Baby Girl Studio Session with Family | NJ/NY Newborn Photographer

This newborn and family session in my NJ photo studio was the BEST! I always have the hardest time narrowing down which pictures to share with you all on Facebook, Instagram, and here on the blog, and this session was no exception. I don’t know how Mom and Dad managed to choose from their gallery, but they selected such a fantastic variety of photos for their final images. I am OBSESSED and so excited to share with you all!

We chose soft pinks and creams for our baby-only portraits. Lil Miss slept the entire time and was so precious!

For our newborn and family portraits we went with a more gender-neutral color scheme with blacks, creams, and browns. The two color schemes balanced each other perfectly and look so great together.

Baby girl wasn’t the only one who was a star in this session! Mom and Dad were awesome—we had so much fun together—and big bro totally knocked it out of the park. I have tons of experience working with littles and lots of tricks up my sleeve if your toddler isn’t quite sure about the whole photoshoot thing. But this little man was seriously the most well-behaved 2-year-old I ever met! He was amazing with his little sister and I know he’s going to be rockstar helper for his parents!

I love every newborn photography session I do, but I have to admit, I especially love the ones where parents and siblings jump in there too. Don't be afraid to get in those photos and create those forever memories with the ones you love. It’s so important to have these moments to look back on because time really does fly.

So what are you waiting for!?!? Get in touch and let’s make some memories with a beautiful session designed just for you and your family!

Why You Need to Book Your Cake Smash When Baby is 6 Months Old

Did you do a double-take when you saw the title of this post? If it seems crazy to book your little one’s cake smash with months to spare, read on to find out why it’s so important.

A Customized Cake Smash Takes Time

I believe that every baby is unique, which is why I don’t do a one-size-fits-all kind of experience. Instead, every single one of my cake smashes is fully customized with whatever theme you choose.

And when I say customized, I’m serious. There’s no sifting through my props closet to see what I can cobble together. I spend some time dreaming up ideas until I have a clear idea that excites me—and that I know will thrill you! Then I order everything I need, make the entire set by hand, and buy the perfect outfit.

And that takes time! I like to say that you can rush perfection—and perfection is exactly what I’m aiming for.

How Strict is the 6-Month Timeline?

So, what happens if you really want a customized cake smash, but you’re a tiny bit late to the game?

The good news is, we do have a little bit of wiggle room. I like to give parents the 6-months-out date because, let’s face it, life is busy and we all end up procrastinating a little, right? If your baby is 7 or 8 months old by the time you get around to scheduling their birthday smash, I can usually accommodate.

But if they’re 9 months old or more…I just won’t have enough time to put together the kind of top-of-the-line, customized cake smash that is my specialty. (Plus, my cake smash schedule books up really fast, so I probably won’t even have a spot on the calendar by that point.)

Book Your Custom Cake Smash in New Jersey

Bottom line: The time to book your baby’s cake smash is probably right this minute! Fill out my contact form here, or give me a call and let’s chat. I’m so excited to plan the perfect celebration for your sweet kiddo!

My Favorite Poses for Newborns | Adorable Baby Photography in New Jersey/New York

Need some inspiration for your newborn photography session? New parents often focus on colors or themes that they love when planning a baby photoshoot. And these are definitely important elements. But just as important are the poses!

There are tons of adorable ways to pose a newborn, but these are definitely my favorites! I use these in just about every newborn session because they are simple and classic—and they can be customized in so many ways!

So here you go: my favorite poses for newborns!

Side Lying Pose

A baby asleep on their side looks so natural and peaceful that you might not even think of it as a pose. That’s what makes it so good! I love to do this pose with a little blanket draped partway over the little one, but the side lying pose also makes an adorable position for naked baby pictures.

Bum Up Pose

This pose looks so cute, with baby curled up comfortably with their tushie sticking in the air, propped up on their feet. Again, we can totally go naked baby or wrapped for this one.

Forward Facing Pose

I always love to get a straight-on shot that emphasizes baby’s delicate features and chubby cheeks! This pose looks simple and sweet, but it does take practice and experience to get it right. I love to pair it with an artistically draped wrap or blanket for a bit of added shape and texture.

Wrapped Prop Pose

Props are so fun to incorporate into a newborn session! One of my favorite poses with props is to swaddle baby completely in a soft and cozy wrap before placing them in a tiny basket, bed, or other prop.

Parent and Baby Silhouette

Parent and baby pictures are the best, and this is probably my favorite way to capture all that love! Backlighting gives this pose more of a silhouette vibe without obscuring faces, and baby being held safely by both their parents just gives me all the feels!

