NAPCP April 2018 Issue of Inspired Magazine

B Y NA P C P APRIL 2018

Featuring Our 2017 NAPCP Ambassadors!

The

LATEST INSIDE

Paper flower tutorial and Spring Art Prints!

Brand new locations for this month’s NAPCP Gatherings!

April showers bring May flowers!

While everything’s coming up roses and kiddos are enjoying the longer and warmer days, we’re celebrating spring with blissful news and events planned specifically with you in mind!

For those who were unable to attend a NAPCP Gathering (or maybe as many NAPCP Gatherings as you would have liked) last year, you’re in luck! The first Gatherings of 2018 are just days away, during the week of April 22nd through April 28th. Our community is growing -- and we are certain will be strengthened -- with the addition of a fresh and inspiring crop of 2018 NAPCP Ambassadors.

Speaking of inspiring NAPCP Ambassadors, this month’s issue of Inspired features your 2017 NAPCP Ambassadors. Their images are filled with brightness, cheerful feelings, and sheer delight.

We are absolutely thrilled to share not only a selection of photographs from our 2017 NAPCP Ambassadors, but also insightful, intimate interviews with many of them. If you didn’t have the chance to get to know your local NAPCP Ambassador in 2017, we invite you to join us for this year’s NAPCP Gatherings, which begin next week. For those who wish to learn more about our amazing association, attend the Gathering in your area to get to know some of your peers and fall in love with NAPCP.

With image critiques written and photographs scored, 2018 International Image Competition results will be announced before you know it! We’re counting down to the elation we know is coming for our winners and meriting photographers. Visit our Inspired by NAPCP Gallery Event page for a sneak peek at the next image competition!

The NAPCP team would like to extend our deepest gratitude to those who served as 2017 NAPCP Ambassadors and wish a warm and enthusiastic welcome to our 2018 NAPCP Ambassadors!

Enchantingly yours, The NAPCP Team

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TA BL E O F CO NTE N TS Pg. 4 .............................Paper Flower Tutorial Pg. 5 .........................News & Announcements Pg. 6 ..........2017 NAPCP Ambassador Feature

Pg. 34 ...........New 2018 NAPCP Ambassadors Pg. 36 ...............................NAPCP Gatherings Pg. 37 ..............................Marketing Mondays

Pg. 38 ..............................#NAPCPInstaFaves Pg. 39 ..........International Image Competition Pg. 40 ..................Video Series: Rya Duncklee Pg. 41 ............................Membership Benefits

Paper Flower Tutorial Springtime is here, which means you have likely been totally bombarded with florals! ‘Tis the season!

In that spirit we have a floral-y DIY for you today. Paper flowers are great for a range of occasions: bouquet for Mother’s Day, group craft for girl’s night, baby shower decor! The list goes on and on …

For a full instructional PDF guide on how you can create your own amazing paper flowers, check out the blog post at NAPCP.com. Then, feature them as centerpieces at your next brunch, give to a friend, or use them as home or studio decor. Whatever you do, don’t forget to tag us @napcp and using #napcp when you display or gift your beautiful creations!

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N E WS & A N N OU N CE MEN T S

Facebook Community We hope that everyone will continue to partake in our NAPCP Facebook Community page! Join now and get involved with the latest discussions, trending topics, news and updates, and much more! Click here to request to join today!

Napcp Store Head on over to the NAPCP Store to check out our fabulous Fine Art Prints. Our prints are perfect for a variety of uses! Download, print and hang in your office, or include as a gift for clients with packaged orders. Totally up to you!

Click here to get yours today!

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FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHERS 2017 NAPCP AMBASSADORS

Image by Kara Webb of Simply Heaven Photography

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Mary Okner

Mary Okner | San Jose, CA

In a few sentences, tell us about yourself and your business.

I am an East Coast transplant who has called Silicon Valley home for the last 8 years with my husband and our 10 year old pup. Last year we added a baby to the mix and have had more fun than ever over the last 11 months! Six years ago, when life gave me lemons (i.e. my employer’s start-up went bust), I made lemonade and began my business. I took the opportunity to identify how I could weave my two passions--photography and spending time with kids--together and Mary Bea Photography was born. While starting a family photography business at the age of 25 (with no kids of my own) seemed slightly insane, looking back on it now I know it was the best decision for me and nothing could’ve made me happier. Knowing how much I love pouring over old photos (yes, even the awkward years!), I feel every shoot I do is an honor and a privilege and I always strive to give my families artful depictions of each of their children in the moment they’re in.

