Lifestyle Newborn Sessions | Chagrin Falls Photographer | Danelle Joy Photography

When booking a newborn session it can be difficult with all the decisions that take place. Not only choosing the right style photographer you would like for the newborn portraits but also the type of photos. Most photographers offer newborn or in home newborn shoots. What is exactly the difference?

The traditional newborn portraits usually take in a studio and the in home newborn session take place in the comforts of your own home. When choosing a newborn portraits with me I do offer both sessions.

What do you get with each session?

With the newborn portraits, they take place in my studio and its combination of backdrop, props and “lifestyle” type photos in the lifestyle area of my studio. So you actually do get a unique combination of both!

For the in home session, when traveling to you. I bring my props, outfits and accessories needed for the shoot. The rest of the photos are taken wherever you would like in your home.

During your session, I'll capture special moments with each family member and the baby as well as the family all together. If siblings are involved, we usually take care of those photos first so that they can go and play during the rest of the session. There will also be time for photos of the baby alone; these are usually done when the baby is sleepiest. 

How can you prepare if I’m visiting your home?

I usually ask for a 4x4 space that is window lit. I usually use the back slider area of most homes. It brings in tons of light and enough room for the newborn portraits with props. The rest of the photos can take place either in your living room, bedroom or nursery.

For more information, please reach out and I’d be happy to answer any questions.

xoxo~ Danelle

6 month Milestone | Child Photographer | Willoughby Ohio Photographer

It is so hard to believe how quickly 6 months or even a year flies by! Baby Marcus rocked his six month sitter session! When booking a bump to baby package with me you can easily customize the sessions however you would like. The most popular is the maternity, newborn and first birthday cake smash sessions. However, Marcus’s family wanted to do Newborn, 6 month and 1 year portraits. I am happy to accommodate any type of sessions you would like.

What is a six month sitter session? The six month milestone session, also known as the “sitter” session, is my absolute favorite to photograph. If they are sitting, we document that. I usually like to photograph them on their bellies pushing up, on their back, and rolling around if they are rolling already. At this age they love to play with their toes and their favorite toy is probably their hand.

This session can be baby only or include family too. I always recommend including family for this session if you're able. If you would like to book your sitter session, please reach out since my calendar does fill quickly.

Look forward to hearing from you soon!

xoxo~Danelle

Baby Sister Newborn Session | Chardon, Ohio | Cleveland Ohio photographer

I was so thrilled to hear that this special family was expecting baby number 2! I had the privilege to photograph their first baby girl and many mini sessions along the way with them. There is nothing more special then watching a family grow up before my eyes. It’s hard to believe I’ve been doing this long enough to photograph not only their 1st baby. But I’ve literally watched many of the families grow from baby 1, 2 and even number 3! That means the world to me, when so many families keep coming back. That is truly the biggest compliment anyone can ever give regarding my photography.

Sweet Gwennie was welcomed with big arms in the studio. I had so much photographing her and her adorable family. Big sister rocked the session too, and allowed me to capture so many sweet moments together.

Are you expecting a sweet little bundle in 2024. Please reach out, I would love to chat about the many different maternity and newborn packages I offer.

Look forward to talking to you soon~

xoxo, Danelle

Maternity Sessions | Northeast Ohio Photographer | Studio

Studio maternity sessions are so fun and cozy when done in indoors. Although, I love taking wintery photos outdoors but sometimes in northeast Ohio it can be just too cold! My studio sessions include 2-3 different setups to help give your gallery a unique and modern look. The setups include backdrops and my lifestyle area in the studio.

The best part of choosing me for your maternity shoot, is full access to my Client Closet! I have a range of maternity dresses available for you to try and choose on. The photo attached below are part of my client closet!

When to book?

I recommend booking maternity sessions early in your second trimester. I want to make sure you get in my calendar and all set for the shoot. The pictures usually take at the end of the beginning or middle of the last trimester. I offer one simple pricing for my maternity session. It’s a 45 min shoot for $450 and that includes all of the images. Usually about 40 images.

I also have a bump to baby and maternity/newborn bundle which offers great pricing with multiple sessions.

