Danelle Milk 3/13/25 Danelle Milk 3/13/25

How to Choose the Perfect Photography Style for Your Family | Mentor Ohio Newborn Photographer

If you’re anything like me, I bet you've got a wall in your house dedicated to family photos, right? The smiling faces on the wall serve as a constant reminder of what truly matters in life and work.

But have you ever wondered how to choose the right photographer and the right style to capture your family's unique spirit even better? Although photographers frequently use jargon like "Lifestyle" and "Portrait," it can be hard to truly understand what types of images these terms will produce. So, what does it all actually mean?

Just like you wouldn't wear a tuxedo to a beach party, some styles just work better with certain moods and moments.

First up, let's talk about the Classic Style also known as Portrait Photography.

Classic Photography is timeless, a little more formal and almost always heavily posed. This style usually has a lot of emphasis on the pose, so you would expect to see more rules than creativity.

Picture your grandma's vintage photo hanging on the wall - that's a perfect example of traditional portrait photography.

Generally this is the “holiday card photo.” You can clearly see everyone’s face and everyone is looking at the camera and smiling.

Next, we have Candid Photography or some call this Lifestyle Photography.

It’s all about capturing spontaneous moments - the giggles, the funny faces,

the sudden burst of dancing in the living room.

Usually this is done on-location or in studio, but your photographer might use more casual prompts and poses in order to get laughs and reactions from those being photographed.

This style is perfect if your family loves a more casual look to their photos. You might not be able to see everyone’s faces and some people’s faces might look goofy, but that’s the point of candid photography!

It's less about perfection and more about authenticity.

One you might not hear too often is Fine art photography.

This is a style that emphasizes beauty, creativity, and artistic expression.

It's a genre of photography that's often compared to a fine painting or sculpture, with each image carefully composed and thoughtfully designed.

The photographer may use lighting techniques to create a certain mood or emotion, and the subjects may be posed in a way that highlights their form and beauty.

The goal of fine art photography is to create a work of art. This is where many of my artistic newborn shots fall under!

While it may not capture the spontaneous moments of candid photography, it offers a different kind of beauty and depth.

Finally, for those who love activities, “Day-in-the-life” Photography could be your perfect match.

This style aims to capture real-life events or milestones or activities in a storytelling manner, often set in personal and outdoor spaces.

So if your family loves to hike, camp or picnic, lifestyle shots will catch those special moments.

With day-in-the-life photography, there is generally no posing or prompting at all. The photographer really is a fly on the wall while your family participates in an activity you all love doing together.

I particularly love day-in-the-life photography for families with toddlers because it’s so much more fun to do an activity they love than trying to ask them to sit still and smile for a more classic type of photography session.

I often times do Fresh 48 Photography which takes place about 2 days after birth in the hospital. These are beautiful natural candid shots taken of your newborn.

Now, here's the fun part: deciding on the best style for your family!

This isn't about choosing 'the best' style out there, but rather what's best for your family (and this might change depending on the season of life your family is in).

If your family is a lively bunch that's constantly on the move, candid or lifestyle photography might work best. For families that love tradition and formality, portrait photography could be the way to go.

But hey, who says you have to stick to one style? Now that you know the terms photographers use for these types of sessions, feel free to ask your photographer if they do these types of photography and if they’re willing to mix and match.

For example, I generally include both “classic” and “candid” in my portrait sessions because my clients like a mix of both.

As you ponder over your next family photo session, let these styles play in your mind.

I can't wait to see you and your family in front of my lens, capturing those moments that will become treasured memories!

Love,

Danelle

Danelle Milk 4/15/24 Danelle Milk 4/15/24

Northeast Ohio's Newborn Photographer | Introducing Baby Aubrey

Northeast Ohio’s Newborn Photographer. Introducing Baby Aubrey, and baby makes a sweet family of 4!

The best thing I love about my job is getting to know the families and literally watching them grow over the years! It is so hard to believe I first met this adorable family when I did their Fresh 48 Newborn Portraits for their first daughter. This took place right before Covid happened. We had no idea after that what we would be in for.