How do you stay organized in your business and/or personal life?

I am one of the least organized people you’ll meet so it is something I work work really hard to stay on top of. The number one thing that keeps me organized and on top of things is the reminders app on my phone, I’d probably be 50% less productive without it! The second is the workflows in ShootQ, thanks to the workflows I am never late delivering on client work, lifesaver.

Website: marybeaphotography.com | Email: mary@marybeaphotography.com Instagram: @marybeaphoto | Facebook: /MaryBeaPhotography

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Barb Toyama Barb Toyama Photos | Maui, Hawaii In a few sentences, tell us about yourself and your business.

Living a simple island life with my little family under the palm trees of Maui, Hawaii, I enjoy raising our daughter and a bunch of chickens, surfing and playing in the ocean, gardening, and pretty much anything else that takes me outside into the sunshine. Photography is my creative outlet - I love combining the joy of childhood and family in the beautiful surroundings our island has to offer, both on land and in water.

What’s the best part of being a NAPCP Member?

The community! NAPCP is a community unlike any other, I am so grateful for all of the friendships I have formed over the years of being a NAPCP member.

Best advice you’ve ever received: I like to live by the famous Mark Twain quote, “Twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”

Website: barbtoyama.com Email: hello@barbtoyama.com Instagram: @barbtoyamaphotos / @barbtoyama Facebook: /barbtoyamaphotos

Carolyn Ryan Carolyn Ann Ryan Photography | Charlotte, NC

In a few sentences, tell us about yourself and your business.

I’m an international award winning Charlotte Family Photographer, wife, and mother of two. Previously based in Westfield, NJ, our family relocated to the South Charlotte area in 2015 and we love it. My children are heavily involved in Irish Dance which is an amazing community of teachers, dancers and families. Most recently, our newest addition to our family is chocolate lab mix puppy, Nestle, that we rescued through the Greater Charlotte SPCA. Best advice you’ve ever received: A few years ago, at a photography conference, I asked a question during one of Tamara Lackey’s presentations and I earned a giveaway. She handed me a wonderful prize, but I had secretly wished to receive a different prize (silly, right?).

But I never said anything. That giveaway prize was later awarded to another attendee, and I missed my chance. Later that evening, I bumped into Tamara and as we chatted, she learned I was mildly disappointed with my prize and kicking myself for not asking for a different one. Her next words were golden: “When you want something in life, you have to simply open up your mouth and ask for it instead of just wishing it would fall in your lap. What’s the worst answer you are going to get - No?” She was so very right and that little moment became a major life lesson. It took until I was about 35 years old to learn that lesson, but I have been more willing to take a chance and ask for what I want or need and most times, the answer is yes. This applies to my business and personal life, and I have even put a focus on teaching the same principle to my kids. The lesson and advice has been better than any prize I could have received.

Website: carolynannryan.com | Email: carolyn@carolynannryan.com Instagram: @CarolynAnnRyan | Facebook: /CarolynAnnRyan

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Jennifer Kapala Jennifer Kapala Photography | Alberta,Canada In a few sentences, tell us about yourself and your business.

Based in Calgary, I am a multiple award winning child and family photographer and the 2014 National Association Child Photographer of the Year and am a NAPCP Ambassador. Always seeking to improve my craft, I maintain an active membership in the National Association of Professional Child Photographers (NAPCP) and a Craftsman Member of the Masters Photographers International. I have three boys and live in an incredible part of Alberta, married to my best friend. I love traveling and exploring and want to work that into my business too!

Give us a HOT TIP! As a past judge and image competition winner, what I get asked about the most is to help people select stronger images, to hopefully “win”. If you are looking to enter competitions, create stronger images or just get better, I would encourage you to reach out the those people who you know aren’t going to give you easy answers, or “love” everything you do, because its not about that. It’s about being honest with yourself and seeking to continuously improve your craft. When you focus on your journey and creating your best possible work, and let go of any expectations you have of “winning”, that’s when you are most likely to succeed.

Website: jenniferkapalaphotography.com Email: info@jenniferkapalaphotography.com Instagram: @jenniferkapala Facebook: /JenniferKapalaPhotography

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Deanne Mroz Deanne Mroz Photography | Algonquin, IL

In a few sentences, tell us about yourself and your business.

