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.

HEIRLOOM Workshop

$3400

RESERVE YOUR SPOT

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.

How Licensing Works

Apply

Begin with the Heirloom Workshop.
Submit an application and a small selection of work that reflects your ability to connect with people and capture natural expression.

Review & Conversation

We review applications for alignment with the Born & Raised Standard. If it feels like a strong fit, we’ll schedule a conversation to walk through expectations and answer questions.

In-Person Training

Approved photographers attend required in-person training to experience the full process, understand the products, and meet the team.

Certification FAQs

Have any other specific questions? Email us at [email protected].

Ready to become the go-to heirloom photographer in your community?

Get Started

Current Heirloom Certified Photographers

Is there a membership fee?

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

Can I take the course to learn without pursuing certification?

Absolutely! The workshops are open to anyone who is looking to learn the art of Heirloom Photography.

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 fastest way to make real time corrections, improvements, and have everything click.

How Many Photographers can be in an area?

We approve applicants thoughtfully to avoid market saturation, preserve client trust, 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, others have never picked up a camera. Our curriculum and training will walk you through everything you need to know to create heirloom portraits at the Born & Raised standard. Like anything, you get what you put in and while we have successfully trained photographers at every level, the work is still up to you. We would be happy to point you to some of our photographers that started right where you are!

What happens if my application isn’t accepted?

f you’re not approved, we’ll share exactly what needs improvement and you’re welcome to reapply once those areas are strengthened.

What equipment do I need?

A professional camera and lighting setup are recommended, but we also offer optional equipment kits if you don’t already have gear. We are happy to evaluate what you are currently using and provide guidance.

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.

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. Simplified Studio is optional and is a separate subscription.