Since the Fresh 48 photos, I watched their little girl grow through all of the many mini sessions we had together.

I was so excited at their last mini session, when she announced she was expecting! What an honor to photograph their sweet newborn portraits again. Baby Aubrey rocked her newborn shoot and I had the best time shooting their Newborn Portraits.

For more information on my Newborn Package Pricing please reach out I would be happy to discuss.

~xoxo

Danelle

Danelle Milk 2/17/24 Danelle Milk 2/17/24

Lifestyle Newborn Session | Newborn Photography | Award Winning Photographer

So what is this thing called Lifestyle Photography?

A term that photographers throw around a lot is “lifestyle photography,” but if you’re not a photographer, you might not have any idea what this even means. I’m going to go into detail and explain what entails lifestyle photography.

This time of year can be so cold and bitter. Who wants to venture out of their home especially with a newborn?! No one, right! How nice would it sound if I said you could stay home while I bring everything to you! Amazing right. Why bundle up and venture out. This is exactly why I like to offer Lifestyle Newborn Shoots in the comforts of your own home. What is a Lifestyle Newborn Shoot? I get asked this many times and many people have told me they don’t just want candid photos. That is why I bring all my newborn items with me and you get both candid shots plus all the prop newborn shoots. All in the comforts of your own home. The only requirement I need is a nice window lit 4 ft x 4ft area. Usually a patio slider door works perfectly, and has beautiful light coming through even on the darkest day.

Depending on how the baby is acting I like to start with the wrapped prop and bean bag poses. They look very similar to what you see here in my gallery. After I’m done with the newborn shoots we move on to the lifestyle (candid) shots throughout the home. Places that work the best are living room, nursery and master bedroom.

I am now booking newborns for 2023, and I offer both in studio and on location shoots. Please reach out for more pricing and booking information.

Danelle Milk 1/11/24 Danelle Milk 1/11/24

Snowy Maternity Photo Shoot | Cleveland, Ohio | Squires Castle

There is something so beautiful about a maternity shoot taking place at a castle filled with snow. It was a snowy and chilly January but that didn’t stop this sweet couple from venturing out. I love when couples are all about capturing photos outdoors, even if its during the dead of winter. Outdoor shoots in the snow can be very beautify! For more information on my maternity sessions please contact me. I offer both on location and indoor shoots.

Danelle Milk 1/11/24 Danelle Milk 1/11/24

Mentor Newborn Photography | Introducing Sutton

I am asked many times when is the best time for Newborn Portraits? There really is a magic timeframe for those adorable photos. Why? Because the baby really does need to be somewhat sleepy and still have that squishy newborn look. Its hard to believe, once they are close to 1 month old the “newborn” look is starting to fade. They are also much more awake and moving around.

I recommend photos to be done anytime from day 5 to day 15 of life. That gives a nice 2 week window for the photos to happen. It also give mom some time to recover from the hospital stay.

If you are expecting, please don’t hesitate to reach out and book your newborn portraits. I recommend booking them at least 3 months in advance, in order to secure your spot.

Please contact Danelle Joy Photography for more information.

Danelle Milk 1/4/24 Danelle Milk 1/4/24

Naturally Beautiful Newborn Photography | Cleveland Newborn Photographer | Cleveland, Ohio

Newborns are best photographed just as they are, naturally beautiful. I have always been drawn to the more natural unposed setups for newborns. I believe they should be captured in their natural state with the flaky skin, belly button and all the wrinkles.

Danelle Milk 3/7/23 Danelle Milk 3/7/23

A typical day in my Newborn Studio | Northeast Ohio | Best Newborn Photographer

The typical newborn shoot at my studio is very relaxed laid back and usually led by the baby. I know many people laugh when I say that, but its very true! I never want to push a newborn into a certain pose because that is not going to end well. I’ve been doing this long enough that I can tell by the how the baby is acting whether or not I’m going to get the shot.

How to prepare for the shoot:

There are a few things you can do to prepare for the shoot that will help make it go smoothly. I recommend feeding the baby close to leaving your home. Please bring a blanket, pacifier and bottle if needed. If your breastfeeding, there is room in my studio for you to do so and we can take breaks.