I am a lifestyle photographer based in the Chicagoland area. I like to think of myself as a professional storyteller. With a background in design and a love for capturing all of life’s little moments, I strive to give my clients a great photography experience and wonderful memories.

Have you always been a photographer? If not, what did you do before you started your business?

Although I have always loved photography, I actually got my degree in Visual Communication. For the first 10 years after graduation, I worked at a small advertising agency where I did graphic design, email marketing, web design, web maintenance and motion graphic animation. After being laid off in 2015, I decided not to go back to work full time and to pursue my dream of working from home so I could be with my kids.

In 2016, I found the perfect place working for NAPCP doing design work. I love that working for this organization gives me the opportunity to marry my love for photography and my love for design together in a way that helps others in the industry build their businesses.

“Do what makes you happy and what makes you feel like ‘you’. Say no to everything else.”

Website: deannemrozphotography.com Email: deannemrozphotography@gmail.com Instagram: @dmroz / @deannemrozphotography Facebook: /DeanneMrozPhotography

Diogo Loureiro Loureiros Photography | Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil

In a few sentences, tell us about yourself and your business.

Born and raised in Brazil, Diogo Loureiro works together with his wife Joice Loureiro. They specialize in the use of natural light in their photography. The light used is the light available at the time and this has contributed to Diogo’s photography carrying a unique natural quality.

Have you always been a photographer? If not, what did you do before you started your business?

I worked for 9 years in a steel plant. I discovered myself as a photographer at 30 years of age. This passion was already in me, since very young, but I never thought about it professionally. Until one day I became aware of my purpose in life, what I wanted to do for people, and that motivated me to drop everything and live on photography.

Best advice you’ve ever received: Be yourself! People will love when you are yourself!

Website: loureirosphotography.com | Email: contato@diogoloureiro.com Instagram: @loureirosfotografia | Facebook: /loureirosfotografia

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Kara Webb

Simply Heaven Photography | Southern Pines, NC In a few sentences, tell us about yourself and your business.

Helloooo!!! I’m Kara, wife to an Army guy, mom to three kiddos, and lover of books, flowers, and traveling. I’ve been photographing babies and families since 2010, and have grown from a home studio into a full retail studio. Newborns and mid-year babies are my favorite stages to photograph!

Give us a HOT TIP! Get an Instant Pot! They get dinner on the table quickly, which is perfect for busy families with working moms.

Have you always been a photographer? If not, what did you do before you started your business?

I was a high school science teacher before starting my photography business. When we got pregnant with our second child, I left teaching to be a stay-at-home mom. That lasted about 8 months before I realized I was a better, more intentional mom when I was working outside the home.

“Don’t let anyone else define your success.

You have to set your own definition of success before you can achieve it.”

Website: simplyheavenphotography.com Email: kara@simplyheavenphotography.com Instagram: @simplyheavenphotography Facebook: /SimplyHeavenPhotography

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Elisha Guest

Elisha Guest Photography | REGINA, SASKATCHEWAN, CA

“Follow your inner creative. There is only one you so shine through and be your best self.�

In a few sentences, tell us about yourself and your business.

I am a mom, creative artist and have a small addiction to Starbucks coffee. My studio is located in the heart of the Warehouse District in Regina. I have been in business for over 7 years now. I specialize in maternity, newborn and children custom portraiture.

What is the best part about being a NAPCP Member?

The lovely creatives that inspire me to be the best artist I can be. The wonderful members I get to meet through our quarterly meets!

Where do you find inspiration?

I find inspiration everywhere I go! The smallest detail can spark my creative juices to flow. I also love antique shops.

Every piece has such an amazing story to it!

Website: elishaguest.com | Email: elisha@elishaguest.com Instagram: @elishaguestphotography | Facebook: /elishaguestphotography

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Emily Vaccaro Photography by Emily Payne | San Francisco, CA

In a few sentences, tell us about yourself and your business.

I started my business in 2000 with a fiery passion for photography and a motivation to have a successful business. 18 years and lots of life changes later, I am so happy with the state of my business and with my dedicated clients. I have two amazing daughters who cause me to ride the balance of mom and business owner at every moment. It’s a beautifully messy balance!

What is the best part about being a NAPCP Member?