More questions? Please reach out and I would be happy discuss which package would best fit you!

xoxo~Danelle

Baby Sutton is ONE | Willoughby, Ohio | Best Baby Photographer | Smash Cake

It’s always so amazing to me how quickly just 1 year passes by! I first met this cute family for their maternity shoot. It was a cold snowy day where we met at squires castle. They were booked the bump to baby package, which I love, because I spend the entire year with the family!

I meet them at their maternity, newborn and finally at the 1 year first birthday shoot. Sutton was all smiles for her first birthday portraits. Her smash cake was also so very special since it was hand baked by her Grandpa!

How cool is that!

If you are interested in milestone pictures of your little one it’s better to plan ahead and book in advance. I understand many people want the pictures done and printed prior to their birthday party. Most of the time my turn around is 2-3 weeks. However, my calendar does fill up and I want to make sure you get the date you prefer!

For more information about my milestone and smash cake packages, please reach out! I would be happy to talk about the prices and what the process entails.

~Danelle

How to get ready for a cake smash | Chagrin Falls, Ohio | Best Baby photographer

Cake smash sessions are always a favorite of mine! They can be so fun, stress free and full of giggles. Especially if you plan early enough. I recommend booking a cake smash a few months ahead of time, in order to plan the session. I’m always happy to coordinate the planned theme. Many times moms know exactly what they want for the first birthday.

Other times I have heard, “I have no clue”… Any ideas?!

Of course I have some great ideas! I also recommend bringing the outfit and cake to the shoot. I can provide most of the decor and balloons for the session.

Be Prepared for Anything!

Those are the basics of how to get ready for a cake smash session beforehand. Once you show up at the studio, the best advice I can give is to be prepared for anything! As long as you are relaxed and ready to have fun that will go a long way to helping your baby do the same as we celebrate their birthday

Have more questions about how to get ready for a cake smash session? Please reach out and I would be happy to do a phone consult and plan the cake smash session!

~Danelle

Lily turns 1! | Cake Smash Portraits | Milestone Photography | Solon, Ohio

We started with formal pictures for Lily’s first birthday. Since many parents like to have the cake smash pictures taken, we always wait until the end.

What do you get with cake smash photos? It’s a full hour session that includes the family and some traditional pictures. The photo are with my backdrop and the lifestyle area of my studio. We end with the customized them for the birthday shoot. I like to work with the family and help them plan for the birthday shoot. Lily was all red and black ladybugs. How cute is that?

Are you interested in Cake Smash Photos? Plan ahead and book now so you can have the adorable photos for their birthday party!

Reach out for more detailed pricing and special offers for my packages right now.

See you soon!

~Danelle

Cake Smash Photography | First Birthday Photos | Best family Photographer | Painesville, Ohio

Mentor, Ohio CAKE SMASH PHOTOGRAPHER

Can we talk about how adorable Lily is with her special birthday cake?! Cake smash first birthday sessions are one of my absolute favorite studio sessions to photograph. The cake smash sessions can be used alone for their first birthday or it’s included in my bump to baby package! That’s right with my bump to baby package you’ll receive maternity, newborn and a milestone session that can be used any time during the baby’s first year! The majority like the smash cake birthday!

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN A STUDIO CAKE SMASH SESSION

When you book a full 1 hour first birthday shoot I like to work with the family and customize the shoots! As a given I always provide the balloons, props and outfits. I have many different backgrounds than can be used for either boy or girl! I’ve had so many fun and unique sessions over the years.

WHEN TO BOOK?

My calendar does fill up far in advance and I recommend getting on my schedule at least 2 months in advance. Especially, if you are wanting the images to be done prior to their birthday party. My editing turnaround is usually around 2-3weeks.

Contact me today, and we’ll discuss the perfect smash cake session for your little one!

xoxo~ Danelle

Hello & Welcome | Cleveland Ohio Photographer | Northeast Ohio Photographer

Hello & Welcome! As a busy mom, I understand how quickly these little ones grow. I feel like my own 4 children have grown in a blink of an eye. That is my “why” I started my photography journey many years ago. It is so important to capture those moments with your little and big ones! And I want to help you document those precious moments as well.

I’ve owned my photography business for over 6 years and have had the privilege of watching families grow right before my eyes. My expertise has been with Newborns, Children and Family photography. I have always had a love for photography back to the day of developing my own film in a dark room.  For the last 12 years, I have dedicated many hours and continued education in order to learn and perfect the art of photography. Photography is more than a passion of mine, its a lifestyle. Prior to photography my educational background includes being a Registered Nurse and I also received my MBA in healthcare. I’m excited to announce my NEW photography studio is located in Downtown Painesville, Ohio. I service the surrounding areas of Cleveland, Ohio for Newborn, Child and Family Photography.

