Cologne 2018

September 25+26
Residenz Köln
Sold Out

Event Summary

Our first event in Germany was electric from start to finish. We took a unique approach to the lineup, focusing on quality over quantity, and allowing for more time with the community. With a guest list of 575 people, Residenz Köln provided the perfect backdrop for a wild and unforgettable show. The closing party was particularly memorable, making it the wildest closing party of all Way Up North events up to that point.

Event Theme

INSPIRATION IS FOR AMATEURS

The theme for the show in Cologne 2018 was “INSPIRATION IS FOR AMATEURS”, inspired by the iconic quote by Chuck Close. Presenters delved into the idea that true creativity and innovation come from within, and that inspiration is not something that can be easily found or replicated. Instead, they shared their own stories of perseverance, experimentation, and dedication to their craft, inspiring attendees to tap into their own inner sources of creativity and drive.

Line-Up

We offer two formats for presenters: 45-minute keynote presentation and 10-minute WUNX presentations.

Keynote Presenters

  • Erika + Lanny Mann

    Wedding Photographers
    CA

  • A Wild Escape

    Wedding Photographers
    DE

  • Zack Arias

    Editorial + Commercial Photographer
    US

  • Samm Blake

    Wedding Photographer
    US

  • Jen Huang

    Lifestyle Photographer
    US

  • Brinson + Banks

    Portraiture + Lifestyle Photographers
    US

  • Carmen & Ingo

    Wedding Photographers
    AT

  • Alicia Swedenborg

    Wedding Photographer
    SE

  • Jai Long

    Entrepeneur
    AU

  • Kirk Mastin

    Photographer
    US

  • Maciej Suwałowski

    YouTuber / Wedding Photographer
    PL

WUNX Presenters

Hosts

  • Anna Roström

    Photographer + Entrepreneur
    SE

DJs

  • Michael Antonia

    Entrepreneur / DJ
    US

News

Keep up to date with the community. Read our blog.

What next?

  • Vienna 2026

    May 5 + 6
    Inspired. Connected. Now what? It’s Monday morning and the real work begins. For ten years we’ve celebrated the beautiful stuff—the creative breakthroughs, the stunning portfolios, the moments that make you fall in love with this industry. But we’ve never dedicated an entire event to what actually makes it all possible: the unsexy stuff. The spreadsheets. The systems. The difficult conversations. The repetitive tasks that don’t get likes but build businesses that last. This year, our presenters strip away the highlight reel and show you the meat and potatoes—the boring, essential work that bridges inspiration and sustainability. It’s not glamorous. But it’s real. And it’s the answer to “now what?”