Sweet Baby Girl Newborn Session | NJ/NY Newborn Photographer

If there’s anything better than a newborn session, it’s a newborn session where I already know the family! I did mom and dad’s maternity session when they were pregnant with their oldest and also photographed their son as a newborn, and I have loved being able to do the same with their daughter.

Baby Girl Newborn Session

This baby girl was amazing! She slept the entire time and really was a dream baby. So beautiful! And I loved the colors mom and dad picked out for her as well. Pink is always a classic, and the deep navy blue paired with pretty corals and creams was gorgeous.

I always love seeing kiddos as they grow, so it was extra special to have big brother back in the studio—now as an adorable toddler with the cutest baby sister! He was the best! He did such a great job with the photoshoot and was absolutely beaming as he loved on his new little sis. It’s so fun to capture those sibling relationships. It’s such a precious bond—not to mention flat-out adorable!

So glad I got to spend time with this beautiful family again as they welcomed a new little one! One of the best parts of my job is getting to know my clients so I can capture their memories in the most authentic way possible and give them a personalized, relaxing, and fun experience at my studio! And it’s always extra fun when clients come back again and again so we can continue telling their story together.

NJ/NY Newborn Photographer

I’m currently booking newborn sessions into 2026. If you are expecting please get in touch as soon as possible so we can circle a date on my calendar! I would love to see you in the studio next year and celebrate a brand new life being added to your family.

Milestone vs. Cake Smash Photos: Which Is Right for You?

Milestone vs. cake smash photos—which type of session is better?

As a NJ/NY baby photographer, I absolutely love both these types of sessions! Neither one is better than the other—it just depends on what kind of experience and finished product you’re looking for. So let’s talk a little bit about the differences between these two sessions:

Milestone Sessions

Milestone sessions are designed to capture memories at any point during baby’s first year. 3, 6, 9, and 12 months are popular points for milestone pictures, but you can really do them anytime! They last about an hour and include a simple setup with the use of my studio props and accessories. (And yes, you can choose your favorites to customize!)

These sessions tend to be pretty laidback and relaxed (although honestly, all my sessions are that way!) Mostly we’ll just let your little one play and explore the set while I capture all those sweet moments.

Cake Smash Sessions

Cake smash sessions are a celebration of the big one-year mark! (They usually take place a bit before your baby turns one and should be scheduled well in advance.)

All of my cake smash sessions are fully customized and designed from scratch. I love putting together fun themes to create a one-of-a-kind experience for you and your baby.

Like milestone sessions, cake smashes last about an hour. They include your custom setup, an outfit to match your theme, and use of the studio’s props and accessories. We also usually wrap up the session with some splash photos in my mini tub, which are so fun!

So…which session is right for you?

A Milestone Session Might Be Right for You If:

• You want a simple session

• You want to capture those fun memories in between newborn and one year

• You want more neutral photos that can serve as gifts or home décor

A Cake Smash Session Might Be Right for You If:

• You’re celebrating your little one’s birthday

• You want to use your images as party invitations, birthday announcements, or as birthday memories in a scrapbook or other format

• You want a themed photo session

The good news is, you really can’t go wrong! No matter which type of session you choose, you will end up with a fantastic gallery of fun or beautiful photographs that perfectly capture your little one’s blossoming personality.

If you’re still not sure, feel free to reach out to me anytime! I’d be more than happy to answer your questions and help you create the perfect session to capture these memories of your little one. Can’t wait to see you and your baby in my New Jersey studio soon!

Most Popular Studio Props for Newborns

As a New Jersey photographer, I absolutely love designing sessions for my littlest clients! And one of the things that can really make a session special are the props. Of course, the focus is always your sweet baby, but the right prop can give your images that extra element that can take it from a nice baby picture to a beautiful one that really reflects your style.

At my studio in North Jersey I have a whole collection of props and accessories for you to choose from. There are so many items, from swaddles to buckets, that you’ll be able to use as we create a newborn portrait session for your little one. With that in mind, I thought I’d highlight just a handful of my most popular studio props for newborns.

A wicker basket is a classic newborn photography prop. Swaddled babies look like they’re sleeping in a cozy little nest when I pose them in this simple but beautiful setup.

Baskets come in all shapes and sizes, and for something that looks a bit more like a crib I love using my rattan basket. So sweet and comfy, especially when I layer it with blankets to give us some added texture.

Bowls have become an increasingly popular newborn photography prop over the years. There are lots of different shapes (round, heart-shaped, crescent moon) but one of my clients’ favorites is this antique long bowl, just the right size for a new baby.

