The Ultimate Guide to Preparing for Your New Baby in Cleveland, Ohio: Everything You Need to Know

Whether you're a seasoned pro with a clan of little ones at home, or a first-timer eagerly counting down the days to that special due date, there's something universal about preparing for a new baby - the time always flies by faster than we expect!

Being a mom myself, I've gathered a treasure trove of wisdom on what truly matters when prepping for the arrival of your little one, and what might just be extra noise.

So, let's dive in and explore my top 9 tips on preparing for your new baby while you're still pregnanct!

This is the real-deal, tried-and-tested, straight from the heart advice that you'll be glad to know!

1. Designing the Perfect Nursery (and this likely won’t be what you’re thinking)

So, let's chat nurseries and dream a little!

What do you want it to look like?
Calming ocean vibes?
An out-of-this-world galaxy theme?
Or, maybe, a whimsical enchanted forest?

Trust me, setting up a nursery that's both soothing and practical will help keep your sanity when you're changing the umpteenth diaper at 3 AM.

Let’s start with functionality.

Make sure you've got room for the essentials: a crib, changing station, and, of course, a comfy chair for those late-night feedings.

Next, let's sprinkle some magic on it.

The aesthetics are totally up to you and what you want your baby to experience. Your nursery, your rules.

Cleveland Newborn Photographer

2. Save Your Sanity by Organizing Baby’s Clothes Ahead of Time

Between the baby showers and hand-me-downs, you're probably swimming in a sea of baby clothes. Organizing baby clothes might sound like a low-priority job, but let me tell you, it's a sanity saver!

Why? Because you'll be up to your elbows in diapers and the last thing you need is to dig for a clean onesie at the bottom of a messy drawer.

So, here's a little trick — sort baby’s outfits by size and season. That way, you can grab the right gear at the right time, and you don't have to worry about missing out on using that darling summer romper because it was hidden behind winter gear.

3. Keep the Diaper Station in Order

Clear bins, closet shelves, or even a hanging shoe organizer can work wonders for keeping those diapers within reach.

Pro tip: Keep a stash in each room you spend time in — nothing like a diaper emergency in the living room with no supplies in sight.

(click here to read about how to create a “baby care” basket)

4. Meal Prep Like a Masterchef

The 4th trimester is all about giving your body the love and nutrients it needs to heal and power you through those early, sleep-deprived weeks with your little one.

The solution? Meal prep, my friend. Now, I'm not talking about slaving in the kitchen for hours. You've got enough on your plate (pun totally intended!). I mean simple, delicious, and nutritious make-ahead meals.

We're talking big-batch veggie lasagna, hearty chicken soup, or black bean enchiladas - all that you can easily freeze and reheat when hunger strikes. Being a new mom with little ones already in tow, freezer meals were hands down a life safer! Make tons of freezer meals and look for ideas here on Pinterest and it will save you sanity after the baby arrives! Click Here for Meal Ideas!

5. Rock-a-bye Baby: Creating a Soothing Sleep Environment

Let's chat about sleep.

Yeah, I know, it's that elusive thing that everyone says you're gonna miss once your baby arrives. But don't worry, you've got this. Sleep is all about setting up the right vibes, for both you and your little one.

First off, you want to make sure your baby's room is calm, cozy, and free from distractions. Think of it like creating a little zen bubble for your baby to drift off to sleep.

Noise-cancelling curtains and white noise machines will become your new BFFs. They create a gentle, soothing backdrop.

Setting up a sleep-friendly environment is more than just about catching some Zs. It's about creating a space that helps your baby (and you!) feel secure, comfortable, and relaxed.

Cleveland Ohio Newborn Photographer

6. Navigating Cleveland, Ohio with Your New Baby

Just because you've got a mini-me in tow doesn't mean you can't enjoy the best of Cleveland!

First things first, invest in a good stroller. Find a stroller that's comfy for your little one, easy for you to maneuver, and rugged enough to handle Cleveland sidewalks.

