Why Most Newborn Photos Are Done Asleep | Best Newborn Photographer | Cleveland, Ohio
Why are most newborn photos are done asleep? I’m sure you’ve looked over many newborn photos and noticed they are usually sleeping. You might also be wondering will my baby sleep, what if they don’t, what if they cry most of the session. I hear these exact questions from many moms who are worried the session might not go well. I can reassure you, that 95% of the time the baby does fall asleep and I’m able to capture some amazing photos.
Best Cleveland Newborn Photographer
The truth is with a little planning and timing this will equal the best newborn session! I also recommend the sessions to take place anytime from day 5 to day 15 of their life. Why is that? During that time period, babies are just more naturally sleeping and easier to sooth back to sleep. Once the baby gets closer to the 1 month age, they are more alert and harder to settle for sleepy poses. Why are sleeping poses so important?
Newborns, by definition, are brand new and still figuring things out.They also clearly have no motor control so while there are opportunities for them to stretch in a cute way, its a lot more likely that their arms and legs will move around somewhat randomly. Given that they’re used to being all snug and they have no idea what arms and legs are so they’re just random things moving near them, this can make them feel a bit unsettled. Anytime they are not wrapped, chilly or able to move their arms or legs around they are most likely to get fussy and harder to photograph.
Do I have some tip and tricks?
Of course! I always tell the parents to plan on the baby to eat more, mess their diaper more, and want to sooth more at the session than at home. I don’t know why this is, could be the constant handling during the 2 hours but they do seem to eat a lot!. I always recommend to bring a pacifier. Even if they don’t take it at home, it can be very helpful to sooth them just for 5 seconds to get the shot. Sometimes that is all I need!
What if the baby is fussy?
If I know the baby has ate, clean diaper and still fussy? This is when the baby is wrapped nice and snug and we focus on the family, mom and dad shots. I can create many cool shots with mom and dad and you would never know the baby is crying! Also, during the family shots the baby is constantly being moved and handled and this usually helps them fall asleep. Its always a win win because we didn’t wast tons of time trying to the sooth the baby for their solo shots and we were able to finish all of the family shots!
Once the baby is sleep I then can move quickly through the solo shots of the baby and macro detailed shots.
Cleveland Newborn Photographer
It’s also important to note all of my Newborn sessions are baby led! What does this mean? I’m never going to force them to go in any position or spend tons of time soothing them to sleep. I will follow their cue. If they are fussy, it’s the best time for family shots or sibling shots. Honestly, it’s nice to have a little mix of both awake and sleepy photos. I can guarantee this will happen for your newborn shoot as well.
Have more questions, or learning more about my style of photography? Please check out my gallery here and I’d be happy to chat with you about the process of newborn photography with me.
Take care,
Danelle
How to prepare for a Newborn Photography Session
While preparing for a newborn session with me I always like to offer some useful tips to make the session go smoother. I always recommend to feed your baby before the session is scheduled to begin. This can be about an hour or so before the shoot. No worries If you have a long drive, you are welcome to feed again at the studio.
If you are okay with baby using one,bring a pacifier, even if
baby doesn’t seem to take to it. I always understand that the baby is still trying to figure out how to use a pacifier. The main reason I recommend bringing one to the shoot is to help settle them if they become fussy. They always need the soothing and sucking reflex to help relax them.
Sucking is a soothing mechanism & can really help with settling baby once I have them in place for photos, even if I have to hold the pacifier.
The studio will be warm. Baby’s like being warm and having the
heat cranked up (no matter the time of year), helps baby stay
settled and sleepy.
You are more than welcome to bring drinks and
a change of clothes to change out of if you think you’ll get hot.
There is no need to bring anything for baby to wear. I provide all the
wraps, headbands, hats, clothes & props. Unless there is something
special you want to bring for your newborn’s photos, don’t worry
about outfits. If there is something special you want to bring, be sure
to let me know so I can work a set around it.
