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

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

How to Prepare for Your First Pregnancy in Cleveland by a Northeast Ohio Newborn Photographer

Did you know there are more than the typical 3 trimesters of pregnancy? Today I’m spilling the tea on everything you can expect from conception to the mysterious "4th trimester."

I’m not only going to share with you what to expect in each, but also a lot of local resources you can use as you plan for your pregnancy, newborn and birth in Mentor Ohio.

Cleveland Ohio Newborn Photographer, Mentor Ohio Newborn Photographer

First Trimester: The Secret Life of Pregnancy

The first trimester is like a secret club where only you and your growing baby are members. During these first 12 weeks, your body is working overtime to create a new life, and you might be feeling the effects (hello, morning sickness). It's like you're part of an exclusive group that only fellow expectant moms can truly understand.

Second Trimester: The Golden Age

For many, the second trimester is the golden age of pregnancy, where you can finally start enjoying the journey. With the nausea subsiding and the baby bump showing, it's time to embrace the experience.

Third Trimester: The Home Stretch

The third trimester is when things start to get real. As you prepare for your baby's arrival, you'll want to make sure you have everything in place for a smooth transition.

Birth: The Main Event

The moment you've been waiting for is finally here: birth! Whether you're planning a natural birth or a C-section, this stage is exciting and emotional!

Cleveland Ohio Fresh 48 Photographer, Northeast Ohio Fresh 48 Photographer

The 4th Trimester: What No One Tells You

Surprise! Your journey doesn't end with birth. The 4th trimester is the first three months of your baby's life, where both of you are adjusting to the world outside the womb.

• ●  This is the time of possibly postpartum depression or anxiety can occur here. If you are experiencing some sadness or feelings of being low, it’s best to seek help and talk with someone. Local support groups filled with other moms going through this same phase are all a great resource. Ask while in the hospital, the nurse should give you local resources available.

• This is also the time when breastfeeding can be a challenge for both the mom and baby. There are tons of lactation support available to help guide your through this challenging time.

  Of course, every journey is unique, and it's okay to feel a whole range of emotions along the way. As long as you've got your support system and resources, you'll be able to navigate this crazy adventure.

  Thanks for reading!

Since you made it all the way down here – are you looking for a Newborn Photographer? Click here to see more of my Newborn Photography galleries.

How to get your house newborn-ready in just two weeks | Painesville, Ohio Newborn Photographer

Are you expecting a new baby in the next few weeks? I totally get it, the anticipation can be exciting and overwhelming all at the same time. But don't worry, I've got your back! I've rounded up my top 6 tips for getting your home ready for your new arrival in just two weeks.

As a mom who's been through the newborn phase 4 times, I've gathered some unique ideas and tips that you might not have thought of before!

Cleveland Ohio Newborn Photographer

1. Declutter your home

Decluttering your home can sound like a daunting task, especially when you're expecting a newborn! But it's easier than you think to get your home ready for your newest addition.

Here are some steps to follow to declutter before baby arrives:

Step 1: Choose two or three rooms that you frequent most often (most likely this will be your living room, kitchen and bedroom).

Step 2: Start by noticing where things tend to pile up. For me, that’s always been the kitchen. Find a new place for these items to go so they stop piling up!

Step 3: Let’s “Marie Kondo” your stuff! Go through each drawer, cabinet and shelf and ask yourself, “Do I still need/want this item?”

Step 4: Make 3 piles, “Keep, Donate, Toss” and put everything into 1 of those piles.

Step 5: Organize the “keep” items, throw away the “toss” items (or recycle if possible) and give away the “donate.”

Honestly decluttering has always been overwhelming for me, but I feel SO much better when I declutter my

space. It is always worth the effort for me!

Turn on some music and make it fun! Ask a friend to come over and help.

By following these simple steps over the course of just a few days or a weekend, you can quickly create a stress-free and comfortable newborn-ready environment in your own home.

2. Batch cook

The thought of cooking a ton of food in one go can be intimidating, but batch cooking is a lifesaver, especially when you're getting ready to welcome your newborn into the world. You'll thank yourself later!

Here are a few simple steps to follow to get started:

Step 1: Plan out your meals. Choose recipes that are easy to make in large quantities, and make a list of all the ingredients you will need.

Step 2: Go grocery shopping. Try to do this a few days before you plan to start cooking, so you have everything you need on hand.

Step 3: Set aside a block of time to cook. Depending on how much you want to make, you may need several hours or even a full day to get everything done. Consider getting the help of a friend or family member to make it more fun!

Step 4: Cook in batches. Prepare one recipe at a time, and portion it out into individual servings. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and be sure to label everything with the name of the dish and the date it was made.

Step 5: Freeze your meals. Once everything is cooked and portioned out, place the containers in the freezer. They will keep for several months, so you can have a variety of meals ready to go whenever you need them.

By following these steps, you can create a stockpile of nutritious, homemade meals that will make the first few weeks with your newborn a little bit easier!

Here are some great meal prep companies you could look into if you need a little help. Such as blue apron, hello fresh or locally clean eatz!

Cleveland Ohio Newborn Photographer

3. Stock up on essentials (& not just baby essentials)

You’re likely already thinking about things like diapers, wipes, bottles, etc.

