Jessica Piva Photography: Blog https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog en-us (C) Jessica Piva Photography (Jessica Piva Photography) Tue, 04 Jan 2022 15:05:00 GMT Tue, 04 Jan 2022 15:05:00 GMT https://www.jessicapiva.com/img/s/v-12/u879653867-o913635157-50.jpg Jessica Piva Photography: Blog https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog 120 120 Family maternity session at the mansion https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2022/1/family-maternity-session-at-the-mansion This gorgeous family welcomed a beautiful baby boy in the Spring of 2021, and I was thrilled to capture their family while they waited to meet him. 

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(Jessica Piva Photography) cinnaminson photographer family portrait lifestyle moorestown photography south jersey photographer https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2022/1/family-maternity-session-at-the-mansion Tue, 04 Jan 2022 15:05:00 GMT
I know him!! Caroling and hot chocolate with Santa https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2022/1/i-know-him This holiday season has been such a whirlwind. what is time?! But I was so glad that I got to capture this amazing event for some families at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Moorestown. Thank goodness for a mild December. 

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(Jessica Piva Photography) holiday photos moorestown olgc santa claus south jersey photographer https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2022/1/i-know-him Sun, 02 Jan 2022 15:00:00 GMT
Intimate family portraits at home https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2022/1/intimate-family-portraits-at-home The best part of capturing families is really capturing the magic in relationships. I was so thrilled when this mama of 4 reached out for some family photos and was super into the idea of a relaxed session in their home. Home sessions allow kids to be comfortable and really lets their personalities shine. In home sessions are more intimate and capture relationships much more genuinely. 

These babes are ages 4 months, 2 years, 5 years, and 8 years and being in their own backyard for family portraits really allowed us to capture their amazing sibling personalities and interactions. It's so beautiful to have portraits that are more than just an image, but really show who your family is at a specific moment in time. 

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(Jessica Piva Photography) family portrait family portraits lifestyle session moorestown https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2022/1/intimate-family-portraits-at-home Sat, 01 Jan 2022 22:09:50 GMT
W Family Spring portraits https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2019/5/w-family-spring-portraits Spring has sprung and we are loving the gorgeous weather!! This is the second time I've had the pleasure of shooting the gorgeous family, and they make my job so easy and s much fun! There's nothing better than sisters and blossoms!! 

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(Jessica Piva Photography) cinnaminson moorestown portrait south jersey south jersey photographer https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2019/5/w-family-spring-portraits Sun, 05 May 2019 18:06:37 GMT
Valentines Day Gift - Boudoir Session https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2019/1/valentines-day-gift---boudoir-session A really big motivation for me to become a photographer, to share my passion with other, was how passionately I feel about empowering women. I want women to see their beauty and feel their best. I've always leaned into the idea that mothers need to be present in photos. But, that isn't enough for me. That isn't inclusive enough and while it's still so important to me,  I want to make women feel amazing in their own skin because they deserve it no matter what their circumstance. And so it only seemed natural to me to begin offering boudoir sessions. As a Valentine's day gift I would like to offer 4 of theses intimate sessions. 

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(Jessica Piva Photography) boudoir burlington county cinnaminson photographer intimate model call moorestown new jersey photography south jersey photographer https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2019/1/valentines-day-gift---boudoir-session Tue, 15 Jan 2019 11:44:15 GMT
M family session - Palmer square https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2019/1/m-family-session---palmer-square With 4 grown and nearly grown children the time this family gets to spend all together is much more precious than it's ever felt before. Luckily we were able to get them all together a few days after Christmas in Princeton's Palmer Square. We had lots of fun wandering around and it was gorgeous and festive. I love when clients are down to explore, and I loved this location. Such a cute location and a beautiful family.

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(Jessica Piva Photography) cinnaminson photographer family portrait lifestyle new jersey photography princeton south jersey photographer https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2019/1/m-family-session---palmer-square Sun, 06 Jan 2019 21:17:18 GMT
Making the most of in home lifestyle portraits https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/12/in-home-lifestyle-portraits In home lifestyle family sessions are my favorite for so many reasons. Elevated candid sessions are a great way to preserve memories, to freeze a moment in time for a family.  In home lifestyle sessions can seem a little intimidating if you're used to more posed family portraits. This is some advice that I offer to clients to help them make the most of their session. 