Cribs may be a more practical solution for modern parenting, but there’s something so nostalgic about a lovely wooden cradle. I love using my antique cradle to give a timeless vibe to newborn photos.

What do you think? Any favorites from this list? There are plenty more where these came from! Be sure to check out my newborn portfolio or Facebook and Instagram pages to see more of my newborn photography props in action. And when you’re ready to book your newborn session, just fill out this quick form and I’ll be in touch!

Why Moms Need to Be in Photos

I love when moms come to me to capture memories of their little ones. But you know what I love even more? When moms are brave enough to make sure that they are in some of those pictures too. Here’s why I feel that it’s so important that moms need to be in photos:

Mom is Usually the One Taking the Picture

Think about it. Who is the one who is usually snapping pics of everything from the family vacation to those adorable everyday moments? It’s mom! And while you absolutely want to capture those memories of your little ones, you might be surprised as you look through your photos just how few there are of you.

Your Kiddos Will Want Pictures of the Two of You Together

If you’re absent from most of the family photos, that’s a problem, because believe me, your kiddos will want pictures of the two of you together. They’ll want to look back and remember the great mom you were, the love you showed them, and the fun memories you helped them build.

It’s Important to Capture Family Connections, Not Just Portraits

While individual portraits are beautiful, I can’t tell you how important it is that you capture not just individual family members, but the love and connections between each of you. And mom, in so many ways, is the heart of that family unit, the one that keeps so many things running smoothly and makes sure everyone feels loved and cared for.

You Are Beautiful and Worth It!

That effort—the amazing, nonstop, endlessly rewarding and yes, sometimes messy work of motherhood, deserves to be captured! To your family, you are the embodiment of motherhood and all that it means.

So do yourself and your loved ones a favor: Set aside those fears and insecurities and that idea that you have to be perfect, and make sure that you are part of your family’s photo legacy. You’re a huge part of the picture in every other way—you need to be in the photos too! Whether you book a professional session or just hand off the camera to your spouse or a friend for a few shots, your children will thank you for making sure that their family memories are complete with one of the most important people ever to be part of their lives!

How to Choose the Perfect Cake Smash Theme

One of the best things about a first birthday cake smash with Jennifer Parrello Photography is that the sky is the limit when it comes to choosing your theme! I love creating custom, one-of-a-kind photoshoots for my little clients. Many photographers use a single set that they alter slightly for each session, but I create every one of my cake smashes from scratch: the set, outfit, and props are all totally unique and made especially for you!

Of course, I know having that many options can be a little overwhelming too, which is why I’m here with a few tips for how to choose the perfect cake smash theme for your sweet baby. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Your Favorite Things

It’s so much fun when parents choose a theme based on something that’s important to them and that they want to pass on to their child! I’ve done cake smashes based on a parent’s hobby, favorite TV show, career path, and more. Doesn’t matter if you’re into road trips, Harry Potter, surfing, or NASCAR—I can build the perfect cake smash based on your interests!

Your Kiddo’s Favorite Things

If you want your cake smash photos to bring back vivid memories of this time in your little one’s life, choose a theme based on something they love right now. Do they love hearing you read a particular book over and over again? Are they fascinated by dinosaurs or can’t get enough of water play? A cake smash theme built on your child’s current interests is sure to make everyone happy!

Theme to Match Their First Birthday Party

If you’re throwing a party for baby’s first birthday, why not choose a cake smash to match? Remember, anything goes! Maybe you’ve planned a teddy bear picnic with their friends, a barnyard bash, or a proper afternoon tea. No matter what kind of party you have in mind, there’s a cake smash for that!

A First Birthday Pun

Another fun and popular way to choose a cake smash theme is with a pun. Berry First Birthday, Winter One-derland, One-der Woman—I’ve honestly probably done them all! We can put a fun and unique spin on it so that it’s perfect for you, and everyone will enjoy the extra layer of meaning almost as much as an extra layer of cake!

I hope these suggestions give you a place to start as you choose the perfect cake smash for your little one. Remember, the most important thing is to think outside the box and do something that truly sounds fun to you! There’s no need to stick to tradition or keep it simple unless you want to. After all, it isn’t every day somebody turns one, so let’s pull out all the stops and have a party to remember!

If you need more ideas, just reach out—I’m always happy to chat!

Please note: Because each of my cake smashes is completely customized, they do take time to create. I recommend reaching out at least 3 months before your child turns one—the earlier the better!

