Top 3 FAQs for Your New Jersey/New York Photographer

There are always lots of questions with any new experience, and booking a photoshoot is no different! I try to anticipate questions and give my clients plenty of information beforehand. When you inquire I’ll send you lots of great info to help you out! But in the meantime, I thought I’d address the questions I get asked most frequently as a New Jersey based photographer.

What to Ask Your Photographer

When is the best time to book a cake smash?

The earlier the better! I recommend booking your cake smash well in advance—even as early as 5 months before your little one’s first birthday! We will usually do your cake smash a little before the one year mark (around 11 months) so you have time to use your images for invitations, gifts, etc. And I build all of my custom sets from scratch, which takes several weeks! You can learn more about my cake smash sessions here.

When is the best time to book a newborn session?

I advise booking 3-4 months before your due date. However, if it’s past that date already (or even if baby has already arrived) you can always reach out on the chance that I might have an opening available. If you’re expecting, you’ll definitely want to check out my newborn page for helpful info and answers to frequently asked questions!

Why are family sessions always in the evening?

I like to hold my family sessions about an hour to an hour and a half before sunset. There are lots of reasons behind this, but the big one is lighting. Photographers call that pretty, sun-soaked time before sunset ‘the golden hour.’ The light at this time is really warm, not too harsh, and very flattering for everyone, making it the perfect time to do outdoor portraits. I’ve got more about family sessions on this page.

Questions for Your New Jersey/New York Photographer

Any other burning questions? Send them my way! I am always up for a chat and would love to help you learn more about any session you’re interested in. Just reach out and let’s talk!

Why I Love Being a Newborn Photographer in Bergen County, New Jersey

Newborn photographers rarely get asked, “Why do you love what you do?” I mean, it’s pretty obvious. What’s not to love about snuggling babies and capturing all that cuteness? I totally agree, but I also think that the answer to why I love being a newborn photographer in Bergen County, New Jersey goes deeper than that. Here are just a few of the reasons I am absolutely in love with my job:

Precious Moments

I love capturing those precious moments. Newborns grow and change so rapidly, and newborn photography allows you to freeze those fleeting moments in time. The opportunity to capture the innocence, purity, and unique features of a newborn is incredibly rewarding and fulfilling.

Emotional Connection

Newborn photography provides an avenue to connect with the emotions and vulnerability of a newborn. The tender moments, the bond between parents and their baby, and the pure joy captured in photographs can evoke powerful emotions, creating a deep sense of connection and purpose.

Memories and Milestones

Welcoming a newborn into the world is a momentous occasion for families. As a newborn photographer in Bergen County, I have the privilege of documenting this special time. No other job in the world allows me to preserve the memories and milestones of a family’s journey quite like newborn photography. The joy and happiness surrounding new babies can be contagious, and I love catching it every time!

Serving Families

My work as a newborn photographer has a significant impact on families. The images I capture become cherished heirlooms, destined to be passed down through generations. Photos serve as a visual reminder of the early days of a child’s life, increasing the sense of love and belonging in families. It’s an honor to preserve memories for families to relive and treasure in future years.

Building Relationships

Building relationships with families is another incredibly rewarding aspect of my job as a New Jersey newborn photographer. I have the opportunity to witness the love, joy, and tenderness shared within families. Being a part of their journey is not something I take lightly. I love connecting with people and truly feel that my clients become part of my family when we have a session together.

And yes, the baby snuggles. The tiny toes. The sleepy smiles. The newborn smell. Honestly, what’s not to love about photographing newborns?

Your NJ/NY Newborn Photographer

Just one more reason I love photographing newborns in this area specifically…I get so many families from outside Bergen County as well! It’s a pleasure and an honor to connect with families throughout New Jersey and New York, and I would love to connect with you too!

If you’d like to learn more about me and my work, feel free to have a look around the site, or explore my Facebook and Instagram pages for inspiration. If you’d like to inquire about a session for your own little one, please get in touch soon—my schedule is filling up fast! I hope I’ll hear from you soon!

Why Invest in Professional Portrait Photography? Answers from a New Jersey / New York Portrait Photographer

If you think you should just snap that annual family photo yourself or try to capture all your child’s milestones on your cell phone, think again. While cell phones and snapshots are great for documenting the day-to-day moments, there is nothing like an actual photo session for capturing the big milestones in life. Here’s why it’s totally worth it to invest in professional portrait photography for your family.

