OUR MISSION

"Connecting Professional Photographers Through Education and Networking"

VPPA PILLARS

I. Membership (Retain & Recruit)

II. Education

III. Governance/Financial Stablilty
IV. Credits & Degrees

Members of The Virginia Professional Photographers' Association are committed to promoting artistic, technical, and business excellence in professional image making while endorsing the highest standards of ethical conduct.

Organizations such as the VPPA can function only with the dedication of devoted volunteers.

We are a group of artists willing to commit time and energy to make VPPA a strong, dynamic coalition of professionals. Everyone is encouraged to attend functions at both State and District levels. We hope all members will experience the value of membership in our association and contribute their time and talent to benefit VPPA.

code of conduct

TO observe the highest standards of integrity in all transactions, avoiding the use of false, confusing, inaccurate or misleading terms, descriptions, and claims.

TO maintain a dignity of manner in behavior, in the presentation of services, in all forms of public contact, including personal appearance and that of the studio or place of business.

TO endeavor to produce images of a quality equal or superior to the samples on display, to provide the best possible photographic services, and to raise the general standard of photographic craftsmanship.

TO assist and cooperate with fellow professional image makers by sharing knowledge or aiding in any difficulties. To encourage and expect other VPPA members to uphold the highest standards of the profession.

TO subscribe to the Federal Trade Commission rules of Fair Competitive Practices for the professional photographic industry.

TO discontinue immediately the use of the Association’s name, seal, logo or emblem if membership lapses or is revoked. Under these circumstances, no attempt may be made to claim or to infer membership in this organization.

TO recognize the authority of this Association in all matters relating to the interpretation of this Code.

objectives

To raise the standards of professional image making
To demonstrate integrity in all business practices
To provide continuing education opportunities for our members
To promote a spirit of cooperation among all members
To motivate all Virginia image makers to aspire to membership in this Association
To foster goodwill in the community
To influence consumers to select members of the association for photographic work

ethics

The VPPA stringently supports a Code of Ethics. Upon acceptance as a member, you are sent a copy as a permanent reminder. You will be asked to sign the Code of Ethics each year as you renew your membership.

The VPPA has a standing Ethics Committee with one member from each of the four Districts. This committee reviews and enforces the Code of Ethics and is empowered to handle complaints brought either by another photographer or by a consumer against a member. The committee attempts to resolve each issue amicably, however serious violations can result in expulsion from the organization.

AFFILIATES

PPA: Professional Photographers of America (PPA) Affiliates are individual professional photography organizations that have chosen to partner with the national PPA organization. Membership in national PPA is separate from membership in a local affiliate. If you are also a member of PPA you are able to earn merits toward the national PPA degree program. The PPA Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) program information is distributed to Affiliate PPA Members by PPA CPP Liaisons during the year.
Virginia's Affiliation With PPA: There are five PPA Affiliations in Virginia. The VPPA State Affiliate, as well as four Local Affiliates; Blue Ridge District, Capital District, Northern District and Tidewater District. We have four Councilors who represent us at the national meetings. They are the liaison between the state and the national associations. From them we obtain information, and through them we express any ideas and concerns we may have as an affiliate.

DISTRICTS

Four Districts: Because the state of Virginia has a large geographic territory, the VPPA is subdivided into four districts, known as Blue Ridge, Capital, Northern and Tidewater. Each district functions independently, having its own programs, social gatherings and newsletters. By attending your district’s functions, you will keep up with current image making practices while getting to know the other member photographers in your local area. Participation in District events is not restricted by District. All Virginia members are welcome at all events
Representation: As a member of the VPPA, your interests are represented by the Board of Directors, the governing body of the organization. Professional, Retired and Life members vote for representatives on both the state and district levels. Your District Governor is your closest link to the Board and the best person to relay any ideas you may have. However, any member of the Board would be eager to hear your constructive ideas directly.