  1. Do a small light study. I ask clients to take a look around their home in the days leading up to an in home session, to see where the best light may occur. This can be so beneficial, because we don't need to be all over the house, we may just find one little corner of the living room that seems extra magical.  With the below session we found that the best places were in the front living room, which is where the children typically played so it was perfect, and there was a great pocket of light in the kitchen on the counter that framed mama and her baby girl per
  2. Focus on an activity. This really helps relax clients so that we can capture the most natural and spontaneous moments. We may have families interact by cooking or coloring. Focusing on an activity rather than the camera really allows for personalities and relationships to shine. Around the holidays baking, decorating the tree, wrapping gifts, or drinking hot chocolate are great interactions. But, even something as simple as cuddling on the couch can really lighten the mood and allow your family's story to tell itself. Playing with a remote control car really helped these little guys relax at the beginning of our time together. 
  3. Dress accordingly. In home sessions tend to have a more relaxed feel, but not sloppy. Coordinating outfits with complimentary color palettes are best; using a neutral base and adding a few accent colors, patterns, and texture. Because you will be in your home you should also take into consideration the color and style of your decor to achieve a cohesive look that does not distract form your beautiful family.  
  4. Relax. In home lifestyle sessions produce some of my favorite images, because they're relaxed and allow families to interact organically.  

 

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(Jessica Piva Photography) cinnaminson family portrait lifestyle moorestown photography portrait south jersey photographer https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/12/in-home-lifestyle-portraits Thu, 20 Dec 2018 03:07:38 GMT
S family maternity portraits https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/10/s-family-maternity-portraits One of my absolute favorite families is growing!! They will be welcoming a baby girl this month

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(Jessica Piva Photography) https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/10/s-family-maternity-portraits Wed, 17 Oct 2018 02:14:30 GMT
LLS Light The Night 2018 https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/10/lls-light-the-night-2018 This past weekend I was honored to join one of my favorite photographers Jamie Wittwer to photograph the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Light The Night event at Cooper River Park. It was such a beautiful event. I was so impressed by the love and dedication of the LLS staff and volunteers. It was a beautiful celebration of survivors, memorial of those loved one's lost, and rally of those supporting to continued fight for a cure. 

I was so moved by the energy of this event and brought to tears by the survivors circle. I was honored to be a part of such an amazing and inspirational event. 

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(Jessica Piva Photography) https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/10/lls-light-the-night-2018 Wed, 17 Oct 2018 02:13:40 GMT
Julianne and Patrick - Smithville engagement https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/8/julianne-and-patrick---smithville-engegment Julieanne and Patrick will be getting married next May, in their home state of Ohio. They're college sweethearts who began as friends, and their adoration for one another is so apparent. 

Wishing this sweet couple all the best as they build their lives together. 

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(Jessica Piva Photography) burlington county engagement moorestown portraits smithville smithville mansion south jersey photographer https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/8/julianne-and-patrick---smithville-engegment Sat, 04 Aug 2018 01:07:21 GMT
Ava Senior https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/6/ava-senior Ava just graduated from Cinnaminson High School and is headed to Rutgers University Ernst Mario School of Pharmacy. She's had an amazing high school career, both academically and with extra curricular activities; marching band, student government, track and field, girls state. I can't wait to hear about what awesome things this girl goes on to do in her career.

We were a little worried about the weather, it called for major storms, but we decided to go for it anyway and I'm so glad we did!

 

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(Jessica Piva Photography) burlington county cinnaminson photographer delanco moorestown pennington park photography senior portrait south jersey photographer https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/6/ava-senior Tue, 26 Jun 2018 01:23:47 GMT
In home mother's day session https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/5/in-home-mothers-day-session I love capturing families in their own homes, it's a privilege that I take great honor in. I love being welcomed into a home to capture a family in their everyday beauty. When Lauren contacted me that's exactly what she had in mind, I was so excited as I feel it's so important to hold onto these precious and fleeting moments.

Lauren and Nick have two beautiful little girls and crazy schedules; Lauren runs a business from home with a 3 year old and 6 month (seriously, super mom!) and Nick has a busy work schedule, as well. It was just serendipitous that we got together days before Mother's Day, and I got to capture a lot of mothering moments. The beautiful moments that occur all the time and need to be celebrated more; nursing the baby while the toddler plays, preparing dinner with a special little helper, Dad's home coming the toddler and surprising Mom with flowers <3. 