Equipment and Expertise

Beautiful photos don’t just happen. They require special equipment, great lighting, and an experienced eye to create that perfect shot. And while it may seem simpler to just try to do it on your own, most people find that they are much happier when they spend the money and invest in professional portrait photography.

Display-Worthy Photos

You can get lots of fun snapshots on your phone. But it really does take a professional portrait photographer to capture images that you’ll be proud to display on your walls or gift to family. A professional photographer has years of experience and that artistic eye to know how to pose people to best advantage and create images that are seriously gorgeous.

Editing

Another important step in the process of creating photos is the behind-the-scenes work. A true professional will take the time to edit each of your photos so that they are free of distractions and are the best they can possibly be.

The Photoshoot Experience!

I don’t know about other New Jersey portrait photographers, but I love to make my sessions FUN! My belief is that if we’re going to be making and capturing memories together, we should have a great time doing it. I treat all of my clients like family and love to visit with them, get to know them, and work together to create images their family can treasure forever.

Bonus: Newborn Safety

Baby pictures are only one type of photography, it’s true, but it’s worth noting that it is SO important to hire a professional for newborn photos. There is no one that can safely create those amazing newborn images you see on Instagram except a trained professional. Learn why here.

If you’re thinking of investing in professional portrait photography in New Jersey or New York (so many of my clients come from the Orange County, NY area!), please inquire here. I can’t wait to hear from you!

Looking Back on 2023...and Forward to 2024 with Jennifer Parrello Photography

I hope everyone is having an amazing holiday season!

This week between Christmas and New Year’s is always one for me to take a second to reflect on the past year and wonder what the future holds. 2023 has been a great year, filled with so many of my favorite things. Like…

Baby snuggles

It is such a beautiful experience to welcome new babies and their families to my New Jersey studio. Those new little lives are so precious, and I’m always honored to capture a few of those very first moments!

Cake

Birthday and cake smash sessions are my all-time favorites! If you know me, you know I’m always up for a party—and I love helping little ones celebrate that first birthday with a fun, customized cake smash all for themselves!

Pictures

As a New Jersey photographer, I can’t help but love photos. And it’s been exciting to be part of creating so many great ones this year!

And a little bit of magic

I tried something a little different for my holiday sessions this year and they all went amazing! I always feel that those magical Christmas sessions are such a good way to start wrapping up the year.

Can’t Wait to See You at the Photo Studio in 2024

And what does 2024 hold? I don’t know, but I have a feeling it’s going to be amazing! I’m looking forward to seeing some familiar faces in my studio and welcoming many new ones, and I hope this next year will be one of making lots of connections and memories. Most of all, I hope that YOU will be a big part of my 2024! I would love to get to know you better and help you document the best of your family’s moments. Let’s connect now, and start making memories that will last a lifetime!

Ways to Give Photos as Gifts

The holidays are coming up, and you know what that means. Lots of holiday shopping!

I don’t know about you, but I sometimes struggle to find the perfect gift for everyone on my list. Especially those people who don’t really need or want anything—and yet I still want to express my love and appreciation in some way.

For just about every situation, I’ve found that photos can be the perfect answer! Here are some ways to give photos as gifts that will work for just about everyone.

Artwork

There are so many gorgeous ways to display your photos. From framed prints and canvases to photo blocks and albums, creating a piece of art composed of special pictures is a gift anyone would treasure. This can be a single piece of wall art, perhaps for a grandparent, or an album focused around a theme like a relationship (you and your child, for instance) or event (like a family vacation).

Custom Photo Gifts

If your recipient’s tastes run more to the fun and whimsical, maybe a custom photo gift would make their day! There are a plethora of options for using your photos to create customized mugs, blankets, pillows, keychains, calendars, puzzles, coasters, etc. The list is almost endless!

Prints

And there’s nothing wrong with keeping it simple. Personally, I would be thrilled with a thoughtfully chosen selection of favorite prints that had special memories for both giver and recipient. A few ideas:

• Write a message on the back of each print expressing your love or a fond memory, then tie it all up with a pretty ribbon.

• Include a gift card to a favorite restaurant or other location and set a date to make some more memories there together.

• Give them a small, blank photo album along with the images so they can start their own photo collection.

• Buy a frame and include a selection of prints that they can rotate throughout the year: One frame, lots of possibilities!

