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

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

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

Cleveland Photographer | Newborn and Family Photography | Studio Photography

Now is the best time to book your newborn shoot for 2024. My calendar is filling up and now booking into April for those sessions. What’s include with a Newborn Session?

For my Simply beautiful session, it’s a 2 hour studio shoot with full access to my client closet and all newborn accessories. Such as wraps, headbands, props and clothes. Your session is customized and unique for your family. The best part is all digital images are included. Usually 40-50 images. If they are all good and beautiful, I sent them all. There is no holding back on digital images.

Contact me today for specific pricing.

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

Studio Maternity Session | Cleveland, Ohio | Maternity Session Guide

It seems that maternity photography can often times be overlooked but this is such a beautiful time to capture. I recommend maternity photos to be taken anytime from week 28 to week 35. Your belly needs to be large enough to show off :) But not too far a long that your uncomfortable.

I offer both in studio and on location maternity shoots. Some of my favorite locations within the Cleveland area are Squires castle and chagrin river park. I also can offer indoor maternity shoots at my beautiful studio located in downtown Painesville.

I also offer a discounted package called bump to baby. With this package you’ll receive a maternity, newborn and 1st year photos.

If you’re currently expecting and interested, please reach out! Its best to pre book the sessions.

~Danelle

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

January Studio Newborn Photoshoot | Cleveland's Best Photographer | Newborn Portraits

It is always the biggest compliment when I see parents come in for photos with their 2nd and 3rd child. It is such an honor to watch their families grow over the years. This sweet session was the family’s 2nd child and was such a dream at his first newborn shoot.

Meet Baby Grayson!

When should newborn pictures take place? I recommend anytime from day 5 to day 15 of life.

Does it have to be in that time frame? This is a strong recommendation if you would like the pictures to look like the ones you’ve seen on my website. Within that time frame the babies are usually sleepier and easier to wrap for the photos. Once they reach the 1 month age, they have grown and changed so much!

What newborn packages do you offer? I offer both a the full 2 hour shoot which includes family, newborn and sibling pictures. I also offer a petite newborn shoot for 1 hour. These photos are just of the baby alone.

What’s included with the newborn packages? The packages include the shooting time, full access to all high end wraps, bonnets and props. It also includes a minimum of 40 digital images. I usually send anywhere fro 40-50 images. You’ll also receive 20% off my professional printing services.

When should you book a Newborn Session? I recommend researching and booking your photographer during your second trimester. I know it’s early but my calendar does fill up and you can’t wait until the baby is born. It will be hard to find an open photographer.

Ready to book you session? Please reach out and I’d be happy to offer a phone consultation for your next Newborn Shoot.

Thank you,

Danelle xoxo

Snowy Maternity Photo Shoot | Cleveland, Ohio | Squires Castle

There is something so beautiful about a maternity shoot taking place at a castle filled with snow. It was a snowy and chilly January but that didn’t stop this sweet couple from venturing out. I love when couples are all about capturing photos outdoors, even if its during the dead of winter. Outdoor shoots in the snow can be very beautify! For more information on my maternity sessions please contact me. I offer both on location and indoor shoots.

Naturally Beautiful Newborn Photography | Cleveland Newborn Photographer | Cleveland, Ohio

Newborns are best photographed just as they are, naturally beautiful. I have always been drawn to the more natural unposed setups for newborns. I believe they should be captured in their natural state with the flaky skin, belly button and all the wrinkles.

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 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

Studio Maternity Session | Cleveland, Ohio | Maternity Session Guide

It seems that maternity photography can often times be overlooked but this is such a beautiful time to capture. I recommend maternity photos to be taken anytime from week 28 to week 35. Your belly needs to be large enough to show off :) But not too far a long that your uncomfortable.

I offer both in studio and on location maternity shoots. Some of my favorite locations within the Cleveland area are Squires castle and chagrin river park. I also can offer indoor maternity shoots at my beautiful studio located in downtown Painesville.

I also offer a discounted package called bump to baby. With this package you’ll receive a maternity, newborn and 1st year photos.

If you’re currently expecting and interested, please reach out! Its best to pre book the sessions.

~Danelle

Newborn Photographer | Best Baby Photographer | Cleveland, Ohio | Northeast Ohio Photographer

The pops of gold and navy blue really made this sweet newborn session come to life. When preparing for your newborn session I usually recommend choosing a complimentary color palette as opposed to matching. The days of wearing all white and jeans are gone with the 90s. lol..

