Rising Stars: Meet Jenice Garcia – Miramar Florida Newborn Photographer

Rising Stars: Meet Jenice Garcia – Miramar Florida Newborn Photographer

Written by: Jenice García

Miramar Florida Newborn Photographer Capturing Life’s First Moments: The Story of Jenice Garcia 

In the quiet corners of Miramar, Florida, where the soft glow of natural light meets the delicate stillness of a sleeping baby, Jenice Garcia has built more than a photography studio — she has created a sanctuary for families. As the founder of My First Photo, Jenice is a full-time newborn photographer with over eight years of experience and a reputation for artistry, empathy, and purpose.

Originally from Venezuela, Jenice arrived in the U.S. with a background in architecture and a dream to make a living through creativity. What started as a small endeavor soon blossomed into a thriving photography business. Today, she leads a growing team and conducts over 1,000 newborn sessions a year, serving families across South Florida with care, patience, and passion.

Her signature style is minimalist and timeless, allowing each baby’s natural beauty to shine. Clients often remark on the peaceful atmosphere of her studio and Jenice’s unique ability to calm and gently pose even the fussiest newborns. But it’s her story that truly sets her apart.

Destin Florida Newborn Photographer
Miramar Florida Newborn Photographer

Celebrating Differences, Capturing Love

When her first son was diagnosed with autism, Jenice faced one of the most challenging moments of her life. “For a while, I believed I had to stop working to be a good mom,” she recalls. “Then I realized that by taking care of my passion, I was becoming a better version of myself for my children.” That realization fueled her purpose — to support families, especially those with neurodiverse children, through photography.

Today, her studio is a safe, welcoming space for all kinds of families. Her personal journey has helped her connect deeply with parents who often feel unseen or overwhelmed. “I know what it’s like,” Jenice says. “And I want them to feel peace and joy in these precious moments.”

Beyond her photography work as a Miramar Florida Newborn Photographer, Jenice recently launched an online academy to train both aspiring photographers and mothers who want to capture their children’s lives more beautifully. She is a proud member of APNPI – Accredited Professional Newborn Photographers International, as well as Professional Photographers of America and has earned multiple international photography awards including 2nd place in the recent APNPI Image Competition.

A devoted mother of three, a homeschooling parent, and a woman of strong faith, Jenice balances her roles with a holistic lifestyle and an unwavering belief in her mission: to turn fleeting moments into lifelong memories.

Whether it’s a quiet portrait of a newborn’s yawn or a touching moment between a mother and her child, Jenice Garcia doesn’t just take photos — she tells stories of love, strength, and new beginnings.

 

@myfirstphoto – Jenice GarciaMiramar Florida Newborn photographer with over 8 years of experience. Known for a minimalist, emotional style and for creating a peaceful, inclusive space for all families — especially those with neurodiverse children.

See more of Jenice García at https://voyagemia.com/interview/rising-stars-meet-jenice-garcia-of-miramar-fl

Welcoming Taguig Newborn Photographer – Jaysteel Dacudao

Welcoming Taguig Newborn Photographer – Jaysteel Dacudao

Taguig Newborn Photographer – Jaysteel Dacudao

Welcome Our Newest APNPI Ambassador – Jaysteel Dacudao of The Baby Village Studio!

We’re thrilled to introduce Jaysteel Dacudao, a passionate newborn photographer and educator from the Philippines, as the newest APNPI Ambassador!

Jaysteel is known through his beautifully curated brand The Baby Village Studio. He’s been a dedicated APNPI member since 2019. The Baby Village Studio, trusted by TOP vloggers and influencers in the Philippines, offers premium sessions designed to create timeless memories both Taguig and Quezon City Branch.

The Baby Village Studio holds APNPI credentials distinguishing him as a professional newborn photographer with internationally recognized standards. Additionally, he boasts a unique setup unlike any other, perfectly designed to capture your baby’s precious first moments with our talented photographers.

