Photo by Roger Hart, University of Michigan
Michigan Photography is excited to host the 2026 UPAA Symposium at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor!
Founded in Detroit in 1817, U of M later moved to Ann Arbor, where it grew from a small frontier school into the large, influential university it is today. A true urban university, the symposium will be hosted throughout the campus and Ann Arbor community including Michigan Stadium (“The Big House”), historic Michigan Union, and the Michigan Theatre.
As you explore “Tree Town”, you’ll find a lively college city filled with tree-lined streets, great food, and a strong sense of community. Whether you’re walking through the iconic Diag to catch the Ann Arbor Summer Festival, relaxing in our own central park, “The Arb”, or checking out our local arts and music scene, there is something here for everyone to experience.
Come see where Darth Vader, Roseanne Roseannadanna, and Black Panther cut their teeth. Where Thomas Knoll invented Photoshop and Ken Burns spent his formative years. And where Peter & David Turnley honed their craft.
For those looking to explore before or after the symposium, Southeast Michigan has a lot to offer. Consider Downtown Detroit, recently listed by The New York Times, Travel + Leisure, and Time, as one of the world's best places to visit due to its revitalization, rich history (Motown and automotive), thriving arts/food scene, and unique architecture.
We hope to see you in June!
Sincerely,
Eric Bronson, symposium host
What to Expect
Attire: Casual attire is appropriate during the week and business casual for the banquet on Thursday evening.
Gear: Our corporate partners will be on hand to lend gear and answer questions. You may want to bring your gear for the Nikon Shootout.
Camera Clean and Check: Corporate Partners will offer complimentary Clean and Check for their brand of cameras. Clean and Check Partners TBD.
Laptops: A laptop is beneficial for processing photos and videos for the Shootouts. If you cannot bring one, someone can likely share with you.
Transportation to Campus: The host hotel is a short drive to campus. Like previous years, we are planning to utilize carpooling to get to and from campus. Parking permit status is TBD.
Meals: Most meals are provided.
Register Now
Programming is ongoing and schedules are subject to change.
Dates: June 22 - 26, 2026
June 22-25: Formal Programming: Speakers, breakout sessions, corporate partners all week. Formal programming will conclude with the Awards Banquet Thursday, June 25th.
June 26: Optional Day (limited space): Drone workshop.
Accommodations
We will be staying about a ten-minute drive from the campus. The host hotel is the Kensington with EVEN serving as the overflow hotel. Rooms have been reserved at both hotels, but they are expected to fill quickly. Several other hotels and lodging options are available nearby if needed.
Parking is free at both hotels, and breakfast will be available to all in the Kensington ballroom daily.
The Kensington Hotel - $169/night
Reservations close on May 22, 2026.
Available June 22-26, 2026
(prices do not include tax)
EVEN - $179/night
Reservations close on May 22, 2026.
Available June 22-27, 2026
(prices do not include tax)
Other Options
Hotels.com options
Speakers/Presenters
We are busy working on speakers covering, photo, video, leadership, and other relevant topics
Prices
|
Membership |
Before June 1st | June 1st | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full Member (Photo/Video) | $649 | $769 | |||||||
| Associate | $649 | $769 | |||||||
| Retired | $549 | $619 | |||||||
| Life | $549 | $619 | |||||||
| Student | $549 | $619 | |||||||
| Partner (spouse) | $549 | $619 | |||||||
| Corporate Partner | $350 | $350 | |||||||
Transportation
The closest airport is Detroit Metro Airport (DTW). The Michigan Flyer can be booked to get from Detroit to Blake Transit Center in downtown Ann Arbor, which is a ten-minute drive to the hotels.
Corporate Partners
For more information about becoming a partner with UPAA or the symposium, or if you're a member looking to connect with a partner, contact Kristen Grace, the corporate relations chair, for additional opportunities.
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Register Now
Programming is ongoing and schedules are subject to change.