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!

Child and Family Photography Sessions with Jennifer Parrello Photography

Child and family photography sessions are so important! And every age and stage is precious. Some people tend to save professional photography for big events, like holidays, birthdays, or weddings. But what about all the moments in between?

I’m a big believer in the idea that moments are fleeting and memories need to be captured along the way. And I don’t know of any better way to do that than with a family photo session!

While newborn and cake smash sessions usually take place in the studio, there’s a little more flexibility when working with groups and with kiddos who are past the infancy stage. So, while we can certainly do your family pictures in the studio, we also have the option to enjoy the great outdoors! I like to schedule outdoor family shoots for an hour or two before sunset so we can get the best light possible.

If you’re wondering what constitutes a child or family photography session, a lot of that is up to you. I can capture portraits of just one child, do a mommy-and-me session, your immediate family, or a big extended family session. All will take about the same amount of time (usually around an hour), and will provide you with beautiful images! I offer multiple collections so you can choose the best fit for your family.

Above all, I want your child and family photography sessions to be fun! Your session should be a great memory in and of itself, so I’ll make it genuine and real so your portraits reflect how truly unique and beautiful your family is!

If you’d like to learn more about extended family photo sessions, find out why mommy-and-me sessions are so great, or need to help deciding what to wear for your family pictures, I’ve got you covered! And of course, if you have any questions, please feel free to reach out! Can’t wait to hear from you!

Extended Family Photo Sessions | New Jersey Family Photographer

As a New Jersey family photographer, I’d be hard put to say what type of session is my favorite. Family, newborn, maternity…I love them all! One of my faves though, are extended family photo sessions. These are always so much fun and it’s such a privilege to capture the love and precious relationships that give us a sense of belonging.

 What Is an Extended Family Photoshoot?

 Most family photo sessions are with immediate family—you, your partner, and your kids. But with an extended family photoshoot, you can include your own siblings and children’s cousins, grandparents, etc.

How Does an Extended Family Photography Session Work?

If we’re doing multiple families (such as your family and your sister’s) I photograph each family individually so they can have pics of their own family unit. After that we’ll do individual portraits of each child. Then we’ll move on to group portraits (your entire extended family, all the cousins, pictures of individual children with their parent or grandparent, couples, etc.)

Because there are so many people to work with, family photos with extended family tend to be action-packed and fast-paced so we keep everybody’s attention. (And by everybody I mean those little ones!)

I have these sessions down to an art, so even though we get a huge variety of shots I make sure sessions only run about an hour long. And I always plan these sessions for about an hour to an hour and a half before sunset for the best lighting. I have permits for many beautiful parks and locations around New Jersey, so there are lots of options!

Why Choose an Extended Family Photo Session?

Professional extended family portraits with Jennifer Parrello Photography are magical and so much fun! The experience itself is a wonderful gift, allowing your family to come together and create memories you will cherish forever. And of course, those finished photos make absolutely beautiful home décor and gifts that will be truly treasured.

Book Your Session

We are coming into peak outdoor portrait photography season! Spring through fall we have so many amazing backdrops for your extended family photos, so book now and let’s create those special memories for you! I can’t wait to be your New Jersey family photographer!

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!

New Jersey Holiday Photo Sessions | Now Booking Merry Minis

Can you believe it’s that time already? I know, I know, it’s still hot and humid at the moment, but before you know it there’s going to be a nip in the air and it will be time for cookie swaps, gift exchanges, and holiday get-togethers. Tons to think about, but don’t forget to add a Merry Mini holiday photo session to that list that you’re checking twice!

As you’ve probably figured out—given that I’m booking for these in August—my New Jersey holiday photo sessions fill up fast! These are super popular as they provide the perfect option for holiday cards and newsletters. I’ll be doing these sessions in October and November to give clients time to get their greeting cards and invites sent out in time for the holidays. And, honestly, I just can’t wait much longer than that! These holiday photo sessions are so much fun and I always have such a great time with my clients, helping them get ready to celebrate!

Holiday Mini Photo Sessions from New Jersey’s most loved newborn and child photographer.

For me, holidays are all about family, friends, and connection—and what better way to connect with the people we love than with photos? Whether you decide to go with a fun PJ session or a more formal session in fancy holiday outfits, I can guarantee magical pictures that are perfect for the season.

Sounds like something for you? Please feel free to contact me for more information. You can also find a quick guide here. After reading, just scroll to the bottom of the page to book your holiday photo session—PJ or formal! I can’t wait to see you in my West Milford, NJ photography studio. Let’s make this year the merriest and brightest one yet!

New Jersey and New York Photographer

Jennifer Parrello Photography is one of New Jersey’s most loved newborn and child photographers. She is proud to provide outstanding portraiture to families through New Jersey and New York, including Bergen and Passaic Counties, Paramus, Ridgewood, Fair Lawn, Tenafly, Fortlee, Hackensack, New York City, Long Island, Orange County, Edgewater, Rockaway, Weehawken, Jersey City, Rutherford, Clifton, Wayne, Wyckoff, Franklin Lakes, Ringwood, and Oakland.

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!

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

Baby Boy S | Posed Newborn Session, Northern New Jersey Newborn Photographer

Baby boy S was one of the sleepiest newborns to date! He was super squishy and loved being posed. He had the sweetest big sister and she loved him so much.

We of course had to incorporate what his daddy does too! <3

Valentine's Day is almost here! - Northern New Jersey Newborn, Child & Family Photographer

I will be the first to admit I just never really celebrated Valentine's Day.  Growing up it was just another day to me and even in to my college years I felt the same way.  This all ended when I had little ones of my own.  Now, no matter the holiday, big or small.... it is huge to my girls.  They think it is the best thing ever.  Seeing the look on their face and in their eyes when my oldest writes out her cards to her friends is just adorable and pure.  Gosh, now that Valentine's Day is tomorrow, I can't wait to see the look on my girls' faces when they wake and get in their cute outfits.  When my oldest gets home from school to show me all of her cards from her friends.... <3

This little cutie was photographed back in the fall and couldn't help but post it today... maybe its the color of her outfit which reminded me of Valentine's Day or was it the pure, innocent and captivating look in her eyes that she will get to have the same joy as my girls' do on holidays.  

I hope you all have a wonderful Valentine's Day!

Eresman Holiday Session - Northern New Jersey Family Photographe

This gorgeous family I have known for quite some time and I was so delighted when they booked a session for the holiday's!  These two brothers were inseparable and absolutely loved every minute of their fun session.

Wenzel Family Session - Northern New Jersey Family Photographer - West Milford

Oh how I love my job.  Spent some time with this momma and her littles for some fun in a field chasing "dinosaurs" and "spaceships".  I think they might of had some fun. . . What an awesome family session! 

Extended Family Session in Northern NJ

I had the absolute please of meeting this beautiful extended family 2 weeks ago.  They wanted to have a family session before some members of the family moved away.  Well, they were such an amazing family to meet and work with!  Here are some shots from that day.