Today, choosing a coordinating color palette that is neutral in color but adds a little hint of color is best. I usually recommend neutral colors and no prints or stripes. This can be very busy to the eyes and we don’t want to take the focus off the baby.

For scheduling and more information for spring and summer 2023, please reach out. I only take so many clients each month and my schedule is filling.

~xoxo Danelle

A typical day in my Newborn Studio | Northeast Ohio | Best Newborn Photographer

The typical newborn shoot at my studio is very relaxed laid back and usually led by the baby. I know many people laugh when I say that, but its very true! I never want to push a newborn into a certain pose because that is not going to end well. I’ve been doing this long enough that I can tell by the how the baby is acting whether or not I’m going to get the shot.

How to prepare for the shoot:

There are a few things you can do to prepare for the shoot that will help make it go smoothly. I recommend feeding the baby close to leaving your home. Please bring a blanket, pacifier and bottle if needed. If your breastfeeding, there is room in my studio for you to do so and we can take breaks.

Once you arrive:

Once you arrive I will ask how the baby is currently doing and how do they settle. I can get a feel of the baby’s personality if I know they settle easily or if it takes them some time. If the baby is full and has a clean diaper I will usually start with wrapped poses in my props. This will keep them calm and warm while I get to know the baby a little bit more. If the baby seems very fussy after being fed and changed and unable to settle, I move to plan b.

This is the time I will move to mom and baby wrapped photos and family photos. I have learned if the baby is fussy they will usually settle in mom’s (or dad’s) arms. After we are all done with wrapped family and sibling photos it might be time for another feeding.

After they are fed, I will try the wrapped poses once again. If the baby continues to be content or settles easily with a pacifier I like to move to my table and bean bag poses. They baby is less wrapped in the poses but can also be woken easier.

Once all of those shots are done and I’m happy with the outcome I like to take a few more fun photos. These usually include candid lifestyle photos with mom or dad. Macro photos of the baby’s hands and feet.

The session itself usually lasts about 2 hours. I have found 3 hours is a very long time for the not only the baby but also the family. I will go over 2 hours if I don’t think I took all the shots I needed too. But usually everything can be accomplished within the 2-2.5 hour time frame.

If you are currently expecting and thinking of professional newborn portraits. Please don’t hesitate to reach out. My schedule does fill up quickly throughout the year.

For more information, please reach out.

xoxo~ Danelle

Cleveland Twin Newborn Photography | Introducing Emery & Colton

What is better than meeting and photographing one beautiful snuggly newborn?! Meeting twins! I always love when I have the opportunity to photography twin babies. Yes, it can be a lot of work but its also so special! I understand twins usually spend a couple days or even weeks in the NICU and that is adjusted into the shoot day for photos.

I usually wait until the mom and babies are fully ready for their first photoshoot. When I first met Emery & Colton there were already 6-7 weeks old but because they were twins they were still the perfect size.

The twin newborn shoot can either take place in your home or my studio. For Emery and Colton I visited their home and I documented them the best I could throughout their home.

If you are expecting and considering newborn photos. I recommend booking at least 3 months in advance. My calendar fills up quickly and its best to have a solid plan in place before the babies arrive.

For more information, please reach out.

~xoxo Danelle

Petite Newborn Session | Cleveland, Ohio | Newborn Photography

Many times I encourage moms to be in the photos as much as they can. Because we all know moms are left out of the photos many times! However, I understand if sometimes you just don’t feel like having your photo taken. That’s why I now offer the Petite Newborn Session. Its a quick and easy session for just the baby so you don’t have to worry about things not fitting or looking right for the photos. Just come and relax at the session, while I take the baby and do my magic.

With the Petite Newborn Session, it includes a 1 hour session and your choice of 15 images. I send a fully edited gallery of 25-30 images and you can choose your best 15! You also have the choice of purchasing more digitals or the entire gallery.

If you’re interested in booking a petite session, please reach out as availability fills up for the year.

Naturally Beautiful Newborn Photography | Cleveland Newborn Photographer | Cleveland, Ohio

Newborns are best photographed just as they are, naturally beautiful. I have always been drawn to the more natural unposed setups for newborns. I believe they should be captured in their natural state with the flaky skin, belly button and all the wrinkles.