Go simple for family’s wardrobe. When planning your outfits for the
family & sibling shots, stick with soft, neutral colors like grey or
cream as the dominate colors. This keeps the focus on baby and the focus on them.
If you have more questions regarding newborn photography, please reach out! I would love to chat!
xoxo Danelle
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
Rainbow Baby after the Storm | Newborn Photographer | Cleveland Ohio Photographer
As a Cleveland, Ohio photographer it is always such an honor to capture a rainbow baby photography session. Over the last 6 years, I have captured many rainbow babies in my studio. Such a pleasure to see the joy with the family after waiting many months or years for their special one to arrive.
What is a rainbow baby?
A baby born shortly after the loss of a previous baby. The loss could be from miscarriage stillbirth or death infancy. The term rainbow baby is often given, since the rainbow follows the storm.
What takes place during my newborn sessions?
My newborn sessions usually last 2-2.5 hours depending on how the baby does. If the baby is asleep I like to photograph all of the posed and wrapped shots first. If the baby becomes fussy, we usually take a small break to eat and then start with the family photos. While holding the baby and re positioning them, they often times fall back to sleep. I like to end with my lifestyle area and “less wrapped” photos. These photos can be more tricky since it depends how cooperative the baby is. If the baby is unable to settle this is the perfect time to capture those macro shots of tiny ears, feet and hands.
How to book?
It’s best to reach out before the baby comes to ensure you’ll have a spot reserved for newborn portraits. Most people do book well in advance and I don’t like to turn people away if my schedule is full.
The portraits usually take place anytime from day 5 to day 15 of life. I like this sweet spot, since they look like newborns and are more easily able to fall back to sleep.
Please reach out if you have more questions regarding my newborn photography.
xoxo~ Danelle
How to get ready for a cake smash | Chagrin Falls, Ohio | Best Baby photographer
Cake smash sessions are always a favorite of mine! They can be so fun, stress free and full of giggles. Especially if you plan early enough. I recommend booking a cake smash a few months ahead of time, in order to plan the session. I’m always happy to coordinate the planned theme. Many times moms know exactly what they want for the first birthday.
Other times I have heard, “I have no clue”… Any ideas?!
Of course I have some great ideas! I also recommend bringing the outfit and cake to the shoot. I can provide most of the decor and balloons for the session.
Be Prepared for Anything!
Those are the basics of how to get ready for a cake smash session beforehand. Once you show up at the studio, the best advice I can give is to be prepared for anything! As long as you are relaxed and ready to have fun that will go a long way to helping your baby do the same as we celebrate their birthday
Have more questions about how to get ready for a cake smash session? Please reach out and I would be happy to do a phone consult and plan the cake smash session!
~Danelle
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.
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
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...
Winter Maternity Shoot | Squires Castle | Cleveland, Ohio | Best Photographer
When is the best time to take Maternity Photos?
I recommend anytime from week 28-36. I want you to have a nice little bump but also not uncomfortable for the shoot.
Where do they take place?
I offer both outdoor and indoor studio shoots for maternity. The outdoor shoots seem to be more popular even during the winter time! I love going to squires castle after a fresh blanket of snow. I also recommend the moms to bring blankets and cover up in between shoots.
What happens during the shoot?
I understand it can be awkward and unsure of how to pose. No worries! I will guide you every step of the way with the posing for the shoot. Please check out some of my most recent sessions here:
How long do they last? I offer both a mini 30 minute and full 1 hour shoot. With the mini session you also receive 15 images. The full 1 hour shoot you’ll receive close to 40 images. All of my pricing includes the session fee and digital images. No extra hidden costs.
How much does to cost?
Click here for pricing: Danelle Joy Photography Pricing
What should you wear?
I recommend wearing clothing that you would feel comfortable. I do offer a few maternity dresses that you are welcome to borrow. Long flowing dresses look amazing in the shoots.
Ready to book your photo shoot?