• Include a length of twine and some cute clothespins so they can brighten up a spot in their home with some fun pictures.

I hope these ideas for ways to give photos as gifts provide some inspiration as you get ready for the holidays!

And one more, just as a bonus: Professional photos make an incredible gift that will be cherished for years! If you’d like to gift a special someone a photo session (or treat yourself!) I hope you’ll be in touch. I would love to help you give one of the most meaningful gifts they will ever receive: a professional photo session just for them!

How to Prepare for a Photoshoot with Jennifer Parrello Photography

Can you believe it’s November already? This year has been flying by for me, and in just a few short weeks it will be 2024. And yes—I’m already booking into the new year! Which is why I thought I’d drop a line on the blog with a few general tips about how to prepare for a photoshoot with Jennifer Parrello Photography, so you can start planning for your session now!

Prepping for Your Photo Session: General Tips

Plan ahead. My schedule usually fills up several months in advance—and for newborns and cake smashes in particular, I like to get you on the calendar nice and early!

Choose your outfits. You can read my recommendations on what to wear for your session right here, but the big takeaways are: 1. Wear something that will stand out against your chosen backdrop. (Blacks and neutrals are great for the studio, and you can totally go bright and bold for an outdoor session). And 2. Choose outfits that makes you feel like a million bucks!

Do your hair and nails. Little details like these can make a big difference, especially with newborn or maternity photos where you might want closeups of your hands. I know some great salons if you need recommendations!

Send me inspiration photos! I love when clients spend some time thinking about their vision for their session. Feel free to explore my Instagram to get a feel for my style, and then send me any favorites for poses, colors, vibe, etc. I love to customize each and every session. The more detail I get from you, the better I can make your vision a reality.

Last but not least, come in relaxed and ready to have fun! I treat my clients like family and do everything I can to ensure that our time together is a blast!

If you have any questions or if you already know that you want to do a session and are itching to get on the schedule, get in touch now. I am so hoping I’ll be seeing you in my New Jersey studio next year!

Jennifer Parrello Photography: My Vision for You

As a New Jersey/New York photographer, I know how important it is to have a vision for each session. Having a vision keeps me on task, provides inspiration, and ensures a quality experience and products. But I believe it’s also important to have an overall vision for my clients. Because it’s not just about individual sessions. It’s about YOU! My vision for you is for you to come away with an amazing experience and timeless photos that can be displayed and treasured for years.

The goal of every session is twofold: I want to create forever memories for you, and I also want you to have a memorable experience. Sound like the same thing? It’s not! For me, creating forever memories is about the pictures. I want to create images that bring back this special time in your life, whether that’s cradling your newborn or laughing with your toddler. But a great photography session is about more than the finished product. I also want the experience itself to be enjoyable, fun, and relaxing. I love chatting with my clients and getting to know you in the cozy, home-like atmosphere of my New Jersey photo studio. I want you to feel like, by the end of your session, you are part of the family!

I also want you to come away from your photoshoot feeling beyond happy, thrilled, and excited for your photos! This should not only be a meaningful experience, but an exciting and celebratory one! That’s one of the reasons I pride myself on lightning-fast turnaround time. Once your shoot is over, I get right to work putting your proof gallery together, so you can choose your favorite images that same day.

There is nothing like the moment when you first see your images. It’s so amazing, beautiful, and special. Your photos are a treasure because they are a moment captured in time. For me, there is nothing more awesome than seeing gorgeous photos that will be cherished forever, and I know you will feel the same way as you look through the authentic, fun, and beautiful pictures of your loved ones.

If you’re looking for a baby and family photographer in the New York or New Jersey area and my vision for you sounds like the perfect fit, I hope you’ll be in touch! I can’t wait for you to become part of the Jennifer Parrello Photography family!

Your Photo Session: Before and After

Being in the photography studio (or at a favorite outdoor location in the New Jersey/New York area) and posing for the camera is probably what comes to mind when you think of your photo session. But you also want to know what to expect before and after your photoshoot. Here’s the lowdown!

Before Your Photo Session

I want your shoot to be as successful as possible. To help you prepare and feel more relaxed about the whole thing, I’ll send you a prep guide prior to your session. This is a short but super helpful reference that will help you know what to bring or do in advance so you can have the best experience possible!

If you’ve booked a newborn session, I’ll also send you a questionnaire. This helps ME prepare for your baby pictures so they’re everything you hoped they would be!

