APNPI Photographer of the Year 2024 – Amanda Capello

APNPI Photographer of the Year 2024 – Amanda Capello

Jan 19, 2024 | APNPI Community, Photographer Of The Year

We are thrilled to present this prestigious award to

Amanda Capello

Amanda is an APNPI Ambassador, is accredited in maternity with APNPI, is an APNPI educator, an incredible contributor to the APNPI community, and she creates some of the most stunning imagery in Maternity Photography we’ve seen!

This former high school math teacher turned professional maternity and newborn photographer describes her style as minimalist, elegant, monochromatic, editorial and timeless.

She has built her business over the last decade and has been honoured to be featured on the cover of both shutter up magazine, and shutter scene magazine. Amanda has also been the featured photographer in many online magazines and has won awards including top local photographer in a local 85086 magazine, as well as top photographer from expertise.

If you’re not already familiar with Amanda and her work, you’re going to enjoy getting to know her.

See more of Amanda’s work at: Amanda Capello Photography

 


Amanda’s Top Winning Images

APNPI Photographer Of The Year

To win the APNPI Newborn Photographer of the Year award, the entrant must achieve a minimum of three Merit Images among both the First and Final Image Competition Rounds, and must have achieved a minimum of one Accreditation in any category.  The entrant who has the highest average score among their top three winning images from any category, will be awarded the APNPI Newborn Photographer of the Year. In the case of a tie, the judges will do a final round of judging to determine the prize winner.    

2023 Trends in Holiday Sessions

2023 Trends in Holiday Sessions

Dec 6, 2023 | APNPI Community, Latest Trends

Scroll down to explore this year’s gallery and learn more about each talented photographer—links to their pages are included so you can see even more of their amazing work!

 

Click on the images to enlarge!

Jenna Margaret – Hamilton, ON
Kristin Alysse Town – Hamilton, ON
Jennifer Robyn – Courtice, ON
Alicia Barrett – Clarensville, NL
Katie Lintern – Collingwood, ON
Katie Lintern – Collingwood, ON
Fru Jonas – Newport, SE Wales
Wanda Parson-Drake
Megan Faris Hile – Louisville, KY
Megan Faris Hile – Louisville, KY
Tammy Gallant – Laurel, MT
Wee Boon Shing – Kuching & Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
Jackie Orlando – Hamilton, ON
Jackie Orlando – Hamilton, ON
Marggie Duncan – Lakeville, MN
Jennifer Robyn – Courtice, ON
Jennifer McNeil – Santa Ana, CA
Tricia McLelland – Oakville, ON
Tammy Gallant – Laurel, MT
Erin Spence – Melbourne, Florida
Lindsay Foster – Thousand Islands, ON
Elissa Barbosa – Airdrie, AB

Get to know our esteemed APNPI Newborn Photographers!

 

We’re really proud of our members here at apnpi.  The following gallery is an excellent example of the variety of talents we get to work with every day.  Most if not all of the members in this collection hold Accreditations with apnpi in Newborn Photography and some are also apnpi competition winners.  We even have a few Apnpi Academy Educators in this group too.  Add to that the pretty cool fact that these talented ladies are from all over the world… this gallery features photographers from the USA, Canada, UK, and Malaysia!  
 
Be sure to show them some love on their social media, and check out more of their work on their websites.
 
Jenna Margaret – APNPI Academy Instructor – Hamilton, ON. – Beautiful Inspirations Photography
 
Wee Boon Shing – Kuching & Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia. – Mommy’s Photography Studio
instagram.com/mommyphotographystudio
 
Wanda Drake – Grand Bank, NL. – Wanda Drake Photography
 
Jennifer Robyn – APNPI Academy Instructor – Oshawa, ON.  Shutterbug Imaging
 
Alicia Barrett – APNPI Academy Instructor – Clarensville, NL. A2Z Photography
 
Katie Lintern – Collingwood, ON. – Katie Lintern Photography
 
Tricia McLelland – Oakville, ON. McLelland Photography
 
Lindsay Foster – Thousand Islands, ON. – Lindsay Foster Photography
 
Fru Jonas – Newport, SE Wales. – Captured Magic Photography
 
Megan Faris Hile – Louisville, KY.  Megan Hile Photography
 
Tammy Gallant – Laurel, MT. – TS Gallant Photography
 
Jackie Orlando – Hamilton, ON. – Jackie O. Photos
 
Erin Spence – Melbourne, Florida. – Erin Spence Photography
 
Marggie Duncan – Apnpi Academy Educator – Lakeville, MN.
 
