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new jersey maternity + newborn + family photographer
providing natural, honest + emotive Photography for families 

Hello + Welcome Busy Mamas + Families!

This blog is your go-to resource for my best tips, tricks and inspiration to help you have an amazing, effortless and enjoyable family photo session. So, grab a cup or glass of your favorite beverage and browse the latest posts below. Or, check out some client favorites:

What to Wear for Spring Family Photos
What to Wear for In-home Newborn Photos
What to Wear for Fall Family Photos
Best Time for Maternity Photos
Best Time for Newborn Photos
Three Things Not to Say to Kids During Your Session
Best Parks for Family Photos - New Jersey
Family-Friendly Hikes in NJ



Browse recent posts

How Taking Pictures Taught Me to See

Uncategorized

collage of photos with the color teal

A couple years ago, I challenged myself to complete a monthly photo project. What I discovered along the way was a greater appreciation for the beauty in everyday, ordinary life. I don’t know about you, but sometimes I feel like life moves at rocket speed (that is once I got past the sleepless nights with […]

Finding Calm in the Chaos and My Top Twenty Photos of 2020

Family, Personal

It’s been a year like no other, with many challenges. I’ve spent a lot of time reflecting and reminding myself of all that I have to be grateful for. I’ve found moments of calm through meditation, long walks, lots of hot tea, and the occasional glass of wine (when all else fails). If you’re like […]

Dear Mama, We Must Exist in Photos

Family

Exist in Photos

As moms, we’re often the memory keepers of our family, snapping photos of our kiddos to document their lives through all the changing stages.  Whether it’s the milestone moments or the little in-between ones, we happily document our family.  But how often do we get in front of the lens? Do we even exist in photos? Why […]

Choosing the Best Size Photos for Your Wall

Uncategorized

Best Size Photo for Wall Art - Wall Display

A common question I get during ordering sessions is, “What size photos would look best on my wall?” Many people think of 8×10 or 11×14 prints as large, but when they see an image this size hung above a standard sized sofa or over a mantle, they realize just how small these prints actually are. […]

Tips for A Successful Family Photo Session

Family

Successful Family Photo Session

Let’s face it…planning a family photo session can be challenging. Not to worry. I’m here to help. Over the years of photographing families, I’ve come up with some simple tips to ensure you have a fun and successful family photo session.  1. Make sure the kids are rested and fed Okay. I know that sounds […]

Six Questions to Ask Before Choosing A Family Photographer

Family

Choosing a family photographer

Today more than ever families have endless options when choosing a photographer for family portraits. There are studio photographers, on-location photographers, traditional portrait photographers, lifestyle and documentary photographers. And within each genre, every artist has their own unique vision, style and approach to a session. Each photographer also has a personality that sets them apart. […]

Teen Survivor Session in Maplewood |The Gold Hope Project Photographer

Family

Gold Hope Project Photographer

When I met Shariah and her mom for their golden hour photo shoot early in September, I was immediately struck by Shariah’s beautiful smile and the joy in her eyes. Both Shariah and her her mom certainly have reason to smile now. After an extremely difficult year during which Shariah was diagnosed with a rare childhood cancer, she […]

Family Portraits Can Boost Confidence in Children

Family

Best parks for family photos in Morris County, NJ

As parents, we all want to raise confident kids.  As a new mom, I remember obsessing over articles about children and self-esteem. But none of them mentioned the importance of family portraits. Like many new parents, I took countless photos of my son to document his growth and record our family memories. Until recently though, I never realized […]

Favorite Farms for Apple Picking in New Jersey

Family

Favorite-Farms-for-Apple-Picking-in-New Jersey

Updated September 2024 The air has turned crisp and apple picking season has arrived! If you’ve followed me since my now teenage son was young, you know how much I love visiting pick-your-own farms. From flowers to berries, New Jersey has some of the best farms for pick-your-own. Autumn is all about the apples! When […]

Tips for Your Sunset Family Photo Session at the Beach

Family

Sunset Family Beach Session at the Beach

Making the Most of Your Family Beach Photo Session in New Jersey There’s something magical about a family photo session at the beach—the golden glow of the sun, the gentle waves, and the endless space for kids to run and play. Beach sessions create dreamy, timeless images, but they also come with their own unique […]

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"I cannot say enough about Debbie and her amazing talent. We have used Debbie on several occasions for portraits. She is patient and sweet. Her sessions are easy-going and fun. Her heart is in her work, and is reflected in the beautiful images she captures. I highly recommend Debbie!"

~ gina, Fanwood