Carl Caylor of Iron Mountain earned a Grand Imaging Award from Professional Photographers of America in the Animal Portrait category. Caylor has achieved an Elite Plus membership in the association.

ATLANTA, Ga. — Carl Caylor of Photo Images by Carl in Iron Mountain has been named to receive an Elite Plus membership from Professional Photographers of America.

Caylor is one of few to earn the Elite Plus membership — another milestone in an illustrious career behind the camera.

“We are encouraging photographers to be more and grow sustainable businesses,” said Kristen Hartman, director of member value and experience for PPA. “Mr. Caylor continues to raise the bar in our industry and has certainly earned his place among the elite.”

Caylor qualified for Elite Plus membership through continued education, image competition and a continued quest for excellence.

“I continue to study, share and compete in PPA’s International Print Competition so I can bring the newest techniques as well as traditional quality to the folks in and around Iron Mountain,” said Caylor.

The new membership level comes with special benefits and perks, including significant savings.

The status will be awarded on an annual basis and is good for one calendar year.

Caylor also walked on stage of the International Print Competition to accept his Grand Imaging Award in the animal portrait category.” His image titled “Otis” scored 98 out of a possible 100 and placed second in the world in 2017.

Professional Photographers of America (PPA) is the largest international nonprofit association created by professional photographers, for professional photographers. Almost as long-lived as photography itself, PPA’s roots date back to 1869. It assists more than 30,000 members through protection, education and resources for their continued success.