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

    In your submissions, I’m looking for images that tell a genuine story and capture real emotion. Technical skill is important, but what truly stands out to me is thoughtful composition, connection, and creativity. I want to feel something when I look at your work—whether it’s joy, tenderness, or awe. Show me your unique perspective and the heart behind the moment you’ve captured.

    Hi, I’m Fru – owner of Capture Magic Photography, and a specialist newborn and baby photographer based in Newport, South-East Wales. Since 2015, I’ve had the joy of capturing life’s most precious early moments for families I am an APNPI ambassador and previous competition winner. I’m honoured to be part of this judging panel and excited to bring my creative eye, sensitivity to storytelling, and appreciation for authentic connection to the role.

    Trayc Dudgeon

    I’m looking for proper exposure, focus, and sharpness. Clean editing with no over-processing or distracting artifacts. Excellent use of lighting (natural or artificial). Good color balance and tonal range Composition and Creativity

    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

    Welcoming India’s first APNPI Ambassador: Amrit Ammu

    Welcoming India’s first APNPI Ambassador: Amrit Ammu

    Welcoming India’s First APNPI Ambassador: Amrit Ammu

    Welcoming Amrit Ammu – APNPI’s First Ambassador in India!

    We are overjoyed to introduce and welcome Amrit Ammu, a certified newborn photographer in India and the newest member of our Ambassador family — and she is our very first APNPI Ambassador from India! Based in the vibrant city of Mumbai, Amrit brings a deep wealth of talent and heart to the world of newborn and family photography.

    With over a decade of experience and a home studio rooted in warmth and soul, Amrit is more than a photographer — she’s a storyteller, a mentor, a mother, and a visionary who transforms moments into lasting legacies.

    “Photography has always been my way back home — to myself, to hope, and to others.”

    Business name:

    Amrit Ammu Photography

    Location:

    Mumbai, India

    Photography as a Path to Healing

    Amrit’s journey into photography is deeply personal. Inspired by her late father — a passionate, self-taught photographer — she found solace behind the lens after his passing in 2014. What began as a tribute to his legacy has blossomed into a purpose-led business: Amrit Ammu Photography.

    Her work is a powerful blend of artistry and intention, combining baby safety training (through APNPI and Ana Brandt Education) with emotional storytelling that speaks directly to the heart. Every frame she creates honors the beauty of motherhood, family, and the quiet power of love.

    A Photographer, Mentor, and Creative Force

    Amrit specializes in newborn, maternity, family, and motherhood portraits, capturing the sacred, fleeting moments that define a family’s early chapters. Beyond the lens, she is a mentor, facilitates healing through journaling, and is pursuing a PhD – all guided by her belief in creativity as a path to transformation.

    Through her expressive work and community mentoring, she helps photographers and mothers alike feel seen, celebrated, and strong. Her favorite part of newborn photography? That tender, sacred energy — and the chance to preserve memories that parents will treasure forever.

    Representing India on the Global APNPI Stage

    As the first APNPI Ambassador in India, Amrit is opening new doors and inspiring a new generation of photographers across South Asia. She joins a global network of professionals who share a commitment to excellence, baby safety, and heartfelt connection.

    “This isn’t just a title — it’s a full-circle moment. I’m excited to connect, give back, and lead with heart, just like the artists who once inspired me.”

    We are thrilled to see the impact she will continue to make — not just through her camera lens, but through her mentorship, advocacy, and creative leadership.

    Tell us a bit about yourself:

    Hi! I’m Amrit Kaur (aka Amrit Ammu), an award-winning photographer with over 10 years of experience, specialising in newborn, maternity, baby, family and motherhood portraits through my cozy home studio in Mumbai, India. I am a qualified and baby safety trained newborn photographer with APNPI, and certified in Baby Safety by Ana Brandt Education and for me, both artistry and baby safety go hand in hand. Inspired by my father’s love for photography and shaped by the loss of both my parents, my work is rooted in legacy, healing, and emotion. What began as a tribute to my dad’s passion became my soul’s calling. Today, I create heartfelt portraits, mentor photographers, and hold space for families and new mothers to feel seen, celebrated, and connected – through every frame and every story we capture together.