Lauren is such a gorgeous mother and I'm so glad she let me be a fly on the wall in her home for a while. I hope these images serve as a permanent reminder of the beauty in the everyday. The nights are long, but the years are short.

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(Jessica Piva Photography) cinnaminson photographer family portrait lifestyle new jersey south jersey photographer voorhees https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/5/in-home-mothers-day-session Wed, 16 May 2018 16:29:12 GMT
personal project 365 - week 13 https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/4/personal-project-365---week-13

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(Jessica Piva Photography) cinnaminson cinnaminson photographer family portrait lifestyle moorestown new jersey photography south jersey photographer https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/4/personal-project-365---week-13 Tue, 03 Apr 2018 01:20:16 GMT
personal project 365 - week 12 https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/3/personal-365---week-12

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(Jessica Piva Photography) https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/3/personal-365---week-12 Wed, 28 Mar 2018 00:01:06 GMT
personal project 365 - week 11 https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/3/personal-project-356---week-11

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(Jessica Piva Photography) cinnaminson photographer family portrait lifestyle moorestown new jersey photography south jersey photographer https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/3/personal-project-356---week-11 Tue, 27 Mar 2018 00:09:00 GMT
person project 365 - week 10 https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/3/person-project-356---week-10

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(Jessica Piva Photography) cinnaminson family portrait in home sessions lifestyle lifestyle photographer moorestown new jersey photographer south jersey https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/3/person-project-356---week-10 Mon, 19 Mar 2018 23:11:32 GMT
personal project 365- week 9 https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/3/personal-project---week-9

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(Jessica Piva Photography) https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/3/personal-project---week-9 Mon, 05 Mar 2018 00:24:45 GMT
personal project 365 - week 8 https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/2/personal-project-365---week-8

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(Jessica Piva Photography) cinnaminson photographer family portrait lifestyle photography south jersey photographer https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/2/personal-project-365---week-8 Thu, 01 Mar 2018 00:32:38 GMT
persona project 365 - week 7 https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/2/persona-project-365---week-7

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(Jessica Piva Photography) https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/2/persona-project-365---week-7 Sun, 18 Feb 2018 22:06:39 GMT
personal project 365 - week 6 https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/2/personal-project-365---week-6

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(Jessica Piva Photography) https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/2/personal-project-365---week-6 Sun, 11 Feb 2018 20:24:15 GMT
personal project 365 - week 5 https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/2/personal-project-356---week-5

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(Jessica Piva Photography) https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/2/personal-project-356---week-5 Tue, 06 Feb 2018 00:42:35 GMT
personal project 365 - week 4 https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/1/personal-project-365---week-4

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(Jessica Piva Photography) cinnaminson cinnaminson photographer documentary photographer family portrait lifestyle new jersey personal project photography south jersey photographer https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/1/personal-project-365---week-4 Mon, 29 Jan 2018 23:28:29 GMT
personal project 365 - week three https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/1/personal-project-356---week-three Week three brought lots of lifestyle portraits, my favorite <3

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(Jessica Piva Photography) cinnaminson cinnaminson photographer family portrait lifestyle new jersey photography south jersey photographer https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/1/personal-project-356---week-three Mon, 22 Jan 2018 23:57:45 GMT
personal project 365 - week two https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/1/personal-project-365---week-two This week has pushed me, and it's been really satisfying. 

8/365 9/365 10/365 11/365 12/365 13/365 14/365

 

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(Jessica Piva Photography) cinnaminson cinnaminson photographer documentary family portrait lifestyle new jersey south jersey photographer https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/1/personal-project-365---week-two Mon, 15 Jan 2018 02:57:56 GMT
personal project 365 - week one https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/1/personal-project-365---week-one I've committed myself to a personal project this year; something for myself so that I can continue to grow in my art. I feel very strongly about education and I spend a lot of my time taking classes, reading, participating in communities of photographers; I love learning and growing. But, I worry that I've neglected myself and so this year I will be taking some time for myself each day to create one image, just for me. 