How to Choose the Perfect Colors for Your Newborn Session

Are you getting excited for your newborn session yet? I sure am! I try to make every one of my sessions as relaxing and hassle-free as possible so you can just sit back and enjoy the process. However, there are a few decisions you’ll need to make to ensure that your newborn photos are everything you hoped. And one of those decisions is…which colors to use.

It's a decision only you can make, but hopefully these tips will make it easy (and fun) to choose the perfect colors for your baby’s newborn session.

Get Inspired

Finally! A legitimate excuse to spend some extra time scrolling on Pinterest or Instagram. You’re welcome. 😉 Seriously though, it really helps to spend some time seeking out images and inspiration so you can figure out what color combinations you love. If you’ve already found a photographer you’re leaning towards, their site will also probably be a great source of new ideas. (You can check out my newborn page here for just a few!)

Use Your Creativity

I love it when parents choose color combinations you wouldn’t usually think of. Or when they go with non-traditional options, like blue, green, or yellow for their baby girl. Remember, the sky’s the limit here, and there are so many ways you can use color creatively to make the session truly your own. So use that inspiration we talked about, but don’t be afraid to put your own twist on it!

Think About Display Options

Baby photos are meant to be shown off and enjoyed! When choosing colors, it can help to think about where you’ll be displaying your newborn photos. You don’t necessarily have to strictly match your home’s décor (after all, you probably won’t have that furniture forever) but it is a good idea to pay attention to what colors you tend to use in your home, so you can choose a complementary palette for your baby pictures.

Ready to create an amazing newborn gallery with all the perfect shades? Get in touch with me and let’s start planning your little one’s session. I can’t wait to hear about your thoughts and ideas—and then bring that vision to life!

Why You Need Milestone Photos of Your Little One

A few weeks ago I posted on Facebook and Instagram why I feel like newborn photography is the BEST! And I totally stand by that. But the more I’ve been thinking about it, the more I’ve realized that…there’s more than one best!

As a New Jersey photographer who specializes in documenting baby’s first year, I’m here to tell you: Yes, you absolutely need newborn photos. But you need more than that! You need photos celebrating all the big milestones, all the tiny moments, and everything in between. Because every story deserves to be told, and every memory deserves to be captured!

Here are just a few reasons why you need milestone photos of your little one:

You Need Milestone Photos of Your Little One Because…

It’s a Once-in-a-Lifetime Moment

We often recognize this when our babies are newborns and it feels like the whole world has changed. But the older your kiddos get, the more you will realize that every moment is once in a lifetime. It’s so important to capture every stage, with all of its ups and downs, silly moments, tears, smiles, and laughter.

Even the Tiniest Details Matter

Photography preserves those chubby toddler cheeks, toothy (or gummy!) smiles, and that mischievous sparkle in their eyes in a way that memory alone just can’t. With milestone photos, these details will continue bringing you joy long after your babies are grown.

A Legacy of Love and Laughter

Just like with newborn or family photos, milestone photos become heirlooms that can be passed down for generations. Imagine how loved your child will feel as they look back at their portraits through the years, knowing how loved they’ve been every step of their lives.

Book Your Child’s Milestone Photos with Jennifer

No matter if your child is approaching their big one-year milestone or one of the many milestones in between, let’s capture these precious moments before they slip away! Booking milestone sessions now—let’s create something beautiful together.

Best Places to Display Baby Pictures in Your Home

I believe a newborn session is an essential! Every parent should have photos of their little one from their very first days. But, while scheduling your session is a great first step, what do you do with those adorable pictures once you have them?

I believe the best way to treasure these memories is to share them. And there’s no easier way to do that than by displaying your favorite family images where you’ll see them every day. Here are some of the best places to display baby pictures in your home.

Living Room

The living room is one of the most popular places to hang family photos. One of my favorite ways to showcase photos here is with a gallery wall, where you arrange several pictures of varying sizes on one section of wall (maybe above the couch or fireplace). A baby picture is the perfect addition!

A variation on this is the grid display. Photos in this arrangement are usually a bit smaller and of uniform size. Place them in a grid pattern to create a single focal point that almost looks like a single image, but is actually made up of many.

Bedroom or Nursery

Another fantastic place to hang baby pictures is in the bedroom or nursery. A baby picture here can often be a more prominent piece of décor. A canvas or large matted print might be the perfect option to wake up to each morning.

Hallway or Stairwell

While transition spaces like hallways and stairwells may not be the first that springs to mind, they can actually be great places to hang baby pictures! These areas tend to get lots of traffic, so you’ll have a reason to smile many times each day as you pass those cute portraits.