 
 

Featured Photographer : Wee Boon Shing

Featured Photographer : Wee Boon Shing

Nov 24, 2023 | APNPI Community, Featured Photographer

Located in Kuching, Sarawak MY

Name: Wee Boon Shing – Newborn Photographer in Asia

Representing: Mommy’s Photography Studio

# of Years Experience: 6

This photo taken at my home studio with natural light. Most of my work was done with natural light.

“Educate yourself on safety & knowledge in how to handle a newborn before starting. As every newborn is fragile, sometimes you could do something you really didn’t mean to do.”

Tell us about yourself. What do you love doing in your spare time? What inspired you to newborn photography and do you photograph other genre’s in your business?

I love taking portrait photography since 2006 with my first DSLR camera. I started getting interest on baby photography after having my own baby on 2012. After taking physical newborn workshop I start photo others baby on 2017, I do photograph toddler below 1year and maternity portrait, and sometimes family photos. I love educate myself in new knowledge beside photography, I do learn business and marketing too and meet more entrepreneurs from different field.

How would you describe your photography style? What inspires your work?

My photography style more to clean and natural. Just like how newborn baby is.

What is one piece of advice you’d give to someone starting a newborn photography business?

Educate yourself on safety & knowledge in how to handle a newborn before starting. As every newborn is fragile, sometimes you could do something you really didn’t mean to do. Beside safety, you need to understand posing, angles, lighting as well as have a thorough understanding of your camera setting to begin with.

What camera do you use? What are your favourite lenses and what’s typically in your camera bag?

I’m currently using Canon 6D mark 2 with canon 24-70 2.8 lens, sometimes I will use sigma art 35mm 1.4

What is your favorite place to hold sessions and why? Where do you photograph most of your sessions? (in studio? on location?)

My home studio always my favourite places for any sessions, as for the space and warm natural light. But sometimes I do travel to client’s home or confinement centre too for their newborn session.

What (if any) photography training, mentoring or workshops have you taken?

My first newborn mentor was by Lexis Ow from Singapore, in 2017. 2018 by Ana Brandt, and 2019 by Jade Gao.

What should clients expect when working with you?

We don’t promise what we can’t do, and we don’t hard sales any product from us. Communicate is the key to get smooth and success session.

Capturing newborn twins was never easy especially with no assistance.

I love create something different from I have done before, to crafting unique images to my clients.

Parents included in the newborn session was priceless as newborn growing fast day by day, this images will be the most valuable for a life.

I encourage siblings shoot to document how tiny of fresh born in their siblings' arm.

Find out more about this photographer at:

Image Competition – Fall 2023

Image Competition – Fall 2023

Nov 13, 2023 | APNPI Community, For Photographers

 

APNPI International Image Competition Results!
Image Competition – Fall 2023

 

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 "A Gift from Above" by Jackie Orlando

APNPI Competition 2nd Place Winner – Newborn "Little Boy Blue" by Tina Krafts

APNPI Competition 3rd Place Winner – Newborn "So Beary Sleepy" by April Ludwig

Maternity Category Winners

APNPI Competition 1st Place Winner – Maternity "Tantalizing Elegance" by Kayleigh Ashworth

APNPI Competition 2nd Place Winner – Maternity "Simplicity" by Amanda Capello

APNPI Competition 3rd Place Winner – Maternity "The Fire Of My Heart" by Kayleigh Ashworth

Milestones Category Winners

APNPI Competition 1st Place Winner – Milestones "Blue Eyed Beauty" by Trayc Dudgeon

APNPI Competition 2nd Place Winner – Milestones "Perfectly Cute at 6 months" by Lily Norris