What are your favorite newborn poses? Get in touch and let’s chat about how we can make your baby’s session absolutely perfect—right down to the last detail! Can’t wait to see your sweet little bundle in the studio. :)

Welcoming the New Year with a New Baby!

You guys—it’s 2025! When did that happen!? Seriously, I can’t believe how fast the entire year of 2024 went. And before we get too far into the new year, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to each of you, my amazing clients, for your trust and support.

It’s been the most incredible privilege to capture sweet moments for families in New Jersey and New York, from those tiny newborns to holiday magic with the big kids. It makes it easier moving into January knowing that all those precious memories are preserved and that each new year is just a continuation of an exciting journey!

Okay, now on to some adorable baby pictures! Mom and Dad did a maternity session with me that included their cute pup! They are the sweetest couple and so great to work with. We had the best time so I was really excited to see them again and meet their baby boy!

Lil’ guy rocked his newborn session! He was the sweetest, sleepiest little man who loved to be swaddled and did amazing from start to finish. We got some gorgeous family photos, lots of baby-only portraits, and of course, we couldn’t resist turning him into a little snowman bundle as a nod to the season. Too cute!

I thought his photos would be the perfect way to kick off the new year and go into it with a smile!

I hope that 2025 brings warmth, love, and cherished moments with the people who matter most. Thank you SO much for letting me be a part of capturing your special memories in the past. Here’s to many more beautiful moments in the coming year! I hope you’ll be in touch soon so we can get your session on the calendar. I’m so excited to see you!

Baby Girl Newborn Session NJ/NY with All the Flowers

If December’s wintry weather has you down, I’ve got exactly the touch of spring you need! This sweet baby girl came to my New Jersey photo studio recently for her newborn session and we did all the pretty flowers and spring colors for her photoshoot! Florals and a newborn? Yes please! I’m so excited to show this beauty to the world and hope you enjoy her gorgeous photos!

I have photographed this adorable baby’s family a few times before her arrival and have known mom for a while. They are an amazing family and super sweet. It was great to get together with them again, this time to celebrate the new arrival! Isn’t she just the prettiest little wildflower?

I have a ton of fun props and outfits for clients to choose from at my studio, but I always say there’s nothing like the personal touch, so if you have a special something from home that you want to include, please feel free to bring it! In these baby pictures, you’ll spy an adorable sunflower bonnet handmade by grandma. SO cute! Little heirloom treasures like this add an irreplaceable touch to your baby pictures.

So happy I got to photograph this lil lovely! She was one of so many precious babies and families who came through my studio door this year and every single one of them has been so special and fun! HUGE thank you to the hundreds of clients that have chosen me to capture their forever memories. I sometimes say it is like hitting the lottery each time a client books with me and trusts me with documenting a new chapter of their story—and I truly mean that!

Very best wishes to you and your family for this coming year. I hope I will see you and your littles for an incredible photoshoot of your very own! My schedule books up fast, so reach out as soon as possible and let’s put you on the calendar for 2025!

Holiday Minis: Magical Moments from Christmas 2024

I did two rounds of holiday minis in my New Jersey studio this year—and they were both SO much fun! I’ve already given you a peek into my first round (with a cozy Christmas living room setup), but now it’s time for a few more magical moments, this time from my Santa sessions!

Santa sessions are always a HUGE hit with my families and their kiddos. Who doesn’t love to spend some time with Father Christmas?

I think this year was my favorite so far for Santa sessions. (And yes, I do say that every year. They just keep getting better and better!) Seeing the excitement and wonder on the faces of those littles as they talk with Santa Claus or find their names on his list (the Nice list, of course!) is just the best. I couldn’t ask for a better way to kick off the holiday season.

And of course, these holiday minis make the best greeting cards and gifts for grandparents. (Can you just picture an ornament made from a photo like this every year?) This is one reason I hold my holiday sessions early (usually in October and November). I want you to have plenty of time to use these pictures as part of your celebration.

If you missed the fun this year, be sure to subscribe to my email list to be the first to know when I open my schedule for holiday bookings in 2025! (There’s a spot to sign up at the bottom of my home page). I am already so excited for Santa sessions next fall. Not even kidding. It’s my favorite day of the whole year!

Hoping I’ll see you in the studio in 2025! (Get in touch here to schedule your newborn, cake smash, or family session—I’m already booking up fast!) In the meantime, just know that I’m wishing you and your family the best and happiest Christmas season and lots of magical moments this December!