And if you’ve booked a cake smash session (hopefully 4-5 months in advance!) then I’ll be spending lots of time before your session creating your custom set and finding the perfect outfit for your little one.

After Your Photo Session

With most photographers, you have to wait a few weeks before you can see your photos. Like other professionals, I am very meticulous and want everything to be perfect. But…I hate waiting, and I bet you do too! That’s why I send you your proof gallery on the SAME DAY as your session!

You’ll have 48 hours to select your favorite images from the proof gallery. Once I know which photos you want, I get to work editing your pictures right away and give them my full attention, so I can get them to you fast! My contract states that it may take up to 2 weeks to get your finished images to you, but honestly, that’s just in case of emergencies. In most cases, you’ll have your beautifully edited photos in just 1-4 days!

At this point, you’ll receive a final gallery with all your favorites—edited to perfection. All of the digitals are yours to keep, and your gallery is also linked to a storefront so you can easily purchase prints and products if you would like to.

It’s as easy as that! I make preparing for your photo session simple, and after the session I cut out as much of the wait time as possible. You should be able to enjoy your gorgeous pictures as soon as possible! If you’re looking for a professional photographer to capture your forever memories, I hope you’ll be in touch with Jennifer Parrello Photography! I’m conveniently located for families in both New Jersey and New York, and would be delighted to document these special moments for you!

What to Wear for Your Photoshoot with Jennifer Parrello Photography

Need some tips on what to wear for your photoshoot? This is a something I’m asked about all the time in my work as a New Jersey photographer. I’ve seen lots of great (and a few not-so-great) outfit choices over the years, so I’ve got you covered with some ideas if you need help! Here are my recommendations for what to wear for different types of photoshoots with Jennifer Parrello Photography.

Maternity

I recommend choosing something comfy that makes you feel gorgeous. Neutrals and blacks are a great choice for the studio, and bold, bright colors that will stand out are perfect for outdoors. You always want to coordinate and not match if you are included your spouse or little one in the session as well.

Newborn

I’ve got a ton of outfits for baby, so unless you have something specific from home that you want to dress little one in, don’t worry about choosing an outfit for them. If you’re doing family pictures with baby, black is my go-to recommendation for the rest of the family to wear. It’s classic, timeless, and goes with everything!

Family

Family sessions usually take place outdoors, so you’ll want to consider the location. Wear something that will pop and stand out. You don’t want your clothing colors to blend into the background. Layers are perfect, as they allow for a mix of neutrals with a few pops of color and make it easy to mix and match different textures and patterns. I love when families coordinate their outfits with two or three key colors! No need to match—just choose complementary colors and patterns. And don’t be afraid to wear something you might not normally wear for an outdoor session. This is your chance to stand out and shine!

Shopping for What to Wear

If you don’t have anything suitable at home (or just need an excuse for a new outfit, we’ve all been there!) some of my favorite places to shop for photoshoot outfits are Zara, Gap, Abercrombie, Joyfolie, or Baltic Born.

A Few More Outfit Tips

I’ve got a few more tips on what to wear for your photoshoot elsewhere on the blog, so feel free to check them out! Or get in touch if you want to run some outfit ideas by me. I’m happy to offer my opinion and help you decide! Whatever you choose to wear, just remember not to stress too much about it. The important things are the memories and the experience!

What is an All Inclusive Photographer?

What is an All Inclusive Photographer?

Great question! Essentially, an all-inclusive photographer is a photographer who includes digital files in the price of your session.

But wait, doesn’t everyone do that?

Nope. There are several different pricing models that photographers use. As you’re shopping for a New Jersey photographer, you’ll want to make sure you know the fine print before booking your session. One of the questions you’ll want to ask is what’s included in the session fee.

An all-inclusive photographer (like Jennifer Parrello Photography) includes the session and all digital images in one flat fee. But some photographers only include the session (you’ll have to purchase digital files and other artwork separately), or they may have packages that include certain pieces of artwork.

Here's why Jennifer Parrello Photography uses the all-inclusive pricing model and what it means for you:

Flexibility

Digital is everywhere! Digital files are nice because you have such a huge variety of ways in which you can use them. Professional printers can use your digital files to create custom wall art or prints, and there are also tons of businesses that create unique custom gifts (like blankets, mugs, or Christmas ornaments) with your digital images. With digital, you can use your photos in an infinite number of ways!

