I'm honored to have received an invitation to speak at the 48th Annual University Photographers' Association of America Technical Symposium this coming June in Jamestown, NY.

The UPAA was founded in 1961 by a small group of university photographers in the New England area. Since then, their membership has grown to include photographers from across the United States, Canada, Australia and Israel. Their organization of college and university photographers are concerned with the application and practice of photography as it relates to the higher education setting.

Their annual Symposium underscores their commitment to photographic excellence and th continuing education and networking with their professional colleagues.

I've been asked to speak on the topic of small strobe lighting techniques. The Symposium co-host felt that the small kit lighting techniques that I use in the wide range of photo assignments that I shoot fits extremely well with the type of assignments university photographers must cover for their schools. They felt that my expertise would greatly enhance the professional development opportunities that they wish to provide their members. I am delighted to be part of their 2009 Symposium.

Last years speakers included Michael Grecco, Steve McCurry and Sports Illustrated's photographer Bob Rosato.

I don't know who the other speakers are just yet but I understand they're trying to get Jim Brandenburg to commit. As I receive word who might be speaking I'll let you know.

Knowing that I will be in Western New York in late June for the Symposium, I thought it might be an excellent opportunity to hold a Small Strobes, Big Results workshop in the area. It looks like some of the surrounding areas would include: Buffalo, Syracuse, Pittsburgh, PA and Akron, OH. I would love to hear your thoughts regarding your choice of a location.