Photo Ideas for Baby's First Christmas

As a New Jersey/New York photographer I love helping families get ready for the holidays with my own special brand of Christmas magic. But if it’s baby’s first Christmas, there are probably lots of pictures you’re going to want to capture at home too! Here are a few fun and festive photo ideas for baby’s first Christmas to give you some inspiration as you celebrate this extra special season together!

Just a little note: Many of the cute Christmas poses you see online are composite images or photos created by professionals. Don’t try to recreate these kinds of photos at home! They require safety training and special software to edit out behind-the-scenes details (like an assistant’s hands securely holding baby). Be sure that baby is safe and secure at all times as you capture their first Christmas. If you’re not sure about a pose, don’t do it. Schedule a session with a professional baby photographer instead, so you can get exactly the pictures you want while knowing your little one is in safe hands.

Newborn in a Stocking

This pose is perfect if you have a December baby who is still just itty-bitty by the time Christmas rolls around. Choose an oversized stocking at the store (be sure it doesn’t have any loose strings inside that baby’s little feet could get tangled in) and use it like a sleeping bag. Just tuck your little one inside for an adorable festive picture!

Baby Wearing a Santa Hat

Santa hats are sold in all the sizes, so no matter what your baby’s age you should be able to find one that’s just right! I think the extra long ones are SO cute! Another option is a cute headband with reindeer horns or something equally fun and festive!

Sweet Bundle Under the Christmas Tree

You’ll definitely want to snap a picture of your little one under the Christmas tree! Babies who are old enough to sit independently can sit underneath all those pretty lights, while those who are younger can be swaddled and tucked in amongst the presents. That little bundle is the best thing under the tree!

Little One Wearing Christmas Pajamas

Does your little one have festive PJs? A holiday onesie or pajamas can make such a cute baby’s first Christmas picture, especially if you can do it against a backdrop of twinkly lights or maybe a decorative Christmas blanket.

Include the Family

Don’t forget to get some pictures of baby’s first Christmas that include the rest of the family. Whether it’s mom or dad holding baby near the fireplace, all the siblings snuggling together by the tree, or using baby’s first Christmas ornaments (you’re sure to get a few as gifts!) as props to surround the sleeping little one, it’s always so special to showcase those family connections in your holiday pictures.

I hope these photo ideas for baby’s first Christmas give you a great place to start! I’m sure you’ll have fantastic ideas of your own too, so be sure to keep your camera handy. You’ll have so many fun and beautiful memories of this very first Christmas with your little one!

Remember, the memories don’t stop once the holidays end! Contact me to book a session for your baby or family in 2025. Can’t wait to see you in the studio next year!

Holiday Mini Sessions in New Jersey '24

It’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas! I know, I know, we just barely did Thanksgiving! But as a photographer I always get a very early start on the holidays, usually doing my holiday mini sessions in October and early November.

This year’s first round of holiday mini sessions happened over a busy October weekend. I had so many families come through the studio. I loved seeing everyone and our sessions were amazing! (Next round will be Santa sessions, which are always a huge hit. Can’t wait!)

I change up my background setup a bit every year. A lot of my families have made photo sessions at Jennifer Parrello Photography an annual tradition and use their images in their holiday greeting cards and newsletters, so I like to make sure they have a new look to share each time. This year I had a traditional cozy Christmas setup, complete with trees, fun toys, and Santa’s bag of presents!

All the kids had so much fun creating some festive magic and they were all smiles and giggles. None of my little clients leave a holiday session empty-handed either. They loved the special reindeer food I sent home with them to sprinkle on their lawn and help guide Santa’s reindeer to their house on Christmas Eve!

The weekend was nonstop—not only did I have a ton of families coming through my doors for these short and sweet seasonal sessions, but I also got all of the editing done too. I know how much these memories mean to people and that they want to share them immediately, so I pride myself on lightning fast turnaround time. All of my families had their final galleries back to them within 72 hours. Now that’s what I call some Christmas magic!

If you missed the fun this year, be sure to subscribe to my email list to be the first to know when I open my schedule for holiday bookings in 2025! (There’s a spot to sign up at the bottom of my home page).

Hope to see you next year! In the meantime, I hope you and your family have a wonderful holiday season and enjoy this special time together!

Tips for Traveling with a Newborn

For some of us, traveling for the holidays is almost as much of a tradition as eating turkey on Thanksgiving day. But if this is your first time traveling with a newborn, you might be feeling a little nervous! Whether you’re traveling by car or plane, here are a few tips that can help you feel more prepared as you and your little one get ready to travel this holiday season.

Tips for Car Travel with a Newborn

Plan for lots of stops (about every 2 hours). Baby will need feeding, diaper changes, or maybe just a cuddle to calm down if they don’t love being in the car. Just know that your drive is going to take longer than normal, and that’s okay!

