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 ;)

A Beautiful Lifestyle Newborn Session | South Jersey Newborn Photographer

In Home Lifestlye Newborn Photography

It’s been a while since I posted a blog on here, I really need to get better at my blogging for 2024, but I’m here now so let’s dive in!

If you’ve been around for a while, you know that I mostly photograph newborn sessions in my south Jersey studio, however, every now and then I get a request to come into a client’s home and my goodness do I love it every time!

Lifestyle Newborn Sessions are so raw and intimate and I absolutely love the emotions they bring along with it. These are the first few moments home with your new addition, and I am here to capture it all!

Here are a few of my favorite images from my latest in home session - The Fino Family

South Jersey Newborn Photographer | Baby Logan | An IVF Miracle

Newborn Photography is about capturing new life, but it’s also about telling your story. Its about documenting this new journey and your new bundle of joy, however they came into this world.

This mama suffered many losses before getting pregnant with her miracle! Mr Logan sure is special- made with a little bit of science and a lot of bit of love!

Logan was an absolute DREAM for his newborn session and was very good to me and his mama! Take a look at some of my favorites from his special day!

Beautiful Family Session on the Bay | South Jersey Family Photographer

The Riggio Family | Cape May

As summer starts to come to an end, I definitely know I am going to miss these gorgeous beach portrait sessions! I LOVE all things fall, but there’s just something so special about capturing these special moments down the shore.

The other night I had the pleasure of meeting this gorgeous family down in their summer home and we had the BEST time.

Scroll through some of my favorites for that night!