As a maternity photographer, I believe in the power of storytelling through imagery—capturing the strength, beauty, and emotion that define the journey to motherhood. Submitting to the APNPI International Image Competition was an opportunity for me to challenge myself creatively, elevate my craft, and gain valuable feedback from respected industry professionals.

I deeply value the standards that APNPI upholds and the supportive community it fosters. Entering this competition wasn’t just about recognition; it was about growth—pushing my artistic boundaries, refining my technical skills, and connecting with a wider network of passionate newborn and maternity photographers who share the same commitment to excellence.

Each session I shoot is meaningful to me, and sharing my work on an international platform felt like the natural next step in my professional journey.

What, if anything, did you learn about yourself through the process of image competition judging?

Going through the image competition judging process taught me to view my work more objectively. As a maternity photographer, I’m emotionally connected to the stories I capture, but stepping back and seeing my images through the eyes of a judge helped me better understand the technical and artistic elements that elevate an image beyond personal meaning.

I learned that I’m more resilient and open to critique than I realized. Rather than feeling discouraged by feedback, I found it incredibly motivating—it pushed me to look at areas where I can grow and refine my skills further. It also reminded me why I started: to create meaningful, timeless portraits that celebrate the beauty and emotion of motherhood.

Overall, the process deepened my appreciation for the craft and reinforced my commitment to continuous learning and growth as an artist.

 

What attracted you to APNPI’s International Image Competition? 

What drew me to APNPI’s International Image Competition was the organization’s commitment to professionalism and education within the newborn and maternity photography community. I was particularly impressed by the quality and experience of the judging panel—knowing that my work would be reviewed by respected, qualified photographers gave the competition real value and credibility.

The detailed, constructive feedback offered was also a major factor. I wasn’t just looking for recognition; I wanted to grow. The opportunity to receive thoughtful critique from industry experts felt like an investment in my development, both technically and artistically.

Above all, I appreciated that the competition was designed to uplift and support photographers at all stages of their journey. It felt like a safe yet challenging space to push myself and honor the work I pour so much heart into.

 

Have there been any positive outcomes from your achievement?

Absolutely. Since receiving recognition through the APNPI International Image Competition, I’ve noticed a meaningful boost in my business and client engagement. Many expecting parents have mentioned seeing my award-winning work and feeling even more confident in choosing me to capture such a special time in their lives.

The recognition has also helped build trust and credibility with new clients—it reassures them that I’m not only passionate about what I do, but also committed to excellence. Additionally, I’ve received kind words from past clients who were proud to see images from their sessions celebrated on a professional level.

Beyond client interest, the achievement has opened up networking opportunities within the photography community and has been a personal motivator to keep pushing myself creatively.

 

What were you looking for when selecting images to submit to the image competition?

When selecting images to submit, I was looking for photographs that not only showcased strong technical execution—like lighting, composition, and editing—but also conveyed genuine emotion and storytelling. As a maternity photographer, my goal is always to highlight the beauty, strength, and intimacy of this unique chapter in a woman’s life, so I wanted to choose images that reflected that intention.

I asked myself which images made me feel something, even after seeing them countless times. I looked for moments that felt timeless, where connection and emotion came through naturally, and where the artistic elements supported the story rather than overshadowed it.

Ultimately, I chose images that I felt represented both my creative voice and the heart of my work.

 

What would you say to a member thinking about submitting imagery?

I would absolutely encourage you to go for it. Submitting your work to the APNPI Image Competition is more than just putting your images out there—it’s an opportunity for real growth. The feedback you receive is thoughtful, professional, and incredibly valuable, no matter where you are in your photography journey.

It can feel intimidating at first, but stepping outside your comfort zone is where the most meaningful progress happens. The process helped me see my work from a new perspective, celebrate my strengths, and identify areas to grow—all within a supportive and respectful environment.

Even just preparing your images for submission sharpens your eye and helps you evaluate your work more critically. It’s not just about awards; it’s about pushing yourself, learning, and honoring the passion you bring to your craft.

You have nothing to lose and so much to gain.