During my sessions, my goal is to create a very relaxed laid back approach that captures the honest smiles and real connections within the family.  My expertise exists in Newborns, Children, and Families, around the Greater Cleveland area.  I’m an award winner for the best of photography in the city of Painesville for 2018 and 2021. I was also a Finalist (top 3) for Best of Photography for “Best of the East” by Cleveland Magazine 20022. I am now a proud member of the NAPCP and Click & Company. I believe photography is a form of art and it’s my goal to hit the pause button of life and capture these beautiful moments.  Everyone has a story, let me tell yours...

Best of 2023 Photography | Top 9 Portraits | Cleveland, Ohio Photographer

Winter Maternity Shoot | Squires Castle | Cleveland, Ohio | Best Photographer

When is the best time to take Maternity Photos?

I recommend anytime from week 28-36. I want you to have a nice little bump but also not uncomfortable for the shoot.

Where do they take place?

I offer both outdoor and indoor studio shoots for maternity. The outdoor shoots seem to be more popular even during the winter time! I love going to squires castle after a fresh blanket of snow. I also recommend the moms to bring blankets and cover up in between shoots.

What happens during the shoot?

I understand it can be awkward and unsure of how to pose. No worries! I will guide you every step of the way with the posing for the shoot. Please check out some of my most recent sessions here:

How long do they last? I offer both a mini 30 minute and full 1 hour shoot. With the mini session you also receive 15 images. The full 1 hour shoot you’ll receive close to 40 images. All of my pricing includes the session fee and digital images. No extra hidden costs.

How much does to cost?

Click here for pricing: Danelle Joy Photography Pricing

What should you wear?

I recommend wearing clothing that you would feel comfortable. I do offer a few maternity dresses that you are welcome to borrow. Long flowing dresses look amazing in the shoots.

Ready to book your photo shoot?

Reach out and I’ll get it scheduled

Contact Me

Thank you,

Danelle

Now Booking Newborn Photography 2024 | Cleveland, Ohio | Best Baby Photographer

Its so hard to believe we are well into 2024 already! With the New Year, I always get excited about offering new items and ideas to my business.

Behind the scenes I’ve been gearing up and taking many new newborn classes. The world of photography with newborns are always changing and I find it extremely important to stay current and up to date. That is the best way to offer all of my clients the most up to date beautiful and professional images. I also am offering many new props, wraps and accessories to my newborn closet! This will also help enhance the look and represent Newborn Photography for 2024. I can see parents today want to stay current and love their photos to represent the times while staying classic as well.

I recommend booking while you are expecting. Please don’t wait until the baby is born to start researching newborn photographers. At that time, most are already booked. Plus the best time to photograph newborns is anytime from day 7 to day 15 of life. So some planning must take place to achieve the perfect photos. Cleveland, Ohio Newborn Photographer

When to take Maternity Photos | Maternity Photoshoot | Cleveland, Ohio | Newborn Photographer

I am asked many times when is the best time for Maternity photos? A maternity photo session is the perfect way to document the beautiful change your body is undergoing. I recommend photos to be taken anytime from week 32 to week 36 depending on how your feeling. You want a beautiful baby bump for the photos, but also not too large you feel uncomfortable. That’s why I recommend that time frame as the sweet spot for photos.

What takes place during a maternity session?

I offer both a full 1 hour and mini 30 minute maternity session. These photos can be taken outdoors or inside depending on the vibe you want in the photos. Many people choose outdoors all year long. I especially love squires castle for photos.

If you’re deciding on booking both a maternity and newborn shoot you’ll receive 10% off the total cost. If you want all 3 sessions, maternity, newborn and first birthday. I offer a bump to baby package which includes all 3 sessions at a reduced cost.

Please reach out and schedule your session today.

~xoxo Danelle

Maternity Photography

1st Birthday Portraits - Smash Cake - Cleveland Ohio Photographer | 2024 Birthday Photos

When you look back can you believe how fast that year went?! It is crazy to believe you now have a baby that’s entering toddlerhood and starting walk, climb and talk!

