West Virginia Photographers Celebrate 2026 Convention

Professional Photographers of West Virginia name Perry Bennett as Photographer of the Year

Mar. 27, 2026 at 12:04pm

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The Professional Photographers of West Virginia (PPWV), the state-level affiliate of the Professional Photographers of America, held their annual convention in Bridgeport, West Virginia from March 6-8, 2026. The convention featured professional development, networking, and education opportunities for over 30 members. The highlight of the event was the annual image competition, where 223 images were submitted, with 57% earning merit recognition. Perry Bennett, a photographer for the West Virginia State Legislature and owner of Perry Bennett Photography, was named the PPWV 2026 Photographer of the Year.

Why it matters

The PPWV convention is an important annual event that showcases the talent and dedication of West Virginia's professional photography community. The high level of participation and merit recognition earned by members demonstrates the state's thriving photography scene and the organization's commitment to advancing the art and profession of photography.

The details

The PPWV convention included sessions on website development, online marketing, the history of military photography, and Adobe Lightroom Classic software. Members also participated in hands-on location and studio shooting sessions. The annual image competition featured a record number of 223 entries, with 57% earning merit recognition from the panel of qualified, master photographer judges.

  • The PPWV Annual Convention was held from March 6-8, 2026 in Bridgeport, West Virginia.
  • Perry Bennett was named the PPWV 2026 Photographer of the Year.

The players

Professional Photographers of West Virginia (PPWV)

The state-level affiliate organization of the Professional Photographers of America, dedicated to the advancement of photography as both an art and profession within West Virginia.

Perry Bennett

A photographer for the West Virginia State Legislature and owner of Perry Bennett Photography, who was named the PPWV 2026 Photographer of the Year.

Danny Leary

The Image Competition Chairman and Master Photographer for PPWV.

Anthony Rumley

The PPWV President and Master Photographer.

Matt Canterbury

A PPWV member.

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What they’re saying

“This year's image competition was especially meaningful as it reflected both strong participation and strong work. The sheer numbers of participants, images entered, and the total number of merits earned shows the commitment our photographers have to improving their craft. I'm incredibly grateful to see that level of enthusiasm and excellence on display.”

— Danny Leary, Image Competition Chairman, Master Photographer

“Our organization aims to enhance the photographic profession by providing top level instructors and events designed to challenge our members to continue to excel in our profession. Seeing so many amazing images earn well-deserved recognition and seeing our members stretch their creative wings and visions to create such spectacular art is both humbling and exhilarating! We have some of the very best photographers in the nation right here in West Virginia, and the talent pool keeps expanding.”

— Anthony Rumley, PPWV President, Master Photographer

“Earning the title of POTY for the second year in a row is a great honor. I am thrilled to see my work judged so favorably and to carry such an esteemed title awarded by my colleagues and the organization.”

— Perry Bennett

“PPWV seminars, workshops, events and conventions are like getting together with a whole different family. The sense of community is very strong, and the education and encouragement from other photographers is incredible! I always feel so welcomed and leave feeling invigorated and inspired.”

— Matt Canterbury, PPWV Member

What’s next

PPWV is planning a summer photo excursion event and will help document community activities and events across the state both on West Virginia Day (June 20) and Independence Day (July 4) to celebrate the nation's 250th anniversary. Their next Fall Seminar will be held September 11-13, 2026, in Summersville, West Virginia.

The takeaway

The PPWV convention showcases the vibrant photography community in West Virginia, with members demonstrating a strong commitment to professional development, artistic excellence, and a supportive sense of community. The organization's ability to attract record participation and merit recognition highlights the state's thriving photography scene and the PPWV's important role in nurturing and celebrating the art form.