Keep a spot in the backseat clear so that someone can sit with baby if needed. If you don’t have anyone else traveling with you, consider installing a baby mirror in the backseat so you can keep an eye on things without having to turn around.

Plan your route so you know where you’ll be stopping to get gas, do diaper changes, etc. Makes it so much easier if you know this in advance so you don’t have to make decisions on the fly!

Tips for Plane Travel with a Newborn

Check with your pediatrician to see if they feel that flying would be safe for your baby.

Don’t stress about the liquid limit. The TSA allows moms traveling with babies to pack more breastmilk and formula than the usual 3.4 oz limit for liquids. Yay! It is a good idea to pack these in a separate bag though, so airport personnel can screen them quickly and easily.

Pack a pacifier and/or bottle to give baby during takeoff and landing. Swallowing will help them deal with that uncomfortable feeling in their ears as the air pressure changes.

Don’t Forget to Pack This!

Of course you’ll need clothes, blankets, and plenty of diapers and wipes! But here are a few other less obvious essentials that can make traveling with a newborn much easier.

Padded changing station. These fold up nicely to slide into a diaper bag and are easy to wipe down. Not all restrooms have a baby changing table—and sometimes you’ll need to change a diaper on the go. You’ll be so glad you have one of these!

A portable breast pump if you’re breastfeeding. Schedules get all out of whack when you’re traveling, so it’s nice to have the option to pump when you need to—even if it’s on the road.

A travel crib or bassinet. Baby needs a safe and comfy place to sleep once you arrive at your destination! Some of these even fold up small enough to fit into your carry-on if you’re traveling by plane.

Portable sound machine. Unfamiliar noises can make it hard for anyone to sleep, and babies can easily get overstimulated and fussy in a new environment. Soothing sounds can help keep them calm and happy and make for a much better travel experience for everyone! (I always use a sound machine in my studio for newborn sessions—it really does work!)

I hope these tips for traveling with a newborn help make this holiday season a little more manageable. Remember, if travel just feels like too much right now, it’s okay to break with tradition this time and ask family to come to you, or to plan your trip for a few months down the road, once things have settled down a bit. The most important thing is that you and your little one have a wonderful first holiday together!

How I Design a Custom Cake Smash from Scratch…Every Single Time

There’s a reason my cake smashes are so popular. Unlike other studios that provide just a handful of setup options to choose from, I give you ALL the options. Literally! Every single one of my cake smashes is designed and created from the ground up, based on your vision for your photoshoot.

When I get a cake smash inquiry, I first work with you to figure out what kind of theme you want. This can be very general (maybe you just have an idea of the colors you want to use and the general vibe) or it might be very specific (maybe you want it based on a particular movie or you already have an idea of what you’d like the outfit and backdrop to look like).

One cake to rule them all. This little Lady Arwen loved her Lord of the Rings cake smash!

Once we’ve settled on a theme, I’ll start getting to work! I’ll design the backdrop and have it made to order, buy any balloons or props we might need, and shop for the perfect outfit for your little one. The only thing you have to take care of is the cake. (This is due to allergy concerns. The safety of your baby always comes first. If you need a bakery recommendation, just ask!)

Once everything has arrived, I’ll set up the studio and get everything looking just right. I get so excited when I see everything in place—and I know you’ll feel the same way! It’s so fun to see the expressions on people’s faces when they walk in and see the cake smash they envisioned right there in real life!

Strawberries are the one food that might be even better than cake. So, why not have both?

Remember, designing a custom cake smash from scratch takes time. If you’re interested in this extra special birthday experience, remember to get in touch several months before your little one’s first birthday. I can’t wait to start designing!

How to Narrow Down the Pictures from Your Session

All of my photo collections include a set number of digital images. After your session, you’ll receive a link to your gallery, where you can select the pics you love and want to keep. But…it can be intimidating to try to pick favorites from among so many beautiful photos! Here are a few tips that can help you narrow down the pictures from your session.

Set Aside Some Uninterrupted Time

Choosing photos takes a lot of concentration! Rather than trying to do it on the fly, set aside some dedicated time to really focus on your photos. You might also find that it helps to do this alone before coming together with your partner. This way, you’ve both identified your favorites without influence from anyone else and can feel more confident in your decisions.

(This is one reason I don’t have parents come to the studio to choose pictures. This is something you should be able to do at your leisure and without feeling pressured by other people’s input.)

Divide Your Photos Into Categories

Rather than try to choose your favorites from the whole collection all at once, try picking your favorites from a smaller group. For example, which are your favorite pictures of mom and baby? Which are your favorites of baby and their big brother? Which are your favorite shots of the whole family?