    Beyond the camera, I’m a mom, a research scholar, journal therapy and expressive arts coach, and an advocate for healing through creativity. Photography has always been my way back home – to myself, to hope, and to others. In every image I create and every student I mentor, I lead with heart, compassion, and purpose. My greatest joy is helping new mothers feel seen, celebrated, and strong – because every woman deserves to feel radiant in her becoming.

    What inspired you to become a photographer?

    My love for photography began in childhood, watching my father – a passionate, self-taught photographer – capture our family’s happiest moments with so much love and care. We’d often bond over cameras and marvel at the work of legends like Anne Geddes, dreaming of creating something magical together. After my father passed away in 2014, those photographs became my most cherished treasures. They held memories, emotions, and a piece of him I could still feel — and that changed everything for me.

    Photography, once a shared hobby, became a lifeline. It became a way to hold onto love, to heal, and to honour my father’s legacy. That’s how Amrit Ammu Photography was born — not just a brand, but a heart-led mission rooted in love, emotion, and legacy.

    Over the years, I’ve been deeply inspired by artists like Anne Geddes, Ana Brandt, Kelly Brown, Jade Gao, Kath V., and Sujata Setia – learning from each one of these artists helped me evolve through my work. Photography, for me, is not just about taking pictures — it’s about creating legacy, holding space, and capturing love in its purest form.

    What do you love most about working with newborns and families?

    I love the calm, tender energy newborns bring — it’s such a sacred time. Capturing those tiny details and raw emotions between families feels like freezing love in time. For me, it’s not just about photos, it’s about creating memories that parents will hold onto forever. It’s an honour to be part of their story.

    What are you most excited about with being part of the APNPI ambassador community?

    Being chosen as an APNPI Ambassador – and the first from India – is an incredible honour. I’ve admired APNPI for years for its commitment to professionalism, safety, and heartfelt photography. This role feels like a beautiful full-circle moment — a chance to represent a craft I love so deeply, and a community I truly believe in. I’m excited to connect with fellow photographers, share my journey, and support others as they grow. This isn’t just a title for me – it’s a platform to give back, inspire, and lead with heart, just like the artists who once inspired me.

    5 Fun Facts About Amrit Ammu

    1. I was once known as RJ Amrit.
    At 16, I got an opportunity to be one of the youngest RJs on Chandigarh AIR FM, hosting a show named Hi-Five. Talking into the mic, scripting my shows taught me how to connect with my audience – and those learnings flows through my work even today.

    2. “Ammu” was my childhood nickname.
    My mom and dad lovingly called me Ammu, and years later it became Amrit Ammu Photography. My full name is Amrit Kaur—but Ammu carries my roots and my story 🙂

    3. I launched my photography career in Ludhiana, 2013.
    One of the few female photographers in my city back then, I started with big dreams and bold steps, one at a time with faith in my heart. Meeting Anne Geddes in New York in 2019 was a dream come true and a full-circle moment that reaffirmed my calling.

    4. My first newborn photography studio? A corner of our Mumbai living room.
    I turned a tiny space of our home into a cozy newborn setup – because dreams don’t wait for perfect conditions, just faith and passion in the heart are enough to be stepping stones to drive all your desires.

    5. I’m an MBA-turned-photographer and PhD scholar.
    Through my lens, my coaching, and my research, I’m here to empower women to feel seen, strong, and celebrated—in their motherhood, creativity, and leadership. Capturing stories and uplifting others isn’t just my work; it’s my way of honouring them.
    My life shifted the day I began my PhD journey – it was also the very day I lost my mother. Her last words were filled with pride, and that heartbreak became the fire that fuels my purpose. Every step forward is a tribute to her, and to every woman rising in her own way.

    Welcome to the Team, Amrit!

