Baby Sister Newborn Session | Chardon, Ohio | Cleveland Ohio photographer

I was so thrilled to hear that this special family was expecting baby number 2! I had the privilege to photograph their first baby girl and many mini sessions along the way with them. There is nothing more special then watching a family grow up before my eyes. It’s hard to believe I’ve been doing this long enough to photograph not only their 1st baby. But I’ve literally watched many of the families grow from baby 1, 2 and even number 3! That means the world to me, when so many families keep coming back. That is truly the biggest compliment anyone can ever give regarding my photography.

Sweet Gwennie was welcomed with big arms in the studio. I had so much photographing her and her adorable family. Big sister rocked the session too, and allowed me to capture so many sweet moments together.

Are you expecting a sweet little bundle in 2024. Please reach out, I would love to chat about the many different maternity and newborn packages I offer.

Look forward to talking to you soon~

xoxo, Danelle

Now offering Fresh 48 Photography | Cleveland, Ohio | Northeast Ohio Photographer

I am so very excited to announce the addition of the “Fresh 48 Photography Sessions” to my packages. You may ask, what exactly is the Fresh 48?

This type of photography is a special session for the those families who want the first few hours of their Newborn’s life captured without the labor or birth documented. The sessions take place at the hospital or birthing center within the first 24-48 hours of life. This session is also known more as a lifestyle and documentary approach of the the newborn and their immediate family. Please note this is not a traditional Newborn Session and I will not pose the baby or bring any props.  

This is what you can expect during the Fresh 48. Once the baby is born and you are settled in your room, I will come to the hospital for your session.  This is typically on day 2.  Since I use natural light, I come during daylight hours.  Between doctors, nurses, and visitors, we don’t have a large window of time for pictures.  Sessions typically last about 45-60 minutes.  This allows time for individual pictures of baby, pictures with parents, and meeting siblings. This will be my chance to capture your baby’s sweet new moments in a fresh natural way!

I LOVED doing the Fresh 48 sessions before Covid. After Covid hit, the hospitals were not allowing that many visitors back into the hospitals. I’m happy to say things have been back to normal and able to capture these beautiful moments for you.

A little background about me.. I am newborn safety certified along with having my Bachelors of Science in Nursing (RN) I can ensure your precious little one will be in great care.

Motherhood Minis 2024 | Mommy and Me Photography | Cleveland, Ohio | Mother's Day

I’m so excited to be hosting my motherhood mini event in my new studio! They will be held on 4/20 from 9-12:30pm. They must be pre-booked with the link below or reach out hello@danellejoyphotography.com.

The mommy and me photo session is perfect for mom and her little ones. We need to get mom in the picture, am I right?! Mom is always the one taking the photos of dad and kids. Not this time. It is moms turn to get all dressed up and have all the pictures done.

This makes a perfect mother’s day gift, so dads don’t wait to book! These sessions will fill up fast. Surprise her with a fun shoot, she will thank you later.

For more information on my photography please reach out.

Hope to see you soon!

~Danelle

Hello & Welcome | Cleveland Ohio Photographer | Northeast Ohio Photographer

Hello & Welcome! As a busy mom, I understand how quickly these little ones grow. I feel like my own 4 children have grown in a blink of an eye. That is my “why” I started my photography journey many years ago. It is so important to capture those moments with your little and big ones! And I want to help you document those precious moments as well.

I’ve owned my photography business for over 6 years and have had the privilege of watching families grow right before my eyes. My expertise has been with Newborns, Children and Family photography. I have always had a love for photography back to the day of developing my own film in a dark room.  For the last 12 years, I have dedicated many hours and continued education in order to learn and perfect the art of photography. Photography is more than a passion of mine, its a lifestyle. Prior to photography my educational background includes being a Registered Nurse and I also received my MBA in healthcare. I’m excited to announce my NEW photography studio is located in Downtown Painesville, Ohio. I service the surrounding areas of Cleveland, Ohio for Newborn, Child and Family Photography.

During my sessions, my goal is to create a very relaxed laid back approach that captures the honest smiles and real connections within the family.  My expertise exists in Newborns, Children, and Families, around the Greater Cleveland area.  I’m an award winner for the best of photography in the city of Painesville for 2018 and 2021. I was also a Finalist (top 3) for Best of Photography for “Best of the East” by Cleveland Magazine 20022. I am now a proud member of the NAPCP and Click & Company. I believe photography is a form of art and it’s my goal to hit the pause button of life and capture these beautiful moments.  Everyone has a story, let me tell yours...

Studio Maternity Session | Cleveland, Ohio | Maternity Session Guide

It seems that maternity photography can often times be overlooked but this is such a beautiful time to capture. I recommend maternity photos to be taken anytime from week 28 to week 35. Your belly needs to be large enough to show off :) But not too far a long that your uncomfortable.

I offer both in studio and on location maternity shoots. Some of my favorite locations within the Cleveland area are Squires castle and chagrin river park. I also can offer indoor maternity shoots at my beautiful studio located in downtown Painesville.

I also offer a discounted package called bump to baby. With this package you’ll receive a maternity, newborn and 1st year photos.

If you’re currently expecting and interested, please reach out! Its best to pre book the sessions.

~Danelle

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.

Christmas Minis | Sugar Pines Tree Farm | Cleveland, Ohio | Family Photographer

This really is the best time of year! Christmas minis have always been so fun and special for me! It really helps kick off the Christmas season. The Christmas minis are perfect for families of all types. They are short, quick and themed at the tree farm. Because I get it and understand, not everyone wants a stuffy hour long photo shoot with screaming kids in tow.

At my session, I try and make them fun, interactive while capturing some great laughs and smiles. My mini sessions usually sell out each year through email alone the end of October. I am booked for the rest of 2023.

