JRD3 Loc: Richmond, VA

I have never attended this. Learned about it too late in '17. Some general advice would be appreciated.
Is it worth the effort?
Is the Expo just gear and accessories?
The lectures and programs depend on quality of speakers. Is that generally high in caliber?
Can it be done in one day?
Any other thoughts. I am not a professional. I am exhibiting in mixed media shows. Trying to figure out other ways to hone skills and, perhaps, to sell some of my images.
I know this is a broad ask, but I would appreciate your thoughts. And thanks in advance for taking the time to weigh in. Jay

Hal81 Loc: Bucks County, Pa.

Is been many years ago that I went to the Expo. We had five photographers working for the studio that I worked from. The studio picked up the tab and sent us all. It was enjoyable and very interesting. Of course all the big names in the photo world where there. They were all willing to show you and try to sell you their product. But it was worthwhile going to.

traveler90712 Loc: Lake Worth, Fl.

It is only an hour train ride for me and I have attended each year for the past 6? To me it is worth just getting to touch and feel new stuff, see all the new gadgets and hopefully get to shake hands with some of our members here.

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

I've been there many times. Get a free ticket online and get there before it opens. After a few hours, just walking can be a challenge because it gets so crowded. Bring your own food and drink. There is often a table (toward the right) where you can get your sensor cleaned while you watch. Anyone interested in photography should go at least a couple of times. Yes, you can cover the whole thing on one day.

bobmcculloch Loc: NYC, NY

We have our tickets and will decide as it gets closer, last couple of years we had better offers on that weekend, grandkids or going someplace to shoot, maybe this year, doit one day, stay over, do some NYC the next, BTW B&H is open Friday AM and has a bus from the show to their store and back.

jbk224 Loc: Long Island, NY

I have been going for a while now. Easy as I live in NYC. If you need to be in NY during this period; or can add a valuable stopover; then I say to definitely go. Otherwise, I would not make a special trip for the day. Yes it is nice to put your 'hands' on new equipment. And it is nice to find something that may be on show special that you didn't think you needed. But this is not limited to the PDN Expo. You will find two basic vendors: equipment and service. Equipment can be found online and locally for most. You will know about the equipment you need or think you need because that is your business. If you go through the list of exhibitors (for example), you will find a number of photo 'book' printers. If you are not happy with who you deal with now, I am sure an online search will help. And, if you are on a mission to purchase and cannot decide, and do not have a brick and mortar place close to you; then make a special trip to NY to go to B&H+; and see, touch, and buy what you need. As you can see, I am somewhat of a contrarian here. I generally go because it is free and easy. I'm prepared to find one thing or nothing as the cost is not worth noting in time or expense. You on the other hand are looking to determine if it is worth your time and expense to make this your single focus. I do not think you should. INMHO.
Jon

Vlemasters

How do you get free tickets?

speters Loc: Grangeville/Idaho

Don't know any specific's about this one, but would expect it to be just like most of them, just like Photokina's (went to a lot of them) with a bit of everything!

traveler90712 Loc: Lake Worth, Fl.