Based in Taguig and Quezon with Two Locations

He brings with him not only exceptional talent but also a heart for uplifting others in the industry.  As a seasoned Taguig Newborn Photographer, Jaysteel has made it his mission to raise the standards of newborn photography in his region and beyond.

Over the years, Jaysteel has grown from a knowledge-seeking photographer to a mentor and leader, helping other photographers elevate their craft. His journey is a testament to the power of community and continued learning—both cornerstones of our values at APNPI.

“APNPI has been my home when I didn’t know anything—not just a source of knowledge but a source of inspiration. It strengthened my advocacy to help others achieve their goals.”

Sharing the Passion

As an educator, Jaysteel is already making waves. He trains photographers throughout the Philippines with compassion, clarity, and excellence. Now, as an APNPI Ambassador, he’s ready to be a beacon of hope and purpose in our global community.

“As your ambassador, I will spread awareness and be the voice and representation of hope—a tower of strength and a model of purpose among others. I will use my voice to uplift everyone, with the help of the APNPI team.”

We’re honored to welcome Jaysteel to our ambassador team. His commitment to both the art and heart of newborn photography makes him a perfect fit for our mission at APNPI. We can’t wait to see how his leadership inspires others and contributes to the growth of our worldwide network.

Please join us in celebrating and welcoming Jaysteel Dacudao of The Baby Village Studio. He’s a proud Taguig Newborn Photographer and an incredible force for good in our community!

Be sure to follow Jaysteel’s work and journey at www.thebabyvillage.com.

Business name:

The Baby Village Studio

Two Locations:

Taguig and Quezon, Philippines

A Glimpse of His Work

Jaysteel’s work is characterized by its gentle, artistic approach and heartfelt storytelling. Undeniably, each image reflects a deep sensitivity to the fleeting beauty of newborn moments, crafted with care and intention. Additionally, as a leading Taguig Newborn Photographer, his signature style combines soft textures, warm tones, and emotional depth that resonates with families across the Philippines.

At the heart of his brand, The Baby Village Studio, is a commitment to excellence in both artistry and client experience. Moreover, beyond his stunning portfolio, Jaysteel is a respected mentor and educator. Undeniably, he’s helping to shape the next generation of newborn photographers through hands-on training and community support.

His workshops focus on skill refinement, newborn safety, and elevating the business side of photography, as well as offering aspiring professionals a clear path to success rooted in compassion and purpose.

Welcome to the Team, Jaysteel!

We are so proud to have Jaysteel Dacudao representing APNPI and sharing his voice, vision, and heart with our global community. His passion for education, his advocacy for excellence, and his unwavering commitment to uplifting others truly embody the spirit of what we stand for. We’re excited to see the incredible impact he’ll continue to make in the world of newborn photography.

See more of Jaysteel’s work as a leading Quezon and Taguig Newborn Photographer:

The Baby Village Studio

www.facebook.com/Thebabyvillageph

www.instagram.com/thebabyvillagestudio/

www.tiktok.com/@jaysteeldacudao

What is an APNPI Accredited Photographer

What is an APNPI Accredited Photographer

What is an APNPI Accredited Photographer?

You may have heard the term “Accredited” before but did you know your photographer can seek accreditation in their work with newborns and babies?

At APNPI, our dedicated members are working hard to improve their abilities and many are seeking accreditation in our 10 available categories.  So just what is an APNPI Accredited Photographer?

Currently one of our highest levels of achievement, Accreditation in a chosen category is a recognition beyond that of the QNP Certified Photographer denoting above average quality in photographic artistry. Holding an accreditation demonstrates the member as a specialist in his or her chosen field and is a stepping stone toward earning recognized designations such as Craftsman of Photography and Master Photographer.  

To achieve accreditation, a member must accomplish the following:

  • Successfully complete the APNPI Safety Course.
  • Successfully hold the QNP Certification.
  • Submit 12 images meeting a strict outline of requirements in a chosen category to an APNPI approved Judging Panel of which all 12 images must be deemed “accepted”.

