What it means to be an

Heirloom Certified® Photographer

To be an Heirloom Certified® Photographer means you have demonstrated mastery in the Born & Raised standard of lighting, editing, craftsmanship, and client experience — and that your work consistently reflects the level of quality families can trust for their most meaningful portraits.

It signifies that you’ve completed the Heirloom Workshop, been approved for Frame Shop access, and passed a thorough review of your artistry, professionalism, and reliability. Certified photographers are recognized as leaders in heirloom portraiture, entrusted with archival products, eligible for pastel commissions, and featured in our national directory.

Carrying a tradition. Creating a legacy.

Certification Investment

The Heirloom Certification Program requires attendance of our in person or virtual workshops.

Once approved for certification, you will have an annual renewal fee to cover the following assets:

Training & Coaching

Gain lifetime access to our complete Heirloom Academy curriculum when you attend a live training (in-person or virtual). We’ll walk you through lighting, editing, client experience, and portfolio preparation so you’re fully confident in your work.

National Recognition & Brand Credibility

As a Certified Photographer, you’ll join a collective of artists across the country who share a consistent standard. With the official Heirloom Certified® badge, clients will recognize your work as part of a nationally trusted brand.

Territory Management & Ongoing Support

We do not offer formal location locks, but we are intentional about our approval process to ensure markets are not oversaturated. This approach protects both the integrity of the Born & Raised standard and the opportunity for each Certified Photographer to grow a thriving heirloom business.

Financial Perks & Exclusive Partnerships

Enjoy wholesale pricing on frames and products that is both fair and unmatched in the industry — complete with beautiful, archival packaging. You’ll also receive a frame sample kit to showcase options to your clients with confidence. Certification also opens the door to exclusive partnerships and marketing opportunities through Born & Raised.

IN-Person Workshop

$3400

IN-Person Workshop

$3400

Why Pursue Heirloom Certification?

SIMPLY PUT, TRUST.

Born and Raised has set a standard of exceptional experience and consistent imagery that clients can count on time and time again.

When you pursue certification, you will become an integral part of our community and trusted network to serve more families.

Certification Process:

Train

Begin with the Heirloom Workshop.
This is where you learn the lighting, editing, posing, and client experience standards that define Born & Raised heirloom portraiture.

Apply

After completing the workshop, you may apply for certification.
Approval is based on quality, professionalism, and alignment with the heirloom standard.

Launch

Begin serving clients as a Certified Photographer, with all of the tools and know how to capture this generation of children and preserve their legacy.

Attend a Workshop

Certification FAQs

Is there a membership fee?

Yes. Certification includes ongoing membership perks supported by a $500 annual membership fee..

What is Simplified Studio?

Simplified Studio is our custom-built CRM designed specifically for photographers. It combines scheduling, contracts, payments, automations, email marketing, social media planning, and even your store into one platform. As a Certified Photographer, you’ll receive exclusive marketing assets integrated into your account.

What if I already purchased a course?

If you’ve purchased an individual Heirloom Academy course, your course fees can be applied toward your certification enrollment. Nothing is lost when you’re ready to invest in the workshop.

How long does certification take?

While completion of a workshop does not guarantee certification it provides you with everything necessary to meet our standard. The hands-on experience is the fastes way to make real time corrections, improvements, and have everythign click.

How Many Photographers can be in an area?

We don’t cap the number of photographers in an area, but we approve applicants thoughtfully to avoid oversaturation and protect the opportunity for everyone. Prior to attending a workshop, we can review your location and let you know if your area is nearing capacity so you can make an informed decision before moving forward.

Can I get certified without prior photography experience?

Absolutely! While many applicants already have photography businesses, you don’t need years of experience to start. Our curriculum and training will walk you through everything you need to know to create heirloom portraits at the Born & Raised standard. We would be happy to point you to some of our photographers that started right where you are!