From the early bird days of my photography career, being a member of the Accredited Professional Newborn Photographers International (APNPI) has been a pivotal part of my journey. It's not just an organization; it's a supportive community dedicated to excellence, safety, and continuous growth in newborn photography.
At the heart of APNPI's mission lies a profound commitment to newborn safety. Right from the beginning, they prioritize this aspect through their comprehensive online safety course. Completing this course many years ago was a defining moment for me. It wasn't just about acquiring knowledge; it was about understanding the ethical responsibility we hold as newborn photographers. Receiving my Quality Newborn Photographer badge was a proud achievement, marking my commitment to upholding the highest standards of safety and professionalism.
But APNPI doesn't stop at safety education; they're dedicated to pushing their members towards excellence. Through accreditation and designations in various categories like Maternity, Newborn Posed, Little Sitters, and Newborn and Family, APNPI provides avenues for photographers to showcase their expertise and push their creative boundaries.
I'm immensely grateful for the opportunity to have achieved accreditation in multiple categories over the years. However, this journey wasn't without its challenges. There were moments of disappointment when my submissions fell short, but each setback was a lesson in resilience and perseverance. It's crucial to remember that not receiving accreditation on the first attempt shouldn't deter you; it should fuel your determination to learn and grow.
To those who are not yet members of APNPI, I wholeheartedly encourage you to join. The benefits extend beyond accreditation and competitions. APNPI offers a wealth of resources, including the APNPI Academy, which provides incredible teaching materials through its classes and courses. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned photographer, there's always something new to learn and explore.
For current members, I urge you to actively participate and engage with all that APNPI has to offer. Whether it's submitting for accreditation, participating in international image competitions! Take advantage of the mentorship program, where accredited members like myself have the privilege of guiding and supporting fellow photographers on their journey towards accreditation. Being a mentor has been an incredibly rewarding experience, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to give back to the community.
In conclusion, my journey with APNPI has been one of growth, learning, and gratitude. It's a journey that continues to evolve, thanks to the unwavering support and encouragement of the APNPI community. So, whether you're just starting out or looking to take your newborn photography to new heights, I invite you to embark on this incredible journey with APNPI – where talent is nurtured, growth is fostered, and excellence is celebrated.