Check out this article about some amazing stroller options! Here

Cleveland is full of baby-friendly places that you'll love too. Our parks are a great starting point - they're perfect for leisurely strolls, and they've got those oh-so-important diaper changing stations.

Check out this article from Cleveland with kids and some great Mommy and Me parks! Click here!

If you're into yoga or looking to get into it, there are some great mom and baby classes in Cleveland too. It's a great way to get some exercise, bond with your baby, and meet other moms. Happy me Kids yoga is a great place to check out! Check them out.

7. Local Support for Cleveland Moms

This journey of motherhood, it's not something you have to do alone! In fact, it's way more fun when you have people to share it with.

There's an army of fellow moms right here in Cleveland who are ready to join forces with you. You've just got to find them.

Start with your local community center. They usually host mom-and-baby meetups where you can chat about everything from diaper brands to sleep schedules while your little ones play. Nothing beats an in-person heart-to-heart with another mom who gets it.

But what if getting out and about isn't in the cards?

There are plenty of online communities full of Cleveland moms just like you. Facebook groups, Meetup.com, Instagram pages, even Reddit threads - there's a wealth of information, advice, and support out there.

Librairies are a great place to check out because they often have storytime sessions for little ones. You get to meet other moms, and your kiddo gets entertained! I lived at the library and story time when my own kids were little. It was our special time together and I will forever cherish those memories together!

9. Planning to Introduce Pets to Your Newborn

Okay, I know you've been thinking about this one!
How is your four-legged friend, going to react to the new family addition?

Now, here's another pro tip just for you. Take the baby’s hospital blanket home first and allow the dog or cat to smell and get used to the baby’s scent. Doing this gradually and always including the four legged friend with reassure them they are still part of the family.

Just remember that each pet is unique. So, while my pet may adjust quickly, your pet might need a little more time and that’s perfectly okay. The key is patience, and yes, a lot of it!

Cleveland Ohio Newborn Photographer

10. Hire your newborn (and/or birth) photographer!

No surprise that I’m going to add this to the list right?

This is not just about capturing cute baby pictures, it's about freezing those precious moments in time and creating tangible memories that will take you back to the early days of parenthood (the good parts anyway ;) )

A skilled newborn photographer knows how to capture the delicate details, the overwhelming love, and the pure magic that surrounds your little bundle of joy.

They have a knack for creating stunning compositions that reflect your unique journey into parenthood.

Friend, Your dedication to preparing and loving your baby even before their arrival shows what an amazing mom you're going to be!

I hope this blog post has offered you some unique and new ideas on how to prepare for your newborn in Cleveland, Ohio!

Want to see more of my (Newborn Photography)? Click here!

Love,

Danelle

A cold but beautiful outdoor Maternity Photoshoot at Lake Erie | Mentor Ohio Maternity Photographer

I’ve always love having outdoor maternity shoots in the middle of winter. The snowy backgrounds always create the beautiful backdrop for maternity shoots. A beautiful growing family met me at Lake Erie Bluffs near Mentor Ohio. They also brought their 2 cute dogs along for the shoot. When we arrived the wind was howling over the lake and we were in a snap of the frigid temps. The dogs of course were loving being outside in the snow and running around. We quickly took some shots with the pups and put them back in the car.

Cleveland Ohio Maternity Photographer, Lake Erie

We then made our way down to the frozen lake. It was really beautiful seeing Lake Erie completely frozen over! Megan also loved drift wood, so we were lucky enough to see driftwood still scattered throughout the frozen banks. Did I mention at this point, the wind is still howling, lol! They were both a trooper with the cold. I must say though this might have been the coldest day I have ever shot photos in. I’ve been doing outdoor shoots for over 7 years now.

Cleveland Ohio Maternity Photographer, Lake Erie Bluffs

WE continued throughout the shoot taking beautiful images along the frozen water! If you are expecting and thinking about maternity photos. I do offer both indoor and outdoor maternity sessions. I hope by reading this, the outdoor winter sessions are very possible!