    Please join us in celebrating Amrit Ammu, a shining new face in our ambassador family and a powerful voice for motherhood, memory, and mentorship. Welcome to APNPI, Amrit — we’re honored to walk beside you!

    Connect with Amrit

    Follow Amrit’s work and journey at:
    Amrit Ammu Photography

    Instagram 

    Pinterest

    Youtube

    It’s our Birthday Sale!

    It’s our Birthday Sale!

    It’s Our Birthday – You Get the Gift!

    We’re celebrating another incredible year at APNPI – Accredited Professional Newborn Photographers International – and what better way to mark the occasion than with a 25% off sale on all memberships!

    Whether you’re a new photographer building your portfolio or a seasoned pro ready to level up, now is the perfect time to join our global community of passionate newborn photographers.

    We’re celebrating another year—and we’re doing it with our biggest offer of the season.

    Use code: BIRTHDAY25 at checkout and unlock your discount today!

    Why Thousands of Photographers Choose APNPI

    Joining APNPI means more than just a title. It means growth, credibility, and connection. With our newborn photography membership discount, you’ll gain access to:

    Accreditation & Certification Programs
    Stand out with our Qualified Newborn Photographer (QNP) designation and advanced accreditations that reflect your professionalism.

    APNPI Academy – Exclusive Member Access
    Learn from industry leaders with our growing library of expert-led classes, video tutorials, and downloadable resources.

    International Image Competitions
    Get recognized for your artistry. Submit your best work, win awards, and elevate your visibility in the photography world.

    Supportive Photographer Community
    Connect, collaborate, and thrive with fellow newborn photographers who truly get what you do.

    Client Directory Listing
    Help parents find you faster! Show up in searches for certified newborn photographers in your area.

    Ongoing Professional Development
    Stay sharp with workshops, safety education, business coaching, and more.

    What Our Members Are Saying

    “Joining APNPI was one of the best decisions I made for my business. The education, support, and credibility I’ve gained have been invaluable.”
    Jess M., Accredited Member

    “The certification helped me gain trust from clients and stand out in a competitive market.”
    Lena T., QNP Photographer


    Don’t Miss Out — Sale Ends Soon!

    Our birthday membership sale is only here for a limited time! Take advantage of this exclusive newborn photography membership discount and invest in your growth as a professional.

    The Ultimate Prop Posing Workflow

    The Ultimate Prop Posing Workflow

    “In this class, I’ll show you how I create those breathtaking images that parents fall in love with—while keeping my sessions short and sweet. You’ll see exactly how I style, set up, and pose each look, smoothly transition between props, and get the most variety from a single session. Plus, I’ll share a few fun and creative ways to use your heart prop for even more adorable results.” – Fru

    In this course, you’ll learn:

    Swaddled session workflow: A smooth posing flow that transitions naturally from prop to prop while maximizing variety in a short time frame.

    Adjusted workflow for tricky babies: Practical strategies for working with awake, fussy, or unsettled babies to still achieve a full, beautiful gallery.

    Styling and coordinating setups: Tips for choosing props, colors, and accessories that suit your clients while saving time and effort during the session.

    Heartbowl variations: Four creative ways to use your heart-shaped prop for different looks and added variety.

    Posing transitions and flow posing tips: Techniques to transition between poses gently and efficiently, keeping the baby comfortable and the session running smoothly.

    Props covered in this course:

    Safe Potato Wrap on a Flokati

    Safe Potato Wrap in a Bed

    Heart Bowl Variations

    Chin on Hands in a Bucket

    Chin on Hands in a Basket

    Dog Bed

    With Fru’s warm and practical teaching style, you’ll gain the confidence and skills to use props creatively and efficiently—capturing newborns in a way that feels natural, artistic, and full of heart.

    Whether you’re just starting your journey or refining your workflow, this course will help you streamline your sessions and elevate the quality of your newborn photography.

    Streaming now!

    Platinum and Academy Members, you will find this course Streaming in your Academy Portal ready to view!