Remember, if you don’t have a lot of wall space, you can still keep your baby pictures and other family photos accessible with a small framed print on the bedside table or mantel, a simple photo album that will slip onto a bookshelf, or even a pretty keepsake box filled with your favorite prints.

I hope these ideas of the best places to display baby pictures in your home help you know exactly what to do with these sweet portraits after your session!

If you haven’t already booked your newborn photoshoot, please get in touch! I’d love to help you create wonderful memories to treasure forever!

4 Must-Have Items for Your Baby Registry

Expecting your first baby? I’m SO excited for you! And chances are, so are a whole lot of other people, who want to express their excitement by buying something cute and useful for your little one.

It’s easily to get totally lost in all the options available for baby care. How do you know which ones you’ll use and which ones will seem like a great purchase up-front…only to end up in the donation pile a few months down the road?

I’m a simple gal and I don’t go in for too many fancy-schmancy gizmos. Most of the time, the basics are all you need. That said though, there are just a few must-have items for your baby registry that you may not have thought of (or may be unsure about) that I swear by!

1. LOTS of Zip-Up PJs

Traditional PJs come with snaps or buttons. Nothing wrong with this per se, but let me tell you, with the number of diaper changes you’re going to be doing, zip-up PJs are an absolute essential!

Zippered sleepers make late-night diaper changes so much easier. Nobody wants to be fumbling around in the dark, half-asleep, trying to align tiny snaps so you can get yourself and your baby back to bed.

My favorite zip-up pajamas are those made with soft, breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo. And I really like the ones with a double-zipper that opens from both the top and the bottom for extra convenience.

2. A Classic Baby Bouncer

I highly recommend an old-school baby bouncer. These provide a safe, comfy place to set your baby down throughout the day. No need to go for a fancy model with extra gadgets and vibrations: a basic bouncer is designed keep your baby relaxed with nothing more than the gentle bounces from baby’s own movements.

Another reason I prefer the simple, old-school baby bouncer is that it’s lightweight and portable so you can easily move it from room to room. Unlike bulky swings, bouncers don’t take up much space and are easy to store when not in use. Although, if you’re anything like me, your bouncer will be in use A LOT!

3. LullaVibe Vibrating Pad

The LullaVibe is a game-changer for soothing a fussy baby. This portable vibrating pad can be placed under a crib mattress, bassinet, or even in a stroller to provide gentle vibrations that help calm little ones. Unlike traditional vibrating baby seats, the LullaVibe is compact and battery-operated, so it’s perfect to take on the go.

This is a great option for babies who are comforted by movement but don’t always need to be rocked or held.  I actually use it in all of my newborn sessions!

4. Zipadee-Zip Sleep Sack

Once your baby starts transitioning out of the swaddle phase, the Zipadee-Zip is a lifesaver. This wearable blanket provides a cozy, enclosed feeling similar to a swaddle but allows for more movement, making it a great choice for babies who are starting to roll. It also helps your baby stay asleep by reducing the startle reflex while still being safe for independent movement.

Tons of my clients swear by this sleep sack as a key tool for improving their baby’s sleep. And as a new parent, there is nothing more important than a good night’s rest!

I hope these must-have items for your baby registry give you a good starting point as you design your little one’s wish list!

And don’t forget to add a newborn photography session! I offer gift certificates in any amount which makes it super easy for family and friends to help with the cost of a session, since I’m a firm believer that there’s no better gift for a new parent than the gift of memory!

Baby Girl Studio Session with Family | NJ/NY Newborn Photographer

This newborn and family session in my NJ photo studio was the BEST! I always have the hardest time narrowing down which pictures to share with you all on Facebook, Instagram, and here on the blog, and this session was no exception. I don’t know how Mom and Dad managed to choose from their gallery, but they selected such a fantastic variety of photos for their final images. I am OBSESSED and so excited to share with you all!

We chose soft pinks and creams for our baby-only portraits. Lil Miss slept the entire time and was so precious!

For our newborn and family portraits we went with a more gender-neutral color scheme with blacks, creams, and browns. The two color schemes balanced each other perfectly and look so great together.

Baby girl wasn’t the only one who was a star in this session! Mom and Dad were awesome—we had so much fun together—and big bro totally knocked it out of the park. I have tons of experience working with littles and lots of tricks up my sleeve if your toddler isn’t quite sure about the whole photoshoot thing. But this little man was seriously the most well-behaved 2-year-old I ever met! He was amazing with his little sister and I know he’s going to be rockstar helper for his parents!