Affordability

Photographers who include artwork build their wall art or albums into the package pricing. While that’s great if you want that particular type of artwork, what if you want to do something different? I don’t want you to pay for something that isn’t exactly what you would have chosen for yourself. That’s why I include digital files so you can use them in whatever way works best for you.

Physical Artwork

Just because your collection includes digital files doesn’t mean you can’t also order physical artwork if you want it! Once I send you your gallery, I’ll also open up a store with your photos, so you can purchase products if you would like them. (A lot of my clients order prints.)

To recap: Your digital files are included in all of my photo collections, and you always have the option to create tangible artwork with them as well, either through Jennifer Parrello Photography or your own choice of photo lab. These are your forever memories, and I want you to have the option to share them in whatever way is most meaningful for you!

Interested in a photo collection? Get in touch and let’s start planning that all-inclusive photography session!

New Jersey Photography Studio: A Quick Tour

As a parent, you learn pretty quickly just how important environment is for a happy kiddo! Babies are all about comfort, and I am behind that 100%! I’ve designed my New Jersey photography studio to be a cozy place where both babies and parents can relax and feel comfortable. If that sounds like the place for you, read on for a quick peek into my studio.

Studio Location

My photography studio is located in West Milford, NJ. And it’s okay if you’ve never heard of West Milford. :) We’re a pretty small town, with a relaxed and friendly vibe, just like my studio! And even though it has the small-town feel, West Milford is also located within easy driving distance of larger cities like New York, Hoboken, and Jersey City. A lot of my clients come from busy towns and love the warm and friendly atmosphere when they visit me.

Family-Friendly Vibe

My work as a baby photographer is very family-focused, and I want every member of the family to feel at home during their time in my space. I have a seating area with TV and some toys for siblings so that everyone can enjoy the time while we’re working with baby. Parents can relax with some coffee or tea while older siblings play or watch a show.

Designed for Memories

From the studio space itself (with my collection of props and different walls for shooting) to the family area (which provides a much-needed chance for parents to unwind), I’ve designed my studio to be the perfect place for making and documenting memories. When you bring your little one to my studio it’s more like getting together with a friend than anything else. I love hanging out with my clients and chatting like we’re family!

What do you think? If you’re ready to experience the studio for yourself, you can book your session here. I would love to welcome you to this special haven I’ve created for babies and families. We are going to have so much fun together!

Jennifer Parrello Photography Special Offers and Events

I hope you had fun learning about the different types of sessions I offer here at Jennifer Parrello Photography! Throughout the year, I also do model calls, giveaways, and other special offers and events—and I don’t want you to miss out on those! So here’s just a bit more about some of the great stuff you can expect from my New Jersey studio.

Newborn and Cake Smash Collections

Every family’s needs are different, which is why I’ve designed a variety of collections for my newborn and cake smash sessions. Rather than one-size-fits-all, these collections allow you to choose the right fit for your family, such as whether you want your session to be baby-only or include family. You can also choose to bundle certain services (like a maternity and newborn session) to capture multiple stages in a more affordable way.

Model Calls and Giveaways

I love doing model calls when a spark goes off in my brain and I want to make some magic happen! Keep an eye on Instagram or Facebook. I always post model calls on social media and you’ll be able to fill out an application if you’re interested. I sometimes offer giveaways throughout the year too—also posted on social.

Holiday Photo Events

I offer holiday sessions every year, so mark your calendars for those! (They book up fast and are absolutely magical!) Santa sessions happen in November and are such a fun and memorable opportunity for kiddos to spend some time with St. Nicholas. Formal minis take place in October, and I’m super excited about this year! I’m doing two different sets, so you’ll be able to choose your favorite, on two separate weekends. For the first time ever, one set will be all neutrals and whites. I have never done this before (since I love doing traditional sets with holiday colors) but I know that neutrals are another really popular option and I want clients to be able to choose!

Giving Back

I am a firm believer in the importance of community and giving back, so I enjoy donating sessions to local organizations when they host fundraising events. I’m also a photographer with The Gold Hope Project, which provides photo sessions for children with cancer to raise awareness and funds.

Referral Program

Of course, none of this would be possible without my wonderful clients, so I also want to give back to YOU! Word-of-mouth referrals are so important to me as a photographer, not least because it means so much to know that people love my work and what I do for them. I’m currently working on a referral program so that I can give back to you whenever you do me the incredible honor of sending family and friends my way. I’ll announce that once I’ve gotten the logistics worked out (hopefully this summer).