APNPI Competition 3rd Place Winner – Milestones "Aurum" by Trayc Dudgeon

Child (ages 1 year and up) Category Winners

APNPI Competition 1st Place Winner – Child (ages 1 year and up) "Tea For Two" by Alicia Barrett

APNPI Competition 2nd Place Winner – Child (ages 1 year and up) "Leafy Mask Of Imagination" by Alicia Barrett

APNPI Competition 3rd Place Winner – Child (ages 1 year and up) "Little but Fierce" by Marggie Duncan

Silver Distinction Award – Scores: 85 to 89

The Fire Of My Heart - Kayleigh Ashworth

The Fire Of My Heart – Kayleigh Ashworth
Simplicity - Amanda Capello

Simplicity – Amanda Capello
Tea For Two - Alicia Barrett

Tea For Two – Alicia Barrett
Blue Eyed Beauty - Trayc Dudgeon

Blue Eyed Beauty – Trayc Dudgeon
Tantalizing Elegance - Kayleigh Ashworth

Tantalizing Elegance – Kayleigh Ashworth

Silver Award – Scores: 80 to 84

Heaven On Earth - Lilly Hemmati

Heaven On Earth – Lilly Hemmati
Miss Smiley - Tricia McLelland

Miss Smiley – Tricia McLelland
Oh Darling - Elissa Barbosa

Oh Darling – Elissa Barbosa
Wrapped In Love - Tianna Jarrett-Williams

Wrapped In Love – Tianna Jarrett-Williams
Bright Eyes - Jennifer Robyn

Bright Eyes – Jennifer Robyn
Snug and Sound - Jennifer McNeil

Snug and Sound – Jennifer McNeil
A Natural Wonder - Tara Graham

A Natural Wonder – Tara Graham
Cozy Sleeper - Sheila Meade

Cozy Sleeper – Sheila Meade
Someday Daddy - Marggie Duncan

Someday Daddy – Marggie Duncan
Hello Baby - Josslyn Freilich-Fawcett

Hello Baby – Josslyn Freilich-Fawcett
The Sweetest Blessing - Tara Graham

The Sweetest Blessing – Tara Graham
Tranquility - Michelle Wong

Tranquility – Michelle Wong
Dream Big - Jennifer Robyn

Dream Big – Jennifer Robyn
A Beauty To Nuture - Kayleigh Ashworth

A Beauty To Nuture – Kayleigh Ashworth
Safe - Tamarind Spender

Safe – Tamarind Spender
Pucker Up, Baby! - Tara Graham

Pucker Up, Baby! – Tara Graham
Light of my life - Amanda Capello

Light of my life – Amanda Capello
Sibling Love - Debi Spencer-Zerby

Sibling Love – Debi Spencer-Zerby
Ariana - Katarzyna Parsee

Ariana – Katarzyna Parsee
Little Flower Petal - Mary Kealey

Little Flower Petal – Mary Kealey
A Tiny Smile That Lights Up The Whole World - Alicia Barrett

A Tiny Smile That Lights Up The Whole World – Alicia Barrett
Bucket Pose - Maxine Mclellan

Bucket Pose – Maxine Mclellan
The Art of Wildflower Gathering - Tara Graham

The Art of Wildflower Gathering – Tara Graham
Handsome Boy - Sheila Meade

Handsome Boy – Sheila Meade
Mini Me - Jennifer Robyn

Mini Me – Jennifer Robyn
Somewhere Over The Rainbow - Stephanie Pearson

Somewhere Over The Rainbow – Stephanie Pearson
Vintage Beauty - Amanda Gibson

Vintage Beauty – Amanda Gibson
All eyes on the Queen - Amanda Capello

All eyes on the Queen – Amanda Capello
A Glimpse Of Time - Kayleigh Ashworth

A Glimpse Of Time – Kayleigh Ashworth
See Yourself Through Her Eyes - Marggie Duncan

See Yourself Through Her Eyes – Marggie Duncan
Butterfly Wish - Tianna Jarrett-Williams