Click here for more of my maternity work shown in studio and on location outside.

Have a good day,

Danelle

5 Essential Tips for a Successful Newborn Photography Session

As your Cleveland Ohio Newborn Photographer lets discuss 5 essential tips for a successful newborn shoot!

For any professional photography shoot to be successful, a lot of planning goes into every shoot. So lets dive into some of the most important steps to planning a stress free newborn photography session.

1) While you are still awaiting for your little one to arrive, book your Newborn session! I can’t stress this enough. I understand from the moment you find your expecting everything feels like a whirlwind. But having 1 less to do on your list such as newborn portraits is a big must. Many newborn photographers fill up quickly and months in advance. For myself I only take a certain amount of newborns each month so I can leave room open for date changes. Please remember to book that newborn session while you're still expecting not once the baby arrives.

2) Consider doing in studio shoots as opposed to in your home. Don’t get me wrong I do love visiting peoples home and shooting lifestyle shoots. However, it’s simply a different look in the studio vs in home shoots. When coming to my studio I am well equipped with all wraps, accessories props and proper lighting needed for the shoot. There will be no guessing how the photos will come out since studio shoots are very well planned, organized and well lit with professional lighting.

Cleveland Ohio Newborn Photographer

3) Plan on brining extra outfits, diapers, bottles to feed and pacifiers. I always tell parents to plan on the unexpected during the shoot. I have been doing this long enough that usually the baby will act and do things a little differently during the shoot. And that’s OK! We have to consider the baby could be going through a growth spurt during their session therefore wanting to eat more than ever. More than they usually do. I hear this a lot, I can’t believe they are eating so much. So don’t forget extra diapers too!

I always recommend bringing a pacifier even if they DO NOT take one at home. Sometimes just having the baby suck or even play with the pacifier calms them enough in between shots to get the look I want.

Cleveland Ohio Newborn Photographer

4) If traveling with a toddler during the newborn session bring lots of snack and toys for them to be entertained. Often times keeping the toddler happy can be more work than putting the newborn to sleep, lol. I get it, I am around many toddlers every week and they are a fun bunch :)

5) SIT BACK & RELAX. I always tell parents this is your time to sit and relax for a few minutes, I’ve got the baby. I am not only safety certified on how to handle newborns during my photography sessions but I was also a nurse and mother of 4 little ones. So don’t worry, I’ve got this and will create some of the most beautiful portraits for your family.

Cleveland Ohio Newborn Photographer

And that’s about it! I hope you enjoyed reading these tips on how to prepare for a successful shoot. If you already booked a Newborn Session with Danelle Joy Photography then sit back and relax, I’ve got this.

If you still are unsure and have more questions about the shoot please reach out I would love to chat and answer all of your questions.

Kindly,

Danelle

Cleveland Photographer | Newborn and Family Photography | Studio Photography

Now is the best time to book your newborn shoot for 2024. My calendar is filling up and now booking into April for those sessions. What’s include with a Newborn Session?

For my Simply beautiful session, it’s a 2 hour studio shoot with full access to my client closet and all newborn accessories. Such as wraps, headbands, props and clothes. Your session is customized and unique for your family. The best part is all digital images are included. Usually 40-50 images. If they are all good and beautiful, I sent them all. There is no holding back on digital images.

Contact me today for specific pricing.

xoxo~ Danelle

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

Now Booking 2021 Newborn Photography | Cleveland, Ohio | Lake County, Ohio

Happy New Year! I am now booking for 2021 Newborn Photography Sessions! I offer many different options to help meet everyones needs. My Simply Beautiful Newborn Session is $400 and is a 2 hour session that takes place in my home studio. This is for the newborn, mom, dad and siblings. You also receive all of the images taken from that session, usually about 40 plus photos. You get full access to all of my newborn wraps, outfits, props etc needed for the shoot. All you need to do is show up with a smile :)

If you are just in need of a quick session, I also offer a petite newborn session for $300 and that is a 1 hour session. This includes 15 images with the option to purchase more prints or digitals. If you are interested in a Maternity shoot, if booked together you’ll receive 10% off!