I attended the conference in Santa Barbara and loved meeting new people from all over the country. Through our Ambassador meetups, I met a lot of great local photographers as well.

Have you always been a photographer? If not, what did you do before you started your business?

I discovered my passion for photography during high school and put every ounce of effort into that passion. Besides a few odd jobs at Round Table Pizza and selling shoe laces at the mall, my only career has been as a photographer!

“Take care of yourself first!”

Website: emilypayne.com | Email: emilyjphoto@gmail.com Instagram: @photographybyemilypayne | Facebook: /photographybyemilypayne

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Hannah Drews Eggert Hannah Drews Photography | Chicago, IL In a few sentences, tell us about yourself and your business.

I am a Chicago-based natural light photographer specializing in newborn, child, & family photography. I strive to incorporate natural, simple elements into each and every session.

What’s the best part of being a NAPCP Member?

The community! This job can be lonely at times and NAPCP has brought so many new friends and colleagues into my life. Having a group of likeminded photographers to bounce ideas off of or just meetup for a cup of coffee is invaluable.

Give us a HOT TIP! Telling kids their favorite tv character lives inside your camera will guarantee at least one smile.

Website: hannahdrewsphotography.com Email: hdrews@gmail.com Instagram: @hdrewsphoto Facebook: /hannahdrewsphotography

Kristen Montgomery Kristen Montgomery Photography, LLC | Charlotte, NC

In a few sentences, tell us about yourself and your business.

We have three children (7, 5 and 2) and have lived in Charlotte for 10 years. I am about to celebrate the fifth anniversary of launching my business. I specialize in newborns (it is the cure for baby fever) and love capturing my clients’ families grow and change each year.

Give us a HOT TIP! Get an accountability partner!

Have you always been a photographer? If not, what did you do before you started your business?

No, I majored in Finance and worked in the investment industry for six years. I still hold my Certified Financial Planner designation and keep up with the continuing education. I’d love to blend these two passions at some point.

Where do you find inspiration?

I get a lot of inspiration from my children and watching their interests grow and change. I also love the changing seasons.

“Find balance.”

Website: kmontgomeryphotography.com | Email: kristen@kmontgomeryphotography.com Instagram: @kristenmontgomeryphotography | Facebook: /kmontgomeryphotography

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Crystal Mercredi Life and Portraits | Fort McMurray, Alberta,Canada

In a few sentences, tell us about yourself and your business.

Life and Portraits is a custom photography studio providing authentic life family photos, as well as artistic newborn, maternity, graduation, and most recently corporate branding.

What’s the best part of being a NAPCP Member?

My favourite part of NAPCP is it’s amazing community! It’s like having coworkers, or a team of people always ready to help and cheer you on.

Where do you find inspiration?

Everywhere! Lately I’m really recognizing the power sound has on me though, so I’ve just started a project shooting while listening to different songs to see how the mood, beat and lyrics of music change how I see and photography things.

“Push yourself a little bit out of your comfort zone every time you shoot. Pretty soon your comfort zone will be huge!”

Website: lifeandportraits.com Email: crystal@lifeandportraits.com Instagram: @lifeandportraits Facebook: /lifeandportraits

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Dyan Witt Dyan Witt Photography | Norfolk, VA In a few sentences, tell us about yourself and your business.

I am a mother, wife, military spouse, portrait photographer, volunteer, church ministry supporter, friend and much much more!!

What’s the best part of being a NAPCP Member?

As a NAPCP Member I have the opportunity to collaborate with the best in the business. I truly appreciate the access to all the content NAPCP offers. I especially LOVE when I can tell clients I am a member of the National Association of Professional Child Photographers. I believe it also gives clients the confidence to know they are in the hands of an accredited photographer.

Give us a HOT TIP! To cutdown on spam and unwanted emails, sign up for UnRoll.Me.

Have you always been a photographer? If not, what did you do before you started your business?

Yes, I have had a camera in my hands since I was a little girl. My father and grandfather photographed weddings on the weekends and I used to hold the light meter to help.

Website: dyanwittphotography.com Email: dyanwittphotography@gmail.com Instagram: @dyanwittphotography Facebook: /DyanWittPhotography

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Kerry McFarland Earthdarling Portraits | Portland, OR

In a few sentences, tell us about yourself and your business.

I’ve been shooting and studying photography since I was 11 and I clearly remember the day my father put a 35 mm camera into my hands. My life was forever changed!

