All last year I was hearing a lot of well known photographers talking about how they wish that there was a “standard” for newborn photographers. Not only a place where we could come together as a community but a place where we could be recognized as a professional. There are not any requirements to being a newborn photographer. Anyone can pick up a camera and take pictures of your baby. Some people wanted a certification that would require members to meets required levels of safety, business practices and technical knowledge. Then the Accredited Professional Newborn Photographers International was born. I was so excited and knew right away that this place was for me.

About APNPI

Sometime last year, a photographer that I respect, posted on her site that her and a colleague had finally worked to get something like this started. She has always been such a huge advocate for newborn safety practices and raising the bar for newborn professionals in our industry. I love what she stands for. I was right there when they launched the APNPI program. After doing some research, here are some of the things I found that they stand for:

• They want to give professional recognition to newborn photographers with opportunities for us to get accredited.
• They provide resources for us to learn and grow in our industry in knowledge for tons of areas.
• Creation of a community where we as photographers can all come together to learn from and support each other
• (And this part is my favorite) A place where you THE CLIENT can come and find a newborn photographer in your area that has safe business practices and is skilled in handling newborns.
• Lastly, a place where the client can come and find out what to look for in a newborn photographer.

Safety Certification

There are a couple of steps to being accredited, the first was going through a safety course. The Safety Course tested us on all aspects of newborn safety from posing and spotting to babies health and wellness. I have spent a lot of time learning these aspects but it was a great refresher and I learned a few new things too. I never want to stop learning when it comes to newborn safety. It is such an important part of newborn photography and something I feel very strongly about.

Getting My QNP

Now the next step was a bit more of a challenge. And it should be. This next part was for me to earn my Qualified Newborn Photographer credential. It took me a while to get all of my information together. It was actually quite a process. We were tested on a multitude of areas and had to submit images showing our knowledge in the following areas:

• The technical aspect of photography
• Lighting
• Composition
• Posing
• Composites
• Gallery Cohesiveness
• And so much more….

I was so nervous sending all this off. Having someone judge my work is not something I have done before. I am so passionate about my business and my job. But with that comes the self doubt and uncertainty of my value in contributing in a positive way to this community. I definitely believe our industry should have standards and all newborn photographers (certified or not) should hold themselves to the highest standards. Well, yesterday (after 6 weeks of waiting), I was notified that I PASSED and earned my Qualified Newborn Photographer certificate!! I am so excited because I worked really hard to get here. Being recognized by my peers as a photographer who is knowledgeable and someone who practices newborn safety means the world to me.

If you are interested in learning more about APNPI click HERE

Check out my profile over there too!! You can find it HERE

It’s never too early to get your newborn session booked. Contact me HERE to get your due date reserved. 

Stephanie Rubyor Photography

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