Attend SPIE Photonics West

Group of SPIE conference attendees standing outdoors, wearing event badges and casual attire, giving thumbs-up gestures. Other participants and tables are visible in the background, creating a lively networking atmosphere.

Know before you go

Photonics West offers an exciting opportunity to learn, connect, and share your work with the global optics and photonics community. We’ve gathered essential tips and resources so you can arrive feeling prepared and confident to make the most out of your experience.

If you’re new to Photonics West, be sure to attend the Photonics West First-Timers Orientation for practical guidance from SPIE staff to help you start the week strong.

Venue

The Moscone Center
747 Howard Street
San Francisco, California 94103

What to bring

Pack smart for a comfortable and productive event:

Attire: Business casual for conferences, with options for receptions and outdoor activities. Layers are recommended; venues may be air-conditioned even if it’s warm outside.
Essentials: Notebook and writing utensils, water bottle, snacks, laptop or tablet with charger, a thumb drive, and a portable battery pack for your phone. Consider bringing headphones and an international plug adapter if needed.
Comfort tips: Expect walking-intensive days — wear comfortable shoes. Mints, lotion, and lip balm can help you stay fresh throughout the day.
Weather prep: Research the forecast and pack appropriate accessories like an umbrella, rain jacket, or scarf.

Two SPIE conference attendees walking through an event hallway, wearing badges and carrying personal items. One attendee holds a coffee cup and a water bottle while engaged in conversation. Other participants are visible in the background.

Health, wellbeing, and accessibility

Your well-being matters:

Quiet rooms: Available for decompression, prayer, or meditation. See onsite signage for locations.
Sensory considerations: Learn what to expect for each high-stimulation special event by reading the "Event Details" section at the bottom of its online program event description. Build in breaks.
Self-care: Stay hydrated, eat regularly, and pace yourself throughout the event.
Accessibility details: Visit our Onsite Services section for helpful navigation guidance.

SPIE conference attendees engaged in conversation in a busy indoor setting. One person is holding a small plate of food, and others with lanyards and badges are visible in the background.

Presentation preparation

Set yourself up for success:

Understand what to expect for your talk or poster session.
Visit Speaker Check-In and test your presentation at least two hours prior to the start of your session
Read our Presentation Guidelines for expectations, tips, and best practices.

SPIE conference attendee presenting a research poster to another participant in a poster session area. The presenter is pointing to a section of the poster, which includes diagrams and text, while wearing an event badge and lanyard. Other posters and attendees are visible in the background.

Networking tips

Make meaningful connections:

Prepare a quick elevator pitch about your work and research — keep it jargon-free.
Ask engaging questions to start conversations (e.g., "What brought you to Photonics West?").
Connect with people outside your field for fresh perspectives.
Be an active listener and ask follow-up questions.
Use the "Connect" feature of the SPIE Conference App. Bring business cards, your LinkedIn QR code, and resumes if job searching.
After the event, follow up with a message to keep the connection alive. Include details of how you met and any follow-up for future collaborations or projects.

Three SPIE conference attendees standing and talking in a networking area. They are wearing event badges and carrying backpacks. In the background, other participants and informational signage are visible.

Technology and tools

Stay equipped and organized:

Download the SPIE Conference App for maps, schedules, and reminders.
Follow QR code check-in instructions for badge pickup.
Ensure you have chargers, adapters, and everything you need for the week. Use headphones for conference calls or online meetings.
Internet access is available throughout Moscone Center North, South, and West buildings.

Two SPIE conference attendees standing together, looking at a smartphone screen. Both are wearing event lanyards and badges, and the background includes colorful signage and displays.

Safety and conduct

Your safety is our priority:

Familiarize yourself with venue safety protocols.
Dial 911 for emergencies.
Review our Code of Conduct and Anti-Harassment Policy to understand expectations for respectful behavior and reporting procedures.

SPIE conference attendee at a registration or information desk interacting with staff. A computer monitor displaying conference information is visible on the desk, along with office supplies. Other attendees are walking in the background.

Additional resources for conference success

Advice for Attending a Conference Advice for Attending a Conference

Conference Etiquette Tips (PDF) Conference Etiquette Tips (PDF)

A Practical Guide to Conferences, a four-part series A Practical Guide to Conferences, a four-part series

Keep the momentum going! Get more involved with SPIE Keep the momentum going! Get more involved with SPIE

Why attend SPIE Photonics West?

Hear from distinguished speakers

Leaders in the field sharing their research and vision of the future

Technology presented at SPIE Photonics West

See the latest research

Thousands of presentations covering the latest breakthroughs from around the globe

Connect with colleagues

Technical and networking events to help you make important contacts