Have you always been a photographer? If not, what did you do before you started your business?

I spent 15 years traveling as an international fashion model. I was on the other side of the camera. Even through this I saw myself someday being the one holding the camera.

How do you stay organized in your business and/or personal life?

I’m not great at that to be honest. When I had my studio it was easy though, because my work stayed in the studio and didn’t come home with me.

Where do you find inspiration?

Artists old and new. My two favorite photographers would be Diane Arbus - her images changed how we took portraits - and created more of a dialog between the photographer and the model, and Sebastiao Salgado - his black and white imagery is breathtaking. The way he captures the light is pure magic.

Website: earthdarlingportraits.com | Email: kerry@earthdarlingportraits.com Instagram: @earthdarling_portraits | Facebook: /earthdarlingportraits

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Kimberly Tank Kimberly Tank Art & Photography | St Marys, GA

In a few sentences, tell us about yourself and your business.

I’m a natural light, lifestyle photographer, photographing families from babies to seniors in Southeast Georgia and Northeast Florida. I love capturing family milestones and memories and turning them into works of art.

Give us a HOT TIP! Knowing keyboard shortcuts for Lightroom and Photoshop helps speed up my workflow.

Have you always been a photographer? If not, what did you do before you started your business?

Prior to starting my business, I was an elementary school teacher (K & 2nd grade) and photography was just a hobby (and I shot in auto mode!).

How do you stay organized in your business and/or personal life?

A well kept planner. I use Emily Ley’s Simplified Planner to keep my life straight, haha. I love that there’s a column for appointments and scheduled things for each day and a column for my to-do list for the day as well as space to write notes and meal planning. I also keep everything updated in my iCalendar so I have my schedule on the go too.

Website: kimberlytank.com | Email: kimberly.tank@gmail.com Instagram: @kimberlytank | Facebook: /KimberlyTankArtPhotography

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Lena Antaramian Life and Portraits | Ridgewood, NJ

In a few sentences, tell us about yourself and your business.

I am a mom of two ten-year-old (human) girls and one 3 month old (canine) girl. I love books and sunny spring days. I love travelling and I love cake. And I love photography. Close to 10 years ago I turned my photography hobby into a new career and have been photographing children and families all over New Jersey ever since!

Give us a HOT TIP! Charge what you are worth! Don’t try to be the lowest price photographer and charge next to nothing hoping that people will hire you... there will ALWAYS be someone newer and hungrier and cheaper and you CANNOT compete on price - it is a very slippery slope.

Have you always been a photographer? If not, what did you do before you started your business?

I have a degree in Computer Science and before I switched careers I was in business and IT consulting, working with clients on Wall Street as well as in Europe and Asia.

Where do you find inspiration?

This sounds so cliche but like so many others I find inspiration in my kids - and travel.

Website: livelovelaughphotos.com Email: lena@livelovelaughphotos.com Instagram: @livelovelaughphotosnj Facebook: /LiveLoveLaughPhotos

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Lisa Dowty Lisa Turner Photography | Denver, CO

In a few sentences, tell us about yourself and your business.

I am a married mom of 2 teenage girls, and photographing them is where I got my start. I have been in business in the Denver area for 13 years! I specialize in lifestyle photography for families, kids, babies and high school seniors.

Give us a HOT TIP! The daisy grip on top of my camera-with Elmo-is my secret weapon!

How do you stay organized in your business and/or personal life?

Google Cal and Pixifi! I would be lost with out my calendar. Pixifi has client data going back 6 years...its awesome to pull someone up and know exactly what they purchased last time, kids’ names, etc! It also houses all my contracts, email templates, tax info...it’s my pretend personal assistant.

Website: lisaturnerphotography.com Email: lisa@lisaturnerphotography.com Instagram: @lisaturnerphotography Facebook: /lisaturnerphotography

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Amy Law Little Stories - the Moment by Amy | Hong Kong In a few sentences, tell us about yourself and your business.

Little Stories is founded on the idea that everyone has little stories that are beautiful and unique. I hope to show the beauty of love by creating photographs for everyone - newborns, kids and families. Taking pictures doesn’t call for a big occasion like a birthday party or celebration; casual moments need to be captured because they reflect the beauty of love.

Have you always been a photographer? If not, what did you do before you started your business?

