If you’re a photographer in the Midwest, chances are you’ve heard of PhotoCon —and after last weekend, I can confidently say Kansas City brought the fun.
A Weekend Fueled by Creativity
The weekend kicked off at the iconic Firestone Building in downtown Kansas City with an opening reception that set the tone perfectly. The space was buzzing with energy! Photographers connecting and snapping, sharing stories, talking gear, and just genuinely enjoying being around other creatives who get it. It was one of those environments where inspiration hits before you even pick up a camera.
Education, Community, and Getting Out There
Day two was all about learning and doing! Between sessions, conversations, and hands-on experiences, there was something for everyone, no matter where they are in their photography journey.
One of my favorite parts of the day was leading my VIP photo walk through downtown Kansas City. We focused on long exposure techniques, specifically capturing car trails and urban nightscapes. There’s something special about watching photographers see their image come to life on the back of their camera. Those moments are why I love teaching.
Bringing Astro to the City
On day three, I had the opportunity to present my talk, Intro to Astro and the Effects of Light Pollution. Teaching astrophotography in an urban environment always creates a unique conversation—because while the stars may be harder to see, understanding light pollution is the first step in overcoming it.
We talked about how artificial light impacts the night sky, ways to work around it, and how to still create compelling images even when conditions aren’t perfect. It’s one of my favorite topics because it blends both technical knowledge and a deeper appreciation for preserving our dark skies.
One of the biggest highlights of the weekend was also selling out every single copy of my book, The Intentional Artist.
That moment honestly meant the world to me. To see something I created resonate with so many people, and to have that level of support in person, is something I don’t take lightly. So if you grabbed a copy, thank you so much.
What’s Next
If last weekend proved anything, it’s that the photography community is alive and thriving and I’m so grateful to be a part of it.
And if you’re already feeling that itch to learn more, create more, and push your skills further, I’ve got something exciting coming up. I’ll be co-hosting Milky Way Boot Camp this September alongside Bedford Camera & Video and Canon. It’s going to be an immersive experience focused entirely on astrophotography with hands-on learning, real shooting opportunities, and all the tools you need to level up. Or join us at PhotoCon OKC this October!
Weekends like this remind me why I do what I do. It’s not just about the photos, it’s about the people, the shared experiences, and the moments that push us all to grow creatively.
Already looking forward to the next PhotoCon KC.