Frequently Asked Questions

Image by Chris Richman

What's included in my registration?

For CPE 2026, registration includes all weekend’s classes and extracurricular activities from 8:30am Saturday, Sept 12 through 11:30pm Sunday, Sept 13. When registered, you will not need to do anything else to enjoy platform classes, lunches, tradeshow, and all evening conference activities. Monday Awards Banquet is also included in your registration but an RSVP is required. **NEW THIS YEAR – Registration for Monday is included in your main registration if you are staying in the hotel. You can also purchase Monday as a stand alone registration without attending the weekend.

What's the closest airport?

Our host hotel is conveniently located less than 5 minutes from Raleigh Durham International Airport.

Am I required to stay in the hotel?

There are several benefits to staying in the Embassy Suites. An amazing breakfast and evening appetizers/drinks are included! The CPE schedule is early morning through late night so it benefits attendees to stay to participate in all aspects of the weekend. The late night conversations are some of the best ways to connect and advance your photography. **ADDED BENEFIT – Stay 3 or more nights in the Embassy Suites or Hampton Inn Host Hotels and you can attend Friday Evening Opening Event with an amazing instructor AND Monday’s "Passion for Profit" A One Day Business for Creatives Workshop for NO ADDITIONAL FEE!

Do I get a registration discount if I stay in the host hotel?

Registration fees will be waived for the Friday Opening Event AND Monday Workshop if you stay at the Embassy Suites or Hampton Inn Host Hotels as a registered guest for 3 or more nights. NOTE: Due to meal counts, you may still need to RSVP for these 2 add-ons. An email will go out for this if you need to reserve a meal.

What's the refund policy?

Deadlines:

● May 14, 2026 (120 days before event): Last day to request a 50% refund.

● 119 – 0 days before: No refunds

● July 13, 2026 (60 days before PreCon): Last day to request a class transfer.

PreCon Course transfers:

● Transfer from one course to another: Requests must be made at least 60 days prior to the start of the course. Course transfers are subject to availability and are not guaranteed.

● Transfer from one member to another member is allowed prior to the start of class.

● Transfer from one year to another year is not permitted.

E-mail requests to [email protected]

Membership rules receiving member discount.

If you register for an event as a PPNC member and you cancel your membership before the event, you will owe the organization the difference of the registration fee you paid and the non-member rate for the event.

How many instructors can I sign up for a PreCon Class?

Attendees sign up to learn with one instructor per day for a PreCon class.

Can I switch my PreCon class after I register?

You may switch a PreCon class up to 60 days before the event pending there is room in the other class. If all other classes are full, you’ll remain in your currently registered class. Transfers from one year to another are not permitted.

Can I bring my spouse/partner?

Significant others are welcome to attend all evening events with the purchase of a meal ticket however they will not be able to attend any classes.

What do I need to bring?

Some classes require nothing more than note taking materials while hands on classes may require lights, cameras and more. Be sure to check the course description for what to bring.

What if I'm new to photography or Carolina Photo Expo?

If you’re just starting out then this is the place for you! You’ll learn more at this event than you would in months or years with trial and error. We also have a NEW TO CPE (Carolina Photo Expo) welcome committee that meets and guides you through the event and optionally pairs new attendees up with PPNC (Professional Photographers of NC) members so if you are coming alone, you will not be alone for long!!!

Will I receive PPA Merits?

Yes, if you’re a PPA member, you’ll receive 1 service merit for attending CPE and 1 for attending a PreCon.

How do I win awards?

Each year Carolina Photo Expo holds our annual awards ceremony. PPNC members receive awards from both image competition and service activity within the organization. Click here to learn more about our awards