“Depending on who’s doing the counting, it’s estimated there are 500,000 – 700,000 people in the United States who consider themselves professional photographers. Yet, less than 5 percent belong to any association,” says Cohen. “Obviously, not everyone believes they can get the help they need from the existing entities.”
This week, Bourne and Cohen will launch what they believe is an industry first. Every PWSPI member, both new and existing, will now receive free marketing support from the two founders of the association themselves.
“Between us, we have 75 years of experience in this industry. We won’t always have all the answers, but our mutual networks do! Every member will have the opportunity for one of us to review their site, blog, marketing materials, or business plan, just to name a few of the opportunities,” says Bourne.
The details of this new program are available at the PWSPI site, which is now part of PMA International. In an agreement reached last December, Bourne and Cohen will continue to promote and build the association on behalf of PMA, while PMA will utilize its database expertise and benefit programs to help the PWSPI membership.
PWSPI is in its infancy, but the concept of providing personal help at this level is unique to photography. For full information about all the benefits available to PWSPI members, visit the site at www.pwspi.com.