Dividing it up into categories can keep you from getting overwhelmed and also ensure that you get a nice variety. Plus, you can feel more certain you didn’t miss anything!

Decide How You Want to Use Your Photos

Knowing how you want to use and share your photos can be a big help in deciding which ones to keep. If you want to print and frame some images, think about where you want to hang them in your home. If you’ll be giving photos as gifts, which ones would be most meaningful to grandparents or other family members?

It’s also a great idea to put some thought into this before your session. If you already know how you want to display your pictures, we’ll be sure to get exactly the shots you want!

New Jersey Photo Sessions

I hope these three tips for narrowing down the photos from your session help to simplify the process and give you confidence in the decision-making process. And remember, if the decision is just too hard, you can always purchase extra images separately!

If you have other questions or are ready to book your session, please be in touch. I’m so excited to hear from you!

Fall in Love with This Cozy Forest Green Newborn Session in New Jersey

Happy October, everyone! I don’t know about you, but as the temperatures cool down I start getting all the cozy fall vibes. I felt like this little man’s newborn session was the perfect one to share for this time of year!

This New Jersey family booked me for a baby-only session. Most of my newborn sessions include parents and siblings, but sometimes people just want their images to focus on their new little one. I want your session to provide you with exactly the kinds of baby pictures you’ve been dreaming about, so I offer several different collections so you can choose whatever best fits your needs.

Customizing Your Newborn Photos

And of course, my studio is stocked with all the wraps, props, and baby outfits you could ever want! No matter which look you love, we can make it happen! I love that this family chose green, as I feel like that’s a color that rarely gets picked for newborn pictures. And it’s so gorgeous! Those rich earth tones are some of my favorites.

We didn’t use too many props for this particular session (although again, that’s totally up to the family—I’ve got plenty for you to choose from). But they did love the look of my wooden bowl, especially when we paired it with a super comfy swaddle and the finishing touch—a bow tie. Does it get any cuter than a baby in a bow tie? I don’t think so!

This little guy was very sweet and slept for the entire session. I have lots of tricks up my sleeve to help baby stay calm and comfortable, but if you’re worried about your little one fussing through the session, check out these tips to help them sleep through their newborn photoshoot.

New Jersey Newborn Photographer

Ready to get extra comfy in the studio? I can’t wait to welcome you to my cozy space and help you create the session of your dreams! Contact me here and let’s get you on the calendar before my schedule fills up!

My Favorite Ways to Include Siblings in a Newborn Photoshoot

I love it when older siblings come to the studio with “their” new baby!

As a parent welcoming a second or third baby to the family, it’s natural to want a picture of all your littles together. But what’s the best way to get a beautiful shot with kiddos of different ages and personalities? I like to play things by ear as we go along for the best and most natural results. But over my years as a New Jersey newborn photographer I’ve also done a lot of experimenting and have figured out tried-and-true poses that work.

Here are just a few of my favorite ways to include siblings in a newborn photoshoot.

Snuggling with New Brother or Sister

One of my favorite classic poses is to have siblings lie down next to their new baby brother or sister and just cuddle with them. Since they’re lying down this is a very safe pose for even very young toddlers. And it makes for the sweetest newborn and sibling pictures!

Seated Next to Baby

Not all kids love snuggling. And that’s okay! I have lots of newborn props at my studio, like tiny cribs, baskets, and prams, and one of my favorite strategies in this situation is to pose your newborn in the prop and then have big brother or sister seated on the floor next to them.

In Newborn and Family Photos

If you’re doing family photos as part of your newborn session, I always like to get a cute pose with your older kiddos as part of the whole-family shot. I tell families not to be too worried about posing when young children are involved! Sweet moments can be created even if your older child is just looking down at baby or laughing while Dad tickles them to coax a smile.

Holding Baby

Depending on the age of your older child or children, we can also have them hold baby. This can be a really sweet way to capture a group of siblings, with maybe the oldest one holding the newborn. (A super cute variation on this pose is to swaddle baby and place them in the front, with siblings lying on their tummies just behind them.) Even young children often do really well just sitting down and wrapping their arms around their swaddled sibling.

Book Your NJ Newborn and Family Photoshoot

Do you have any favorites from this list of ways to include siblings in a newborn photoshoot?

If you want to have a group portrait of all your littles, there are lots of ways to do it. I absolutely love kids and have so much fun connecting with them to create amazing images! Rest assured, no matter what mix of ages and personalities you have in your family, we will have a great time together and capture memories you can cherish for a lifetime!

