Why Invest in Professional Portrait Photography? Answers from a New Jersey / New York Portrait Photographer

If you think you should just snap that annual family photo yourself or try to capture all your child’s milestones on your cell phone, think again. While cell phones and snapshots are great for documenting the day-to-day moments, there is nothing like an actual photo session for capturing the big milestones in life. Here’s why it’s totally worth it to invest in professional portrait photography for your family.

Equipment and Expertise

Beautiful photos don’t just happen. They require special equipment, great lighting, and an experienced eye to create that perfect shot. And while it may seem simpler to just try to do it on your own, most people find that they are much happier when they spend the money and invest in professional portrait photography.

Display-Worthy Photos

You can get lots of fun snapshots on your phone. But it really does take a professional portrait photographer to capture images that you’ll be proud to display on your walls or gift to family. A professional photographer has years of experience and that artistic eye to know how to pose people to best advantage and create images that are seriously gorgeous.

Editing

Another important step in the process of creating photos is the behind-the-scenes work. A true professional will take the time to edit each of your photos so that they are free of distractions and are the best they can possibly be.

The Photoshoot Experience!

I don’t know about other New Jersey portrait photographers, but I love to make my sessions FUN! My belief is that if we’re going to be making and capturing memories together, we should have a great time doing it. I treat all of my clients like family and love to visit with them, get to know them, and work together to create images their family can treasure forever.

Bonus: Newborn Safety

Baby pictures are only one type of photography, it’s true, but it’s worth noting that it is SO important to hire a professional for newborn photos. There is no one that can safely create those amazing newborn images you see on Instagram except a trained professional. Learn why here.

If you’re thinking of investing in professional portrait photography in New Jersey or New York (so many of my clients come from the Orange County, NY area!), please inquire here. I can’t wait to hear from you!

Meet Your Photographer: New Jersey Newborn and Baby Photographer

Hey there! I’m Jennifer Parrello, the face behind the camera here at Jennifer Parrello Photography. Yes, I know you’ve got the About page where you can get to know me a bit, but I wanted to jump on and introduce myself on the blog as well so you can learn a little more if you want to!

It’s super important to me that you know who I am and feel comfortable with me. Why? Because when you book a session with me you instantly become family in my eyes! I am capturing memories for you that will last generations, and I want us to connect and get to know each other! So, here goes!

About Jennifer Parrello

One of the reasons I decided to become a New Jersey photographer is because family is everything to me! I’ve been married for almost fourteen years. My husband and I now have three amazing kiddos…and a dog! My family are my favorite people to hang out with and I feel so lucky every day to share my life with them.

As far as personality goes, I am super outgoing and energetic and very much a people pleaser. I love making people happy and I’m never more satisfied than when I know I’ve made someone else’s day!

Aside from family and photography, a couple of my other passions are:

Softball! I played in college and continue to play in a women’s league now, and I also coach my oldest kiddo’s travel softball team. I love the camaraderie, the energy, and just the good clean fun of being part of a sports team.

Video games! I’ve been playing competitively since the late 90’s, so…yeah. If you’re into video games, we’re going to have a lot to talk about!

About Jennifer Parrello Photography

And now…to the business! Every photographer starts somewhere. For me, the journey began in 1999 when I took a photography class in high school. Photography looked a little different back then, let me tell you! I learned how to develop film in a dark room and that is where my love of photography began. I continued to photograph through the years because I enjoyed it, but it was always just a hobby.

It wasn’t until my oldest was born eleven years ago that I got more serious about photography. As a mom I found myself picking up the camera more and more because I now had an adorable model! Finally, I realized I could combine my love of kiddos and my love of pictures. I took the plunge, quit my job (teaching), and started my photography business full-time. One of the biggest and scariest decisions of my life, but also one of the best and most exciting! I have never looked back!

Let’s Get to Know Each Other

I absolutely love being a New Jersey photographer. As a mom of three myself, I can relate on so many different levels with my families. And I love kids! I know how much you want to hang on to not just the memories of your child, but the very essence of who they are right now. And that is what I’m here for!

I truly cannot wait to get to know you and to help you preserve these memories for yourself and your family. Are you excited yet? ‘Cause I am!

Photo by Twig & Olive Photography

Child and Family Photography Sessions with Jennifer Parrello Photography

Child and family photography sessions are so important! And every age and stage is precious. Some people tend to save professional photography for big events, like holidays, birthdays, or weddings. But what about all the moments in between?

I’m a big believer in the idea that moments are fleeting and memories need to be captured along the way. And I don’t know of any better way to do that than with a family photo session!

While newborn and cake smash sessions usually take place in the studio, there’s a little more flexibility when working with groups and with kiddos who are past the infancy stage. So, while we can certainly do your family pictures in the studio, we also have the option to enjoy the great outdoors! I like to schedule outdoor family shoots for an hour or two before sunset so we can get the best light possible.

