March 24, 2021
Prince Alumnus Awarded Craftsman Degree for Contributions to the Field of Photography
Phillip Blume (PACS Class of ’02, UGA ’06) of Blume Photography in Watkinsville has been honored with the Photographic Craftsman degree from Professional Photographers of America (PPA). The degree was presented to Blume by PPA president Gregory Daniel, M.Photog.Cr., CPP, F-ASP, at the association’s annual convention, Imaging USA, held virtually January 17, 2021.
This degree holds special significance within Blume’s larger career, even beyond his meeting the standards of artistic excellence set by PPA. During the 13 years Blume has professionally photographed clients and educated photographers around the world, he has inspired many to use their talents not only for personal success, but for the good of humanity.
As an affirmation of his mission, Blume has been awarded the Photographic Craftsman degree in recognition of “service to the photographic profession as an orator, author, and mentor”. In 2021, he was one of only 40 recipients.
Blume’s degree and the expertise it requires illustrates his accomplishments and talent as one of a select few. Between working with area families to create award-winning wedding and family portraits, Blume and his wife, Eileen, have been busy organizing artistic projects to aid local small businesses and promote health safety in the midst of the pandemic.
“I’m especially thankful this honor might draw awareness to the long-term projects we’re lucky to be part of — efforts to help our nonprofit partners rescue at-risk children and victims of human trafficking,” Blume said in his acceptance statement. “Using art both to heal lives and to celebrate life’s blessings is essential.”
Professional Photographers of America (PPA) is the largest and longest-standing nonprofit photography trade association. Founded in 1868, PPA currently helps 30,000 professionals elevate their craft and grow their business with resources and education, all under PPA’s core guiding principle of bridging the gap between photographers and consumers.
Source/byline: Press Release from PPA (via Phillip Blume)