I've thought about how best to share this with you without being overwhelming. And, so I'm going to start a weekly blog series to go along with my project; just a place to share my journey

1/365

2/365

3/365

4/365

5/365

6/365

7/365

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(Jessica Piva Photography) cinnaminson family portrait lifestyle moorestown new jersey photography portrait south jersey photographer https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2018/1/personal-project-365---week-one Sun, 07 Jan 2018 22:54:30 GMT
Medford lifestyle family session https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/11/medford-lifestyle-family-session When Anna and I first spoke about her family portraits she expressed concern; having 3 super active boys aged 5,4, and 3. And from a mom point of view I completely understand the concern and the stress that having portraits done can cause. As a mother you want your kids to "behave" for portraits. We talked about my approach to my younger client; I want to capture who these amazing little people are and that's not always going to be a stationary smile. As we spoke Anna told me all the sweet things that she adores about her boys and what she'd love to remember about her family as it is right this moment. And, I have to admit, I cried when I read her responses. She told me about how she wanted to really hold on to how sweet and confident the boys are right now and their silliness; she told me about how kind and hardworking her husband is, and an amazing father; we talked about their busy lifestyle and the boy's boundless energy. 

I knew that these boys needed to get outside! The family just relocated to the area and I thought Kirby's Mill would give them plenty of space to just be boys. 

I loved capturing this sweet family and this awesome time in their lives. 

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(Jessica Piva Photography) autumn fall family portraits kirbys mill lifestyle portraits medford outdoor photography south jersey https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/11/medford-lifestyle-family-session Thu, 16 Nov 2017 21:30:00 GMT
Moorestown lifestyle extended family session https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/11/moorestown-lifestyle-extended-family-session I love lifestyle sessions because they allow families to really capture their truth; really embrace the current season of their lives. These sessions really help to preserve memories. I know, as a mom, I want to remember my children's personalities and funny little things that are just so "them" and it makes me so happy to be able to do that for clients... especially for moms. 

In home sessions are great for lifestyle sessions because it really allows for children to be comfortable and themselves and allows for me to really see little bits of their personalities that a formal portrait session may miss. This was a large extended family in home session... four grandparents, two families, three small children. I absolutely loved how this family interacted and got along. It was so beautiful to see such a close knit, large family and I feel so lucky that I got to capture their awesome relationships. 

If you have children who are not super into having portraits done or who get really shy in front of the camera then an in home lifestyle session may be exactly the thing for you to get beautiful images of your littles exactly as they are. Maybe you really want to remember the sweet relationship your children share as siblings or that special way it feels when you're all cuddled up together. In home lifestyle sessions just allow for a more intimate portrait experience and if that's something that you're looking for consider an in home session next time you're looking to update your family portraits. 

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(Jessica Piva Photography) extended family session family portraits in home lifestyle moorestown moorestown photographer https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/11/moorestown-lifestyle-extended-family-session Sun, 12 Nov 2017 21:06:55 GMT
Mark and Laurie - West Windsor Wedding https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/9/mark-and-laurie---west-windsor-wedding Capturing a marriage is always really special; it's such an important moment in a couple's lives. But this felt even more elevated; Mark and Laurie weren't simply being wed, they were becoming a family. They had a perfect, intimate, ceremony and reception at Mercer Oaks. It was a cloudy morning and the sky broke just in time for their patio ceremony, surrounded by their closest family and friends.  It was such a perfect day. 

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(Jessica Piva Photography) family portrait labor day mercer oaks new jersey photography south jersey photographer wedding https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/9/mark-and-laurie---west-windsor-wedding Mon, 18 Sep 2017 23:42:04 GMT
Baby Carl - Philadelphia newborn session https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/9/baby-carl---philadelphia-newborn-session I had the pleasure of capturing some maternity photos for Ashley and Carl, when Ashley was about 32 weeks along. We made plans for baby Carl's newborn photos. But, as babies often do, he had other plans. He arrived three weeks early and with scheduling being what it is we weren't able able to reschedule his session. He was over a month old when we shot his newborn portraits and he was the best sleeping newborn I have seen in a while. He absolutely rocked this session; like... he was the kind of baby that makes you reconsider your own family planning. Get out of here baby fever! Thank you, baby Carl, for being such a good little helper!

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(Jessica Piva Photography) family portrait in home lifestyle newborn south jersey photographer https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/9/baby-carl---philadelphia-newborn-session Wed, 13 Sep 2017 22:36:31 GMT
R family beach session - Wildwood family portraits https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/9/r-family-beach-session---wildwood-family-portraits I'm struggling with the end of summer, it was such a good summer and I'm so sad to see it go. But, this last beach session of the season has me looking for ward to fall and updating family photos. 