I love being in a creative industry. I started out as an assistant magazine editor for a design magazine. Meanwhile, because I have a degree in Education from the University of Hong Kong, I taught in international and local schools as well. But I love photography and kids so much that I decided to give a photography business a try, with a focus on portraits of kids, couples and families.

“Listen to what you love the most and go for it.�

Website: little-stories.co | Email: hello@little-stories.co Instagram: @littlestoriess | Facebook: /littlestoriess

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Michelle Kirnan Michelle Kirnan Photography | Moyock, NC

“Don’t be afraid to share tips on how to capture great images with those in your community. It helps you to become the trusted advisor in their eyes while also being helpful!”

In a few sentences, tell us about yourself and your business.

Specializing in custom portraits of high school seniors and families, Michelle Kirnan Photography creates stunning images of those you love. We offer a custom portrait experience and look forward to sharing how much fun your portrait experience can be as we travel this road together, becoming friends along the way.

Have you always been a photographer? If not, what did you do before you started your business?

I’ve been a photographer since I was a child. However, I did not become a professional photographer until 2011. As a child I dreamed of becoming a photographer for National Geographic. My first job was with Old Time Photos at in VA Beach many, MANY years ago. I worked in different industries through the years, mostly in administrative positions. In 2006 our son was placed with us for foster care and ultimately adoption. Through counseling, I learned how important it was, to develop his self esteem and sense of belonging, to have photographs throughout our home. For our 20th wedding anniversary in 2010, our son was so happy to give me my first DSLR. He inspired me to begin my business, and it truly is a family business. I feel it’s important for me to model for him how important it is to chase our dreams!

Website: michellekirnan.com | Email: michelle@michellekirnan.com Instagram: @michellekirnan | Facebook: /michellekirnan

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Rya Duncklee Ryaphotos | Jacksonville, FL

In a few sentences, tell us about yourself and your business.

Rya Duncklee is an award-winning childrens portrait artist based in Jacksonville, Florida who specializes in first year milestones and video storytelling. She has been recently awarded as one of the Top 20 Newborn Portrait Artists in Jacksonville, and has been the recipient of eleven NAPCP International Image Competition Awards. Rya is a proud member of the National Association of Professional Child Photographers (NAPCP) and is the interviewer for the NAPCP Video Interview Series. She is also an accredited member of the Professional Photographer’s Association (PPA). When Rya’s not documenting moments in time for families, she enjoys traveling, cooking and spending time with her hubby and their new baby girl, Elle.

How do you stay organized in your business and/or personal life?

Cull, cull, cull! I work with video all the time and this is something in film you learn very quickly. Keep things very short, only show the best, and cull down. I’ve found to stay on top of my work flow, I minimize EVERYTHING. I keep my desktop (and my workspace) very clean and organized. I only use what is absolutely necessary, at home and at work, and I try my very best on every session to get it right in camera. I’ve even gotten to the point after 7 years in this business to almost exclusively use Lightroom for my work. Incorporating video into your workflow almost forces you to work this way, and to perfect in-camera, because otherwise you will drown in a sea of editing.

So to stay organized, I find the best way is to live minimally and only show what’s absolutely necessary to tell the story.

Website: ryaphotos.com | Email: rya@ryaphotos.com Instagram: @ryaphotos | Facebook: /ryaphotos

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Ryann Laden

Ryann Colleen Photography | Springfield, VA

In a few sentences, tell us about yourself and your business.

Photographer specializing in lifestyle portraits of babies, children, and families in the Washington, DC area since 2009.

What is the best part about being a NAPCP Member?

I love all of the information and inspiration I receive from NAPCP members. I have learned so much about the business and the art of photography from this supportive group of professionals.

Give us a HOT TIP! Podcasts are my favorite thing to listen to while I’m editing sessions.

On Being, Elise Gets Crafty, Happier with Gretchen Rubin, Young House Love, Katie Couric, and Oprah’s Supersoul Conversations are some of my current faves.

How do you stay organized in your business and/or personal life?

Lately I am all about simplifying. Emily Ley has some great things to say on this subject. I have been focusing on doing the important things well and paring down the rest.

“Do what you love and be kind.”

Website: ryanncolleenphotography.com Email: ryann@ryanncolleenphotography.com Instagram: @ryanncolleenphotography Facebook: /ryanncolleenphotography

Sheena Magnesen Sheena Magnesen Photography | Naperville, IL In a few sentences, tell us about yourself and your business.

