PDN PhotoPlus Fundraiser for Japan Relief Raises More Than $8,000 for Red Cross Efforts

NEW YORK, Nov. 22, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- This year's annual PDN PhotoPlus Bash was transformed into a fundraising event to assist Japan earthquake victims and raised nearly $8,000 for the Red Cross and its continued efforts to provide relief to those most affected by the Japanese earthquake and Tsunami in March.  Sponsored by Unique Photo, Fuji film, and Modernage, the event's main attraction was a collection of original photographic prints that went on the auction block during the three-hour event.

Nearly 50 photographs from world class photographers including Harry Benson, Douglas Kirkland, Susan Meiselas, John Isaac, and Art Streiber, to name a few, were on exhibit and provided an opportunity for attendees to own an original piece of art while helping the victims of Japan's earthquake.

"It was important for us as an organization, and an industry, to organize an event that would give us an opportunity to participate in the worldwide efforts to help the victims in Japan," explains Jeff McQuilkin, Group Show Director for The Nielsen Company.  "Obviously, the photographic industry has strong ties to Japan and its culture and was deeply affected by the disaster.  The fundraising event was one way we could show our support."

The event, held at the Highline Stages, was the perfect backdrop for an evening of celebration, fundraising, and photography.  More than 1,200 attendees were entertained by the live music of Tyburn Saints and D.J. Cresce, whose services were donated to maximize the total funds raised for the Red Cross.

"It was amazing how the industry came together to support this event," says Lauren Wendle, Vice President, Nielsen Photo Group.  "Everyone had a great time but never seemed to lose sight of fundraising aspect of the event.  The print auction was very active and we want to extend our warmest thanks to the photographers who donated prints, and our guests who bid and bought them."

About PDN

PhotoPlus International Conference + Expo

Designed for professionals in the photographic and imaging industries, PhotoPlus Expo showcases the latest advances in photography. Held annually at the Javits Convention Center, attendees have the opportunity to explore an inspiring array of photography and imaging products and services - everything from image capture and color management to retouching and storage - all from the industry's leading manufacturers.  The show also offers over 115 photography and imaging seminars and hands-on labs taught by world-renowned experts with a focus on cutting-edge innovations in digital imaging products and techniques.

About WPPI

Wedding & Portrait Photographers International (WPPI), a division of Nielsen Photo Group, is an organization that serves the educational and business needs of wedding and portrait photographers. WPPI is a professional organization that exists to help member photographers by providing them with exclusive information, programs and professional services to assist with their photographic artistry and business needs. WPPI routinely supplies its members with new benefits and valuable industry information enabling them to succeed in today's active photo market business.

Website:  http://www.photoplusexpo.com

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SOURCE PDN & WPPI