If you’re wondering what constitutes a child or family photography session, a lot of that is up to you. I can capture portraits of just one child, do a mommy-and-me session, your immediate family, or a big extended family session. All will take about the same amount of time (usually around an hour), and will provide you with beautiful images! I offer multiple collections so you can choose the best fit for your family.

Above all, I want your child and family photography sessions to be fun! Your session should be a great memory in and of itself, so I’ll make it genuine and real so your portraits reflect how truly unique and beautiful your family is!

If you’d like to learn more about extended family photo sessions, find out why mommy-and-me sessions are so great, or need to help deciding what to wear for your family pictures, I’ve got you covered! And of course, if you have any questions, please feel free to reach out! Can’t wait to hear from you!

Holiday Mini Photo Sessions 2022 | New Jersey Christmas Card Photographer

Whoa—where the heck did summer go? I can’t believe it’s already September! And you know what that means: Time to book your holiday photo session! I know—it sneaks up on folks every year. And while my holiday mini sessions will be happening in a month or so, spots are filling up fast, and when they’re gone, they’re gone. So the time to book is NOW!

This year I’m excited to offer three different types of holiday photoshoots so families can choose their favorite style for holiday cards and gifts. I know this time of year gets very busy for everyone, which is why my mini sessions are streamlined to be as fun and efficient as possible! Each shoot is just 15 minutes, so you can get back to gift shopping and decorating in no time. And you’ll end up with your 5 favorite images to use in personalized greeting cards or as special holiday gifts for the family. Phew! One big item off your list, just like that!

Santa Christmas Photo Session

Image copyright Santa Jersey Joe (TM)

Santa Claus is comin’ to town! Not just that—he’s coming to my West Milford, NJ photography studio for some magical pictures with you and your little ones on November 13th. There are only a few spots left, so don’t miss your chance to spend some quality time with Santa before he’s back to the North Pole to prep for Christmas!

Pajama Holiday Photo Session

There’s nothing that says home for the holidays like some comfy cozy PJ’s and bouncing on the bed! If you’re looking for some extra cute pictures that capture all the excitement and wonder of Christmas Eve, then a pajama photography session will be perfect for you! Join me for all the cozy feels on October 16th.

Formal Holiday Photo Session

Looking for something a bit more fancy? My formal holiday mini photo sessions are your chance to get all dressed up in those festive holiday clothes and create beautiful portraits with an old-fashioned Christmas vibe. I’ll be waiting by the fireplace on October 23rd to help you get in the spirit of the holiday season!

Can’t wait to see you all in the studio for some festive cheer as we kick off the 2022 holiday season in style! Happy Holidays!

Extended Family Photo Sessions | New Jersey Family Photographer

As a New Jersey family photographer, I’d be hard put to say what type of session is my favorite. Family, newborn, maternity…I love them all! One of my faves though, are extended family photo sessions. These are always so much fun and it’s such a privilege to capture the love and precious relationships that give us a sense of belonging.

 What Is an Extended Family Photoshoot?

 Most family photo sessions are with immediate family—you, your partner, and your kids. But with an extended family photoshoot, you can include your own siblings and children’s cousins, grandparents, etc.

How Does an Extended Family Photography Session Work?

If we’re doing multiple families (such as your family and your sister’s) I photograph each family individually so they can have pics of their own family unit. After that we’ll do individual portraits of each child. Then we’ll move on to group portraits (your entire extended family, all the cousins, pictures of individual children with their parent or grandparent, couples, etc.)

Because there are so many people to work with, family photos with extended family tend to be action-packed and fast-paced so we keep everybody’s attention. (And by everybody I mean those little ones!)

I have these sessions down to an art, so even though we get a huge variety of shots I make sure sessions only run about an hour long. And I always plan these sessions for about an hour to an hour and a half before sunset for the best lighting. I have permits for many beautiful parks and locations around New Jersey, so there are lots of options!

Why Choose an Extended Family Photo Session?

Professional extended family portraits with Jennifer Parrello Photography are magical and so much fun! The experience itself is a wonderful gift, allowing your family to come together and create memories you will cherish forever. And of course, those finished photos make absolutely beautiful home décor and gifts that will be truly treasured.

Book Your Session

We are coming into peak outdoor portrait photography season! Spring through fall we have so many amazing backdrops for your extended family photos, so book now and let’s create those special memories for you! I can’t wait to be your New Jersey family photographer!

What to Wear for Your Photography Session

What to wear for your photography session? As a New Jersey photographer, this is something I get asked a lot! I’ll start off by saying that outfits are mostly a matter of personal preference. Remember, taking pictures is about capturing memories of your family—and you’re unique! So as you’re thinking about what to wear, think about what you’re comfortable in and what styles and colors reflect your family’s personality.