I’m a mother of two, married to my high school sweetheart and love to travel! I like to make sure that my clients treasure the portraits I take of them and their loved ones. My goal is to get more parents in photos with their children and get those prints up on their walls.

What is the best part about being a NAPCP Member?

The community you get with this group is unlike anything else out there. There isn’t any judging, they are always willing to help you and give you the boost you need and the encouragement to keep doing what you love.

Give us a HOT TIP! Keeping a dryer sheet in your camera bag will not only help your bag to stay smelling fresh but can come in handy for static-y clothes or hair!

How do you stay organized in your business and/or personal life?

I’ve always been an organized person before owning my own business and having two kids. I try to keep lists and plan my day around my kids so I can always be present with them. I also love when to meal prep/plan whenever possible so our evenings aren’t as hectic!

Website: sheenamagnesenphotography.com | Email: sheena@sheenamagnesenphotography.com Instagram: @sheenamagnesenphotography | Facebook: /sheenamagnesenphotography

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Shelby Finkelstein

Simply Shelby Photography | Orlando, FL

In a few sentences, tell us about yourself and your business.

Simply Shelby Photography is a full-service photography studio specializing in on-location modern lifestyle baby, children, family and maternity photography.

What is the best part about being a NAPCP Member?

Bringing together and fostering friendship among local child photographers.

Have you always been a photographer? If not, what did you do before you started your business?

No. My previous career was working for an amazing and successful Career Transition Consulting Firm. Given the opportunity to grow and learn, I credit my years spent there to shaping the business woman I am today.

How do you stay organized in your business and/or personal life?

Knowing my limits, not overbooking myself and always remembering to prioritize what is really important in my life.

“Know your value!�

Website: simplyshelbyphoto.com | Email: shelby@simplyshelbyphoto.com Instagram: @simplyshelbypic | Facebook: /simplyshelbyphoto

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Ute-Christin Cowan Ute-Christin Photography LLC | Milford, CT

In a few sentences, tell us about yourself and your business.

I am originally from Germany and came to the US in 2002 as an Aupair. After studying and working in corporate America I started my photography business in 2010. My main focus is on capturing babies, children, and families. I love to create unique sessions and setups for my clients to make each session special and unique. Next to newborns my favorite sessions are milkbath maternity and sitter sessions. I just moved into a bigger studio at the end of last year (which is actually the first floor of my house) and I am so excited about the extra space and possibilities that came with the move.

How do you stay organized in your business and/or personal life?

I LOVE Pixifi and I could not live without it. All my clients data, communication and email is through them. I also recently hired an Assistant who is helping me with emails and I couldn’t be happier. I have all sorts of calendars and lists and I don’t sleep much. Haha. I am super type A and need to know everything is done correctly or I won’t be satisfied. I am probably a super hard person to work for now that I think about it. :)

“Believe in yourself!”

Website: utechristinphotography.com Email: hello@utechristinphotography.com Instagram: @ute_christin_photography Facebook: /utechristinphotography

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Willy Wilson Life Unstill Photography | Denver, CO In a few sentences, tell us about yourself and your business.

I’m celebrating ten years as a fine art family and commercial photographer. I love photographing other photographers. My passion is to inspire other photographers to get creative with their craft and try new things. I adore stickers and glitter more than any 13 year old.

I’d like everyone to meet my cat whose name is My Cat Named Weenie.

What is the best part about being a NAPCP Member?

I love the friendships (both live and virtual) I have developed since becoming a member; people with whom I will stay friends forever I hope.

Give us a HOT TIP! I really like the DiCAPac underwater bag as an entry level underwater housing. Using rubber bands around the lens port on the DiCAPac will keep it in place and prevent unwanted vignettes.

Have you always been a photographer? If not, what did you do before you started your business?

I was in Supply Chain Management. I have a Lean Six Sigma Blackbelt (supply chain speak for Super Nerd).

Website: lifeunstill.com Email: wilson@lifeunstill.com Instagram: @lifeunstill Facebook: /lifeunstill

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Jaye McLaughlin The Life in Your Years Photography | Pelham, NY In a few sentences, tell us about yourself and your business.