    Not an Academy Member and wish to own this Thrive Series Course?
    You can buy it now at a special rate this month only!
    Just $37

    We Want To Hear From YOU!

    What are your struggles? Where do you need help? What courses would you like us to create? Send your requests to clientsupport@apnpi.com

    Welcoming APNPI Ambassador, Philippines Newborn Photographer: Adrian Salvador M. de Vera, MD, DPPS

    Welcoming APNPI Ambassador, Philippines Newborn Photographer: Adrian Salvador M. de Vera, MD, DPPS

    Philippines Newborn Photographer Adrian Salvador M. de Vera, MD, DPPS

    Welcoming Adrian Salvador De Vera — Pediatrician, Educator, and Our Newest APNPI Ambassador

    We’re honored to introduce Dr. Adrian Salvador De Vera – Philippines Newborn Photographer, affectionately known as “Doc Ian”—as our newest APNPI Ambassador!

    Adrian brings a rare and inspiring blend of professionalism and passion to our community. Based in the Philippines, he is a newborn photographer, pediatrician, a professor, and a social media content creator—with a deep love for photography at the heart of it all. With over a decade of newborn photography experience, Adrian also launched the country’s first and most extensive training workshop for aspiring newborn photographers, helping raise the standard of the industry throughout his region.

    “I am Doc Ian, a full-time Pediatrician in the Philippines. I am passionate about photography and teaching, leading me to this wonderful world of newborn photography.”

    Business name:

    Nouveau Nee Photography / Newborn Academy for Photographers Philippines

    Location:

    Santiago City, Isablea, Philippines

    A Glimpse of His Work

    Adrian’s style is warm, heartfelt, and timeless. His work is not only shaped by his medical expertise but also by his desire to preserve life’s most tender moments for families across the Philippines.

    Through his photography brand, Nouveau Née Photography, Adrian has captured countless precious memories for growing families. But his impact doesn’t stop there. As the founder of Newborn Academy for Photographers Philippines, he leads the country’s first and most comprehensive training workshop for aspiring newborn photographers. Additionally, his educational programs focus on newborn safety, creative technique, and business growth—equipping students with the confidence and skills to thrive in the industry.

    Philippines Newborn Photographer – From the Heart

    We asked Adrian a few questions to get to know him better—here’s what he shared:

    Tell us a bit about yourself:

    I am Doc Ian, a full-time Pediatrician in the Philippines and Newborn Photographer. Needless to say, I am passionate about photography and teaching, leading me to this wonderful world of newborn photography. Having over 10 years of newborn photography experience, I started the country’s first and most extensive training workshop for aspiring newborn photographers.

    How were you inspired to become a photographer?

    The beauty of things around me is what I enjoy capturing. In 2008 I was introduced to my first ever DSLR camera. I ventured into different genres including weddings, events, studio portraits, and more. My first attempt at newborn photography was with my firstborn daughter. Altogether, it ended in a very tiring session to which I said “I am not doing this again!”. However, the months went by and those who saw the photos of my daughter asked to have them photographed as well. This went on for months, then years and the rest was history.

    What do you love most about working with newborns and families?

    Immortalizing precious moments for my clients and the intersection between my profession (pediatrician) and passion (photography). These are the things I Iove most!

    Tell us about what you are most excited about as part of the APNPI ambassador community?

    With great excitement, I am thrilled to represent APNPI, a global and prestigious brand in the industry because this means opening doors to my students and community improving the standards of newborn photography in the Philippines.

    Fun fact about you!

    Serving as a professor at the country’s largest medical board exam review center, I am also a social media content creator on mechanical keyboards, and pediatrics/child care.

     

    Welcome to the Team, Adrian!

    We are so proud to have Adrian representing APNPI and sharing his light with our global community. His dedication to education, excellence, and compassionate care is everything we stand for so it’s not surprising that we can’t wait to see the ripple effect he creates in the world of newborn photography.

    See more of Adrian’s work as a prominent Philippines Newborn Photobgrapher:

    Nouveau Nee Photography

    Newborn Academy for Photographers Philippines