I love to include every member of the family in newborn photos in a way that’s stress-free, genuine, and relaxed. Get in touch to book your session and let me show you just how fun and beautiful it can be!

Soft and Cozy Newborn Session in New Jersey Studio

Can you believe the summer is already over? I’m having a hard time wrapping my head around it! It does get me in the mood for all things soft and cozy though—and there’s nothing cozier than a newborn photoshoot!

This was the absolute sweetest family to work with. They were wonderful and my assistant Gabby and I both fell in love with them. (I generally work with an assistant as it is so helpful to have an extra pair of experienced hands to pose baby, move props around, etc. Makes it go more quickly and smoothly for everyone.)

We got the most adorable parent and baby images during this session. Some parents like to keep the focus completely on baby, which is absolutely fine too! But I do love it when I get the chance to capture all the feels in those moments with mom and dad.

This sweet baby girl stayed asleep the entire session. Total DREAM baby! I always give myself three hours for a newborn session, because I want everyone to feel relaxed rather than rushed. It rarely takes that long, but having the extra time built in means that there’s no stress if baby is fussy or needs a feed or a diaper change.

For this session though, there was really no soothing we needed to do. It was super chill and relaxed. It gave me, my assistant, and the parents a chance to talk a bunch, which was fun! I love getting to know my clients and aim to make the experience feel more like hanging out with friends than anything else.

New York/New Jersey Newborn Photographer

If you are looking for someone patient, experienced, and super fun to capture memories of your newborn, please be in touch! It’s my pleasure and honor to serve families throughout the tri-state area of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. I can’t wait to welcome you and your little one to my New Jersey newborn studio!

My Top 7 Secrets to Get Babies and Kiddos to Smile for the Camera

As a parent, there are things about your kids that you just want to hang on to forever. The chubby cheeks, the tousled hair, and of course—the toothy grins!

If you’ve tried to take photos at home, you probably also know that those genuine smiles can be pretty elusive once the camera comes out. Don’t worry—with years of experience photographing littles and families, I’ve learned a few things, and I’m here for you! Whether you’re taking snapshots at home or coming to my New Jersey photo studio, here are my top 7 secrets to get babies and kiddos to smile (for real) at the camera.

1. Relax and Enjoy

Nobody feels like smiling when they’re tense! Young kids usually pick up their parents’ cues to guide them on how to react to a new situation. So if you’re smiling, laughing, and having fun, they’re much more likely to do the same. I make this really easy at my studio by having a laidback vibe and just chatting for a few minutes before the session so we can relax and get to know each other. It’s just like hanging out with friends!

2. Bring Out the Toys

I have a few toys at my studio, but you’re also welcome to bring some from home. Sometimes just playing for a few minutes can help little ones to settle and feel comfortable enough to really start enjoying themselves.

3. Music and Dancing

Most kids love music—and so do I! I’m happy to play your kiddo’s favorite songs (I remember one child who loved Baby Shark Dance—we played that so many times), sing with them, or break out some dance moves. Whatever it takes to make our photoshoot feel like a party!

4. Play Games

Babies and young kiddos also love games. Let me know if your child has any favorites, like Peek-a-Boo, Patty Cake, or Simon Says. We can absolutely incorporate those into our photo session to help everyone relax and giggle.

5. Be Silly

I have kind of a goofy personality anyway, so I have no problem being silly! If funny faces, crazy noises, or ridiculous jokes tickle your child’s sense of humor, we’re going to have a lot of fun!

6. Be Observant

You never know what will make kids smile. I like to always be ready with my camera so I can capture unexpected grins, but I also like to pay attention throughout the shoot and notice if they seem amused by something. Sometimes an ordinary word or phrase will strike toddlers as very funny, and when that happens I jump on it and use it to bring out those natural smiles.

7. Use Reverse Psychology

Every parent knows this one, right? If your kiddo is at the age when they want to assert their independence and ‘no’ is their favorite word, then a little bit of reverse psychology might just do the trick. Most kids can’t keep a straight face for long—especially if you’re telling them very seriously, “Now, whatever you do, don’t smile.”

Ready for Genuine Smiles in Your Photos?

I would love to show you just how fun, relaxed, and natural a photography session can be! Get in touch and let’s schedule a time to hang out at my studio. I’ll capture those precious moments of babyhood and childhood so you can treasure those sweet smiles for always. I can’t wait!

The Number One Thing I Wish Parents Knew When Planning a Cake Smash

Okay, so usually I only do happy stuff on the blog, but I just have to share something that’s been happening a ton lately that kinda makes me want to cry.

