About the Northern Short Course (NSC)

The Northern Short Course (NSC) is a long-running educational conference for photojournalists and visual storytellers. Founded in 1981 by NPPA Regions 1, 2, and 3, it has grown into a major annual gathering for professionals, students, and educators seeking to strengthen their visual storytelling skills. The NSC operates with its own board of directors and functions as a distinct educational program—connected to, but administratively separate from—the National Press Photographers Association.

Founding

The NSC was established in 1981 as a collaborative educational initiative created by the directors of NPPA Regions 1, 2, and 3, now known as New England, New York/International, and Mid-Atlantic regions.

Purpose

The NSC brings together professional photojournalists and visual storytellers, students, editors and educators to learn, share knowledge, explore new ideas, and advance the craft of photography and multimedia journalism.

Governance

The NSC is led by its own board of directors and operates as an independent educational program affiliated with the NPPA. The conference is entirely volunteer-run, with all programming, logistics, and operations supported by dedicated members of the photojournalism community.

NSC Contest

Each year the NSC hosts a still photography contest branded specifically for the event. Entries are open to NPPA members in the New England, New York/International, and Mid-Atlantic regions. The contest showcases the strongest visual journalism produced across these regions and highlights emerging and established talent.