I love every newborn photography session I do, but I have to admit, I especially love the ones where parents and siblings jump in there too. Don't be afraid to get in those photos and create those forever memories with the ones you love. It’s so important to have these moments to look back on because time really does fly.

So what are you waiting for!?!? Get in touch and let’s make some memories with a beautiful session designed just for you and your family!

Why You Need to Book Your Cake Smash When Baby is 6 Months Old

Did you do a double-take when you saw the title of this post? If it seems crazy to book your little one’s cake smash with months to spare, read on to find out why it’s so important.

A Customized Cake Smash Takes Time

I believe that every baby is unique, which is why I don’t do a one-size-fits-all kind of experience. Instead, every single one of my cake smashes is fully customized with whatever theme you choose.

And when I say customized, I’m serious. There’s no sifting through my props closet to see what I can cobble together. I spend some time dreaming up ideas until I have a clear idea that excites me—and that I know will thrill you! Then I order everything I need, make the entire set by hand, and buy the perfect outfit.

And that takes time! I like to say that you can rush perfection—and perfection is exactly what I’m aiming for.

How Strict is the 6-Month Timeline?

So, what happens if you really want a customized cake smash, but you’re a tiny bit late to the game?

The good news is, we do have a little bit of wiggle room. I like to give parents the 6-months-out date because, let’s face it, life is busy and we all end up procrastinating a little, right? If your baby is 7 or 8 months old by the time you get around to scheduling their birthday smash, I can usually accommodate.

But if they’re 9 months old or more…I just won’t have enough time to put together the kind of top-of-the-line, customized cake smash that is my specialty. (Plus, my cake smash schedule books up really fast, so I probably won’t even have a spot on the calendar by that point.)

Book Your Custom Cake Smash in New Jersey

Bottom line: The time to book your baby’s cake smash is probably right this minute! Fill out my contact form here, or give me a call and let’s chat. I’m so excited to plan the perfect celebration for your sweet kiddo!

My Favorite Poses for Newborns | Adorable Baby Photography in New Jersey/New York

Need some inspiration for your newborn photography session? New parents often focus on colors or themes that they love when planning a baby photoshoot. And these are definitely important elements. But just as important are the poses!

There are tons of adorable ways to pose a newborn, but these are definitely my favorites! I use these in just about every newborn session because they are simple and classic—and they can be customized in so many ways!

So here you go: my favorite poses for newborns!

Side Lying Pose

A baby asleep on their side looks so natural and peaceful that you might not even think of it as a pose. That’s what makes it so good! I love to do this pose with a little blanket draped partway over the little one, but the side lying pose also makes an adorable position for naked baby pictures.

Bum Up Pose

This pose looks so cute, with baby curled up comfortably with their tushie sticking in the air, propped up on their feet. Again, we can totally go naked baby or wrapped for this one.

Forward Facing Pose

I always love to get a straight-on shot that emphasizes baby’s delicate features and chubby cheeks! This pose looks simple and sweet, but it does take practice and experience to get it right. I love to pair it with an artistically draped wrap or blanket for a bit of added shape and texture.

Wrapped Prop Pose

Props are so fun to incorporate into a newborn session! One of my favorite poses with props is to swaddle baby completely in a soft and cozy wrap before placing them in a tiny basket, bed, or other prop.

Parent and Baby Silhouette

Parent and baby pictures are the best, and this is probably my favorite way to capture all that love! Backlighting gives this pose more of a silhouette vibe without obscuring faces, and baby being held safely by both their parents just gives me all the feels!

What are your favorite newborn poses? Get in touch and let’s chat about how we can make your baby’s session absolutely perfect—right down to the last detail! Can’t wait to see your sweet little bundle in the studio. :)

Welcoming the New Year with a New Baby!

You guys—it’s 2025! When did that happen!? Seriously, I can’t believe how fast the entire year of 2024 went. And before we get too far into the new year, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to each of you, my amazing clients, for your trust and support.

It’s been the most incredible privilege to capture sweet moments for families in New Jersey and New York, from those tiny newborns to holiday magic with the big kids. It makes it easier moving into January knowing that all those precious memories are preserved and that each new year is just a continuation of an exciting journey!

Okay, now on to some adorable baby pictures! Mom and Dad did a maternity session with me that included their cute pup! They are the sweetest couple and so great to work with. We had the best time so I was really excited to see them again and meet their baby boy!

Lil’ guy rocked his newborn session! He was the sweetest, sleepiest little man who loved to be swaddled and did amazing from start to finish. We got some gorgeous family photos, lots of baby-only portraits, and of course, we couldn’t resist turning him into a little snowman bundle as a nod to the season. Too cute!