What is this tragic thing that’s been going on?

Parents calling to book a cake smash session for their little one—way too late.

This seriously makes me so sad! I LOVE doing cake smashes and I want so much for parents to have fun and memorable pictures of this special milestone. But when they call two weeks before their baby turns one? There’s just not enough time to create the beautiful custom cake smashes that I specialize in—and that they and their little one deserve!

So… the number one thing I wish parents knew when planning a cake smash?

Book early!

When to Schedule Your Baby’s Cake Smash

I recommend booking your little one’s cake smash 4-5 months before their first birthday. 3 months in advance is probably the very latest I might be able to accommodate. Seems crazy, right? There is a reason!

Why So Early?

I believe that the personal touch is what makes the party special! All of my cake smashes are fully customized with whatever theme you choose. And when I say customized, I don’t mean that I cobble together some props I already have to make it kinda-sorta fit your theme.

When I say customized, I mean it! I not only order the perfect outfit, but I also create each and every one of my custom cake smash sets by hand. Every one of them is hand-crafted with love—and that takes time. Sometimes weeks. You can’t rush perfection!

So…Is a Last-Minute Cake Smash Even a Possibility?

Not if you want it customized. If there’s room on my schedule, the best I can offer for a last-minute booking is a very simple backdrop—no cutouts—and my “ONE” prop.

And we can do so much better than that!

So do yourself and your kiddo a favor and schedule that cake smash session nice and early! In fact, how about now? Get in touch and let’s start planning! I can’t wait to start crafting your cake smash!

About Jennifer Parrello Photography

Jennifer Parrello Photography is a New Jersey based photographer serving the Tri-State area (NJ/NY/CT.) She specializes in capturing all the best moments of baby’s first year, from newborn to first birthday cake smash, and also offers maternity and family photography so that you can have beautiful portraiture of every stage of life.

Adorable New Jersey Newborn Photography Session with Baby Girl and Parents

I was super excited to see this family in my studio! I know them personally through softball and when they asked if I would be able to do newborn photos with their baby daughter I was absolutely honored and thrilled.

This sweet baby girl has two big sisters at home (twins in their teens) but we did this session with just her and her parents. I always ask what parents’ preferences are for the session as far as colors, theme, any personal items they want to incorporate, etc. Some people have a very specific vision for what they want, which is great! But it’s also fun when they don’t have any special requests and just trust me to create a beautiful session for them.

That’s what happened with this newborn session. Mom was really open to anything and just kind of let me have free range, so I got to use my creativity to design this pretty photoshoot with mostly neutrals and also some soft colors and florals.

While I mostly went with a softer color palette for this baby girl, I also knew that Dad was FDNY, and I definitely wanted to incorporate that! I think it makes it more personal to add elements of mom or dad’s work, especially when they’re first responders. Such a neat legacy to pass on to your kids. Is she not the cutest thing in her little firefighter hat and bow?

I’m so happy I was able to be the New Jersey newborn photographer for this precious baby girl and her parents. I sometimes wonder how I got so lucky that I get to do what I love every day—snuggle babies and create beautiful memories for families! If you’re expecting, I would be honored to capture these same kinds of memories for you. Get in touch and let’s get your session scheduled so we can start planning! I can’t wait!

Mini Milestone Photo Session FAQs | New Jersey/New York Baby Photographer

When you think of baby pictures, chances are you think of a newborn session. I absolutely LOVE newborn photos and I think they’re an essential for every parent to have. But there are so many other memories to capture as your little one grows. Lots of these can be documented at home, but it’s fun to have professional images of that in-between newborn and one-year-old stage. The best way to do that? A mini milestone photo session!

What is a Mini Milestone Photoshoot?

Lots of people book newborn and 1-year cake smash photos. But what about all the milestones in between? Mini milestone baby photo sessions are meant to capture that wonderful stage of babyhood when your little one is no longer a newborn, but not quite a toddler either. They’re becoming more smiley and interactive at this stage and it’s so much fun—you deserve to have memories of this time too!

For my milestone sessions, I use an all-neutral set with several props for your little one to sit on/in and interact with. You are also welcome to bring teddy bears or other favorite toys from home to personalize your photos.

When Are Mini Milestone Sessions Held?

Milestone pictures can be done anytime between 7-10 months to capture that special moment in time. I particularly love photographing around the 9-month mark as I find that is when their funny little personalities really shine!

What Do Milestone Baby Photos Cost?

If you select my Luxury or Elite newborn collection for your little one, these come with a complimentary mini milestone session!

