Now Booking Fall Family Sessions!

It's that time of year again with the temperatures dropping and the kids back in school. It's officially time to book your fall family session with Danelle Joy Photography!

I am now booking fall evening family sessions for the months of September-October. Sessions are $300 and includes up to a 2 hour session, one location, 30-50 hand edited digital images, online gallery, and a print release. This is up to a family of 6 and pets are welcome.

And to celebrate the fall season (my favorite time to photograph), the first FIVE families to book a FALL FAMILY SESSION will receive a $50 discount off their session fee! 

To book a session, please email Danelle Joy Photography at dmik77@yahoo.com. For more information on family sessions and pricing, please visit www.danellejoyphotography.com

Little Italy and Botanical Garden Senior Session - Cleveland High School Portraits

Just wrapped up my first Senior Photography session in Cleveland, Ohio. Luckily the rain decided to stay away but the 40 mph wind was hard enough to deal with. I felt very honored when a friend approached me to shoot her daughter's Senior photos. I must say at first I felt a little overwhelmed but then I figured she must be easier than a 3 year old girl, right?! The setting was perfect at Trattoria in Little Italy, which held a special meaning to the family. This quaint little place is boasting with character and beautiful brick walls. Oh how I do love the leading lines with beautiful brick walls!!  I really wished it would not have been so windy though. That is the one downfall of shooting outside and on location but we made the best of it!

The second location was at the Cleveland Botanical Gardens and it was breathtaking. I even had to make a stop and take a few pictures at the Glidden house. The Cleveland Botanical Gardens was a dream to photograph a young lady in. The green gardens, Ivy and rose gardens are just a few of the backdrops that completed our session together. In the end I realized how much I enjoyed photographing a Senior and hope to add many more in the future. 

Summer Mini Session at Headlands Beach-Part 2

More beautiful families from my Family Mini Session held at Headlands Beach in Mentor, Ohio.

Headlands Beach Summer Mini Sessions - Cleveland, Ohio Family Portraits

The Summer Mini Sessions for July 2017 were held at Headlands Beach. It may not be known as one of the most beautiful places in all of Ohio for swimming. However, it continues to be my favorite places in Ohio for family portraits. The natural sandy beach, tall grasses, blue water and golden light all come together and make a beautiful backdrop for photography. I was lucky enough to have 6 families join me in my Summer Minis and capture some beautiful images. Headlands beach is and will always be a favorite place to photograph many families to come!

What to wear for Family Pictures

Trying to figure out "outfits" for a family photography session only brings one word to mind, "stressful".  I understand and have been there myself before I figured out the missing puzzle piece to finding great outfits. The little secret is called Color Palette!  I think we all at one time or another fall into the habit of wanting our kids to be all matching match. I still do at certain times but for photos its more about creating a beautiful color palette for your photography session.  I tell my clients to focus on 1 or 2 colors and blend them in throughout the family. I would have Dad wear a shirt with maroon color and accent the color with a pop of maroon in baby girls headband. Its all about making the colors flow throughout the family. The outfit below is a great example of a natural look with a pop of color.  This works best for a natural beach session.  Please email Danelle Joy Photography for individual help regarding "what to wear" at your next photography session.

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The Magic in the Golden Hour

The magic of the golden hour... Even though I don't live in the beautiful Outer banks  area of the Carolinas, this place can create some magical photos. Plan a visit to the Headlands beach during the late summer months, an hour before sunset and you will find some breathtaking backdrops. Headlands is located in Mentor, OH Lake County and is the longest natural beach along Lake Erie in Ohio. What exactly is the "Golden Hour"? It is typically the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset during which daylight is redder and softer. Its during this time that creates a beautiful golden glow in your images. The beach boasts natural sandy, golden rod beach grass and beautiful lighthouse. This is the perfect package to create stunning family photos.

A lovely couple at Squires Castle

There is nothing more beautiful than a young couple in love. I felt so honored to photograph this lovely couple on a  warm summer night. This fun Engagement Photography Session took place at Squires Castle in Willoughby Hills, OH. This castle is nestled in the Cleveland Metroparks and served as a romantic backdrop.