Why you should consider booking a Mini Session | New Jersey Newborn and Portrait Photographer

Benefits of a Mini Session vs a Full Session

I LOVE meeting new families and connecting with my clients. Hanging out and making memories with my clients is one of the best parts of my job! One of my favorite ways to meet new clients is through mini sessions! Now, lets start off with what is a mini session?

Mini Sessions are about 15-20 minutes typically at a set location on a specific date (usually back to back) and include a small amount of digital images with their price. While it may seem like you are not getting a lot out of these sessions, I truly believe that mini sessions serve a special purpose and have a special place in my heart. Here’s a few reasons why—

1. They’re more affordable! Its no secret that life is EXPENSIVE these days and while I wish I could lower my prices for everyone, thats just not feasible. Full sessions are priced appropriately in order for photographers to make a livable wage and cover their costs, but we understand that it could be out of budget for some— so thats why mini sessions could be a great alternative to fit your budget while still being able to capture your beautiful family memories.

2. They’re quick! Quick sessions are great for a few reasons - Little kiddos have such a short attention span that sometimes a full hour is too much! A 20 minute session is the perfect amount of time for your kiddos to have some fun, get some snuggles and be done before throwing a fit to leave. And do not be fooled, you can get A LOT of images in this short amount of time. Your photographer will snap away and you will be shocked at how many amazing photos can come from these sweet sessions. Another great thing about these quick sessions is that they won’t take too much time out of your day. If you have something else going on that day, it can be pretty easy to squeeze these in super quick without throwing your whole day off!

3. They’re great for those who just want a few photos While having a whole gallery to choose from is great for most sessions, certain times you may only just want a couple photos for a holiday card, or to print on your wall. You might not always need a full gallery of images (although it can be SO hard to choose), so these are perfect for those situations!

4. They’re a great way to meet your photographer Sometimes it can be nice to meet and work with your photographer before full committing to a full session. Seeing how they interact with you and getting a taste of the experience will have you itching to come back!! ;)

So what do you think?? Whether you choose to book a full session or a mini session, I can’t wait to create beautiful memories for you and your family! If you’re still unsure about which option is best for you, reach out and we can chat!

Baby Boy Newborn Session | Baby Phoenix | South Jersey Newborn Photographer

Ohhhhh look at this sweet little guy! Sometimes you just get a newborn session that goes so smooth and just makes you feel like on top of the world — THAT was this session.

Mr. Phoenix and his siblings did absolutely amazing for their photo session! Sometimes it can be tough for littles to sit in a studio setting and cooperate for these sibling poses, but every single one of his brothers and sister did fantastic and you can really tell how much they love their new baby brother!

Mama picked neutrals for her photo session colors, so we came out with such a beautiful, cohesive gallery I am so excited to share these photos with you.

How to Prepare for your Newborn Photo Shoot | South Jersey Newborn Photographer

Congrats on your newest addition! A baby can give a totally different meaning to life. By now I’m assuming that you’re thinking of booking a newborn session, or you already have! But now what? This is all so new, so what do you need to do next?

My newborn photography sessions are specially planned and designed to celebrate the love of your growing family and to capture those moments that mean so much! My studio is fully equipped and has thousands of props and accessories that we will use to design, create and plan your newborn photography session so that it reflects you and your personal style. When you book a session with me, you will receive a more in depth guide on how to prepare, but for now lets go over what you’ll need to know to make the most out of your newborn session!

Book Ahead of Time I always encourage my clients to book their session before they reach their 3rd trimester. Once the baby arrives, or the closer you get, the LAST thing on your mind will be to schedule a photoshoot, and before you know it, they’ll be too grown. I like to get newborns in the studio around 2-3 weeks if possible, while they are still tiny and sleepy, so planning ahead also allows us to work with your due date and be flexible if needed.

Plan the whole day Newborn sessions can take anywhere from 2-4 hours, but we never rush and follow baby’s cues, so it may take longer. When baby needs a break, we’ll take a break. Don’t worry if baby is fussed, they are not used to being handled, posed and move so much and it make take a while for them to settle down. Most babies need to eat at least once during their session. so we will plan to take as many breaks as needed to keep baby happy.

Dress/Pack appropriately You’ll notice that the studio is nice and warm. I keep my studio around 70-75 degrees, this helps keep baby nice and sleepy, but can sometimes be uncomfortable for mom and dad (sorry dad). Bring a pair of comfy, cool clothes to change into if wanted! Your style and prep guide will go over more details on how to dress for your photoshoot! Below is a list of other items to pack for the big day

1. Pacifier - even if baby only sometimes takes these at home, they are super helpful during our photoshoot time incase we need to settle the baby without feeding or moving them. Try to keep one on hand if possible!

2. EXTRA milk. Whether you pump, breast feed or formula feed, most babies will eat more than normal during their session, and more freequently. I’m not sure the science behind it, but come prepared with more than you think you need! I do have a refrigerator if needed to keep it cool.

3. Anything sentimental from home- I am always open to incorporating special items from home if you’d like, so bring anything you’d like to be a part of the photoshoot!