In the meantime, let’s connect on Instagram and Facebook, or you can feel free to contact me directly with any questions. I can’t wait to chat with you!

Different Types of Photo Sessions | Northern New Jersey Photographer

Just wanted to post a quick update on the different types of photo sessions I offer here at Jennifer Parrello Photography. As a New Jersey photographer I specialize in capturing baby’s first year, which means most of my sessions are newborn and cake smash—which works out well since they’re my absolute favorite! I love working with babies! But I also offer lots of other types of photoshoots so we can capture your family’s memories at every stage of life.

Here’s a quick peek into the different types of photo sessions you can book with Jennifer Parrello Photography:

Baby’s First Year NJ Photographer

Maternity Sessions

Before baby even arrives, let’s capture that exciting stage of pregnancy! You can choose from studio or outdoor options depending on what feels comfortable for you and how many people you’re inviting to join in.

Fresh 48 Sessions

We can create beautiful, intimate birth photos right at the hospital. Fresh 48 sessions are perfect for remembering every moment of those precious first hours with your little one.

Newborn Sessions

There’s no better place for newborn photos than in my comfy New Jersey photography studio! With hundreds of props and outfits to choose from (plus a place for Mom and Dad to relax while I do what I do best) you can create forever portraits of your little bundle that will last long after babyhood is over.

Cake Smash Sessions

Celebrate the big one-year mark with a special cake smash session! I go all out and customize every single one of my cake smashes so you can have a theme and style that’s totally unique to you. (I love doing custom cake smashes so much that I also offer cake smash mentoring for other photographers who are wanting to

Milestone and Sitter Sessions

There are so many other moments that you’ll want to hold on to forever. We can book a milestone or sitter session to capture any and all of those wonderful in-between stages as baby grows.

Northern NJ Family and Professional Photographer

Other Types of Photo Sessions

In addition to documenting all the big moments in baby’s first year, I also offer limited family sessions, specialty sport photos, and headshot and branding sessions. Family sessions usually take place outdoors, so I hold these only during months when the weather is nice. (My West Milford studio is the perfect size for intimate photos, but it’s a little too cozy for big groups!) And be sure to keep an eye out for my holiday and Santa mini sessions. I offer these on just a few select dates in October/November and they are always so much fun!

Whatever stage of life you’re in, and whichever of the different types of photo sessions you’re considering, I’d love to capture those memories for you! Please get in touch for more details. Can’t wait to hear from you!

Meet Your Photographer: New Jersey Newborn and Baby Photographer

Hey there! I’m Jennifer Parrello, the face behind the camera here at Jennifer Parrello Photography. Yes, I know you’ve got the About page where you can get to know me a bit, but I wanted to jump on and introduce myself on the blog as well so you can learn a little more if you want to!

It’s super important to me that you know who I am and feel comfortable with me. Why? Because when you book a session with me you instantly become family in my eyes! I am capturing memories for you that will last generations, and I want us to connect and get to know each other! So, here goes!

About Jennifer Parrello

One of the reasons I decided to become a New Jersey photographer is because family is everything to me! I’ve been married for almost fourteen years. My husband and I now have three amazing kiddos…and a dog! My family are my favorite people to hang out with and I feel so lucky every day to share my life with them.

As far as personality goes, I am super outgoing and energetic and very much a people pleaser. I love making people happy and I’m never more satisfied than when I know I’ve made someone else’s day!

Aside from family and photography, a couple of my other passions are:

Softball! I played in college and continue to play in a women’s league now, and I also coach my oldest kiddo’s travel softball team. I love the camaraderie, the energy, and just the good clean fun of being part of a sports team.

Video games! I’ve been playing competitively since the late 90’s, so…yeah. If you’re into video games, we’re going to have a lot to talk about!

About Jennifer Parrello Photography

And now…to the business! Every photographer starts somewhere. For me, the journey began in 1999 when I took a photography class in high school. Photography looked a little different back then, let me tell you! I learned how to develop film in a dark room and that is where my love of photography began. I continued to photograph through the years because I enjoyed it, but it was always just a hobby.

