PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHERS OF IOWA |
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Where Creativity Meets Community
Focus Forward is for photographers, creatives, and small business owners who want more than just education—they want connection, inspiration, and momentum.
Whether you're sharpening your skills, growing your business, or searching for your people, Focus Forward is your space to learn, recharge, and belong.
Open to all—you don’t need to be a PPI member to attend, but members save $100 on registration.
đŸ’¥ Early bird registration opens July 25—get $100 off for 24 hours only!
Speaker Line Up
Mena Darré Email Marketing |
Bee Trofort Wilson Long Exposure Portraits
Kira Derryberry Chat GPT |
Myrna Daramy SEO & Blogging
Jonny Edwards Motivation - Lighting - Posing | Check back for speaker bios and course descriptions coming soon! |
Event Highlights |
| Awards Brunch Our Awards Brunch 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. |
Vendor Meet and Greet
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.
| Pajama Jam Closing Party We are excited to bring DJ Riley Mulane to our closing pajama party. 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. Why a 'Pajama Jam'? Because when you ditch the formalwear and show up in your comfiest PJs, something magical happens, your guard comes down. Pajamas create a more inclusive, judgment-free atmosphere where real connection thrives. At Focus Forward, the Pajama Jam isn’t just about dancing it’s about community and joy. By removing the pressure of dressing to impress, we open the door to deeper conversations, sillier dance moves, and memories that stick. It’s the perfect blend of fun and freedom, exactly what our creative community needs. |
Networking Opportunities
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.
Print Show
The 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.
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 2777 during the reservation process to get our special block rate. |
Event Schedule (tentative) |
Friday April 10 5pm - Opening Welcome with President Jaimy Ellis 5:30pm - Josh Russell - Motivation 7pm - Bee Trofort Wilson - Long Exposure Portraits 9pm - Networking Hang Out | Saturday April 11 8:30am - Awards 10am - Brunch 11:30am - Myrna Daramy - SEO and Blogging 1pm - Josh Russell - Photo Walk 2:30pm - Vendor Meet & Greet 4:30pm - Josh Russell - Content Creation 8pm - Networking Hang Out | Sunday April 12 9am - Roundtables and/or Photo Walks 11am - Kira Derryberry - Chat GPT 2pm - Mena Darré - Email Marketing 4pm - Luke Marzano - Social Media Marketing 8pm - Pajama Jam Closing Party 11pm - After Hours Hang Out | Monday April 13 9:30am - Jonny Edwards Time TBD - Closing Remarks and Prize Drawing |