This is a Meetup group of like-minded photographers who specialize in portrait photography work. We welcome all skill levels, from beginners to professionals!   Our mission at PPG is to provide fun and affordable opportunities to broaden your skill set in all areas of photography. We are an interactive learning group dedicated to sharing information amongst each other and supporting one another in the quest to capture that perfect image.   If you love photographing people, then this Meetup group is the right place for you!   The human face is the most fascinating and instantly recognizable element of our humanity. Are you aware that the human face can create approximately 5,000 expressions? Smiling is the most easily recognizable facial expression! At PPG, we will provide all the tools you will need to capture the emotions of those around you. Workshops include working with all types of models, both outdoor and in studio. Typical sessions include engagements, weddings, maternity, newborn, children, seniors, families, pets, boudoir and even the occasional professional model for high fashion/concept shoots.  In addition, we work with every type of lighting; natural, studio strobes, continuous and off camera flash. We also practice posing and interacting with real people. More often than not, the models we photograph are not pros. Occasionally we do get a chance to work with pro models who know exactly what to do so that you can concentrate on your equipment. However, my goal is to give you a learning platform to work with "real" people that will be more like your "real" clients.   There are several Meetups scheduled each month. Some of our meetings are simply just for networking, where you can meet other photographers and just have some fun talking. Other Meetups are organized with models and locations that allow you an opportunity to learn from one another. Many of the Meetups include instruction with more informative training to help advance your knowledge and skill levels.   Basic membership in the group is free and there are several Meetups throughout the year that are also free, however, many of the "outings" do involve a small fee, usually $10-$40. A basic member can RSVP for any of the public Meetups and sessions.   Training and portrait outings will take place in the areas of:   •posing   •lighting   •equipment   •marketing & sales   •software and studio work flow   •Photoshop   •social media - why it's so important and perfect for photographers   •and much more....   Charities will play a big part in this Meetup group as well, and different events will be scheduled in order to give back to our community. Giving with an open heart can be so rewarding and fun. We do hope that you will participate in our charity events as well!   We also invite you to join our group on our Facebook page where will will be sharing images and spreading the word about our Meetup through the social media community.   [url=http://www.facebook.com/?sk=inbox&actio... on Facebook[/url] [url=www.twitter.com/ppgtweets]PPG on Twitter[/url]