Benefits

Benefits to Belonging

Melendy, Amy-Gathered in the Glow, PPETN 
Image Provided Courtesy of Melendy, Amy

PPETN is a non-profit organization built by photographers, for photographers. Our mission is simple — to help you level up your craft, your confidence, and your business.

Whether you’re working to increase sales, refine your artistry, or find your photography tribe, PPETN offers the education, community, and inspiration to get you there.

Here’s what makes our community so special:

  • Each month, we host in-person meetings on topics that matter — from lighting and posing to pricing and marketing. You’ll walk away with new techniques, fresh ideas, and real-world insights you can put to use right away.

    We also host workshops, model shoots, competitions, and critique sessions throughout the year — because the best way to grow is to create, share, and learn together.

  • At PPETN, you’ll find a group of talented, supportive photographers who believe in lifting each other up. Our Resource Page is filled with curated tutorials, tools, and business tips shared by members who’ve been where you are and are cheering you on every step of the way.

  • Whether you’re just starting out or ready to refine your style, mentorships through PPETN pair you with experienced photographers who can help guide your next step. For seasoned professionals, it’s a chance to give back and help shape the next generation of artists.

At PPETN, we believe photography is more than a skill — it’s a lifelong journey.
Let’s grow, create, and inspire together.

Visit Our Events Calendar

PPETN Membership

Fox, Karen-Rooted, PPETN 
Image Provided Courtesy of Fox, Karen-Rooted

Where Photographers Grow, Connect, and Belong

Thank you for your interest in joining the Professional Photographers of East Tennessee (PPETN) — a proud community partner of the Professional Photographers of America (PPA).

At PPETN, we welcome photographers at every stage of their journey. Whether you’re a seasoned professional, a part-time creative, exploring photography as a side gig, or simply curious to learn and connect — there’s a place for you here.

Our mission is simple: to help you grow your craft, your confidence, and your business — all while being part of a community that feels like family.

Henry, Travis Hill-Waxwing Elegance, PPETN 
Image Provided Courtesy of Henry, Travis Hill

Membership Details

Your Membership Includes:

  • Couldn’t make it to a meeting? No problem!
    Members get access to an archive of recorded sessions spanning several years — packed with practical lessons, expert insights, and real-world advice from top photographers.

  • As a PPETN member, your voice matters.
    You’ll have the opportunity to vote on by-law updates, membership discussions, and key decisions that shape our organization’s future.

  • Each month, members have the chance to showcase their work through peer voting at our meetings. One standout photographer earns the title “Photographer of the Month,” and at the end of the year, we crown our “Photographer of the Year.”

    These recognitions aren’t just about awards — they’re powerful marketing tools that highlight your artistry and elevate your professional reputation.

    Want feedback from trained judges?
    You can also submit your work for in-depth critique sessions, designed to help you refine your craft and grow in confidence.

  • Learning is better together.
    Our study groups connect you with mentors and peers who can help guide your path toward professional certifications and degrees within PPA — including:

    • Certified Professional Photographer (CPP)

    • Merit Image Review (MIR)

    • Master of Photography Degree

    These groups offer hands-on learning, accountability, and real mentorship from photographers who have walked the same path.

  • When you join PPETN, you’re not just gaining benefits — you’re giving back.
    Your membership helps fund educational programs, local workshops, and national speakers, all of which enrich our regional photography community. Together, we’re building something bigger than ourselves — a thriving network of creatives who share, teach, and inspire.

Join Us Today

At PPETN, you’ll find more than meetings and events — you’ll find a community that celebrates your growth.
Whether you’re here to sharpen your skills, expand your network, or gain recognition for your work, this is where it all begins.

Ready to become a member and be part of East Tennessee’s growing photography family?

Join PPETN Membership