I’m a family lifestyle photographer in Pelham, NY serving NYC, Westchester and Southern Connecticut. I’ve got four big kids and my motivation for shooting has always been to freeze time. It goes SO FAST and I want to keep these beautiful moments forever. My style is bright and happy and silly and I have a great time with my clients. I’m from Brooklyn and I have a dorky sense of humor.

Best advice you’ve ever received: Right before my wedding day, someone told me that throughout the ceremony and reception, I should try to stop occasionally and take a mental snapshot. The day goes so quickly, he said, that you won’t remember any of it if you don’t. I took his advice. Just slowed down my mind a few times during the event, looked around me, thought about what was happening, and appreciated the moment. And he was right -- those moments are the only ones I truly remember from that day. And I’m so happy to have them. It’s now a bit of an LYYP tradition to dole out this same advice to my clients twice a year -- once before the holidays and once before the crazy days of summer begin. I tell them to do this throughout their “regular” days. Life goes really fast -- especially when kids are involved. Don’t take it for granted that you’ll remember the random things that happen during these days. Take pictures, of course, but also take lots of those “mental snapshots.”

Website: thelifeinyouryearsphotography.com | Email: jayemcl@gmail.com Instagram: @jayemcl | Facebook: /TheLifeinYourYearsPhotography

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BRAND

NEW L O C AT I O N S !

ABBE MCCRACKEN

COLLEEN RING

EMILIA GRAY

Charlotte, NC United States

Kansas City, MO United States

North Coogee Australia

EMILY HAJEC

EMILY YEWCHUCK

HEATHER CROWDER

KANSAS PITTS

KAREN HALBERT

Chico, CA United States

Edmonton, Alberta Canada

Annapolis, MD Canada

Santa Rosa Beach, FL United States

Brentwood, TN United States

KATHRYN LANGLEY

MARYAM SALASSI

NATHALIE AMLANI

PAM BELL

PAMELA SALAI

Calgary, Alberta Canada

Fremont, CA United States

Toronto, Ontario Canada

Amelia Island, FL United States

Pittsburgh, PA United States

SARA MCCONNELL

SHANNON LEBLANC

SHARON NEVES

TRACY CEPELAK

Ottawa, Ontario Canada

Franklin, TN United States

Sonoma, CA United States

Bend, OR United States

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Welcome

TO O UR NEW AMBASSAD ORS!

Our Ambassadors are the eyes, ears, and face of our global association and they kindle personal relationships and connections for us on a local level. We love that our members want to take a role in building thriving communities of artists in their area!

We are elated to accept 20 NEW NAPCP Ambassadors for 2018. Expanding our global Ambassador program means that we are able to extend our community’s industry leadership, kinship, and peer encouragement even more this year. Please visit our website to see a complete list of our 2018 NAPCP Ambassadors and locations.

Thank you also to the following Ambassadors for their service in 2017.

CHELSEA BLATCHFORD

CLAIRE HARVEY

Brown Road Photography brownrdphoto.com

Claire Harvey Photography claireharveyphotography.com

KC CROW

LINDSAY SILSBY

Crow’s Nest Photography kccrow.com

Pied Piper Photography piedpiperphoto.com

PHILLIPA DUGAW Phillipa Sara Photographer phillipasara.com

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# N A P C P I N S TA FAV E S The images of these amazing photographers caught our eye in April. Visit them on Instagram and follow along! Tag #NAPCP on Instagram and you may see your work in a future issue of Inspired.

A

ULI O S A R

@CA

CITY I L P M I S RED @CAPTU

@JAYEMCL

O

HOT @SHARONNEVESP

@scottst

@D AN

ocktonp

IELL

hotogra

phy

EMI

RAN

DAP

HOT

@DAN ZH

ANG.P

HOTO

TOGRAPHY

LLPHO @KAYLAPURNE

OGR

HOTO

APH

Y

LLOP E H S U L P @HI

the NAPCP

2 0 1 8 INTERNATIONA L I M AG E COM P ET I T I ON

Winners to be announced April 23rd! winning image by suzanne taylor

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winning image by maria perkins

Membership Benefits Read about NAPCP and see the many benefits of NAPCP membership, on our site. Download freebies and preview member-exclusive videos; get to know the heart of our association!

LEARN MORE

Please visit napcp.com or email us at info@napcp.com with questions or inquiries.

CLICK HERE TO PRINT THIS ISSUE

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NAPCP Issue 65

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