It was a pretty gray day, and had been raining on and off and the sky was still pretty ominous, but the stars aligned and we somehow made out with a gorgeous golden hour session on the beach in North Wildwood... before it started storming again, someone was definitely looking out for us. 

Summer is a pretty busy season for this family; with every member celebrating their birthday within 6 weeks, and mom and dad's anniversary as well. This year was an especially momentous occasion with the oldest starting her senior year of high school; even though she's still her mama's baby. It's always such an honor to be able to capture such amazing moments for families. 

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(Jessica Piva Photography) beach session cinnaminson family portraits moorestown senior portrait south jersey photographer https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/9/r-family-beach-session---wildwood-family-portraits Wed, 13 Sep 2017 02:22:26 GMT
Aviva's first birthday - Moorestown family portraits https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/7/avivas-first-birthday---moorestown-family-portraits First birthday's are such a huge milestone, not just for your sweet babe but the whole family. That's why I was thrilled when Alison contacted me looking for a first birthday family session. I love cake smashes and adore fun first birthday outfits and pinterest inspired first birthday parties; but I think it's really important to celebrate first birthdays as a family. That's what they are; first anniversaries, the first anniversary of your family in it's current iteration. 

We kind of kept Aviva up past her bedtime to catch the best light, but she was an amazing trooper. She was nothing but big smiles and the happiest blue eyes the whole time. It was so sweet to capture the love Alison and Ken have for their baby girl, they were such a treat to work with. It's so amazing to get to capture such an amazing chapter in a family's story. Happy birthday sweet girl!!

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(Jessica Piva Photography) family portrait first birthday moorestown new jersey photographer portrait south jersey photographer https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/7/avivas-first-birthday---moorestown-family-portraits Tue, 11 Jul 2017 02:44:50 GMT
Cinnaminson photographer - Prom 2017 https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/5/cinnaminson-photographer---prom-2017 I loved capturing these gorgeous pre-prom portraits for Ava. It was also a great chance for her parents to sneak in a few pictures with her before she was off for the night with her friends. While I don't think prom portraits can replace the quintessential prom photos; you know the sort, large groups of coupled teenagers standing in the front lawn, there were plenty of them, and I love them as well. But, it's nice to have a true portrait to remember such a special night.

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(Jessica Piva Photography) Cinnaminson New Jersey cinnaminson photographer photography prom portraits south jersey photographer south jersey senior portrait https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/5/cinnaminson-photographer---prom-2017 Sat, 27 May 2017 15:09:19 GMT
Caelum's 2!! - Cinnaminson children's photographer https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/5/caelums-2---cinnaminson-children-s-photographer Happy birthday, Caelum!! This is one of my favorite little families, they're always so amazing to work with. Caelum's mama and I planned to get together the Saturday before Mother's Day and I was so excited that I'd be able to deliver sweet Mommy and Me shots with her boy for the occasion, added bonus to a May birthday! Unfortunately, the weather didn't cooperate and we had a mild northeaster the day we had planned for. Thankfully we were able to reschedule pretty quickly and the weather was perfect!

It was totally worth the wait; I couldn't be happier with the results of this rain delay. This sweet boy was just so much fun and really helped make this shoot special.

 

 

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(Jessica Piva Photography) Cinnaminson New Jersey cinnaminson photographer family photo shoot family portrait palmyra nature cove photography second birthday south jersey photographer https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/5/caelums-2---cinnaminson-children-s-photographer Sun, 21 May 2017 13:59:47 GMT
January favorites https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/3/january-favorites This year, as a personal project, I've taken on a project 52. What that means is each week I work with a single goal or assignment in photography. If you follow me on Instagram (@jessicapivaphotography) you'll see each weeks assignment. To help me in this process I've been trying to shoot daily. Some days it's really fun and other days it can be hard to find the time to fit in a personal project. And, that's why I've been trying to shoot for myself every day but wasn't ready to commit to a project 365... because life. 

In spite of "life" (work, two kids, a dog who gave me a health scare this week) I've been keeping up with shooting. I've really enjoyed this project because the weekly prompts have really been pushing me out of my comfort zone and it's been a lot of fun. I'm so excited to finally share my favorites from January.