I thought his photos would be the perfect way to kick off the new year and go into it with a smile!

I hope that 2025 brings warmth, love, and cherished moments with the people who matter most. Thank you SO much for letting me be a part of capturing your special memories in the past. Here’s to many more beautiful moments in the coming year! I hope you’ll be in touch soon so we can get your session on the calendar. I’m so excited to see you!

Baby Girl Newborn Session NJ/NY with All the Flowers

If December’s wintry weather has you down, I’ve got exactly the touch of spring you need! This sweet baby girl came to my New Jersey photo studio recently for her newborn session and we did all the pretty flowers and spring colors for her photoshoot! Florals and a newborn? Yes please! I’m so excited to show this beauty to the world and hope you enjoy her gorgeous photos!

I have photographed this adorable baby’s family a few times before her arrival and have known mom for a while. They are an amazing family and super sweet. It was great to get together with them again, this time to celebrate the new arrival! Isn’t she just the prettiest little wildflower?

I have a ton of fun props and outfits for clients to choose from at my studio, but I always say there’s nothing like the personal touch, so if you have a special something from home that you want to include, please feel free to bring it! In these baby pictures, you’ll spy an adorable sunflower bonnet handmade by grandma. SO cute! Little heirloom treasures like this add an irreplaceable touch to your baby pictures.

So happy I got to photograph this lil lovely! She was one of so many precious babies and families who came through my studio door this year and every single one of them has been so special and fun! HUGE thank you to the hundreds of clients that have chosen me to capture their forever memories. I sometimes say it is like hitting the lottery each time a client books with me and trusts me with documenting a new chapter of their story—and I truly mean that!

Very best wishes to you and your family for this coming year. I hope I will see you and your littles for an incredible photoshoot of your very own! My schedule books up fast, so reach out as soon as possible and let’s put you on the calendar for 2025!

Holiday Minis: Magical Moments from Christmas 2024

I did two rounds of holiday minis in my New Jersey studio this year—and they were both SO much fun! I’ve already given you a peek into my first round (with a cozy Christmas living room setup), but now it’s time for a few more magical moments, this time from my Santa sessions!

Santa sessions are always a HUGE hit with my families and their kiddos. Who doesn’t love to spend some time with Father Christmas?

I think this year was my favorite so far for Santa sessions. (And yes, I do say that every year. They just keep getting better and better!) Seeing the excitement and wonder on the faces of those littles as they talk with Santa Claus or find their names on his list (the Nice list, of course!) is just the best. I couldn’t ask for a better way to kick off the holiday season.

And of course, these holiday minis make the best greeting cards and gifts for grandparents. (Can you just picture an ornament made from a photo like this every year?) This is one reason I hold my holiday sessions early (usually in October and November). I want you to have plenty of time to use these pictures as part of your celebration.

If you missed the fun this year, be sure to subscribe to my email list to be the first to know when I open my schedule for holiday bookings in 2025! (There’s a spot to sign up at the bottom of my home page). I am already so excited for Santa sessions next fall. Not even kidding. It’s my favorite day of the whole year!

Hoping I’ll see you in the studio in 2025! (Get in touch here to schedule your newborn, cake smash, or family session—I’m already booking up fast!) In the meantime, just know that I’m wishing you and your family the best and happiest Christmas season and lots of magical moments this December!

Photo Ideas for Baby's First Christmas

As a New Jersey/New York photographer I love helping families get ready for the holidays with my own special brand of Christmas magic. But if it’s baby’s first Christmas, there are probably lots of pictures you’re going to want to capture at home too! Here are a few fun and festive photo ideas for baby’s first Christmas to give you some inspiration as you celebrate this extra special season together!

Just a little note: Many of the cute Christmas poses you see online are composite images or photos created by professionals. Don’t try to recreate these kinds of photos at home! They require safety training and special software to edit out behind-the-scenes details (like an assistant’s hands securely holding baby). Be sure that baby is safe and secure at all times as you capture their first Christmas. If you’re not sure about a pose, don’t do it. Schedule a session with a professional baby photographer instead, so you can get exactly the pictures you want while knowing your little one is in safe hands.

Newborn in a Stocking

This pose is perfect if you have a December baby who is still just itty-bitty by the time Christmas rolls around. Choose an oversized stocking at the store (be sure it doesn’t have any loose strings inside that baby’s little feet could get tangled in) and use it like a sleeping bag. Just tuck your little one inside for an adorable festive picture!