It wasn’t until my oldest was born eleven years ago that I got more serious about photography. As a mom I found myself picking up the camera more and more because I now had an adorable model! Finally, I realized I could combine my love of kiddos and my love of pictures. I took the plunge, quit my job (teaching), and started my photography business full-time. One of the biggest and scariest decisions of my life, but also one of the best and most exciting! I have never looked back!

Let’s Get to Know Each Other

I absolutely love being a New Jersey photographer. As a mom of three myself, I can relate on so many different levels with my families. And I love kids! I know how much you want to hang on to not just the memories of your child, but the very essence of who they are right now. And that is what I’m here for!

I truly cannot wait to get to know you and to help you preserve these memories for yourself and your family. Are you excited yet? ‘Cause I am!

Photo by Twig & Olive Photography

Newborn Girl | New Jersey Photography

Newborn Girl Photo Session

What’s the saying? “Sugar and spice and everything nice—that’s what little girls are made of.” That was definitely true of this this newborn baby girl—with an extra spoonful of sugar thrown in! She was just the sweetest. I’m pretty sure she loved being photographed because she was so good about it! She slept pretty much the entire time, and wasn’t the least bit bothered by outfit changes or new poses. And so snuggly! (Baby snuggles are one of the many reasons I love being a newborn photographer!)

Posed Newborn Sessions

We kept most of our setups pretty simple—with lots of pink! Posed sessions have a lot of flexibility, so it’s really up to you if you want lots of props or if you prefer to keep it simple with just one or two. We can also include family pictures or keep the whole session focused on baby. Baby girl looked so cute in flower crowns that we ended up choosing several of those. I still can’t decide which one I like best—what do you think?

New Jersey Newborn Photography

I hope you’ve enjoyed the photos from this session! If you’re looking for New Jersey newborn photography, please get in touch! When you choose Jennifer Parrello Photography you can be assured that it will be a great experience from start to finish. From your consultation (where we’ll figure out how I can customize your session to exactly match your preferences) through the session itself (prepare to sit back and relax in my cozy West Milford photo studio while I take care of everything) and all the way up to the moment when you see your beautifully edited baby pictures, I’m here for you every step of the way!

What to Wear for Your Photography Session

What to wear for your photography session? As a New Jersey photographer, this is something I get asked a lot! I’ll start off by saying that outfits are mostly a matter of personal preference. Remember, taking pictures is about capturing memories of your family—and you’re unique! So as you’re thinking about what to wear, think about what you’re comfortable in and what styles and colors reflect your family’s personality.

That said, here are a few tips to keep in mind that will help you love both your photography experience and your pictures.

Make Sure You’re Comfortable in What You Wear

My goal is to make your photoshoot a memorable experience. And I want you to remember that it was so much fun, not that your shoes were too tight! Choose clothes you like, that feel comfortable, and that are easy to move and pose in.

Take Location into Consideration

Photos or no photos, it never hurts to dress in layers! This is especially important if your photography session is going to take place outdoors. Keep an eye on the weather and wear clothing that will work with whatever Mother Nature decides to do. And think about the vibe you want. An elegant, flowing dress and leggings, boots, and a sweater both work beautifully for an outdoor autumn photoshoot—it just depends on the style you’re going for.

Focus on Coordination Instead of Matching

If you’re doing a family photography session, it can be tempting to dress everybody in matching outfits. While you absolutely can do this, it isn’t necessary to wear the same thing—or even the same color—for everyone to look good. Think of coordinating multiple outfits in a similar way to coordinating a single outfit. Choose complementary colors and patterns rather than a monotone look for the best results.

I hope these ideas on what to wear for your photography session help! If you need more ideas or have any other questions, feel free to reach out—that’s what I’m here for!

NJ Most Loved Newborn & Family Photographer

Can’t even tell you how much fun I had doing this newborn and family photo session a few months ago. I have known this family for years and I absolutely LOVE them! I’ve photographed big sister’s newborn session, cake smash, and everything in between. So you can imagine how excited I was when I learned that little sister was on the way!

Baby girl was the cutest thing ever. So much gorgeous dark hair, and she loved being swaddled. And big sis did a great job posing with her. She is always fun to hang out with, and is already a great big sister. Absolutely adores the new baby and is a great helper for mom and dad.

New Jersey most loved newborn and family photographer

All of my sessions are completely customized, so I get lots of input from my clients to make sure the session I create is in line with their vision. For this family, we did most of our session with neutral colors (I love the high contrast black and white), but added some splashes of purple too.