Butterfly Wish – Tianna Jarrett-Williams
PregnancyEnVogue - Tianna Jarrett-Williams

PregnancyEnVogue – Tianna Jarrett-Williams
The smell of pure love - Crystal Christenson

The smell of pure love – Crystal Christenson
Lovely In Lavender - Trayc Dudgeon

Lovely In Lavender – Trayc Dudgeon
Serenity - Amanda Capello

Serenity – Amanda Capello
She Is Our Rainbow After The Storm - Kayleigh Ashworth

She Is Our Rainbow After The Storm – Kayleigh Ashworth
Golden Goddess - Trayc Dudgeon

Golden Goddess – Trayc Dudgeon
Contemplation - Alicia Barrett

Contemplation – Alicia Barrett
Christmas Baby - Anita Windsor

Christmas Baby – Anita Windsor
Happiness Is - Anita Windsor

Happiness Is – Anita Windsor
Forever Linked - Katie Lintern

Forever Linked – Katie Lintern
Peaceful - Amanda Capello

Peaceful – Amanda Capello
Snow Day - Anita Windsor

Snow Day – Anita Windsor
Sweet Slumber - Ashley Garza

Sweet Slumber – Ashley Garza
Sweet Slumber - Amanda Gibson

Sweet Slumber – Amanda Gibson
Curiosity Captured - Jackie Orlando

Curiosity Captured – Jackie Orlando
Apple Picking Season - Anita Windsor

Apple Picking Season – Anita Windsor
Fleeting Faces - Kayleigh Ashworth

Fleeting Faces – Kayleigh Ashworth
Bold and Beautiful - Tianna Jarrett-Williams

Bold and Beautiful – Tianna Jarrett-Williams
Graceful Motherhood - Tianna Jarrett-Williams

Graceful Motherhood – Tianna Jarrett-Williams
Sweet Baby's-Breath - Veleska Martin

Sweet Baby’s-Breath – Veleska Martin
Little but Fierce - Marggie Duncan

Little but Fierce – Marggie Duncan
Violet - Jennifer McNeil

Violet – Jennifer McNeil
Mirrored Moments - Kayleigh Ashworth

Mirrored Moments – Kayleigh Ashworth
Sibling Secrets - Sherry Muldoon

Sibling Secrets – Sherry Muldoon
TheLightOfMotherhood - Tianna Jarrett-Williams

TheLightOfMotherhood – Tianna Jarrett-Williams
Safety In Numbers - Kayleigh Ashworth

Safety In Numbers – Kayleigh Ashworth
Gift wrapped - Fruzsina Jonas

Gift wrapped – Fruzsina Jonas
Though she be but little, she is fierce - Fruzsina Jonas

Though she be but little, she is fierce – Fruzsina Jonas
Bears And Blooms - Alicia Barrett

Bears And Blooms – Alicia Barrett
Lupine Dreams - Alicia Barrett

Lupine Dreams – Alicia Barrett
Little Blossom - Tina Krafts

Little Blossom – Tina Krafts
Little Leo - Kayleigh Ashworth

Little Leo – Kayleigh Ashworth
Ombre - Amanda Capello

Ombre – Amanda Capello
Sleeping Among The Blooms - Alicia Barrett

Sleeping Among The Blooms – Alicia Barrett
Leafy Mask Of Imagination - Alicia Barrett

Leafy Mask Of Imagination – Alicia Barrett
Elegance - Amanda Capello

Elegance – Amanda Capello
Bundle of Joy...Quintuplets! - Lily Norris

Bundle of Joy…Quintuplets! – Lily Norris
Autumn sun - Fruzsina Jonas

Autumn sun – Fruzsina Jonas
Little Boy Blue - Tina Krafts

Little Boy Blue – Tina Krafts
Classic Art - Tianna Jarrett-Williams

Classic Art – Tianna Jarrett-Williams
Glowing - Amanda Capello

Glowing – Amanda Capello
The Veil Of Pregnancy - Tianna Jarrett-Williams

The Veil Of Pregnancy – Tianna Jarrett-Williams
It takes a village - Fruzsina Jonas