Please contact me for availability in 2021!

Santa Photography | Cleveland Family Photography | Pictures with Santa

This year has really turned out to be a real Merry Grinchmas. But that doesn’t mean we still can’t have fun with Santa. Many people are choosing to skip the lines at the mall with Santa due to all the restrictions. I mean who wants their pictures taken with a plexiglass Santa?! I’m now offering a safe alternative for Santa Photos 2020! Its so easy and can be done without you leaving the comforts of your home. Just email me a good high resolution image and I will create a beautiful Santa composite. The cost is $15 for 1 digital Santa photo. You may choose from Old Time Vintage Santa or Traditional Santa! Merry Christmas:)

Who doesn't love Disney | Newborn Photography | Mentor, Ohio | Cleveland, Ohio

Who doesn’t love Disney!? Isn’t that a silly question anyway! I always try to do something special for my Newborn families by adding in a special photo that takes some pixie dust and magic. When this mom told me she was a HUGE Disney fan, I knew I had to do something fun for her new little one. Check out the photos below featuring Winnie the Pooh and Harry Potter!

If you have something that you might think, oh there is no way she can incorporate that for us. Please ask me anyway! I am always willing to try new things and adding some magic to your photography gallery.

Maternity Session at Sunset | Horse Farm | Newborn Photography | Northeast Ohio

A few ingredients of my favorite things would include a horse farm, golden hour and photography. I was lucky enough to have all three at my most recent Maternity Shoot. This shoot took place in Concord Township, Ohio on a beautiful horse farm tucked away on many acres of land. I was so happy to get my horse fill while I was there and visit some of the beauties in the stalls.

The main benefit of on location Maternity Photography Sessions, they can take place exactly where you always dreamt your picture would be. Over the years I’ve done many parks, private homes, urban places, beach and now the horse farm.

Please reach out for more detailed information on my Maternity Sessions.

Always worth the wait | Newborn Photography | Cleveland, Ohio | Lake County, Ohio

“Always worth the wait” is saying it in simple terms once your bundle of joy has finally arrived. Those 9 months of worry, waiting and anticipation quickly fades away once your sweet little one is place in your warm arms. Newborn photography has quickly become a favorite of mine over the years because of 4 children of my own I understand how quickly those younger (and exhausting) years take place. Honestly, a newborn only seems so itty bitty those first few weeks of life and before you know it they are a month old. A lot more alert, moving and possibly keeping you up at night;)

In regards to newborn photography I do offer a full signature session and my petite newborn session. My most popular package is by far the signature full session. This session is 2 hrs and takes place in my home studio. Due to Covid I have taken extreme caution and sanitation measures in order to keep everyone safe. With the full session, I recommend the photos take place within the first 2 weeks of life. At that age its easier for me to sooth and calm the back to sleep which is needed for some newborn posing.

If you are interested in scheduling a newborn session, please reach out for more detailed information.

First Birthday Cake Smash | Northeast Ohio Photographer | Child Photographer

”Rookie of the year” First Birthday. How fun is this little guy. All full milestone photography packages are completely customized to the them you have in mind. Whether it be a pink fairy tale first birthday, dinosaurs or baseball themed. I will work with you and together we will come up with some great ideas needed for your little ones first birthday. The cake smash is optional with the milestone shoot. I usually start with portrait like photos before things get a little fun and messy with the cake.

The details of a full milestone session is a 1 hour photo shoot and you also receive 40 digital images with print release. The cost is $325. I also offer a mini cake smash session which is a 30 minute shoot, 1 backdrop choice and 10 digital images. The cost is $225 for that package.

Contact me today for availability.

Signature Photo Sessions | Now offering Digitals & Video | Newborn Photography | Northeast Ohio

When it comes to professional photography it can be an investment from start to finish. I completely understand the time, energy and finances it takes from the moment you start googling “photographers near me” to the actual shoot day. The process can be daunting, whether your expecting and want every moment of your newborns life captured or your a busy mom of 3 who desperately needs updated photos. Its all a process from choosing and researching the best photographer for your family to coordinating outfits. My goal is to help take the stress out of those moments.