 

Week 1: "hello, this is me" a self portrait, which is so far outside of my comfort zone. I would much rather be behind the camera. This was a really hard week for me.

Week 2: "goals" during this week getting my Valentines Day photos done was my goal. I guess I tend to focus on short term goals and that's something I plan on addressing. I want to start getting some long term goals on paper. Being busy and being a mom makes it really hard to focus on ourselves and that's not fair to us or our families. I guess my revised goal for this year is to be more outspoken about my goals. 

 

Week 3: "guilty pleasure" Um... this is pretty self explanatory. I'm pretty sure that I'm addicted to truffles. I buy the big bag and keep them on our bar. I usually a few after bedtime as a night cap. The girls always ask for "one of mommy's chocolates", my dependence is pretty widely known.

Week 4: "selfless selfie" This is pretty much my life. All of my things always live at the coffee bar because that's where I spend a lot of my time. Almost everything in my house has been delivered by Amazon, and I would be lost without my planner because a phone calendar just doesn't cut it for me. I think a piece of me will always miss my "agenda" from high school. Oh, and that toy mouse, found him in my pocket. 

Week 5: "the light we hate" this photo was lit only by a blue LED kitty lamp. But, she was so stinking cute, I couldn't resist. Also, her dad was out of town and I had to share with him that one time she went to bed. ​​​​​​

 

A couple of others from January that I just love:

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(Jessica Piva Photography) Cinnaminson New Jersey cinnaminson photographer lifestyle photography moorestown photographer photography project 52 south jersey photographer voorhees photographer https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/3/january-favorites Fri, 31 Mar 2017 22:43:10 GMT
Mother's Day https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/3/mothers-day I'm not one for large holiday celebrations or gifting. But, I see Mother's Day more as a reminder to be grateful for the family you have, the mother who raised you, the amazing women in your life who shaped you. Since becoming a mother myself Mother's Day serves as a reminder of what an awesome responsibility raising kids is, and it's made me see my mom in a whole new way.

I've also realized since becoming a mom, something I entirely overlooked previously, is how few photos of mothers there tend to be. Moms put so much time and work into crafting their kids' childhood, we take tons of picture of out kids enjoying their lives. Social media accounts are full of these adultless children. But, what's left is not a true representation of what life really looks like. Moms and Grandmoms are suspiciously absent from photos... Do you believe that my three year old cut or baked those sweet Christmas cookies you see her decorating all by herself on Instagram? No, but someone has to document these memories, and that's just one of the job duties of being a mom; family historian. 

This becomes a problem later, when our kids don't have photos of us. I have so few photos of my mother and grandmother with us as kids, even though this are the women who did everything for us, these are the women who are so entwined in almost every memory of my childhood. However by the photographic record, it's as though they weren't super involved. 

Selfishly, I want it all;  I want time to stop, I want my babies just as they are right now, I want my girls to have photos of me to remember just how loved they are. Mother's Day is a great reminded to get mom in the frame, get photos with mom and grandmom. Let these amazing ladies see how absolutely beautiful they are and give your family chance to honor and appreciate these matriarchs. 

As a Mother's Day gift sessions shot before Saturday May 6th will include an upgraded 8x10 print. Because I believe the best thing to do with photos are to print them and the vest thing to do with any are is to display it. 

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(Jessica Piva Photography) Cinnaminson New Jersey mothers day photography south jersey photographer https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/3/mothers-day Wed, 22 Mar 2017 23:09:33 GMT
Cinnaminson newborn photographer - welcome baby Brynn https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/3/cinnaminson-newborn-photographer---welcome-baby-brynn Kristen's cousin actually bought her this session as a shower gift, I thought that was such an amazing idea! Brynn is the second baby, I'm sure Mom and Dad had more than enough baby girls stuff from when they welcomed big sister, Avery. Photos to capture this amazing time in their growing family's life seemed like such a thoughtful gift and I'm so glad that I got to be a part of this.

Brynn was the most laid back baby, she wanted no part of sleeping while i worked with her, but she was just hanging out. Her laid back personality made my job super easy, which is always appreciated. And It was so funny, as soon as I handed her back to Mom for family shots she was ready to snuggle and Mom later text me that Brynn wound up falling asleep as soon as I left... Always glad to help ;)

I loved being able to capture this family at home, in their own space. I think it really helped Avery, who just turned 3, to relax and be more comfortable and I loved the family shots we were able to get. I'm so grateful that I get to capture such important moments in the lives of families. 

