Monthly Programs

The Professional Photographer Association of Northern Illinois was established in 1954 as an Affiliate Chapter of the Professional Photographers of America.

PPANI, or Northern as it is better known, has a membership of more than 225 professional photographers, and studio staff members in a variety of expertise, including portrait; wedding; commercial; sports; special events and electronic imaging. Our members come from all over Northern Illinois, from as far South as Bloomington, IL, to as far North as southern Wisconsin. Also a number of Sustaining members representing many professional photo labs, including other photographic services and products in the Midwest.

Currently more than 100 Northern members hold PPA Degrees, PPA Certification status and Northern Degrees. Northern offers a wealth of professional experience, which you can tap into to assist in expanding your photographic ability.

Northern membership gathers monthly (except in December and January) for a daytime seminar that includes lunch. Nationally recognized program speakers are brought in for their ability as creative image makers and instructors.

Most meeting registrations begin at 9:00 AM; programs begin at 10:00 AM, with lunch about noon. The program continues generally until 4:00 PM. Some programs are PPA Continuing Education programs. This is where PPA members earn one merit for attending. Continuing Education programs begin at 9:00 AM and conclude at 5:00 PM.

There are many opportunities on meeting days in to meet and exchange ideas with other Northern members.

Questions and Comments can be sent to the Webmaster at webmaster@ppani.org

Board Members information can be found on the Board Member page by clicking here.

If you missed the 2007 Awards Banquet,
check out some of these photos
by clicking here

The images displayed are for you enjoyment. These images were taken by our PPANI members and the copyright is retained by the individual photographers. Please enjoy viewing but do not copy them. This would be a violation of Federal Copyright Laws.

General Note: Meeting start times may vary but this is the general rule. Meetings will start at 9:00 am with check in starting at 8:00 am

Print Challenge for 2009 - "Loose Ends "

1. The Challenge will have a new theme every year. The theme is also the title for all entries. A large part of the judge’s score should include how well the entry fits the theme.
2. The entry must be based on and include an original photograph created by the maker. The size is not limited except by rule 3, and using more than the usual two dimensions is encouraged.
3. The entry must be self-contained and able to be brought before the judges by the print committee. Nothing external to the entry (except the judging lights) should be required for viewing and judging.
4. The entry must be repeatable, meaning that the entry should be able to be brought back before the judges later for judging of Best Challenge and be exactly as it was initially.
5. The entry may contain other photographic images and non-photographic images, may contain moving parts, sound effects, or be battery operated. The Print Chairman (along with any consultants of his choice) will decide any question of eligibility.

Supporting Professional Photographers for more than 50 years as a PPA Affiliate

Professional Photographers Association of Northern Illinois, Inc.