When I decided to become a photographer and do it for profit, I weighed the option of joining PPA. I ended up doing it. I get a newsletter, Professional Photographer Magazine (which I personally love - they have articles from real photographers who have small studios and they are very candid about struggles, what they have tried, what worked/what didn't), and a ton of discounts. I got my equipment insurance and liability insurance which was completely affordable. Even if you are just doing this as a part time gig or hobby, doesn't hurt to get liability insurance. What if you went to someones house (even a friends) set up your light stand and it fell on something and broke it or worse it fell on one of their children. I think I have a million or something like that in liability. More than enough for non-studio. Plus if you ever plan on shooting a wedding, youmay need this for the venue. The wedding that I am doing in September, I contacted the facility to find out some information about it and set up a tour (so I can see conditions/lighting) and they required it....
They also have an agreement with Fed Ex where you can get an acct and get their discount on shipping. I am still working out the application with Fed Ex but it is soooo much cheaper than going to the local Fed Ex store.
You have access to Webinars (I love webinars) You never know what life brings so attending a workshop is impossible. I learned this as I had to cancel my flight for Launch ( i am still upset about this - I won in a contest and was soooo bummed) when my aunt who lives with us, her chemo was rescheduled for the day I was leaving. My son got fifths disease and ended up in the ER the day before I was attending Ana Brandt's (love her) maternity workshop in NYC which I paid for. Yes my husband and I do have bad luck in some things. That's why I love Online courses and webinars. I can take it in my PJ's in the comfort of my on home while my son is watching Wheel of Fortune (his new favorite show). A lot are free - some have a small fee for members.
They also have a resource section that has sample forms, contracts, and important business information.
Worth the money? Depends... I feel like it has been a huge benefit to me, however, If you are just in it for fun, look around the site http://www.ppa.com/ and see if it is for you:)
