In the beginning of the new millennium

Jay Miller and Chad Slattery started thinking about an idea to gather together some of the leading aviation photographers of the world for an annual symposium. They thought this would be an excellent mechanism for the exchange of aviation photography ideas, technique discussion, and the hashing of philosophy. It was hoped the symposium would provide a conduit for communication, education, and friendship among those who had a professional stake in, interest in, or simple love for aviation photography. As most of you know, that idea resulted in the first International Symposium for Aviation Photography in Ft. Worth, TX during February 22 - 25, 2001. Since that first event in 2001, ISAP has grown to over 500 members representing over twenty countries. An ISAP web site has been created to facilitate world-wide communication with our members. We successfully filed for a 501 (3) (C) as a tax-exempt entity and our new "official" name is now International Society for Aviation Photography, Inc.

The first ISAP board meeting was held on August 10 & 11, 2004 to discuss the organization's structure, purpose, and what ISAP can do for its members. It was concluded that the casual atmosphere ISAP has become known for will be maintained. It was also concluded, unanimously, that ISAP will not become part of any other more formal photographic organizations, but will continue to exist as a stand-alone entity.

The board also determined that ISAP membership will be viewed as a privilege. Accordingly, along with membership comes a responsibility to fellow members. Our ISAP members are a mixture of professional photographers, full or part time, amateur photographers, as well as associates who are aviation editors, publishers, etc.. All members share, educate, and network with each other to continually improve the skills and knowledge base of ISAP as a whole. ISAP, it is hoped, will quickly become a professional organization held in high esteem by the aviation industry.