Our APNPI Panel Judging Events can be quite exciting to view! If you keep an eye on our social media pages and blog, you too can watch the thorough vetting our accredited members go through.  Many applicants will attempt accreditation evaluation several times before acquiring this achievement in their chosen field.

Our Accredited APNPI members have invested time, dedication and money in perfecting their craft.  They have a solid understanding of lighting, posing angles, and the necessary artistic fundamentals to produce beautiful imagery. Best of all, they produce a consistent product time and time again.  

When it comes to hiring an Accredited photographer, we’re confident you’ll not only notice a difference in quality, but also consistency. Our accredited members are reliable producers and provide their clients with exceptional imagery on a daily basis.

To find an accredited photographer, click here and look for the Accreditation Badge in the listings: https://apnpi.com/directory/

Take a peak below at some of our recently Accepted imagery from a selection of our successfully accredited members.

Meet the APNPI Accreditation Judges

Meet the APNPI Accreditation Judges

Meet the APNPI Judges: Leaders in Maternity, Newborn, and Family Photography!

As the next round of APNPI Accreditation approaches, we’re thrilled to introduce our highly qualified APNPI Judges! These industry leaders have completed APNPI Judges Training and are recognized experts across diverse styles and genres in maternity, newborn, and family photography.

Accreditation Applications Are Now Open!
If you’re a QNP Certified member, this is your chance to take your career to the next level. Apply for accreditation in one of our 10 categories to showcase your expertise and elevate your professional standing.

Looking for Submission Tips and Feedback?
Join our popular Feedback Friday sessions! Held in our membership community on Facebook, these sessions offer personalized critiques of image submissions from our APNPI Judges. This valuable experience helps you refine your submission, ensuring it meets accreditation standards. It’s also a fantastic way to get comfortable with image critiques before the final submission deadline. Stay updated on our Facebook group for session announcements.

Accreditation is a key step toward building your reputation in the photography industry. Don’t miss this opportunity to submit your best work, gain recognition, and receive expert guidance from our prestigious judging panel.

We can’t wait to see your submissions and celebrate your achievements!

Alicia Barrett

I’m looking for strong technical execution, consistent style, and thoughtful storytelling that reflects the category. Each image should demonstrate a clear understanding of lighting, composition, and posing where applicable. I love to see creativity balanced with professionalism—images that evoke emotion while maintaining high technical standards. Most importantly, ensure your work represents your best and shows your unique artistic voice.

Alicia Barrett is an award-winning and internationally accredited photographer based in Clarenville, Newfoundland. Specializing in newborn, family, and wildlife photography, she brings a creative and heartfelt approach to every image she captures. Alicia operates a full-service portrait studio and is known for her whimsical storytelling, technical expertise, and dedication to safety and excellence in her craft.

    Denise Jackson

    I am looking for EMOTION captured (are the fingers a little off but you caught that SMIILE?!).

    When it comes to our art and work, I KNOW it comes from our HEARTS this is why receiving critique can be so hard sometimes, just know that I want to see you succeed! Our work is 100000 tiny details to create the final piece- I am wanting to share some of those tiny details with you to help you in achieving YOUR vision!

    Another small thing to remember, just because you received feedback, does NOT mean your image isn’t amazing! It’s just a little nugget to help you evolve, which is a continuous thing in photography! Know that you aren’t doing anything ‘wrong’ you are growing and changing as an artist. Don’t be hard on yourself, enjoy the ride and know I am genuinely here to HELP YOU!!! “

    Hi, I’m Denise!

    Newborn photographer at Appleseed Photography with over 12 years of experience. I’m passionate about capturing the tiniest moments & helping other photographers grow in their craft. With a heart for teaching & a community over competition mindset, I love creating space for connection, support & shared success in the newborn photography world. I am a believer in ” we rise by lifting others!”