Northern New Jersey photographer, newborn and family portraits

All the Love

We mostly wanted to capture the relationships—which is what newborn and family photography is all about! Because of that, we didn’t do a lot of props or fancy backdrops. Just lots of beautiful portraits as we highlighted the love between this sweet baby girl and each member of her family. I can’t imagine anything more perfect.

Loved having this family in the studio again as they welcomed their second daughter! It was such a joy to see them for photographs every few months while big sister was growing from newborn to toddler, and I hope I’ll be able to record that same amazing journey for this new little one. Congratulations to one of my favorite families—love you!

New Jersey Newborn & Family Photos | Baby Sister

Every time I do a newborn photography session I’m reminded of just how lucky I am to have the best job in the world! I was so excited to have this family in my West Milford, NJ photography studio again towards the end of last year. I did a cake smash for their oldest daughter about two years ago, and have also done family photos for them in the past. Always love to see past clients in the studio again!

It was fun to see how much big sister has grown since I last saw her. She was adorable with her new baby sister. Mom and Dad told me how excited she was to have a sister. I think that’s so sweet, and I could definitely tell she was loving it by the way she interacted with new baby! So cute to watch them together.

New Jersey newborn and family photos, Northern New Jersey photographer

We did mostly whites and neutrals for these newborn and family photos, but we added some splashes of color as well—mostly pretty pinks and blues. I love that they wanted some blues—a lot of times people only pick that for boys, but girls look so pretty in blue too. And there are lots of ways we can make it more girly-looking by adding flowers, lace, or headbands.

I love that we had the whole family in the studio for these newborn pictures! We got so many beautiful images and just had a wonderful time together. Congratulations to mom and dad on this latest addition to their lovely family!

New Jersey newborn photo studio, professional newborn and family portraits

New Jersey Newborn Photographer

Looking for newborn and family photos in New Jersey? Please get in touch with me! I love creating customized sessions for my clients, and would be honored to help you record your family’s memories.

Custom Stars and Light Cake Smash | Northern NJ Photographer

Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving and is getting ready for a fun-filled holiday season! It may look a little different for a lot of us this year, but as long as we have the love of family we have a reason to celebrate!

Birthday Cake Smash

I did this birthday cake smash photoshoot back in October, when the weather was just starting to turn chilly. All of my cake smash sessions are fully customized, so I always ask parents what kind of a look they’re going for and if there’s a particular theme they want. Mom told me that baby girl’s name means “light,” so she thought it would be fun to play on that theme. What a great idea! I filled the studio with twinkle lights in preparation for their session. Also used light-up star props and lots of white to reflect the light and give our photos some sparkle. It turned out just like we were hoping.  

Although we spent most of our time in my New Jersey photography studio, we also did a few outdoor shots with baby and her parents. Including parent photos in your baby photography session is a great add-on! Lots of people book that add-on when they schedule their child’s photoshoot. It’s the perfect way to document the big one-year milestone. Plus, you get updated, professional family pictures at the same time. Win-win!

Book a Photo Session

This has been quite the year, and that’s all the more reason to document how your family is growing and thriving throughout it. Professional portraiture is the perfect way to hold on to precious memories forever. So if you want to document a major milestone, create beautiful family photos, or record the newborn sweetness of a brand new little one, I hope you’ll contact me! In the meantime, I hope your holiday season is just as merry and bright as this beautiful birthday session!

When should I book my Cake Smash Portrait Session?

When is the best time to book a Cake Smash Session?

I get this question every now and then, but majority of the time a lot of people inquire right around their little one’s 1st birthday.

If I can give any advice it would be to book your session sooner rather than later. The sooner the better actually! I have clients who book their Cake Smash Sessions right around when their little one turns 5-6 months old. Is that too early?! NO WAY!!!!

A lot of time and planning go in to my Cake Smash Sessions. Custom sets can take a few weeks to put together and design. Also, I love having the photos done and ready for the 1st birthday and for the birthday boy’s/girl’s party.

So, don’t be afraid to book your custom Cake Smash Session early! I can’t wait to see you here at my Cake Smash Studio located in Hewitt, NJ. (Northern New Jersey)

Want more information on a Cake Smash Portrait Session with Jennifer Parrello Photography, located in Northern New Jersey? Go here! —> Cake Smash Portrait Session