at 650/367-1265 or email to fredenglish@ppgba.org

Frequently Asked Questions

Please visit the FAQ page.