    Fru Jonas

     

    Trayc Dudgeon

     

    I’m the owner and photographer at Blue Rooster Studios. I’ve been passionate about art my whole life and after taking my first photography class in High School I fell in love. I furthered my photography education at Humber Collage and 20 years later I am still just as passionate as the day I began. I’ve since become an award winning Accredited portrait photographer with PPOC (Professional Photographers of Canada) specializing in Maternity, Newborn, Children, Family as well as Corporate portraits and Weddings. I am also newborn safety trained and Internationally recognised as a qualified Newborn photographer with the APNPI, an international photography association. I have recieved several accreditations, awards and have become on of their mentoring photographers.

    Image Competition – Spring 2025

    Image Competition – Spring 2025

    APNPI International Image Competition Results!
    Image Competition – Spring 2025

     

    Congratulations to our International Award Winning makers on their achievements in our recent round of competition. We are pleased to announce the following winners across the categories who have achieved Silver awards with scores in the range of 80-84, Silver Distinction awards with scores in the range of 85-89, Gold awards with scores in the range of 90-94, and Gold Distinction awards with scores in the range of 95-99.

    Newborn Category Winners

    APNPI Competition 1st Place Winner – Newborn "The Heart of it All" by Kayleigh Ashworth

    APNPI Competition 2nd Place Winner – Newborn "Lavender Lashes" by Alicia Barrett

    APNPI Competition 3rd Place Winner – Newborn "Heartfull" by Michelle Dominey

    Maternity Category Winners

    APNPI Competition 1st Place Winner – Maternity "ethereal" by Amanda Capello

    APNPI Competition 2nd Place Winner – Maternity "Pretty In Pink" by Kayla Butler

    APNPI Competition 3rd Place Winner – Maternity "Divine Radiance" by Vesta macintosh

    Milestones Category Winners

    APNPI Competition 1st Place Winner – Milestones "Mohawks and Chubby Cheeks" by Alicea Tomshine

    APNPI Competition 2nd Place Winner – Milestones "Curiosity in Motion" by Jenice García

    APNPI Competition 3rd Place Winner – Milestones "Somebunny" by Jackie Orlando

    Child (ages 1 year and up) Category Winners

    APNPI Competition 1st Place Winner – Child (ages 1 year and up) "Unbreakable Brother Bond" by Trayc Dudgeon

    APNPI Competition 2nd Place Winner – Child (ages 1 year and up) "Picking Grandma" by Anita Windsor

    APNPI Competition 3rd Place Winner – Child (ages 1 year and up) "Smooches in Style" by Jackie Orlando

    Creative Category Winners

    APNPI Competition 1st Place Winner – Creative "The greatest love" by Beryl Bernos

    APNPI Competition 2nd Place Winner – Creative "Parenthood in Perfect Balance" by Jennifer McNeil

    Gold Awards – Scores: 90 to 94

    Silver Distinction Award – Scores: 85 to 89

    Silver Award – Scores: 80 to 84

    Watch the Competition Judging Results and Meet Our Sponsors

    Watch the Competition Judging Results and Meet Our Sponsors

    Airing June 17!

    Curious about the winners of our latest photography competition? Join us to watch the APNPI Image Competition Judging Event! We’re thrilled to share the official judging results video, where you can watch each award-winning image unfold and gain insight into what makes each piece stand out. In this post, you’ll also meet our panel of distinguished judges, who bring decades of expertise in newborn and maternity photography. Learn about their backgrounds, unique judging styles, and the criteria they used to evaluate this year’s impressive submissions. We hope you enjoy and are inspired by the artistry that continues to shape the photography community!

    A warm congratulations to all of our makers for bravely entering this round of competition! We hope you’ll find the judges’ feedback helpful in the advancement of your journey as maternity, newborn or baby photographers and thank you all for your submissions.

     

    *Are you an accredited member of APNPI and interested in our judge training program? Email us at admin@apnpi.com

    A Special Thank You to Our Sponsors


    This incredible event wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of our sponsors. Their commitment to excellence in the industry helps us celebrate and showcase the amazing work of photographers from around the world. Take a moment to learn more about the sponsors who helped bring this competition to life.

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