So let’s capture all of this joy and excitement. Smash cake first birthday photos are such a fun experience for the child and parents.

What’s included with a smash cake session? When booking the full session, you’ll have consult either over the phone or email. I will ask what theme or colors you would prefer for the shoot. I also can give suggestions of set ups I currently have for both boys and girls.

The session begins with portraits with the setup, the cake smash and can end with adorable bath tub photos. I currently offer smash and splash photos as an add on for the the fun experience.

I recommend all shoots to be pre-booked at least 1 month in advance. Please reach out for more information.

xoxo~Danelle

Now booking Newborn Photography 2024 | Timeless and Classic Portraits

Wow, 2023 was a wonderful and busy photography year for me with close to 150 shoots. That’s a lot of editing, lol! I’m so excited to get started with 2024 and now booking due dates for the new year. I offer both a full 2 hour and mini 1 hour newborn package. I also offer in home newborn shoots where I visit and take photos in the comfort of your own home. Many people prefer a mixture of both lifestyle and styled poses. I do bring a few props to capture those styled poses. The rest of the shoot takes place throughout your home.

My calendar does fill up quickly, please reach out if you’d like to book.

Thanks,

Danelle xoxo

Sometimes miracles come in two | Cleveland, Ohio | Newborn Photographer

The weather was crisp and cool but it made for the perfect backdrop for maternity photos in October. Squires Castle nestled in Cleveland, Ohio remains one of my top choices for maternity shoots. Especially during the fall and winter. There is just something so mystically, dreamy and beautiful about a castle secluded in the woods.

I also understand how it can be tough to sometimes to photograph little ones, when they are filled with energy. Thats why my style of photography isn’t staged and stiff. If the kids want to run, I run with them! And capture those genuine fun smiles. After all the candid picks, usually end up being my favorite anyway!

If you are excepting and want to learn more about all of my maternity, bump to baby and newborn photography. Please reach out! I have many packages that can be what you are looking for.

xoxo~ Danelle

Lifestyle Newborn Session | Cleveland, Ohio | Best Baby Photographer

I absolutely love getting the chance to visit and shoot at family’s homes. There is just something so special about photographing those beautiful new moments in the comforts of your own home. Plus, wouldn’t it be great for me to visit you! After all no one feels like leaving the house right after coming home from the hospital.

What happens when I visit? I bring everything to you! The unique thing about my style of photography is I offer a little bit of both posed newborn photos with lifestyle photos. I have heard many times people still like both setups! I do bring everything needed for the newborn shoot. All I ask in advance is a small 4x4 window lit area for those shots. Usually a back slider or window works perfectly. The lifestyle photos are usually taken throughout the home such as the living room, master and nursery.

I’m now booking into 2024. Please reach out for more information.

xoxo~

Danelle

Lifestyle Newborn Shoot | On Location | Mentor Ohio | Cleveland Ohio

There is nothing sweeter than visiting a family’s home and telling their story. I understand and get it, you just came home from the hospital and your world has been turned upside down. To say the least. The last thing you feel like doing is leaving the house with the baby and half the nursery to get photos taken. So let me visit you! Thats the beauty of lifestyle newborn shoots. I bring everything to you and take the photos in the comforts of your own home. The session is usually about 2-2.5 hours long and includes photos of just the newborn and creative shots with mom and dad. Please reach out and schedule your newborn shoot today:)

Studio Newborn Photography | Best time for Portraits | Cleveland Photographer

I’m sure you have heard many times, they grow so fast! “Don’t blink, they’ll be driving soon”. Well, unfortunately that is very true. If you do blink you might miss something. I’m not saying this to scare or pressure you into anything. But time seems to move so very quickly from the moment you found out you’re expecting to the time they are graduating.

Newborn portraits shouldn’t be any different. I always stress to many of my families that these are time sensitive photos. Its so hard to believe they change a lot in that first month. But they really do! You only realize it when you look back on those first couple weeks of photos.

I recommend newborn photos to be done anytime from day 5 to day 15 of life. I am more than happy to photograph anytime after that. However, the photos may be a little different. Babies are more awake and its not as easy to wrap and squish inside bowls, lol.

My summer newborn calendar is filling fast. If you are thinking about portraits, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I would love to have a phone consult with you and discuss the process of my newborn photography:)

xoxo…Danelle