I think the initial concern over pricing is due to how our expectations are set around WordCamps. It's not fair to compare the two.

Sure, WordCamps are conference-esque, but at the end of the day they're entirely volunteer-driven with budgets going mostly to cover food and venue costs.

A professional conference, where organizers are paid for their time and speakers are compensated and there's a bit of margin (ideally to invest in further events), is an entirely different beast.

Best of luck to the LoopConf organizers in making it kick some serious ass. :)