If you weren’t able to book a newborn session with me, we can still schedule a mini milestone photoshoot. These are just a few hundred dollars and a limited number of digital images are included.

What if I Want a Longer Milestone Photoshoot, or More Photos?

My mini milestone sessions are short and sweet. I know babies have a short attention span at this stage, and you are super busy too! It only takes 15 minutes to capture adorable baby pictures during my minis. However, I also offer full-session milestone shoots, if you want a longer time slot or a larger collection of photos.

Ask Your New Jersey/New York Baby Photographer

Any other questions about milestone or baby photography? Just ask! I’m happy to chat with you or help you figure out the perfect session for you and your little one.

Simple Tips to Help Baby Sleep Through Their Newborn Photoshoot

Figuring out baby’s sleep schedule is one of the many learning curves you go through as a new parent. If your littles are anything like mine were, then they probably like to wake up right when you most want them to stay asleep! Like when you’re about to grab a bite to eat, take a much-needed nap yourself, or…right as you pull up to the studio for your newborn session.

If you’re worried that your newborn will be one of those that fuss all through their session and make it impossible to get those dream baby pictures, don’t worry! I’ve got you covered with these simple tips to help baby sleep through their newborn photoshoot.

Before You Get to the Studio

Babies usually don’t have much of an awake window before they’re ready for another nap, so try to keep them awake for a while before you leave the house to drive to the studio. If playtime just isn’t doing it, a bath usually works!

Babies also sleep best on a full tummy. Shortly before you get in the car, nurse them or give them a bottle so they have a nice full belly and are feeling content.

Good news: Most newborns are lulled straight to sleep with a car ride, so if they’ve been awake for a while and are full, they’re likely to drift off on the way to my photography studio. But what about when you stop?

To make it more likely that baby will stay asleep, I recommend dressing them in button-up or zip-up pajamas before you come. Makes it so much easier to change them at the studio without disturbing them! Also, don’t worry about getting baby out of the car seat when you arrive. I will take care of all that unbuckling. I’ve got a soft touch and a lot of practice!

Helping Baby Sleep Through Their Studio Photoshoot

Since a comfortable temperature is also key to helping baby to the land of nod, I keep my studio quite cozy so that little ones don’t get chilled. (Because of this, I recommend that parents dress in layers so you don’t get overheated!)

If baby is a little fussy, I’ll often try swaddle poses first. Newborns absolutely love to be bundled up snug, and often once they’re swaddled in a wrap they will float off to dreamland again almost instantly.

I also make sure to give us plenty of time during a newborn photoshoot, so that if baby needs to be soothed or fed, we can take the time to do that without anyone feeling rushed. When you’re at my studio, it’s your time to relax!

Finally, remember that part of my skill as a newborn photographer lies not only in helping your baby be safe and comfortable, but also in capturing moments that only last a second. On those rare occasions when baby seems to fuss through most of their session or be awake most of the time, parents are always amazed by the number of beautiful, peaceful images I manage to capture anyway. While these simple tips to help baby sleep through their newborn photoshoot are handy and can make for a smoother process, trust me, your newborn session will be a success whether your baby sleeps or not!

Contact Your New Jersey Newborn Photographer

Can’t wait to see you and your (hopefully sleepy) sweet bundle in my New Jersey studio soon! Contact me to book your session, request more information, or ask any questions you may have. I’m happy to help!

Orange County, NY Newborn and Family Photoshoot

I don’t get a chance to blog every single one of my sessions, but I do like to post a featured photoshoot on the blog each month—and this was one of my favorites recently! I have worked with this sweet family before for one of their older kiddos’ newborn photos a few years ago. So I was thrilled when they reached out again about doing a newborn and family photoshoot to celebrate the newest member of the family!

I always advise people to plan early for their newborn session, because these babies keep a schedule all their own! I book a limited number of newborn sessions each month so that I can keep things flexible and stress-free for parents if their little one decides to make an appearance earlier or later than expected.

This lil guy couldn’t wait to meet his family and was born super early. Always a scary thing for parents, and he had to spent a lot of time in the NICU, but he is doing great now! His parents had already booked his session, so once he was big and strong enough to go home we were able to lock in a date and they made the drive to the studio once they felt comfortable doing that.

Little man was absolutely precious and totally rocked his session! It was so cute to watch his older siblings interact with him too. They clearly adore their new baby brother—and who can blame them?!

Orange County, NY Newborn Photographer

My studio is located in New Jersey, but a ton of my families, like this one, come from New York. Wherever you are in the Tri-state area, I would love to help you capture special memories of your little ones with a custom photoshoot designed just for you. Reach out now and let’s get you on the calendar!