Once you arrive:

Once you arrive I will ask how the baby is currently doing and how do they settle. I can get a feel of the baby’s personality if I know they settle easily or if it takes them some time. If the baby is full and has a clean diaper I will usually start with wrapped poses in my props. This will keep them calm and warm while I get to know the baby a little bit more. If the baby seems very fussy after being fed and changed and unable to settle, I move to plan b.

This is the time I will move to mom and baby wrapped photos and family photos. I have learned if the baby is fussy they will usually settle in mom’s (or dad’s) arms. After we are all done with wrapped family and sibling photos it might be time for another feeding.

After they are fed, I will try the wrapped poses once again. If the baby continues to be content or settles easily with a pacifier I like to move to my table and bean bag poses. They baby is less wrapped in the poses but can also be woken easier.

Once all of those shots are done and I’m happy with the outcome I like to take a few more fun photos. These usually include candid lifestyle photos with mom or dad. Macro photos of the baby’s hands and feet.

The session itself usually lasts about 2 hours. I have found 3 hours is a very long time for the not only the baby but also the family. I will go over 2 hours if I don’t think I took all the shots I needed too. But usually everything can be accomplished within the 2-2.5 hour time frame.

If you are currently expecting and thinking of professional newborn portraits. Please don’t hesitate to reach out. My schedule does fill up quickly throughout the year.

For more information, please reach out.

xoxo~ Danelle

Danelle Milk 3/7/23 Danelle Milk 3/7/23

Mentor Newborn Photography | Introducing Sutton

I recommend photos to be done anytime from day 5 to day 15 of life. That gives a nice 2 week window for the photos to happen. It also give mom some time to recover from the hospital stay.

If you are expecting, please don’t hesitate to reach out and book your newborn portraits. I recommend booking them at least 3 months in advance, in order to secure your spot.

Please contact Danelle Joy Photography for more information.

Danelle Milk 2/3/23 Danelle Milk 2/3/23

Lifestyle Newborn Session | On-Location Shoot | Cleveland, Ohio | Newborn Photographer

You may have heard the term “lifestyle newborn shoot” but never really understood what it was. So what if a lifestyle shoot?? In basic terms, it really means unposed more candid type photos that usually take place in your own home. A Lifestyle newborn session involves creating more artistic and candid type photos instead of staged poses. Examples are being cradled in a parent's arms, or sleeping in a bassinet or cot. Lifestyle newborn photos appear natural and “unstaged”. I usually like to have the session flow naturally and organically while shooting in your home, nursery and master bedroom. Even though I do love these photos so much the benefits of choosing my style of photography is I offer both lifestyle and prop photos of the newborn. I have found over the years parents still want a combination of both photos. And that is exactly what I offer!

I bring some props, swaddles and my beanbag for a few of the traditional newborn poses then I move onto the lifestyle session. I truly believe its a nice blend of both worlds.

If you are interested in booking a newborn shoot, I highly recommend booking while you’re still pregnant. The photos should take place anytime from day 5 to day 15 of life and my calendar fills up in advance.

XOXO~ Danelle

Danelle Milk 1/30/23 Danelle Milk 1/30/23

Lifestyle Newborn Session | Newborn Photography | Award Winning Photographer

I am now booking newborns for 2023, and I offer both in studio and on location shoots. Please reach out for more pricing and booking information.

Danelle Milk 1/10/23 Danelle Milk 1/10/23

Best in Photography / Award Winning Photography/ Cleveland, Ohio Newborn Photographer

I’m so happy to announce I won the “Best in Photography” for the city of Painesville, Ohio. This is my 3rd time winning this award and 2nd year in a row. I can’t thank everyone enough for trusting me year after year with your precious photos. I look forward to creating many more memories together!