It takes a village – Fruzsina Jonas
Aurum - Trayc Dudgeon

Aurum – Trayc Dudgeon
So Beary Sleepy - April Ludwig

So Beary Sleepy – April Ludwig
A Gift from Above - Jackie Orlando

A Gift from Above – Jackie Orlando
Perfectly Cute at 6 months - Lily Norris

Perfectly Cute at 6 months – Lily Norris

APNPI – Benefits of the Free Mentor Program

APNPI – Benefits of the Free Mentor Program

Oct 18, 2023 | APNPI Community

Written by: Amanda Gibson

APNPI – Benefits of the Free Mentor Program

The Invaluable Benefits of the Free Mentor Program Service by Accredited Professional Newborn Photographers International (APNPI)

 

Silver and 2nd Place APNPI award of two sisters hugging in the fall

 

Introduction

In the intricate world of newborn photography, where capturing those fleeting moments demands skill and sensitivity, aspiring photographers often navigate a perplexity of challenges. Recognizing the need for guidance and mentorship in this specialized field, Accredited Professional Newborn Photographers International (APNPI) has launched a groundbreaking Free Mentor Program Service. This service, provided by seasoned accredited professionals, offers a wealth of benefits to those venturing into the art of newborn photography.

Expert Guidance from APNPI Accredited Professionals

One of the primary advantages of participating in APNPI’s Free Mentor Program Service is the opportunity to receive guidance from accredited professionals. These mentors have not only mastered the technical aspects of newborn photography but have also demonstrated their commitment to the highest standards of professionalism. This ensures that aspiring photographers are learning from the best in the field, gaining insights that can significantly impact the quality of their work.

Award-Winning newborn baby photo in all yellow lying in a heart bowl

APNPI Maternity award of pregnant mom wearing a red dress showing her belly in the fall

 

Tailored Learning Experience

Every photographer is at a different stage in their journey, facing unique challenges and seeking specific skills. APNPI’s Free Mentor Program recognizes this diversity and provides a tailored learning experience for each mentee. Whether you’re a novice grappling with camera settings or an experienced photographer aiming to refine your editing techniques, the Mentors adapt their guidance to meet individual needs.  All with a goal to get you to complete your Qualified Newborn Photographer (QNP) and, of course, move on to Accreditation and Competition wins!

The APNPI Mentor Program

The APNPI Mentor Coordinator will pair you with a Mentor based on the specific guidance you require. The majority of mentoring sessions take place through Zoom meetings and email correspondence. Your Mentor is committed to supporting you throughout your journey. Additionally, APNPI offers a comprehensive library of online workshops and informative blog posts. Be sure to explore the Blog and the YouTube Channel for a wealth of valuable information.

Award-winning photo of a little girl picking her nose amongst the fall colours in Burlington, Ontario

Down Syndrome boy and girl friends sitting on a rug, boho style APNPI Image

 

Constructive Critique for Growth

Constructive criticism is an essential aspect of artistic development. APNPI’s Free Mentor Program emphasizes providing constructive feedback to Mentees, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. This feedback loop is instrumental in identifying areas of strength and weakness, enabling photographers to refine their skills and elevate the quality of their work. Through this constructive critique, mentees gain a deeper understanding of their unique style and how to enhance it.

Networking Opportunities

 

The field of newborn photography can be isolating, especially for those who are just starting. APNPI’s Free Mentor Program not only connects Mentees with experienced professionals but also opens doors to a broader network of like-minded individuals. Networking is crucial in any profession, and the program facilitates the establishment of meaningful connections that can lead to collaborations, referrals, and long-lasting professional relationships.

Newborn baby girl in a green outfit lying in a basket with lemons and limes all around

up close Milestone photo of a girl for her pink cake smash session Toronto, Ontario

 

Industry Insights and Trends

 

The photography industry, like any other, is subject to constant evolution. Staying abreast of the latest trends and industry insights is crucial for maintaining relevance and competitiveness. APNPI’s Mentors and the Organization, being seasoned professionals, provide Mentees with valuable insights into emerging trends, equipment advancements, and changing client expectations. This insider knowledge equips Mentees to adapt and innovate in a dynamic and competitive field.