That said, here are a few tips to keep in mind that will help you love both your photography experience and your pictures.

Make Sure You’re Comfortable in What You Wear

My goal is to make your photoshoot a memorable experience. And I want you to remember that it was so much fun, not that your shoes were too tight! Choose clothes you like, that feel comfortable, and that are easy to move and pose in.

Take Location into Consideration

Photos or no photos, it never hurts to dress in layers! This is especially important if your photography session is going to take place outdoors. Keep an eye on the weather and wear clothing that will work with whatever Mother Nature decides to do. And think about the vibe you want. An elegant, flowing dress and leggings, boots, and a sweater both work beautifully for an outdoor autumn photoshoot—it just depends on the style you’re going for.

Focus on Coordination Instead of Matching

If you’re doing a family photography session, it can be tempting to dress everybody in matching outfits. While you absolutely can do this, it isn’t necessary to wear the same thing—or even the same color—for everyone to look good. Think of coordinating multiple outfits in a similar way to coordinating a single outfit. Choose complementary colors and patterns rather than a monotone look for the best results.

I hope these ideas on what to wear for your photography session help! If you need more ideas or have any other questions, feel free to reach out—that’s what I’m here for!

Newborn and Family New Jersey Photographer

It was great to be the newborn and family New Jersey photographer for this sweet little gal and her parents and big sis. Baby girl was a total sweetheart and slept beautifully for me!

It’s always fun to include family in newborn photos. Capturing the relationship between a new baby and parents is one of the most precious things in the world. And I love working with siblings too! This big sister was amazing and a total natural when it came to holding baby. We got the cutest shots of the two of them snuggled up together. (And I’m totally in love with big sister’s hair! Such a pretty color—and all those curls!)

Mom really loved flowers, so we made sure to incorporate lots of those in our session. As a newborn and family New Jersey photographer, it’s important to me that your pictures feel unique to you and match your vision of what you want to see displayed on your walls or preserved in a baby album. Customizing each and every session is one of the things I pride myself on. I love taking the time and going the extra mile to make sure your images turn out exactly the way you want them too—or even better!

I love the pretty creams and pinks we chose, and the darker contrast of mom and dad’s clothes turned out so well! Such a beautiful little newborn and family!

Get in Touch

I’m honored to be the baby photographer for so many families in and around New Jersey. Every story is precious, and capturing those amazing stages of life is what I do best. If you’re looking for a professional newborn and family New Jersey photographer, I hope you’ll be in touch! I would love to record your journey!

NJ Most Loved Newborn & Family Photographer

Can’t even tell you how much fun I had doing this newborn and family photo session a few months ago. I have known this family for years and I absolutely LOVE them! I’ve photographed big sister’s newborn session, cake smash, and everything in between. So you can imagine how excited I was when I learned that little sister was on the way!

Baby girl was the cutest thing ever. So much gorgeous dark hair, and she loved being swaddled. And big sis did a great job posing with her. She is always fun to hang out with, and is already a great big sister. Absolutely adores the new baby and is a great helper for mom and dad.

New Jersey most loved newborn and family photographer

All of my sessions are completely customized, so I get lots of input from my clients to make sure the session I create is in line with their vision. For this family, we did most of our session with neutral colors (I love the high contrast black and white), but added some splashes of purple too.

Northern New Jersey photographer, newborn and family portraits

All the Love

We mostly wanted to capture the relationships—which is what newborn and family photography is all about! Because of that, we didn’t do a lot of props or fancy backdrops. Just lots of beautiful portraits as we highlighted the love between this sweet baby girl and each member of her family. I can’t imagine anything more perfect.

Loved having this family in the studio again as they welcomed their second daughter! It was such a joy to see them for photographs every few months while big sister was growing from newborn to toddler, and I hope I’ll be able to record that same amazing journey for this new little one. Congratulations to one of my favorite families—love you!

Baby L & C - Northern New Jersey Newborn Photographer

Having one gorgeous and amazing newborn to photograph is amazing, but when you have 2 it is out of this world!  I was able to photograph to gorgeous newborn twins recently and their session was just perfection.  They were born about a month early and both weighed over 5 lbs.  They had the happiest big brother who loved helping out and couldn't wait to have his photo taken with them.  I can't wait to see them again for their milestone session in a few months!

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Pregnancy Announcement and Family Session. <3 - Northern New Jersey Newborn, Child and Family Photographer.

This family had one big announcement for everyone. . .  Baby #2 was on the way!  Big brother had to announce the big news too!

Wenzel Family Session - Northern New Jersey Family Photographer - West Milford

Oh how I love my job.  Spent some time with this momma and her littles for some fun in a field chasing "dinosaurs" and "spaceships".  I think they might of had some fun. . . What an awesome family session!