Danelle Milk 11/11/22 Danelle Milk 11/11/22

Naturally Beautiful Newborn Photography | Cleveland Newborn Photographer | Cleveland, Ohio

Danelle Milk 4/13/22 Danelle Milk 4/13/22

Skip the Traditional: Why Lifestyle Newborn Sessions are Popular | Newborn Photography | Cleveland, Ohio

Skip the Traditional: Why Lifestyle Newborn Sessions are Popular!

I am so excited to share my new Newborn Studio look that I now offer for families wanting Newborn Sessions. Many families are already overwhelmed once coming home from the hospital. The last thing they may want to do is prepare their home for professional photos. That is why I have now created a little photo space that looks cozy and is more lifestyle like. I still offer the traditional backdrop posing for families who want it!

I always give each family the choice of lifestyle or traditional newborn portraits or even a mixture of both! That can be done in my studio. My new set up features a neutral boho style bed and chair that works for both baby and families!

For more information regarding my newborn packages pricing please reach out.

I would love to chat about it XOXO

Danelle Milk 4/13/22 Danelle Milk 4/13/22

Baby Elise | Newborn Photographer | Mentor, Ohio | Northeast Ohio | How to prepare?

I know so many parents have questions about Newborn Photography! Especially, after the baby arrives your world can be turned somewhat upside down. The best advice I can give anyone planning on Newborn Photos is to book your session in advance! Please don’t wait until the baby arrives, most photographer are already booked at that point. It’s best to book ahead of time and then sit back and relax until the baby arrives. It is one less thing you need to worry about.

I understand once the baby arrives the first trip for all of you other than leaving the hospital is most likely to the photo shoot. So how to prepare:

Before the session:

Newborn photos are best done within the first 2 weeks of life. If the baby comes early or late no worries I leave room in my calendar to adjust the shoot dates. Please bring all essential baby items with you, bottle, changes of clothes, diapers, pacifiers. Recommend the family to wear neutral clothes. Flowing dresses look nice for mom and add a more soft look to the photos.

During the session:

After arriving, I like to start with the baby first unless they are unable to settle. Then I will move onto family and newborn shots. Plan on the photos to take about 2 hours. If you are traveling with younger siblings I recommend either bringing 2 cars and dad can leave with the siblings once their photos are done.

After the session:

I will do a sneak peek of fully edited photos 2-3 days after the session. You are able to fully download and share those photos. The full galleries are done in 2-2.5 weeks. The galleries are archived for 1 year with my studio.

This really is a special and amazing time of your life. It just takes a little planning ahead of time but will make many lasting memories.

Danelle Milk 3/23/22 Danelle Milk 3/23/22

Baby Addie | Newborn Photography | Modern and Timeless Photography | Ohio

I understand and get it.. You just returned home from the hospital and most likely traveling through a fog. Everything seems to be a whirlwind but yet moving at a snails pace. Then you remembered newborn photos are next week. That means you must cram into normal clothing, hair and makeup. Yikes!

That can all seem to daunting and not on the priority list. Fast forward to your baby’s 1st birthday and this will all seem like a distant memory. You’ll be glad you booked those photos during their first 2 weeks of life. Let’s face it, you were exhausted and might not remember most of it.

Looking back on those newborn portraits will be the best decision and memories you’ll make.

I always recommend for both mom and dad to be in the newborn portraits. But if you are not feeling yourself and would rather just have photos of the baby. I do have a package for that as well.

However, I can’t stress enough how important those newborn portraits are. You’ll look back and can’t believe how tiny, flaky and beautiful that newborn was.

xoxo Danelle

Danelle Milk 3/22/22 Danelle Milk 3/22/22

Lifestyle Newborn Photography | Mentor, Ohio | Cleveland, Ohio

How to prepare for a Lifestyle Newborn Shoot! You just had a baby, discharged home and the photographer is showing up this week~ Yes, it can feel like a whirlwind of emotions leading up to the birth and afterwards. The most important thing is to RELAX. The house doesn’t need to be magazine ready, I can make any spot of any home look picture ready.

