Camilla Rose | NJ Lifestyle Newborn

When it comes to newborn photography, the baby really does call the shots.  Even the best laid photoshoot ideas sometimes don't always go as planned, but the magical and special part about photography, is that it can produce something even better.  When this adorable little baby gets hungry, you take the opportunity to grab some intimate snaps of the interaction.  You get to see the giggles from the other family members (big sister included) when you can get the whole family involved.  And when she has worked hard as a model all morning, newborn babygirl finally just passes out and naps wherever she is, which creates beautifully sleepy pictures.  

This is lifestyle photography; photographing life, as it unfolds in the most amazing ways.  

Camilla Rose, or "Cashew" as she has been nicknamed, was welcomed to the world on February 9th.  She is already adjusting to life in her new home, which is filled with sounds of her big sister playing and her dog barking.  She doesn't mind visits from her extended family and is becoming one of the bunch!  

Congratulations to Maria, Joe & Gianna.  <3

The Real Gifts In Our Lives | NJ Lifestyle Photography

As a child, you want the coolest toy, the newest gadget, and the biggest, shiniest box sitting under the tree.  As you grow older, you come to realize that the best gifts aren't toys, gadgets, or material objects that could fit in a box.  They don't come with a price tag, and can't be bought in stores.  The real gifts in our lives are our loved ones, the moments we share, and the every day miracles that happen.  They are the conversations where we learn about ourselves and those closest to us.  The times we laugh so hard, our faces and stomachs hurt.  The quiet, warm embraces that calm us & express love without words.    

This holiday season, Maria & Joe took some time to create more memories with their growing family (and baby #2 on board!)  There was lots of laughing, kissing -their dog Gizmo included-, a little crying, and even a shoe that went floating down the creek (which made for a bit of adventure and something to look back on & laugh at).  Here is their Christmas Maternity session, celebrating the gift of marriage, family, and their daughter(s).  

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, Season's Greetings, Buon Natale!  And this year when thinking of New Year's resolutions, I encourage you to spend time every day reflecting on the daily gifts you have & receive and being grateful for them.  It is easier to be thankful during the holidays, but when you fill your life with appreciation, it will change in the best way.  :)  xoxo       

"Fall" Into the Holiday Season

This time of year can be a whirlwind of events.  From selecting and making Halloween costumes, planning and cooking for Thanksgiving, and shopping and preparing for Christmas, we each have to remember to slow down and spend some quality time together.  Luckily, when you are planning Christmas family photos, you get to spend an afternoon together playing in the park.  I had the pleasure to photograph this special family just as the leaves were changing and before it got too cold.  With the brand new addition of their baby Evan to their family, we got to capture some Holiday Joy.  

Congratulations Dan & Steph, and May Your Holidays Be Bright <3

 


Lilies & Pearls... 30 Years Later, She's Still His Girl

30 years ago, Macintosh revealed their first computer, Bill Murray & friends taught us who to call in Ghostbusters, Transformer toys made their appearance in stores for the first time, and Kevin Bacon danced his way into our hearts in Footloose.

30 years ago, two people madly in love decided to take the next step in their relationship, got married and started a family.  Donna & Frank just celebrated that special 30th Wedding Anniversary together and even 30 years later, we can tell the love you have for each other still shines so bright.  He smirks at her corny jokes, and she occasionally lets him know he's right.  They still laugh and act silly like a couple of teenagers, smitten with each other.  

So here's to you, lovebirds, and the next 30 years.  Congratulations! xo

Sweet Perfection...

7 pounds, 19.5 inches, 10 fingers, 10 toes, 2 eyes & 1 nose.  August 29th at 8:33pm this bundle of joy entered the world with a full head of hair and her hand already tightly gripped around our hearts.

Meet Gianna Elizabeth - the name Gianna is Italian and means God is gracious.  This sweet baby encompasses God's grace perfectly.  If you have seen the post Maria & Joe's Maternity, then you have already seen her loving parents.  

However, it is truly a beautiful sight to see two people who have just become first time parents and the look of wonder, amazement, and love that dances across their faces when they lay eyes on their baby girl.  For me, seeing my strong, determined, outdoorsy older brother turn into mush when his daughter coos or smiles or just simply looks up at him is enough to melt my heart EVERY. time.  And to see my smart, independent, caring sister take on motherhood with full force and make it seem easy (even though I know it is far from it!)  I am so happy and proud of both of you, and could not love the sweet perfection that is my niece, Gianna, any more than I do.  <3

 

 

 
 
 
 

Did I mention that we are all big football fans?  Joe is Greenbay Packers fan, Maria is a New York Giants fan, and Gianna - well, she'll get there...  ;)