The Ultimate Photographic Playground
SPX 2026 isn’t just about sitting in a conference room—it is a full creative retreat. Hosted right on the edge of the historic New Orleans French Quarter, inspiration is waiting the moment you step outside our doors.
Bring your cameras, explore the historic architecture, and capture the vibrant street culture alongside your fellow Louisiana professionals. This is your ultimate work-cation.
Learn From The Best: Our 2026 Lineup
Branding and Headshot Photographer
Session: No Studio Required. Headshot Lighting That Works Anywhere
Award-Winning Commercial and Portrait Photographer
Session: Liquid Courage: Stepping Into Product Photography
Destination Wedding, Commercial, and Lifestyle Photographer
Session: How to Become the Successful Wedding Photographer You Always Wanted to Be
School and Sports Photography Business Expert
Session: Just Win Baby!
Storytelling and Fine Art Portrait Photographer
Session: Step Into the Magic of Storytelling and Discover How to Create an Experience Your Clients Will Never Forget
Weekend Itinerary
Friday, October 23rd
7:30 AM – Registration Open
8:30 AM – Opening Introduction: President Susan Stevison
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Heather Harvey: Step Into the Magic of Storytelling and Discover How to Create an Experience You Will Never Forget. (Part 1) (Sponsored by Arlington Camera)
12:00 PM – 1:30 PM – Lunch Break
12:00 PM – 1:30 PM – Past Presidents Luncheon (RSVP Required: ppla4805@gmail.com)
1:30 PM – 5:00 PM – Heather Harvey: Step Into the Magic of Storytelling and Discover How to Create an Experience You Will Never Forget. (Part 2) (Sponsored by Arlington Camera)
5:30 PM – 7:00 PM – Dinner Break
7:30 PM – 9:00 PM – Photo Walk with Anthony LaMothe
Evening – Hospitality TBA
Saturday, October 24th
7:00 AM – Registration Desk Open
8:00 AM – 10:00 AM – Heather Harvey: Step Into the Magic of Storytelling and Discover How to Create an Experience You Will Never Forget. (Part 3) (Sponsored by Arlington Camera)
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Neal Cowen: Just Win Baby! (Part 1)
12:00 PM – 1:30 PM – Lunch Break
1:30 PM – 4:00 PM – Shawn Colin: How to Become the Successful Wedding Photographer You Always Wanted to Be.
4:00 PM – 5:30 PM – Dawn Gilmore: Liquid Courage: Stepping into Product Photography
5:30 PM – 7:00 PM – Dinner Break
7:30 PM – 9:00 PM – Photo Walk with Shawn Colin
Evening – Hospitality TBA
Sunday, October 25th
7:00 AM – Registration Desk Open
8:00 AM – 10:00 AM – Neal Cowen: Just Win Baby! (Part 2)
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Anthony LaMothe: No Studio Required. Headshot Lighting That Works Anywhere. (Part 1)
11:00 AM – 12:30 PM – Lunch Break & Hotel Room Checkout
12:30 PM – 1:45 PM – Anthony LaMothe: No Studio Required. Headshot Lighting That Works Anywhere. (Part 2)
1:45 PM – 2:15 PM – PPLA Annual Membership Meeting
2:15 PM – PPLA Wrap Up Board Meeting
Venue & Stay
Stay in the Heart of the Action
Our host hotel for SPX 2026 is the Homewood Suites by Hilton – New Orleans French Quarter, located at 317 N Rampart St.
This hotel is small and has limited availability, so do not wait to book!
We have secured an incredible rate of just $105 per night for a single room, which includes a free breakfast. Valet parking is available for $25.
The strict cut-off date to secure this group rate is September 22, 2026.
Ready to Leave Your Imprint?
Secure your spot for the ultimate New Orleans photography work-cation.
3-Day Full Registration
– PPLA Members: $199
– PPLA Lifetime Members: $99.50
– Non-Members: $249
1-Day Passes:
– PPLA Members: $99
– Non-Members: $149