When to book:

The sooner the better with Newborn Portraits. Newborn photo dates fill up quickly and its best to get the date you want and no more stress of worrying. I also recommend Newborn photos to take place from day 5 to day 15 of life. Anytime after that is still possible. I also like to explain to parents that around the 1 month mark, babies are much more awake and aware of their surrounding. At this age its hard to settle down as quickly, and create those desired newborn poses.

When I’m traveling to your home, all I ask is a 4x4 window lit area if possible. This spot is where all the typical newborn shots and props take place. The more lifestyle aka candid shots take place in the living room, nursery and master bedroom. I alway say less clutter the better.

What to wear:

I’m a big fan of soft earthy neutral tones. Pick a neutral color pallet and have mom, dad and siblings pick a color to coordinate never match. Please don't show up with white shirts and blue jeans.. That look left with the 80’s;):)

I also recommend feeding the baby and keeping the house warm right before I arrive. This will create those sleepy vibes I need from the baby.

If you’re interested in setting up Lifestyle Newborn Shoot, please contact me.

xoxo ~Danelle

Danelle Milk 3/20/22 Danelle Milk 3/20/22

Boho Lifestyle Studio Set | Cleveland, Ohio | Mentor, Oh

Eek!! I’ve been planning and working on changing my studio space for a while now. I have been loving the new boho inspired look for a while and thought it would make a wonderful addition to both newborn and family sessions! Don’t get me wrong the traditional backdrops still have a their own place as well! I felt like I needed to create this new modern vibe that would also create a cozy relaxed space for families.

The space features the white bed and the oh so popular cocoon chair filled with boho accents and plants. This space will be given as an option during the newborn shoot. If you would still like the traditional backdrop poses done, that’s not problem.

The main reason for switching over to more a lifestyle look is it gives parent another option for photos. I love traveling to families homes for newborn shoots. But I also get it, you just had a baby, exhuasted and the last thing you feel like doing is getting your house ready for a photo shoot!

Take the stress away book the session for a newborn shoot at my in home studio. Please reach out for more information:)

Best,

Danelle

Danelle Milk 3/8/22 Danelle Milk 3/8/22

Lifestyle Photography | Brecksville, Ohio | Cleveland, Ohio

Oh how I love traveling to families home and photographing their newest arrival. Once your home and settled the last thing you may feel like doing is leaving the house. So let me bring my studio to you! When I visit families home I bring many of my props, swaddles and items needed to create a beautiful gallery in the comforts of your home. The session consists of both traditional newborn portraits in props as well as lifestyle shots. These shots are done with the family and usually take place throughout the home. They are the more candid and intimate shots and less posed. But I understand how most families want both type of pictures. I offer both, so no need to choose!

Please reach out for specific pricing and booking with all my Newborn Packages.

Danelle Milk 2/23/22 Danelle Milk 2/23/22

Baby Teagan | Bump to Baby Photography | Mentor, Ohio

This is such an exciting time in your life! From the moment you realize “I’m expecting” to the day your little one is born. When looking back this will be one of the most special and treasured moments of your life. I’m happy to offer the Bump to Baby Package in order to capture each moment. This package consists of 3 shoots, maternity, newborn and baby’s first birthday! When booked all together there is a significant cost savings as opposed to booking alone. If you already know or think you might want all 3 sessions, I recommend doing the package. The payments are not due until each session occurs, but its a great way to lock in your photographer. I often book up quickly but with the bump to baby package, you are guaranteed a spot on my calendar for each session. That way you can sit back and relax knowing all these special moments will be captured for you!

Danelle Milk 2/22/22 Danelle Milk 2/22/22

Photography Referral Program | Tell a friend | Cleveland, Ohio

I am to announce a NEW referral program that I will be offering. Give $25 + Get $25! Sounds pretty great, right?!

A referral from my clients is one of the best compliments I could ever receive! I know many of my previous clients have referred their friends to me over the years. Now, its time for me to give back. Every time you refer a friend, and that friends books a new session with me. You both will receive $25 credit towards a session. You can also refer many friends and receive many credits! However, the credits must be used within the calendar year and can not be carried over to following year.

Please reach out if you have more questions regarding my referral program!

So what is this thing called Lifestyle Photography?

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