Baby Wearing a Santa Hat

Santa hats are sold in all the sizes, so no matter what your baby’s age you should be able to find one that’s just right! I think the extra long ones are SO cute! Another option is a cute headband with reindeer horns or something equally fun and festive!

Sweet Bundle Under the Christmas Tree

You’ll definitely want to snap a picture of your little one under the Christmas tree! Babies who are old enough to sit independently can sit underneath all those pretty lights, while those who are younger can be swaddled and tucked in amongst the presents. That little bundle is the best thing under the tree!

Little One Wearing Christmas Pajamas

Does your little one have festive PJs? A holiday onesie or pajamas can make such a cute baby’s first Christmas picture, especially if you can do it against a backdrop of twinkly lights or maybe a decorative Christmas blanket.

Include the Family

Don’t forget to get some pictures of baby’s first Christmas that include the rest of the family. Whether it’s mom or dad holding baby near the fireplace, all the siblings snuggling together by the tree, or using baby’s first Christmas ornaments (you’re sure to get a few as gifts!) as props to surround the sleeping little one, it’s always so special to showcase those family connections in your holiday pictures.

I hope these photo ideas for baby’s first Christmas give you a great place to start! I’m sure you’ll have fantastic ideas of your own too, so be sure to keep your camera handy. You’ll have so many fun and beautiful memories of this very first Christmas with your little one!

Remember, the memories don’t stop once the holidays end! Contact me to book a session for your baby or family in 2025. Can’t wait to see you in the studio next year!

Holiday Mini Sessions in New Jersey '24

It’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas! I know, I know, we just barely did Thanksgiving! But as a photographer I always get a very early start on the holidays, usually doing my holiday mini sessions in October and early November.

This year’s first round of holiday mini sessions happened over a busy October weekend. I had so many families come through the studio. I loved seeing everyone and our sessions were amazing! (Next round will be Santa sessions, which are always a huge hit. Can’t wait!)

I change up my background setup a bit every year. A lot of my families have made photo sessions at Jennifer Parrello Photography an annual tradition and use their images in their holiday greeting cards and newsletters, so I like to make sure they have a new look to share each time. This year I had a traditional cozy Christmas setup, complete with trees, fun toys, and Santa’s bag of presents!

All the kids had so much fun creating some festive magic and they were all smiles and giggles. None of my little clients leave a holiday session empty-handed either. They loved the special reindeer food I sent home with them to sprinkle on their lawn and help guide Santa’s reindeer to their house on Christmas Eve!

The weekend was nonstop—not only did I have a ton of families coming through my doors for these short and sweet seasonal sessions, but I also got all of the editing done too. I know how much these memories mean to people and that they want to share them immediately, so I pride myself on lightning fast turnaround time. All of my families had their final galleries back to them within 72 hours. Now that’s what I call some Christmas magic!

If you missed the fun this year, be sure to subscribe to my email list to be the first to know when I open my schedule for holiday bookings in 2025! (There’s a spot to sign up at the bottom of my home page).

Hope to see you next year! In the meantime, I hope you and your family have a wonderful holiday season and enjoy this special time together!

Tips for Traveling with a Newborn

For some of us, traveling for the holidays is almost as much of a tradition as eating turkey on Thanksgiving day. But if this is your first time traveling with a newborn, you might be feeling a little nervous! Whether you’re traveling by car or plane, here are a few tips that can help you feel more prepared as you and your little one get ready to travel this holiday season.

Tips for Car Travel with a Newborn

Plan for lots of stops (about every 2 hours). Baby will need feeding, diaper changes, or maybe just a cuddle to calm down if they don’t love being in the car. Just know that your drive is going to take longer than normal, and that’s okay!

Keep a spot in the backseat clear so that someone can sit with baby if needed. If you don’t have anyone else traveling with you, consider installing a baby mirror in the backseat so you can keep an eye on things without having to turn around.

Plan your route so you know where you’ll be stopping to get gas, do diaper changes, etc. Makes it so much easier if you know this in advance so you don’t have to make decisions on the fly!

Tips for Plane Travel with a Newborn

Check with your pediatrician to see if they feel that flying would be safe for your baby.

Don’t stress about the liquid limit. The TSA allows moms traveling with babies to pack more breastmilk and formula than the usual 3.4 oz limit for liquids. Yay! It is a good idea to pack these in a separate bag though, so airport personnel can screen them quickly and easily.

Pack a pacifier and/or bottle to give baby during takeoff and landing. Swallowing will help them deal with that uncomfortable feeling in their ears as the air pressure changes.

Don’t Forget to Pack This!

