The North American Nature Photography Association or NANPA is an organization dedicated to photography of nature. Established in 1994, the association has more than 3,000 members currently. Several categories of membership are available, including discounts for students. It annually sponsors many events and conferences, such as NANPA Road Shows, in the United States. Its Foundation, initially established in 1997, awards scholarships, operates blinds for wildlife photography, and organizes funds in memory of deceased photographers and others. NANPA also markets books of interest to members, including those by members, through Amazon.com.
In 2006, NANPA initiated June 15 as Nature Photography Day. The occasion was spearheaded by the association’s History Committee. This designated day is intended to promote the art and science of nature photography. NANPA looks to the esthetic elements and practical ones, too. Photography has been used to rescue animals, plants, and habitats locally and worldwide. Observance of Nature Photography Day has extended beyond North America. Nevertheless, June 15 has often become a day to explore the natural world close by, within walking or biking distance. Among the numerous ways to observe the designated day is to experiment with taking photographs of the same subject--turning the ordinary into something extraordinary.
The 2009 Nature Photography Summit took place in February in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The 2010 and 2011 Summits were held in Reno, Nevada, and McAllen, Texas, respectively. Each summit includes keynote presentations, a trade show, portfolio reviews, workshops (breakouts), vendor sessions and an awards celebration.