ATLANTA, Oct. 29, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Earlier this month, the National Association of Professional Child Photographers (NAPCP) announced the winners of its fourth International Image Competition. Showcasing the talents of the world's most successful child photographers, the NAPCP Image Competition featured a range of categories, including Maternity, Newborn, Baby, Toddler, Child, Sibling, Family and Seniors. NAPCP received nearly 1,500 photo entries, which were carefully judged by a panel of acclaimed photographers. Each photo was scored based on its impact, technical merit, creativity and style.

The purpose of the international competition is to recognize the creative and technical excellence of child photographers around the world, reward talent and serve as a vehicle for education to better the industry as a whole. "We are excited to once again acknowledge those amazing professionals who specialize in the art of child photography," said Alice Park, co-founder and president of NAPCP.

In addition to the recognition as an Award Winning Photographer, winners also received priority listing in the NAPCP Member Directory, a medallion, vendor endorsements, NAPCP member points and professional recognition. Additionally, each winner is now qualified to win the prestigious NAPCP Photographer of the Year Award, which will be announced in 2013.

"The photographers who participated in this competition should be commended for their stunning work and their impressive ability to capture the essence and emotion of childhood," said Tina Wilson, a NAPCP image competition judge and professional photographer at Fresh Sugar Photography.  "These winners really are 'the best of the best' and should be extremely proud of their achievement."

Winners of the NAPCP 4^th International Image Competition included:

• Maternity category: Carolina Guzik for her image "Expecting"
• Newborn category: Allison Parker for her image "Gardenia"
• Baby category: Sandy Summers Russell for her image "Little Lamb"
• Toddler category: Mandy Johnson for her image "Innocent"
• Child category: Jennifer Kapala for her image "Only One You" 
• Sibling category: Brandi Lee for her image "Brothers" 
• Family category: Nicola Toon for her image "Trust" 
• Seniors & Tweens category: Leigha Graf for her image "Soulful"

For more information on NAPCP, visit www.napcp.com.
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About NAPCP
The National Association of Professional Child Photographers (NAPCP) is an association whose mission is to promote and support the artistry and integrity of professional child photographers. The NAPCP connects parents searching for child photographers in their area with its professional members by providing a comprehensive directory of photographers and informative articles on what to expect from their professional photography experience. Serving as a valuable resource for both photographers and parents, NAPCP continually strives to raise industry standards in child photography.  

SOURCE National Association of Professional Child Photographers