Reach out and I’ll get it scheduled
Thank you,
Danelle
January Studio Newborn Photoshoot | Cleveland's Best Photographer | Newborn Portraits
It is always the biggest compliment when I see parents come in for photos with their 2nd and 3rd child. It is such an honor to watch their families grow over the years. This sweet session was the family’s 2nd child and was such a dream at his first newborn shoot.
Meet Baby Grayson!
When should newborn pictures take place? I recommend anytime from day 5 to day 15 of life.
Does it have to be in that time frame? This is a strong recommendation if you would like the pictures to look like the ones you’ve seen on my website. Within that time frame the babies are usually sleepier and easier to wrap for the photos. Once they reach the 1 month age, they have grown and changed so much!
What newborn packages do you offer? I offer both a the full 2 hour shoot which includes family, newborn and sibling pictures. I also offer a petite newborn shoot for 1 hour. These photos are just of the baby alone.
What’s included with the newborn packages? The packages include the shooting time, full access to all high end wraps, bonnets and props. It also includes a minimum of 40 digital images. I usually send anywhere fro 40-50 images. You’ll also receive 20% off my professional printing services.
When should you book a Newborn Session? I recommend researching and booking your photographer during your second trimester. I know it’s early but my calendar does fill up and you can’t wait until the baby is born. It will be hard to find an open photographer.
Ready to book you session? Please reach out and I’d be happy to offer a phone consultation for your next Newborn Shoot.
Thank you,
Danelle xoxo
Now Booking Newborn Photography 2024 | Cleveland, Ohio | Best Baby Photographer
Its so hard to believe we are well into 2024 already! With the New Year, I always get excited about offering new items and ideas to my business.
Behind the scenes I’ve been gearing up and taking many new newborn classes. The world of photography with newborns are always changing and I find it extremely important to stay current and up to date. That is the best way to offer all of my clients the most up to date beautiful and professional images. I also am offering many new props, wraps and accessories to my newborn closet! This will also help enhance the look and represent Newborn Photography for 2024. I can see parents today want to stay current and love their photos to represent the times while staying classic as well.
I recommend booking while you are expecting. Please don’t wait until the baby is born to start researching newborn photographers. At that time, most are already booked. Plus the best time to photograph newborns is anytime from day 7 to day 15 of life. So some planning must take place to achieve the perfect photos. Cleveland, Ohio Newborn Photographer
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.
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.
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
Welcome Baby Marcus | Cleveland Photographer | Best Newborn Photographer
Oh, how I love how everything came together perfectly for this studio newborn shoot! This family nailed their neutral clothings by mixing it up with some browns, blacks and creams. Your photos need to be elegant, classy and timeless especially when looking at them 15 years from now. When choosing what to wear, I don’t recommend any thing too trendy, stripes or patterns. Neutrals are always best! When booking a session with me, I’m happy to help consult clothing ideas and suggestions. Please reach out!
xoxo,
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
Now Booking Newborn Photography 2024 | Cleveland, Ohio | Best Baby Photographer
Its so hard to believe we are well into 2024 already! With the New Year, I always get excited about offering new items and ideas to my business.
Behind the scenes I’ve been gearing up and taking many new newborn classes. The world of photography with newborns are always changing and I find it extremely important to stay current and up to date. That is the best way to offer all of my clients the most up to date beautiful and professional images. I also am offering many new props, wraps and accessories to my newborn closet! This will also help enhance the look and represent Newborn Photography for 2024. I can see parents today want to stay current and love their photos to represent the times while staying classic as well.
I recommend booking while you are expecting. Please don’t wait until the baby is born to start researching newborn photographers. At that time, most are already booked. Plus the best time to photograph newborns is anytime from day 7 to day 15 of life. So some planning must take place to achieve the perfect photos. Cleveland, Ohio Newborn Photographer
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
Spring Mini Sessions 2023 | Cleveland, Ohio | Best Cleveland Photographer
Now Booking for 3/25 Spring Mini Photography Sessions!
These are perfect for Maternity, Family, Children and Mommy & Me!
Click here to book today!
