Cris Duncan
2021 TPPA President

Zig Ziglar once said, “In times of change, the learner shall inherit the earth, while the learned finds themselves well equipped for a world that no longer exists.”

If 2020 has taught us anything, it is that anything can change.  In just a few days, to steal a quote from Hamilton, “The world turned upside down.”

We adapted and developed new ways to work, do school, shop, dine, socialize, worship, and communicate with those we love the most.  In all aspects of our lives, we had to be creative and learn new skills and workflows to continue to grow and exist.

Just as you had to pivot, the industry did as well. TPPA was not excluded and early on in 2020, TPPA took the lead in the industry and was the first affiliate to host an entirely online remote image competition. Texas School looked different as well and had not one, but two, incredible online events loaded with education and fun. It looked different, it was not exactly what we wanted, but we found that we were able to reach new groups of people through the virtual format.  Suddenly, those who could not travel or take a week off from other obligations could join in the “Best Little School in Texas.”  People were able to discover new instructors and businesses grew.  That makes me so excited.

As 2021 begins, we get to continue to be creative in how we communicate and work. The one thing that hasn’t changed is the commitment TPPA has to you, your craft and the industry. As President, I can promise that I will do whatever I can to make sure that you continue to thrive and grow. Being a part of a photographic community such as TPPA is so much more than paying dues and receiving member benefits. It is about collaboration, group learning, bonding through wins and failures, sharing a common interest and being better than before. That is our role in your story.

I do not know where you may be in your photographic journey.  Some reading this are veterans that have had successful careers for decades and others may have just booked their first client. I celebrate with each of you.

You see, it is not where you start that matters, it’s where you go that makes the difference. TPPA is dedicated to helping you get to where you want to go—to helping you be a life-long learner.  You have an incredible opportunity to make an impact on someone’s life. Today you have the choice to take a step, a step into success. Never hold back on what makes you special and unique. You have permission to grow. You have permission to learn and be better than before. You have permission to be great!

Happy Creating,

Cris Duncan
TPPA President