But have you considered stocking up on regular household items like paper towels, toilet paper, dishwasher soap...?

My best tip would be to set these items up on Amazon Subscribe and Save so they’ll show up on your doorstep and you never have to worry about running out those first few months with your newborn!

4. Put together a baby care basket

A baby care basket, or sometimes called a “downstairs” basket is a lifesaver those first few weeks home with a new baby.

Oftentimes, you’re in one space with the baby for most of the day and find yourself “trapped” under a sleeping baby without the supplies you need!

A baby care basket can solve that for you. Basically, it’s a container you can keep in each room of the house that has all the essentials for baby so you’re not running around from room to room getting the things you need.

Usually, the baby care basket includes diapers, wipes, burp cloths, extra clothes, pacifiers, and anything else you might need for the baby frequently.

I also like to think about including things for mom like nipple cream, breast pads, chapstick, etc.

In addition to keeping you from running from room to room, a baby care basket will help you stay organized and keep your home clutter free.

5. Light your home the right way

Maybe this is important to me because I’m a photographer, I don’t know but lighting is one I don’t see talked about too often!!

Proper lighting can help create a calm and comfortable atmosphere for both you and your baby.

First, look at the rooms you’ll spend the most time in (typically kitchen, living room, bedrooms). You'll want to consider the type of lighting you have in each room.

• ●  Do you want to add a lamp option (yes, even in the kitchen)?

• ●  Under cabinet lights?

• ●  How about a dimmer switch for the overhead lights?

• ●  What about small wall plug in lights to help light the way in the halls for

  the middle of the night?

  Finally, safety is also a consideration when it comes to lighting. Make sure that all cords and outlets are safely tucked away and secured to prevent tripping or electrical hazards.

Cleveland Ohio Newborn Photographer

6. Prepare YOUR wardrobe

Of course we’re thinking a lot about how to prepare for the baby, but don’t forget about yourself!

Preparing your wardrobe for the first 2-3 weeks postpartum is an important step in getting ready for the arrival of your new baby.

Comfort and functionality are key during this time! You'll want to focus on loose-fitting, comfortable clothing that can accommodate changes in your body shape and allow for easy breastfeeding access if you plan to breastfeed.

Consider investing in a few nursing bras, loose-fitting pants or leggings, and comfortable tops that are easy to pull up or down. Some women also find it helpful to have a couple of nursing-friendly dresses on hand for a dressier option.

Another thing to keep in mind is that you will likely still be bleeding for a few weeks, so having a few pairs of comfortable and absorbent underwear or postpartum pads on hand is a good idea. I don’t know about you, but when I feel good

nothing can stop me! And that starts with getting dressed in the morning, right?!

Remember, the key to preparing your wardrobe for the first few weeks postpartum is to prioritize comfort and practicality. By doing so, you can focus on bonding with your new baby without worrying about your clothing or physical discomfort!

Which of these tips are you going to do first? Did you learn something new today? Let me know in the comments!

I hope by reading “How to get your house newborn-ready in just two weeks” has given you some solid advice and pointers to make things a smoother transition.

If you’re still looking for a Cleveland Ohio Newborn Photographer, click here to see my portfolio of images.

Love,

Danelle

Why Maternity Photography is a Must: Capturing the Beauty of Motherhood | Willoughby, Ohio

Cleveland Ohio Maternity Photography

Do I really need to have maternity photos taken? Why don’t I just wait until the baby arrives. These are often many questions I hear and I know new moms to be struggle with. From the moment you found out you were expecting everything has been a whirlwind and happening so fast. I get it and understand. I want to help alleviate those questions and stress while guiding you in the right direction.

Why is maternity photos special?

It really is capturing the beauty of mother hood. As mothers we only get experience this unique phase in an our life once or maybe a couple times. It really is a beautiful thing! The entire pregnancy hasn’t been all rainbows either. I’m sure you have experiences some discomforts, fatigue, nausea, food aversions, the need to pee constantly, body discomforts, and maybe some stretch marks. All at the same time your body is becoming so beautiful and what a gift you are experiencing! Why not capture this moment in time for your family. Now that my own kids are older I love to show them photos of when I was expecting with them in my tummy! They think it’s weird, cool and amazing at the same time. They are kids after all, lol.

What type of maternity shoots do I offer?

There are many options I offer for maternity portraits. I can do in studio newborn shoots which take place with my backdrop area and the lifestyle area of my studio. I always recommend for dad or even the entire family if there are siblings to join in with the photos.

I also can do maternity shoots on location at a local park. I have done maternity shoots throughout the cleveland area and with sunny days to full snowstorms. The options are really endless when it comes to your maternity shoots.

I do offer different packages with the maternity shoot as well. I offer a bump to baby package which includes maternity, newborn and 1 year milestone session. I also offer just a maternity and newborn package. There is a cost savings with both when booking.

Are you expecting in 2025? The time to reach out is now. My calendar does fill up quickly, so lets take one more task off your “to do” list.

If you have anymore questions about maternity or newborn photography, please reach out and lets chat!

Love,

Danelle

Cleveland Ohio Maternity Photography

Cleveland Ohio Maternity Photographer

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