When booking with Danelle Joy Photography the very first thing I like to do is a Pre-session consult. This can be done via phone or email and its my chance to understand your needs, style and goals for the photo shoot. After all, anyone can take some quick pics of your family, but you want more than that, you want treasured moments.

The Pre-session consult includes discussing the best type of package, location and expectations during the shoot. I am also always happy to include my professional opinion for clothing choices as well. I have put together many articles that focus on starting in your own closet first and adding little pieces of clothing into the mix. You don’t need to go broke just for the photo shoot. I usually recommend many of my clothing finds from Target, Tj Maxx and Old navy.

Since I understand it is a large investment, NEW this year and included with my Signature Family and Newborn sessions is a custom 8x8 photo book and Video. I believe after all, you should receive more than just digital images from your session. The photo book is hand selected and created by me, featuring the favorite photos. I am so excited to be offering a Video new this year. This will be a collection of behind the scenes and photos all put together like a slideshow. Oh cool is that.

My overall goal is to create a beautiful and lasting experience for you. If you are thinking of family photos for the spring and summer it is better to book more sooner than later. My 2020 calendar is starting to fill. Please contact me today for your next custom photo session.

Lifestyle Newborn Photography | Cleveland, Ohio | Lake County, Ohio| Danelle Joy Photography

Lifestyle Newborn Photography! Newborn photography session that focuses on more lifestyle candid photos of how life takes place naturally in the comforts of your own home. My areas of choice to shoot while in your home is the nursery, master bedroom and living room. If you would still like a nice selection of traditional newborn photos all I need is a nice small area close to window.

The lifestyle session includes a 2-3 hour in home session. I bring all of my newborn accessories and props to you as well. Also includes 50 high resolution images with copyright plus 8x8 custom photo book. I'm a strong believer that photos need to be printed and not left on a computer.
Contact me today for special rates now until 4/1!

Bump to Baby Photography | Best Newborn Photographer | Northeast Ohio

Are you expecting a little one in 2020 and plan on wanting to document every step of their arrival? My bump to baby package is the perfect photography package for you. And it will save you some money, actually $275 cost savings on all photos. Who wouldn’t like that?

My Bump to Baby packages was by far the most popular Newborn Package last year and perfect for the families who know they want Maternity, Newborn and 1 year photos. With my bump to baby you will receive 1 hour Maternity session, 1 hour newborn session and 1 year milestone photos. The milestone photos can take place anytime during the babies first year. Your choice. Also included with each session is a min of 40 digital images with copyright. When booking the bump to baby each cost of the session is not due until the session takes place and it is discounted of $275.

Are you interested in learning more and booking a session? Contact me for availability and to book your spot.

Now Booking 2020 Newborn Photography | Mentor, Ohio | Cleveland, Ohio

This is the perfect time to start thinking about Newborn Photography in 2020. Its never too early to book your Newborn session, actually the earlier is better. I currently offer 5 different Newborn Packages to fit everyone’s needs. From Fresh 48, where I come visit you in the hospital to my mini and full service newborn session. A very popular package for 2019 was my bump to baby package. This is for those who know they want maternity, newborn and their first year pictures. Book all 3 and receive a discount on each session. Please contact me for more information regarding Newborn Photography.

And Baby Girl now makes a Family of 4 | Cleveland Photography | Newborn Photography

It was so special to photograph this new baby girl. The reason was I first met this cute couple when we did a fall photo session and she announced she was expecting. No one knew yet she was expecting I was able to photograph the sweet ultrasound with the soon to be big brother. At the time neither of us knew if a baby brother or sister would be joining the family.

I offer many different newborn packages in order to fit everyone’s needs. I offer in my studio newborn plus family sessions, mini newborn sessions (just for the baby) and I also travel to clients homes. I bring all of my newborn supplies with me and we focus on more lifestyle photos!