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(Jessica Piva Photography) Cinnaminson New Jersey cinnaminson photographer lifestyle newborn photography south jersey photographer https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/3/cinnaminson-newborn-photographer---welcome-baby-brynn Fri, 17 Mar 2017 20:24:42 GMT
Delanco Mommy and Me maternity session https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/3/delanco-mommy-and-me-maternity-session I was so glad we were able to make this work, because I think my favorite thing ever is to get mom in the picture!! Jodi is about to welcome her third baby, and first son. She contacted me wondering what we could do; because she wasn't ready for full family portraits, she and her husband want to wait until their family is complete in a few weeks. But, it was important to really honor how special this pregnancy is and remember this super sweet time in her girls lives. 

We decided on a mommy and me mini session to both capture the beauty of her pregnancy, but this special period in her journey as a mother, because it's crazy how a new baby makes your other children seem to grow up overnight. In a few short weeks this mama is going to have one full heart and some very full arms. But, she has two amazing helpers in big sisters Celeste and Pru.  Celeste was amazing at helping me get her little sister into pictures and was really good at finding awesome light, too! I know these girls are going to just adore their new baby bother, who they call "Soda Pop"... How cute is that?!

 

 

 

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(Jessica Piva Photography) burlington county cinnaminson delanco family portrait maternity mommy and me portraits https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/3/delanco-mommy-and-me-maternity-session Tue, 14 Mar 2017 17:00:00 GMT
Delanco Children's photographer - Isla Valentine's 2 https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/3/delanco-childrens-photographer---isla-valentine-s-2 This weekend we're celebrating our littlest chick turning two!! I swear this second year has gone faster than the first. I'm absolutely thrilled with the toddler she's becoming, I love how chatty she is, I love how she plays with her sister. But, my mama heart aches for the fact that my tiny Isla Valentine. You may not believe it now, but she was the teeniest baby; seriously, tiny! 

We headed to Pennington Park in Delanco to take a few birthday portraits. It was nice to have some space for my oldest to run around while she waited for her sister to be finished; always a consideration when photographing toddlers. It was a beautiful winter day that sure felt like spring and offered us a gorgeous sunset. I stopped to pick up a few balloons; I'm not always a fan of props, but when I asked Isla what she wanted for her birthday this year she only requested two thing; balloons and cake. 

I enjoy a nice clean birthday portrait, but I really love the candid shots that show who this kid is right now. Because I can assure you that this sweet girl smiling so nicely at the camera is not exactly who my wild Isla really is. I love images of children that express their curiosity and silliness. I want photos that show everything that children are; pure unadulterated joy that drive you to the edge of insanity. 

Happy Birthday Isla Valentine; you sweet, wild thing.

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(Jessica Piva Photography) New Jersey children's portraits cinnaminson photographer delanco photography https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/3/delanco-childrens-photographer---isla-valentine-s-2 Fri, 03 Mar 2017 18:15:00 GMT
Palmyra Family Photographer - R Family https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/2/palmyra-family-photographer---r-family With one child quickly approaching college and another soon to be in middle school this family totally understands how quickly our families change, and why is it so important to capture things as they are right now. Honestly, if you ask Mom that grown child was just an infant last month. We've talked all winter about getting a family session on the books for spring. But, it seems like spring has come early here in NJ. 

It was absolutely gorgeous this past weekend! So, we took advantage of our good fortune and headed to the Palmyra Nature Cove, jacket free, for a beautiful sunset session on the beach. Honestly, I love this location so much; woods, beach, city skyline, amazing light. 

Idyllic climate, sweet location, and a gorgeous family to work with, dream Sunday! 

 

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(Jessica Piva Photography) Cinnaminson New Jersey cinnaminson photographer palmyra nature cove palmyra photographer photography south jersey photographer https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/2/palmyra-family-photographer---r-family Thu, 23 Feb 2017 18:15:00 GMT
Mount Holly newborn photographer - Ashton's fresh 48 https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/2/mount-holly-newborn-photographer---ashtons-fresh-48 Fresh 48s are newborn sessions that occur within the first 2 days of baby's life. Sometimes these occur in home and are nice and relaxed lifestyle sessions, or they can occur in the hospital. Ashton's was a very special first 48.

