Rachael Smith PRESIDENT’S REPORT

Rachael Smith, NZIPP President

NZIPP Master of Photography (with Distinction) Accredited Professional Photographer

Welcome to the New Look Pro Report! We’re excited to roll out this refreshed edition of Pro Report on a quarterly basis in 2025. I’m looking forward to diving into the vibrant stories and updates. A huge thanks to Sarah McGregor for her effort in putting this together, and to everyone who contributed their insights and expertise to make it happen.

Reflecting on the Year and Looking Ahead

It’s been just over a month since our AGM, and the Board has been hard at work setting the stage for 2025. Among the highlights is our annual Board Strategy Meeting in February—a comprehensive three-day meeting dedicated to mapping out NZIPP’s strategic direction. We’ll be setting goals, analysing industry trends, prioritising key initiatives, and discussing ways to grow membership, improve performance, and enhance member benefits. It’s an intense but incredibly rewarding few days.

Celebrating Regional Achievements

Regional end-of-year functions are in full swing, bringing members together to reflect on and celebrate a successful 2024. We are working hard to get all regions working well, and I’m thrilled to welcome two new Regional Teams:

Auckland: Maria Eves and Gino Demeer

Central Districts: Kim Sargent and Simon Cartwright

Having a dedicated team in each region is invaluable. As someone who has been a Regional Rep without a committee, I know firsthand how challenging it can be to plan events and foster engagement alone. A huge thank you to everyone stepping into regional roles for 2025, as well as those who have served in the past. Your efforts create opportunities for connection, collaboration, and inspiration.

For those considering volunteering, being part of a Regional Committee is more than just organising events—it’s about shaping the local photography community, building relationships, and making a meaningful impact. It’s also a fantastic way to develop leadership skills and gain recognition within the NZIPP network. Whether you’re a long-time member or just getting involved, volunteering offers a rewarding way to give back and grow alongside your peers. Contact us today if you’d like to volunteer by emailing info@nzipp.org.nz.

Exciting Events on the Horizon

Antti Karppinen AI Workshops

February will kick off with the highly anticipated Antti Karppinen AI Masterclass, a three-day event that promises to take your skills to the next level. Additionally, Antti will offer an AI Basics Workshop the day before the masterclass—perfect for those new to AI.

Social Media Workshop with Johnny Hendrikus

Thanks to NZIPP Auckland and Lumix, Johnny Hendrikus will return in 2025 with his popular workshop on creating engaging social media content. Learn to transform your photography and video work into fun, attention-grabbing posts that elevate your online presence. Tentatively scheduled for March, this workshop is not to be missed!

2025 NZ Photo Show

Tickets are now on sale for the 2025 NZ Photo Show in August. We’re excited to welcome back CR Kennedy as the Major Sponsor of our Gala Awards event—thank you for your continued support!

Planning for the 2026 NZ Photo Show is also underway. If you’d like to join the organizing team or have suggestions for potential venues, let us know! We’re eager to lock in a location and make the 2026 show even more spectacular.

Updates for 2025

Battery Allowance Approved

Air New Zealand has once again approved the additional battery allowance for Accredited NZIPP Members in 2025. If you need documentation for your travels, email us at info@ nzipp.org.nz.

Honours Council Updates

Our Honours Council has been busy behind the scenes:

• Analysing feedback from Iris Awards entrants.

• Preparing NZIPP’s entry for the World Photographic Cup.

• Finalising the 2025 Asia Pacific Awards release and the 2025 Iris Awards Call for Entries, both coming soon.

Thank you to the Honours Council team for your dedication and hard work—it goes far beyond awards season, and your efforts are truly appreciated.

A Year of Opportunities

As we gear up for an exciting year ahead, I encourage all members to get involved, whether by attending events, volunteering on committees, or simply engaging with your local community. Together, we can make 2025 a year of growth, connection, and creativity for NZIPP.

Let’s make it happen!

If you want to be at the FOREFRONT of AI, this is the workshop for you. With AI moving so quickly and taking the world by storm – you need to take this opportunity!

Led by renowned photographer and AI innovator Antti Karppinen, this exclusive three-day masterclass is crafted to give you direct access to the expertise and techniques that have fueled Antti’s groundbreaking commercial AI projects for nearly three years. With a portfolio that includes collaborations with big brands and high-profile clients, Antti has been at the forefront of AI integration in visual production, pushing the limits of what AI can achieve in photography, art, and multimedia. This isn’t just an introduction—it’s an advanced exploration into the world of AI, combining theory, hands-on practice, and business applications to elevate your skills. Across these three days, Antti will pour his deep knowledge and experience into each session, covering everything from essential tools to sophisticated customization. This masterclass will equip you with powerful techniques to leverage AI in every facet of your creative workflow, giving you a distinct edge in today’s fast-evolving visual arts landscape.

As of 10 December 2024, we only have 6 spaces left to this incredible event.

When: Saturday 22nd February – Monday 24th February 2025

Time: 9am – 5pm each day

Where: The Horse and Trap Function Centre (upstairs loft) – 3 Enfield St, Mt Eden, Auckland

Ticket prices: $1695.00 for NZIPP members (excludes regional members), $2095.00 for non NZIPP members. Tickets include one main meal off the Horse and Trap Lunch menu daily, and filtered coffee/ tea throughout the day, plus a morning and afternoon tea snack.

Book now: https://nzipp.org.nz/product/antti-karpinnen/

It’s not just the incredible workshops or the inspiring speakers— it’s 100% the connections. Year after year, attendees rave about the ability to reconnect with old friends and making new ones.

In a profession where so many of us work in isolation, the chance to come together, share stories, and learn from likeminded people is something you simply can’t get online. The NZ Photography Show offers a rare opportunity to step away from the solitude of your studio and into a community that understands your world.

It’s much more than just networking.

Yes, the friendships and camaraderie are the heart of the event, but the education is the soul. This two-day photography extravaganza is packed with workshops tailored to ignite your creativity and sharpen your skills. With multiple sessions to choose from, you’ll walk away with fresh ideas, practical techniques, and a renewed passion for your craft.

It’s time to invest in yourself and your business.

The NZ Photography Show isn’t just an event—it’s an investment in your professional development. This is your chance to:

• Learn from industry leaders.

• Dive deep into topics that matter to you.

• Gain new tools to grow your business.

• Rediscover the joy of photography in a collaborative environment.

Don’t wait – it’s time to make it happen.

If you’ve been sitting on the fence, now’s the time to take the leap. Early bird tickets are on sale now, offering you the chance to secure your spot at a discounted rate. Don’t just do this for your business—do it for yourself.

The NZ Photography Show is more than an event—it’s an experience. It’s where connections are made, inspiration is found, and careers are transformed. Find out why so many photographers return year after year.

Get your ticket today at www.nzphotoshow.co.nz and join us for a celebration of photography, community, and creativity like no other.