Photo LA

If you're a collector or just a fan of great photography, photo l.a. in Santa Monica is the place to be every January. photo l.a. is an international fine art photography exhibition and sale. Galleries from around the world converge on Santa Monica, California to showcase and sell fine art photographs from some of the most famous names in photography as well as emerging fine art photographers.

The approximately 70 exhibitors bring work from most major American and European art centers. In addition to the gallery booths, there are lectures by photographers, photo editors, and photo collectors. The weekend usually kicks off on Thursday with a celebrity fundraiser. In 2012 the event is returning to the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. The Opening Reception benefits the LACMA Photography Program.

When: Annually, the 2nd or 3rd weekend in January. In 2012, Jan 12-16, Opening Reception January 12.

Hours: Opening Reception Thursday from 6-9 pm; Public hours Fri-Sun 11 am - 7 pm, Mon 11 am - 6 pm; .

Where: Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, 1855 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA 90405.

Cost: $20 1-day pass, $30 3-day pass, Lectures and Seminars $10-$80, Thursday benefit $80 includes cocktails and light refreshments.

Info: www.photola.com, (323) 937-5525; Gala www.lacma.org

Information is accurate at the time of publication. Please check the event website for the most current information.