**PreCon Workshop - march 6th** Kelly & Kalina schneider
From Concept to Capture: A Cinematic Portrait Experience
Step beyond snapshots and workshop, you’ll learn how to turn a simple portrait into a work of art that evokes, captivates, and moves. Together, we'll guide you through every stage—from visual concept and scene design to lighting, directing, and live post-processing. You'll photograph professional models styled with custom props, wardrobe, and curated lighting setups. Build a storytelling image from scratch, with full creative control.
Expect maximum shooting time, one-on-one mentoring, and pro-level insights you can’t find online.
Learn how to evoke real emotion, use lighting for mood, and pose your subject for powerful, unforgettable imagery.
Whether you’re a portrait, boudoir, fashion, or editorial photographer—this class will fuel your vision and elevate your results.
Bring your camera and creativity and leave with portfolio-ready images and renewed artistic fire.
This isn’t just another workshop. It’s a launchpad.
You are invited to
"A Gatsby Gala“
black tie optional for our
Banquet & Awards Ceremony, March 7th .
Celebrate excellence with cocktails, dinner, and dazzling recognition.
It will be exciting evening as we open up a Time Capsule put together by PPM
25 years ago!!
This years Banquet will have an exciting event that you wont want to miss!! The 2026 Photomax will be the 25th Anniversary of a Time Capsule that was put together 25 years ago by PPM Members! The time capsule will be opened during the Banquet.
Prior to the Awards Ceremony, cocktails will be available at a cash bar starting at 6:00 PM (open to all). At 6:30 PM, a banquet dinner will be served. Tickets for the dinner are required and can be added during your regular PhotoMax registration ( Photomax attendance is not required to attend the banquet). The doors for the Awards Ceremony will open at 8:00 PM.
When registering, please add YOUR BANQUET DINNER TICKET AND any guest tickets you may need.
**Banquet tickets are not included in the Convention registration fee.
MEET THE SPEAKERS

Pre-Con:
Kelly & Kalina Schneider
March 6th - In "From Concept to Capture: A Cinematic Portrait Experience " with Kelly & Kalina Schneider,
Step beyond snapshots and into the world of cinematic storytelling. In this all-day immersive workshop, you’ll learn how to turn a simple portrait into a work of art that evokes, captivates, and moves.
Together, we'll guide you through every stage—from visual concept and scene design to lighting, directing, and live post-processing. You'll photograph professional models styled with custom props, wardrobe, and curated lighting setups. Build a storytelling image from scratch, with full
creative control. Expect maximum shooting time, one-on-one mentoring, and pro-level insights you can’t find
online. Learn how to evoke real emotion, use lighting for mood, and pose your subject for powerful, unforgettable imagery. Whether you’re a portrait, boudoir, fashion, or editorial photographer—this class will fuel your vision and elevate your results. Bring your camera and creativity
Leave with portfolio-ready images and renewed artistic fire
This isn’t just another workshop. It’s a launchpad.
Photomax Speakers will be Announced soon!
LODGING
Lodging is available at the Somerset Inn. To reserve your room, visit the Somerset Inn website by clicking this link: BOOK HOTEL ROOM and and enter the group attendee code 928. Or, call the hotel directly at 248.643.7800 for booking assistance. Be sure to mention PPofMI / Professional Photographers of Michigan and provide the group attendee code 928 to receive the discounted rate.

PhotoMax is a PPA Continuing Education merit event! Working toward a PPA Degree? Attend the Pre-Con March 6th and the Conference March 6 & 7th and earn TWO Merits in ONE weekend!
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS