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!
Lisa Digeso
“When judging Accreditation submissions, I’m looking for correct lighting, correct posing, good skin tones, and baby safety.”
Hi I am Lisa, Photographer at Milk & Honey Photography, co-owner of the Milky Way a photographer’s resource, Host & producer of the online Retreat series, Podcast host of the Art & Soul Show, wannabe yogi, avid book buyer, and education junkie. Im a curious cat, always exploring and researching something. I have never been a colour inside the lines kind of girl. I look at the world with a sense of humour, and have never taken off my rose-coloured glasses. This is the kind of art I create. Thats the kind of businesses I run. Business run with intention, integrity and heart and soul. I’m mama bear proud of our students, and get lit up by their transformations and confidence and belief in themselves. My purpose if to create, empower, educate and entertain, and Im happiest when all of those blend together.
Amanda Capello
“I am looking for a well composed and thought out image that shows the maker has a strong knowledge of lighting and composition. An image that evokes emotion or stands out from the rest is always encouraged!”
Amanda Capello of Acapello Photography is an accomplished photographer and APNPI judge, known for her expertise in maternity, newborn, and family photography. As the founder of ACAPELLO Photography, Amanda has spent over a decade honing her craft, transitioning from wedding and event photography to specialize in capturing the tender moments of motherhood and childhood.
A multi-award-winning photographer – including being named APNPI Photography of the Year – Amanda is dedicated to excellence in her field and serves as an APNPI ambassador, educator, and judge, where she shares her extensive knowledge and passion with fellow photographers. Her commitment to empowering others through photography is evident in her work and mentorship. With a deep understanding of the fleeting nature of childhood, Amanda’s images celebrate the beauty of every stage of life, making her a respected voice in the photography community.
Katie Lintern
“When reviewing submissions, I’m looking for images that showcase thoughtful composition, consistent lighting, and (for newborn photography submissions) a clear mastery of safe baby posing techniques. I’m drawn to work that feels intentional and timeless, whether it’s a studio image with tasteful styling or an emotive and authentic lifestyle photo. I encourage participants to consider how their use of light, colour, and perspective enhances the emotional impact of their image and tells a story that resonates with the viewer. Above all, I’m excited to see work that reflects your unique voice and style as an artist.”
Hi, I’m Katie Lintern from Katie Lintern Photography, and I’m so excited to be part of this year’s APNPI judging panel. As a newborn, maternity, and family photographer based in Collingwood, Ontario, I’ve had the privilege of capturing some of the most meaningful moments in my clients’ lives over the past five years. Since opening my studio in 2019, I’ve worked with over 125 newborns and earned accreditation in both Studio Posed Newborn and In-Home Lifestyle Newborn categories. I’m currently Collingwood’s only registered, fully insured, Accredited and Qualified Newborn Photographer (QNP)—a distinction I’m proud to bring to my local community. Alongside my photography work, I serve as an APNPI Ambassador, and I’m honoured to contribute to this incredible organization in a judging capacity. Photography, for me, is always a balance between aesthetics and storytelling. In my studio, I gravitate toward warm, neutral tones and timeless, uncluttered backdrops that allow the baby to truly shine. I believe in creating images that will feel just as special decades from now as they do today. When I’m photographing families on location, my style shifts toward an emotive, documentary approach. I love capturing movement, connection, and those little in-between moments that tell a family’s unique story. Like many of you, I’ve built my business from scratch, learning through trial, error, and plenty of carb-fueled late nights. Along the way, I’ve discovered how important it is to develop and trust my own style while continuing to push myself creatively. I’m constantly inspired by the work of other photographers in our community and feel privileged to offer feedback that I hope will encourage and empower you on your own creative journey. Outside of photography, I’m a wife and a mom to three busy kids. Like many of you, I juggle running a business while raising a family, and I have a lot of respect for all of you trying to make it all work while building and sustaining your dream business. I’m looking forward to celebrating the creativity and dedication that this APNPI event brings to light. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, I know it takes courage to submit your work for critique, and I want you to know how much I respect that. I’ll be offering feedback with honesty and care, keeping in mind the heart and hard work behind every image. Thank you for trusting us with your art—I can’t wait to see the beautiful work you’ve created!
Sarah Lake
I’ve been a hobby photographer since childhood, but like many mothers, started my professional photography journey after having my two children. A military wife of 20 years, I’ve now started (and moved!) my business in 3 different states, and am currently enjoying serving families in San Antonio, TX. Formerly a teacher and early education consultant, I’m also passionate about teaching aspiring newborn photographers what I’ve learned over my decade of photographing babies and families.
To see more of Sarah’s work, visit: Sarah Lake Photography