Ashton's mama, Dayna, had asked me to take photos of Ashton when he arrived, she also wanted to capture her oldest, Peyton, meeting her baby brother for the first time. So this was more of a fresh 8 than a fresh 48. 

Dayna text me early in the morning on June 8th to let me know she was headed to the hospital. I knew I was going to be meeting this sweet boy soon, I have to say I was a little surprised when she got back to me by noon letting me know that he'd arrived and she wanted me to get there before big sister Peyton got to the hospital. I was so excited to have the opportunity to capture such an important moment for this little family. 

When Peyton came in the room her reaction to meeting baby Ashton was the sweetest thing, ever. She actually got in the bassinet with him, you could tell that it was love at first sight. These are the memories that can not be recreated and make first 48 and hospital newborn sessions so special. Those early days of parenthood are so fleeting and special.

 

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(Jessica Piva Photography) New Jersey burlington county cinnaminson fresh 48 mount holly newborn photographer south jersey https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/2/mount-holly-newborn-photographer---ashtons-fresh-48 Thu, 16 Feb 2017 03:15:27 GMT
Cinnaminson Newborn Photographer - Welcome baby Allison https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/2/cinnaminson-newborn-photographer---welcome-baby-allison This sweet girl was just a week old when she came to visit my studio, and she was so calm and amazing for her session. Big sister, Rebecca, came with and was the best assistant I've ever had! She's really taken to this new role. 

Sisters, is there anything sweeter?!

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(Jessica Piva Photography) Cinnaminson New Jersey child cinnaminson photographer newborn south jersey photographer https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/2/cinnaminson-newborn-photographer---welcome-baby-allison Sun, 12 Feb 2017 18:46:35 GMT
Evie's Valentines https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/2/evies-valentines When your Valentine is a wild three year old who insists on dressing herself and explaining, in great detail, about "bulldog's drooly cheeks"... Some wildness ensued in the studio today while I tried to put together a sweet Valentines Day card for the grandparents. So much naughty giggling!!

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(Jessica Piva Photography) Cinnaminson New Jersey cinnaminson photographer photography south jersey photographer https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/2/evies-valentines Sun, 05 Feb 2017 20:12:16 GMT
Burlington County Senior Photographer 2018 campaign https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/1/senior-2018-campaign I am looking to partner with 4 exemplary seniors in the South Jersey; Burlington/Camden county area, to work as brand representatives for the 2018 senior portrait season.

You're probably wondering what exactly that looks like? The seniors chosen, from those who complete the Senior Questionnaire , will receive a full senior session and prom mini, online gallery of their downloadable images. I would like to really get rolling on this campaign with minis for Junior Prom 2017 and then follow up with full Senior Sessions in late summer for my seniors returning to school in the fall. 

If you are a senior who is outgoing, comfortable in front of the camera, interested in this opportunity please complete the Senior Questionnaire by March 12, 2017 and if you have any questions about this campaign don't hesitate to contact Jessica.  I'm looking forward to an exciting senior season!

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(Jessica Piva Photography) Burlington county senior Camden county senior Cinnaminson New Jersey high school prom minis prom portraits senior portraits senior session south jersey photographer https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/1/senior-2018-campaign Tue, 31 Jan 2017 03:11:13 GMT
Frankie's Valentines https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/1/frankies-valentines Frankie came by the studio a little early for her Valentine's mini and this little girl is full of life and just lights up in front of a camera. 

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(Jessica Piva Photography) Burlington county photographer Cinnaminson Cinnaminson photographer New Jersey children's photography day lifestyle photography south jersey photographer valentine's https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/1/frankies-valentines Sun, 29 Jan 2017 21:35:22 GMT
Snow day https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/1/snow-day Snow days are difficult when you have a 3 year old who would willingly walk through the snow barefoot and a 2 year old who is horrified at the idea alone. This weekend was a delicate balancing act of keeping the girls from succumbing to cabin fever while maintaining my own sanity. Netflix and hot cocoa help! We did venture out for a few minutes to help daddy shovel.

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(Jessica Piva Photography) Cinnaminson New Jersey lifestyle photography https://www.jessicapiva.com/blog/2017/1/snow-day Tue, 10 Jan 2017 02:22:13 GMT