Focus Forward - Professional Photographers of Iowa Annual Convention
Join us March 5-8, 2027, at Hotel Millwright in Amana, Iowa, for one of the Midwest's premier photography conferences featuring education, networking, creativity, and community.
Whether you're refining your craft, growing your business, exploring new ideas, or simply looking for your people, Focus Forward is your place to learn, recharge, and move forward with confidence.
From emerging photographers to seasoned professionals, you'll find practical education, fresh perspectives, meaningful conversations, and a welcoming community that believes in sharing knowledge, supporting one another, and growing together.
Focus Forward is open to everyone. You do not need to be a PPI member to attend, but members save $100 on registration. Better yet, every non-member registration includes a complimentary one-year PPI membership, giving you access to member pricing on future events, exclusive educational opportunities, and a year of connection with photographers across Iowa and the Midwest.
Early Bird Registration opens August 1, 2026.
Member Registration: $299
Non-Member Registration: $399 (includes a complimentary one-year PPI membership)
Speaker Line UpMore information coming soon! Check back for announcements, course descriptions and speaker bios. |
"Everyone had really good vibes and it felt very inviting! I also love this location and I love the town and the hotel rooms are amazing!"
- Claire, Focus Forward 2026 Attendee
Event Highlights |
Awards Our Awards Banquet is more than just a meal it’s a celebration of creativity, growth, and the incredible talent within our community. This uplifting event honors the winners of the PP'sI Annual Print Competition and recognizes members who have made a lasting impact. It’s a time to cheer each other on, reflect on how far we’ve come, and feel inspired by the work of our peers. Surrounded by friends (and maybe a few mimosas), you’ll leave feeling seen, supported, and proud to be part of a creative community that lifts one another up. Networking Hang-Outs
Some of the best connections happen after hours. Our evening hospitality gatherings, like the after-party or casual hangouts, are where conversations flow, friendships form, and ideas spark. Whether you're unwinding with a drink, swapping stories, or laughing over shared experiences, these relaxed moments build the kind of community that lasts far beyond the weekend. | Vendor Meet & Greet
Closing Party We are excited to bring DJ Riley Mulane back to our closing party for FF'27. With over 18 years of experience, Riley specializes in open format DJing; he blends genres, creates live mashups, and mixes seamlessly to craft a high-energy, personalized soundtrack for every event. Stay tuned for theme annoucements and more details coming soon! Print ShowThe Print Show is a celebration of the artistry and skill within our community, featuring award-winning images from the PPI Annual Print Competition. This gallery-style exhibit lets you experience powerful storytelling and technical excellence up close. Whether you’re gathering inspiration or simply appreciating beautiful work, the Print Show is a highlight of Focus Forward and a reminder of the incredible talent that surrounds us. |
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Our Vendor Meet and Greet is your backstage pass to the best tools, tech, and resources in the industry all in one inspiring space. This casual, come-and-go event gives you the chance to connect directly with the companies that support your creative business. Ask questions, explore new products, snag exclusive deals, and build relationships with the brands that help bring your vision to life. Whether you're looking to upgrade your workflow or just want to put a face to the name behind your favorite products, this is the place to do it.
Venue and Lodgings
We’re thrilled to host Focus Forward at Hotel Millwright in Amana, Iowa; a modern, boutique hotel with historic charm and creative energy. Nestled in the heart of the Amana Colonies, this unique venue blends industrial style with cozy comfort, making it the perfect backdrop for a weekend of inspiration, learning, and connection. With on-site lodging, beautiful meeting spaces, and walkable local charm, it’s a destination designed to spark creativity and community.
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Book Your Stay by Phone
You can reserve your room(s) by calling (319) 838-5015. Make sure to mention that you are booking under the block for Professional Photographers of Iowa.
Book Online
Make sure to use code 3061 during the reservation process to get our special block rate.
Reserve your roomFrequently Asked Questions
What is Focus Forward?
Focus Forward is PPI's annual photography conference designed to help photographers grow their skills, strengthen their businesses, and connect with a supportive community. Over a few days, attendees experience photography education, business training, hands-on learning opportunities, networking events, inspiring speakers, and plenty of chances to recharge creatively alongside photographers from Iowa and across the Midwest.
Who should attend Focus Forward?
Focus Forward is for photographers at every stage of their journey. Whether you're an aspiring photographer, a hobbyist looking to improve your skills, a full-time studio owner, or a creative entrepreneur, you'll find educational sessions, practical business strategies, and meaningful connections designed to help you move forward. If you love photography and believe there's always more to learn, this event is for you.
Do I need to be a PPI member to attend?
No. Focus Forward is open to both members and non-members. PPI members receive discounted registration, and non-member registrations include a complimentary one-year PPI membership so you can continue learning, networking, and growing long after the conference ends.
What's included with registration?
Registration includes access to all educational sessions (minus optional pre-con or add of events), networking opportunities, vendor experiences, live demonstrations, awards banquet, closing party and conference activities. At Focus Forward attendees receive an event handbook full of helpful information as well as the chance to win door prizes and receive exclusive discounts with industry vendors. You also get 1 complimentary raffle ticket for our closing prize drawing.
Will there be hands-on shooting opportunities?
Are meals included?
Can I bring a guest or spouse?
What networking opportunities are available?
What is the cancellation policy?
Why should I attend Focus Forward instead of another photography conference?
Focus Forward combines nationally recognized speakers, practical photography education, business-focused training, hands-on learning, and genuine community in one event. Unlike larger conferences where it's easy to get lost in the crowd, Focus Forward creates opportunities for real conversations, lasting friendships, and direct access to speakers and industry leaders. Many attendees tell us they come for the education but return year after year for the people.