Of course you’ll need clothes, blankets, and plenty of diapers and wipes! But here are a few other less obvious essentials that can make traveling with a newborn much easier.

Padded changing station. These fold up nicely to slide into a diaper bag and are easy to wipe down. Not all restrooms have a baby changing table—and sometimes you’ll need to change a diaper on the go. You’ll be so glad you have one of these!

A portable breast pump if you’re breastfeeding. Schedules get all out of whack when you’re traveling, so it’s nice to have the option to pump when you need to—even if it’s on the road.

A travel crib or bassinet. Baby needs a safe and comfy place to sleep once you arrive at your destination! Some of these even fold up small enough to fit into your carry-on if you’re traveling by plane.

Portable sound machine. Unfamiliar noises can make it hard for anyone to sleep, and babies can easily get overstimulated and fussy in a new environment. Soothing sounds can help keep them calm and happy and make for a much better travel experience for everyone! (I always use a sound machine in my studio for newborn sessions—it really does work!)

I hope these tips for traveling with a newborn help make this holiday season a little more manageable. Remember, if travel just feels like too much right now, it’s okay to break with tradition this time and ask family to come to you, or to plan your trip for a few months down the road, once things have settled down a bit. The most important thing is that you and your little one have a wonderful first holiday together!

How I Design a Custom Cake Smash from Scratch…Every Single Time

There’s a reason my cake smashes are so popular. Unlike other studios that provide just a handful of setup options to choose from, I give you ALL the options. Literally! Every single one of my cake smashes is designed and created from the ground up, based on your vision for your photoshoot.

When I get a cake smash inquiry, I first work with you to figure out what kind of theme you want. This can be very general (maybe you just have an idea of the colors you want to use and the general vibe) or it might be very specific (maybe you want it based on a particular movie or you already have an idea of what you’d like the outfit and backdrop to look like).

One cake to rule them all. This little Lady Arwen loved her Lord of the Rings cake smash!

Once we’ve settled on a theme, I’ll start getting to work! I’ll design the backdrop and have it made to order, buy any balloons or props we might need, and shop for the perfect outfit for your little one. The only thing you have to take care of is the cake. (This is due to allergy concerns. The safety of your baby always comes first. If you need a bakery recommendation, just ask!)

Once everything has arrived, I’ll set up the studio and get everything looking just right. I get so excited when I see everything in place—and I know you’ll feel the same way! It’s so fun to see the expressions on people’s faces when they walk in and see the cake smash they envisioned right there in real life!

Strawberries are the one food that might be even better than cake. So, why not have both?

Remember, designing a custom cake smash from scratch takes time. If you’re interested in this extra special birthday experience, remember to get in touch several months before your little one’s first birthday. I can’t wait to start designing!

How to Narrow Down the Pictures from Your Session

All of my photo collections include a set number of digital images. After your session, you’ll receive a link to your gallery, where you can select the pics you love and want to keep. But…it can be intimidating to try to pick favorites from among so many beautiful photos! Here are a few tips that can help you narrow down the pictures from your session.

Set Aside Some Uninterrupted Time

Choosing photos takes a lot of concentration! Rather than trying to do it on the fly, set aside some dedicated time to really focus on your photos. You might also find that it helps to do this alone before coming together with your partner. This way, you’ve both identified your favorites without influence from anyone else and can feel more confident in your decisions.

(This is one reason I don’t have parents come to the studio to choose pictures. This is something you should be able to do at your leisure and without feeling pressured by other people’s input.)

Divide Your Photos Into Categories

Rather than try to choose your favorites from the whole collection all at once, try picking your favorites from a smaller group. For example, which are your favorite pictures of mom and baby? Which are your favorites of baby and their big brother? Which are your favorite shots of the whole family?

Dividing it up into categories can keep you from getting overwhelmed and also ensure that you get a nice variety. Plus, you can feel more certain you didn’t miss anything!

Decide How You Want to Use Your Photos

Knowing how you want to use and share your photos can be a big help in deciding which ones to keep. If you want to print and frame some images, think about where you want to hang them in your home. If you’ll be giving photos as gifts, which ones would be most meaningful to grandparents or other family members?

It’s also a great idea to put some thought into this before your session. If you already know how you want to display your pictures, we’ll be sure to get exactly the shots you want!

New Jersey Photo Sessions

I hope these three tips for narrowing down the photos from your session help to simplify the process and give you confidence in the decision-making process. And remember, if the decision is just too hard, you can always purchase extra images separately!

If you have other questions or are ready to book your session, please be in touch. I’m so excited to hear from you!