Introducing: Personality Portraits from NJ/NY Child Photographer

Personality Portrait Mini Sessions are officially here and I am SO excited about these!

As a New Jersey photographer and a mom of three, I believe so strongly in the importance of capturing memories. I know just how fast time flies, and how much you’ll cherish every moment—especially the ones you took time to preserve with photographs.

But I also know that life is super busy. Budgets are tight. And kiddos don’t always want to pose for an hour.

That’s why I designed Personality Portrait Minis!

Introducing Personality Portraits!

These sessions are quick, easy, affordable, and SO MUCH FUN!

Personality Portraits are one of my favorite ways to capture kids exactly as they are right now. These sessions are designed to be ultra-simple: No props. No distractions. And definitely no stiff poses or pressure. All we focus on is having a fantastic time so that your kiddo’s true personality can come shining through.

It’s that simplicity and honesty that make these black and white portraits so timeless and powerful, and parents are absolutely loving them.

Why? Because these sessions are all about capturing the real expressions that make your child who they are. The silly looks, the sweet smiles, the mischievous little smirks, the big laughs, and those moments that make you say, “That is SO them!”

Personality Portrait Quick Facts

Simple. Timeless. Beautiful.

• 10 minute session

• 6 digital images

• Print release

• $199

Book Your Child’s Personality Portrait

I’ve only just started doing these child portrait sessions this spring, but they have been absolutely the best! I am loving every minute photographing all of these amazing little personalities, and the feedback from families is that they’re loving both the experience and the finished images. Makes my heart so happy!

I’m hoping I’ll be able to open up more of these sessions soon, but in the meantime, these are perfect for updated portraits and they go QUICK, so don’t wait to grab your spot! Contact me today and let’s celebrate your incredible kiddo and all that makes them unique!

My Top 7 Secrets to Get Babies and Kiddos to Smile for the Camera

As a parent, there are things about your kids that you just want to hang on to forever. The chubby cheeks, the tousled hair, and of course—the toothy grins!

If you’ve tried to take photos at home, you probably also know that those genuine smiles can be pretty elusive once the camera comes out. Don’t worry—with years of experience photographing littles and families, I’ve learned a few things, and I’m here for you! Whether you’re taking snapshots at home or coming to my New Jersey photo studio, here are my top 7 secrets to get babies and kiddos to smile (for real) at the camera.

1. Relax and Enjoy

Nobody feels like smiling when they’re tense! Young kids usually pick up their parents’ cues to guide them on how to react to a new situation. So if you’re smiling, laughing, and having fun, they’re much more likely to do the same. I make this really easy at my studio by having a laidback vibe and just chatting for a few minutes before the session so we can relax and get to know each other. It’s just like hanging out with friends!

2. Bring Out the Toys

I have a few toys at my studio, but you’re also welcome to bring some from home. Sometimes just playing for a few minutes can help little ones to settle and feel comfortable enough to really start enjoying themselves.

3. Music and Dancing

Most kids love music—and so do I! I’m happy to play your kiddo’s favorite songs (I remember one child who loved Baby Shark Dance—we played that so many times), sing with them, or break out some dance moves. Whatever it takes to make our photoshoot feel like a party!

4. Play Games

Babies and young kiddos also love games. Let me know if your child has any favorites, like Peek-a-Boo, Patty Cake, or Simon Says. We can absolutely incorporate those into our photo session to help everyone relax and giggle.

5. Be Silly

I have kind of a goofy personality anyway, so I have no problem being silly! If funny faces, crazy noises, or ridiculous jokes tickle your child’s sense of humor, we’re going to have a lot of fun!

6. Be Observant

You never know what will make kids smile. I like to always be ready with my camera so I can capture unexpected grins, but I also like to pay attention throughout the shoot and notice if they seem amused by something. Sometimes an ordinary word or phrase will strike toddlers as very funny, and when that happens I jump on it and use it to bring out those natural smiles.

7. Use Reverse Psychology

Every parent knows this one, right? If your kiddo is at the age when they want to assert their independence and ‘no’ is their favorite word, then a little bit of reverse psychology might just do the trick. Most kids can’t keep a straight face for long—especially if you’re telling them very seriously, “Now, whatever you do, don’t smile.”

Ready for Genuine Smiles in Your Photos?

I would love to show you just how fun, relaxed, and natural a photography session can be! Get in touch and let’s schedule a time to hang out at my studio. I’ll capture those precious moments of babyhood and childhood so you can treasure those sweet smiles for always. I can’t wait!

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!

Eresman Holiday Session - Northern New Jersey Family Photographe

This gorgeous family I have known for quite some time and I was so delighted when they booked a session for the holiday's!  These two brothers were inseparable and absolutely loved every minute of their fun session.

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! 

Baptism session with a beautiful family!

Had an amazing session with this gorgeous family.  This little guy was baptized in Spain and his family decided to have a session when they came back to the states.  Also, his outfit was incredible and custom from Spain.  LOVE!!!

A Wonderful 1st Birthday Session!

Nothing better than turning the big ol' 1!  Such an exciting time for families and for the birthday girl/boy as well.  This birthday girl absolutely LOVED hanging out and getting her photos taken.  Her big brother wasn't camera shy either.  <3