Building a Professional Portfolio

 

A compelling portfolio is the key to attracting clients and establishing a successful photography career. The Free Mentor Program assists mentees in not only capturing stunning images but also curating a portfolio that showcases their unique style and capabilities.  As well as earning credentials your clients will admire!  Mentors guide Mentees in selecting and presenting their best work, ensuring that their portfolio becomes a powerful tool for marketing and client acquisition.

two sisters sitting amongst the lavender field. Award-winning image with APNPI

 

Burlington, Ontario newborn photographer all purple background and baby wrapped in purple on a purple fluffy rug.

 

Ethical and Business Guidance

 

Photography is not only about artistic expression but also about conducting business ethically and professionally. APNPI’s Free Mentor Program goes beyond technical skills, providing Mentees with guidance on ethical practices, client communication, and business management. This holistic approach ensures that Mentees are not only skilled photographers but also ethical and successful entrepreneurs in the competitive photography industry.

Recognition and Certification

 

Participating in APNPI’s Free Mentor Program provides Mentees with an opportunity to distinguish themselves in the field. The mentorship program and successful completion of your QNP, Accreditation, and Competition wins may lead to recognition and certification. This Accreditation not only boosts the Mentee’s confidence but also enhances their credibility in the eyes of potential clients.

Teddybear Cake Smash Session in brown tones. Award-winning APNPI photo

Mom to be sitting looking at the window holding her belly.
A Commitment to Inclusivity and Diversity

 

APNPI’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity is reflected in its Free Mentor Program. The organization recognizes the importance of representation in the photography industry and actively encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds to participate. This commitment to inclusivity ensures that the program serves as a platform for photographers of all backgrounds to thrive and contribute to the rich tapestry of newborn photography.

mom to be cradling her belly in the snow, smiling. Hamilton, Ontario Maternity Photographer

 

APNPI’s Member Coordinator

 

Presently, Amanda Gibson of Gibson Photography serves as the Mentor Coordinator for Accredited Professional Newborn Photographers International (APNPI). Having achieved my Qualified Newborn Photographer (QNP), I presently hold three Accreditations in Newborn, Maternity, and Sitter photography. I intend to submit applications for Family and Newborn Accreditations in the upcoming months. Additionally, I am in the process of applying for my Craftsman Designation and possibly my Masters Designation. I am proud to have secured 13 competition wins!  I am eagerly anticipating further successes in the future!  APNPI has given me the opportunity to grow as a newborn photographer and always strive to be better!

husband and wife award-winning image in the fall. Husband embracing wife's face, Hamilton, Ontario

 

Conclusion

 

In conclusion, the Free Mentor Program Service offered by Accredited Professional Newborn Photographers International (APNPI) stands as a beacon of support. It provides guidance for individuals venturing into the specialized realm of newborn photography. By providing:

–> expert mentorship

–> tailored learning experiences

–> hands-on practical opportunities

–> constructive critique, and

–> a wealth of industry insights

The program equips aspiring photographers with the tools they need to succeed. As the program continues to foster a community of professionals committed to excellence, it not only elevates individual careers but also contributes to the growth and innovation of the newborn photography industry as a whole.  If you would like to join APNPI and be assigned a Mentor to help guide you through the process, fill out the form here: https://apnpi.com/apnpi-mentor-program/

For those seeking photography services, please get in touch with me, Amanda Gibson of Gibson Photography. Explore my portfolio on my website, as well as on Facebook and Instagram. Every image featured on this blog has achieved recognition as a Competition Win with Accredited Professional Newborn Photographers International (APNPI).

Professional Photography Toronto I’ve Got You Covered!

 

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This article is also published at: https://gibsonphoto.ca/apnpi-benefits-of-the-free-mentor-program/

I am an award-winning photographer with over 12 years of experience with a home studio in Burlington, Ontario. I hold Accreditations in Newborn, Maternity and Little Sitters.

See more of Amanda Gibson at http://gibsonphoto.ca