Feed As close to photoshoot time as possible If possible, it is best to feed the baby either right before you leave for your session or as soon as you arrive. I don’t want to throw off any schedule they are on, but feeding right before go time will help baby get nice and content and sleepy for longer! And again, we will most likely have to stop and feed at least once more during your session time, so don’t stress if you notice them eating more than normal.

Older siblings If you have an older child that will be participating in the session, I always suggest bringing two cars if possible. I do family and sibling poses first, and then your other child (children) can either go to lunch with dad, grandma, etc, or hang out in the front room for the duration of our session. I do keep some books and snacks in my studio, but sometimes taking them for a little adventure and coming back at the end is a special little day for them!

I hope that this helped ease your worries and stress just a little bit and I hope to work with you and your little ones in the near future!

Studio or Outdoor Maternity Session? Which is best? | South Jersey Newborn and Portrait Photographer

Congrats Mama to be (or mama to be again!) I’m so happy you’re considering a maternity session! Maternity sessions are such an amazing way to capture this part of your journey and look back at how badass you truly are! (and beautiful!!!!)

Now come the hard questions - Where do I wanna do the session? When should I do the session? What style do I want? I got you girl

Lets start with when. Maternity sessions are best at the end of your 2nd trimester or the beginning of your 3rd. I always say around 28-34 weeks is best! During the planning stages, I’ll make sure I know exactly what you’re looking for and the style/look you want. But what if you’re not sure? Let’s break it down!

Studio Maternity Session

In studio sessions are classic and timeless. They are elegant and a bit more “luxurious” as I like to say. My Franklinville studio is packed with a variety of dresses, gowns, body suits, etc to use for your session. Worried about variety-I got you! There are so many ways to express yourself and there are so many different ways to customize your session in studio. Want something more casual? Let’s pull out the jeans or Calvin Kleins. Want glamour and to feel like a princess? Let’s put on a poofy dress of your favorite color! Want to feel sexy and show off that body? I’ve got tons of sheer, more skin tight dresses along with body suits and fabric. Here are a few of my favorite studio looks before we move on to the outdoor options!

Outdoor Maternity Session

If outdoor, family sessions are more you’re style-don’t worry, I still got you! Outdoor sessions are more laid back and documentary. I like to capture real life moments in a more casual setting, and capturing that golden hour sun is just absolutely my favorite! I’ve still got a variety of dresses that my clients like to use for outdoor sessions as well. Outdoor sessions allow for more options for location, and also make it a lot easier to include families and husbands (although they can absolutely be included in studio as well). Kiddos seems to do much better outdoors! If this is more your style, we’ll chat about the type of location you are envisioning (beach, tall grass, open field, etc). Here’s a few examples of what an outdoor maternity sessions can look like!

Whether to decide on studio or an outdoor location, I am here to make your vision come to life. I am here to help you see how truly beautiful you truly are! This is such an important moment in your life and I am honored that you chose me to document it! Still unsure which tyle or style is best for you? Let’s chat!

5 Tips to Making a Photo Session Easier With Kids | South Jersey Newborn and Portrait Photographer

Family portrait season is coming back in just a few months and trust me, I KNOW how stressful preparing can be. Photo day can be intense.. kids are put on a stage and expected to perform for a total stranger, they are bound to be a little extreme and that’s okay! If you’re preparing for a photo session with your children, you may be feeling a bit apprehensive. Children aren’t always easy to deal with, which is why the below tips will definitely come in handy before your upcoming photo session.

1. Don't make a huge deal out of it. If you're stressed out and cranky, your kids will usually pick up on it and act accordingly. Their behavior will usually be better if you are relaxed and having fun. You may have to make some compromises to keep the peace such as letting your energetic daughter's hair stay straight instead of curling it into because she won't sit still. Focus on the big picture and don't sweat the small stuff.

2. Make it fun. Let the kids just be kids! I cater my sessions towards a more lifestyle/documentary look where I use very limited “poses”. Interact with each other-snuggle in close, play tag, etc. If you wanted a few “smile and look” photos, and are struggling to get your kids to sit still, turn the photo session into a game. Simon Says usually works like a charm.

3. Be prepared.  If you're going to be out for several hours, ensure that your children are well rested and have had their nap. Bringing some snacks and activities along is also a great idea. If they have a favorite toy, bring it along! If you happen to be shooting in a remote location, you never know when you might need something like bug spray, tissues or a first aid kit so bring that along too. ( I usually stock up on snacks and bug spray as well)

4. Be patient. Save your sanity by trying not to control the photo session too much. Sometimes the best photos come from kids just doing their own thing. Work with your photographer and trust that they will capture all those inbetween and intimate moments.

5.  Have a chat. Get your children talking to both you and the photographer about topics such as school or their favorite songs. This allows them to feel more comfortable around your photographer and will also give your photographer a chance to capture a few candid and cute expressions. I always send out a questionnaire before our session so I know how to relate to your child!

At the end of the day, these photo sessions document our life. I expect all children to be wild and emotional. Photo day can be intense.. kids are put on a stage and expected to perform for a total stranger, they are bound to be a little extreme and that’s okay! So show up to your session mentally prepared to let your littles be a little extra... and maybe have a little wine ready for when you get home for yourself ;)