If you are interested in booking for next year, please reach out and I’ll add you to my email distribution.

Merry Christmas

~Danelle xoxo

Lifestyle Newborn Session | Cleveland, Ohio | Best Baby Photographer

I absolutely love getting the chance to visit and shoot at family’s homes. There is just something so special about photographing those beautiful new moments in the comforts of your own home. Plus, wouldn’t it be great for me to visit you! After all no one feels like leaving the house right after coming home from the hospital.

What happens when I visit? I bring everything to you! The unique thing about my style of photography is I offer a little bit of both posed newborn photos with lifestyle photos. I have heard many times people still like both setups! I do bring everything needed for the newborn shoot. All I ask in advance is a small 4x4 window lit area for those shots. Usually a back slider or window works perfectly. The lifestyle photos are usually taken throughout the home such as the living room, master and nursery.

I’m now booking into 2024. Please reach out for more information.

xoxo~

Danelle

Studio Maternity Session | Cleveland, Ohio | Maternity Session Guide

It seems that maternity photography can often times be overlooked but this is such a beautiful time to capture. I recommend maternity photos to be taken anytime from week 28 to week 35. Your belly needs to be large enough to show off :) But not too far a long that your uncomfortable.

I offer both in studio and on location maternity shoots. Some of my favorite locations within the Cleveland area are Squires castle and chagrin river park. I also can offer indoor maternity shoots at my beautiful studio located in downtown Painesville.

I also offer a discounted package called bump to baby. With this package you’ll receive a maternity, newborn and 1st year photos.

If you’re currently expecting and interested, please reach out! Its best to pre book the sessions.

~Danelle

Newborn Photographer | Best Baby Photographer | Cleveland, Ohio | Northeast Ohio Photographer

The pops of gold and navy blue really made this sweet newborn session come to life. When preparing for your newborn session I usually recommend choosing a complimentary color palette as opposed to matching. The days of wearing all white and jeans are gone with the 90s. lol..

Today, choosing a coordinating color palette that is neutral in color but adds a little hint of color is best. I usually recommend neutral colors and no prints or stripes. This can be very busy to the eyes and we don’t want to take the focus off the baby.

For scheduling and more information for spring and summer 2023, please reach out. I only take so many clients each month and my schedule is filling.

~xoxo Danelle

Natural Newborn Photography | Northeast Ohio | Best Newborn Photographer

When looking for a newborn photographer, it can be overwhelming. There are so many talented and different types of photographers out there. Some only like lifestyle, studio natural light or even studio light. All of this can create very different types of photos.

How would I describe my Newborn Photography?

My photos are more centered on the airy natural light with some studio light. I love my photos to have a light, white and crisp edge to them. My favorite style are the natural unposed posed photos seen below. There is nothing bette than a sweet newborn on white linens and captured just how they are. No crazy awkward poses, just them sleeping the day away.

Many parents still request posed prop photos and I do love them as well. The benefits of my photography style compared to others is I offer both! I like to offer both posed prop plus more natural lifestyle themed photos. All taken in the comforts of my home studio.

All you need to do is show up! I’ll take care of the rest!

xoxo~ Danelle

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

Petite Newborn Session | Cleveland, Ohio | Newborn Photography

Many times I encourage moms to be in the photos as much as they can. Because we all know moms are left out of the photos many times! However, I understand if sometimes you just don’t feel like having your photo taken. That’s why I now offer the Petite Newborn Session. Its a quick and easy session for just the baby so you don’t have to worry about things not fitting or looking right for the photos. Just come and relax at the session, while I take the baby and do my magic.

With the Petite Newborn Session, it includes a 1 hour session and your choice of 15 images. I send a fully edited gallery of 25-30 images and you can choose your best 15! You also have the choice of purchasing more digitals or the entire gallery.

If you’re interested in booking a petite session, please reach out as availability fills up for the year.

Lifestyle Newborn Session | Newborn Photography | Award Winning Photographer

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.

Tree Farm Mini Sessions | Cleveland, Ohio | Best Photographer | Northeast Ohio

There is nothing better than freshly fallen snow on a beautiful tree farm during the holiday season. I mean its picture perfect, am I right?! I’m been so fortunate to be able to shoot here at Sugar Pines Farms for the last 4 years. Even their tree farm name gives you a warm feel when you think of tree farms. My tree farm minis are announced and booked during the fall for the Christmas Season. They fill up very quickly! If you are interested in future tree farm minis, please join my email list.

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!

Best of the East Cleveland 2022 | Best Photographer | Cleveland, Ohio

I was extremely honored to be notified of being a Top 3 Finalist for the “Best of the East” for photography held by Cleveland Magazine. This is such an honor and extremely grateful for those who nominated me. Each year Cleveland Magazine selects the Best of the East of many different categories. They also hold a Best of the West section at well. This year the Best of the East was finally able to hold their party at Landerhaven! All of the best of each category represented and came together that evening.

I feel so honored to do what I love and able to be recognized at the same time!

I am forever grateful, thank you!

XOXO~Danelle

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.

Spring Mini Session | Rockefeller Greenhouse Cleveland | Cleveland, Ohio

The Rockefeller Greenhouse in Cleveland, Ohio is truly a hidden gem! I couldn’t believe when I first visited the greenhouse how beautiful all of the different plants and flowers were! I knew this was a hidden gem and the perfect place for spring photos! Especially for those who love the natural boho style that is so popular right now! Also, since we can’t count on the weather here in Cleveland to be outside. The warm temperature controlled greenhouse will be the perfect place for photos.

Minis will be held on 4/16/2022 in the morning. You must pre register and book in order to save your photo spot. These minis are perfect for families, children, couples, and HS Seniors! They also make great gift ideas for upcoming mothers day!

For more information, please reach out.

~Danelle