Your photography business is flourishing — your calendar is packed with bookings and you receive rave client reviews and referrals.
But what do you do when you don’t have a camera in your hands? How often do you interact with other photographers to “talk shop,” share common interests, or exchange ideas?
Joining a professional photographers association has many perks, including networking opportunities, invitations to exclusive events, and discounts across photography services. Wherever you live and whatever your niche, photography associations can make a big difference for your business.
Top Photographer Associations
It can feel like your second home when you find an association with the right people and the right perks. In fact, in iSeatz’s 2024 Benefits of Belonging report, 58% of respondents said they engaged with their professional association at least once a week.
Not sure where to find your photography community? Take a peek at our niche-based photographer associations list for inspiration.
The American Society of Media Photographers (ASMP), founded in 1944, has 38 chapters across the United States. This nonprofit organization promotes professional development, best practices, and fair wages. The ASMP association is an excellent tool for networking, advocating photographers’ interests, and networking with fellow professionals.
Starting costs: $100
Daguerreian Society — Best for Photo Collectors and Historians
Formed in 1988, the Daguerreian Society is dedicated to the history and science of photography. This association helps connect photographers to the roots of their profession. Members include museum curators, photo collectors and dealers, teachers, and students.
Starting costs: $50
National Press Photographers Association — Best for Photojournalists
The National Press Photographers Association — Best for Photojournalists
The National Press Photographers Association (NPPA), founded in 1946, includes photojournalists, TV videographers, editors, and journalism students. The NPPA believes photojournalists present stories through images and video. This association offers seminars, workshops, and a job bank for those beginning a career in photojournalism.
Starting Cost $3/month
Photographic Society of America — Best Worldwide Photographer Association
The Photographic Society of America is the largest nonprofit photographer association, with membership across 80 countries worldwide. This association includes both professional and amateur photographers and promotes personal growth and expression through the craft.
Starting Cost: $35
North American Nature Photography Association — Best for Nature Photographers
Founded in 1994, the North American Nature Photography Association (NANPA) focuses on the art and science of nature photography. This photographer association views nature photography as an avenue for communication and appreciation for the natural world. NANPA also supports education about environmental protection.
Starting Cost: $25
Royal Photographic Society — Best International Photography Association
The Royal Photographic Society, founded in 1853, believes in bringing “inspiration, creativity, and connection, through photography, to people of all ages and backgrounds.” Membership is open to professional and amateur photographers worldwide.
Starting Cost: £56/$72
Society for Photographic Education — Best for Photography Educational Resources
The Society for Photographic Education is a knowledge-seeking, nonprofit photographer membership program. It regards photography and media as a means of creativity and cultural insight. This photographer association helps photogs gain a broader understanding of photography in all forms.
Starting Cost: $55
Photographer Associations Across All 50 States
Are you searching for photography associations in your state? We compiled a list of professional photographer associations across all 50 states with membership fees.
State | Association | Cost/Fee |
|---|---|---|
Alabama | Starts at $45 | |
Alaska | Starts at $25 | |
Arizona | Starts at $50 | |
Arkansas | Starts at $15/month | |
California | Starts at $11.67/month | |
Colorado | Starts at $10/month | |
Connecticut | Starts at $25 | |
Delaware | $55 per member | |
Florida | Starts at $100 | |
Georgia | Starts at $99 | |
Hawaii | Starts at $60 | |
Idaho | Starts at $39 | |
Illinois | Starts at $99 | |
Indiana | Starts at $25 | |
Iowa | $99 per member | |
Kansas | Starts at $35 | |
Kentucky | Starts at $10 | |
Louisiana | Starts at $20 | |
Maine | Starts at $100 | |
Maryland | Starts at $25/month | |
Massachusetts | Starts at $65 | |
Michigan | $99 per member | |
Minnesota | Starts at $99 | |
Mississippi | Free | |
Missouri | $75 per member | |
Montana | Starts at $98 | |
Nebraska | Not disclosed | |
Nevada | Starts at $16 | |
New Hampshire | Professional Photographers Association | Starts at $80 |
New Jersey | Not disclosed | |
New Mexico | Starts at $35 | |
New York | Starts at $50 | |
North Carolina | Starts at $15 | |
North Dakota | Not disclosed | |
Ohio | Starts at $99 | |
Oklahoma | Starts at $35 | |
Oregon | Starts at $85 | |
Pennsylvania | Starts at $55 | |
Rhode Island | Starts at $20 | |
South Carolina | Starts at $19/month | |
South Dakota | Not disclosed | |
Tennessee | Starts at $25 | |
Texas | Starts at $50 | |
Utah | Starts at $10/month | |
Vermont | Starts at $7.50/month | |
Virginia | Starts at $50 | |
Washington | $200 per member | |
West Virginia | $150 per member | |
Wisconsin | Starts at $49 | |
Wyoming | Starts at $63 |
Benefits of Joining a Photography Association (Is It Worth It?)
Photography associations offer several benefits that enrich your career and personal life. When you join an association, you can:
- Make new friends: Connect and build close friendships with other members, especially if you share photography niches and techniques
- Learn new skills: Develop new techniques and find inspiration for future shoots through professional development and skill-based courses
- Gain more job opportunities: Most associations offer access to exclusive networking events and job boards where you can build your client list
- Receive exclusive discounts and invites: Association partners often offer discounts on gear or invitations to industry events
Boost your reputation: Add your membership status to your website and social media profiles to enhance your credibility with clients
Best Cost-Effective Alternatives to Joining a Professional Photographer Association
Joining photography organizations isn’t for everyone. If you’re not interested in making a commitment or paying membership dues, there are other ways to boost your photography skills, network yourself, and make photography friends:
- YouTube: Subscribe to YouTube channels by and for pros that feature videos on the industry and behind-the-scenes content
- Facebook groups: Join Facebook photography groups to share ideas, get tips, and interact with photographers worldwide
- Instagram: Create an Instagram account to post your work, share ideas, and follow other photographers for inspiration
- Independent learning programs: Gain expert insights from photographer-led classes via Udemy and MasterClass
- Alum services: Attend alumni events at film schools, community colleges, or universities for networking and job opportunities
- Conventions and events: Attend local, national, and international photography conventions or conferences to hear from and meet other pros
Protect Your Career and Reputation
Did you know photography insurance is another effective way to boost your business’s credibility? Joining an association allows you to carve out your place in the industry as a true professional. Carrying liability coverage shows customers that you take your business seriously.
The right policy shields you and your customers from risk. Pros need an annual photographer insurance policy for that kind of protection. To safeguard your business even further, extend your coverage with:
Pro Tip: Pay your association and annual insurance fees at the same time. That way, you’ll never
forget to renew your membership dues and coverage.
FAQs About Professional Photography Associations
Are There Any Professional Associations That Are Necessary to Be a Photographer?
No, professional associations are not necessary to become a photographer. However, joining a professional photographer’s association offers excellent benefits, such as making new friends, learning new skills, and boosting your reputation.
Do You Need a Certificate to Be a Professional Photographer?
No, you don’t need a certificate to be a professional photographer. Some photographers are self-taught, while others study photography at film schools, universities, community colleges, or online courses on MasterClass, Udemy, and more.
What Licenses Do Photographers Need?
Photographers should have these licenses:
- State business license
- Sales tax permit
- Home occupation permit (for in-home photography studios)
- Public photo shoot permits
How Much Does It Cost to Become a Certified Professional Photographer?
Becoming a certified professional photographer costs between $100 and $800. The price varies based on the price of camera equipment, college or certification courses, photography insurance, travel, and photography organization membership fees.