For more information contact me!

Newborn Photography | Cleveland, Ohio | Mentor, Ohio | Best Newborn Photographer

Baby B is finally here. It is so exciting to first photograph the expectant parents during the maternity session and then finally meet the baby. Baby B was a dream to photograph, he did so well during his first photo shoot. My newborn photo shoots take place in my in home studio. They usually last 2 hours and is a nice mixture of both newborn and family poses.

For more information please contact me!

In full bloom with this Newborn Photography Session | Cleveland, Ohio | Mentor, Ohio

Its always a pleasure meeting and talking with a family expecting a new little one on the way. This family not only trusted me with their newborn session but also their Fresh 48 session. The best part is non of us new if the family was going to have a baby boy or girl? They currently have a baby boy at home and we all were anticipating the news of the baby’s arrival. I will say I was a little excited to hear girl since for some reason 2018 and early 2019 was a year of newborn boys. I met the family in their hospital room for their fresh 48 session. Baby girl looked perfect and mom, dad and brother were thrilled for her to be here. The fresh 48 take place within 48 hours after delivery. I usually like to come in about day 2 of their stay. Once I wrapped up the fresh 48 session I was looking forward to them returning for their newborn sessions.

This session took place in my small studio. The newborn session entails more of the traditional poses of baby and adding in mom, dad and brother as well. I am so thrilled for the C. Family and their new family. I wish nothing but the best and creating sweet memories as they watch their children grow through the years.

The benefits of Newborn Lifestyle Photography | Cleveland, Ohio | Lake County, Ohio

Those tiny toes, the fluttering eyelashes, the way they grasp their parents’ fingers. These are the moments that parents want to record and keep forever.  There really is two different types of Newborn Photography today. There is the traditional Newborn Photography which is the type of photos you see with babies in baskets, bowls and backdrops. I currently offer this type of photography and is done at all of my newborn sessions. I also have a variety of “high-end” wraps, headbands and accessories to choose from while customizing your session.

The second type of Newborn photography is known as Lifestyle photography. So what exactly is this? This is more like photojournalism in that it is designed to tell a story, and document the baby with their new surroundings. These tend to be shots that are more real and less staged, designed to capture the essence of having a newborn. This is truly my favorite since it allows poses to be natural, unposed and artistic all at the same time. The true benefit of Lifestyle photography is the session takes place in the comforts of your OWN home! How great is that! Especially after coming home from the hospital, who really wants to leave to go get pictures taken. I am happy to bring everything to you! At my Lifestyle sessions, I bring all of my props, swaddles and accessories with me. I do a combination of traditional newborn poses so you don’t miss out on those plus lifestyle photography throughout your home. No worries if you have high energy toddlers at home too. I will capture those true smiles and laughs all while incorporating the newest member of your family:)

I currently blend in a 3rd option with all of my newborn sessions. I have become known as the “unposed” Newborn photography style. This typically is a white sheet with a white wrap flowing around the baby. I love this new unique style that looks as it should. Unposed and 100% natural at the same time. Please look below for examples of my most recent lifestyle session that took place.

My spring calendar is filling up, Contact me today if your interested in booking your Newborn Session today!

Simply Beautiful Newborn Session | Cleveland, Ohio | Mentor, Ohio

One of my favorites backdrops or props with my Newborns is the Simply White backdrop. It is so pure, classy and elegant that puts all the focus on your newborn. My goal when photographing a newborn in this pose is to allow the baby to look the most natural and pure as they can. I’m not trying to do some crazy “yoga” poses with your precious little newborn but rather that him/her decide where and how to lay. Then I place a white sheet around the baby to accent them.

Please contact me to book your 2019 Newborn Session. I offer a couple different options and please check back for more of my most recent and updated sessions.

xoxo-Danelle

Newborn PHotographer, Cleveland Ohio Newborn Photographer, Mentor, Ohio Newborn photographer, Mentor Ohio Baby photographer, Lake County Baby Photographer