The AFNS AWARD is an international competition for photographers in the field of Newborn Photography & Maternity Photography. We draw on photographers who convey a high level of quality and exceptionalness with their pictures. The idea, composition, image design and implementation are evaluated by an international expert jury.

Below are the images that won awards. Congratulations goes out to these proud parents as well!

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On September 19th, 2021, my team and I hosted the one and only Kris Kringle at my home beach, Chadwick Beach, NJ!

This event was planned within 4 weeks to fit Kris and I’s busy summer schedule but with the help of Stage and Style Events, we were able to design 3 unique sets for families to enjoy during their 10 minute photo session.

Kris came down to Chadwick Beach a few weeks prior and recorded some promo videos with me to drum up some excitement and commence registration on social media.

Kris’ personality is infectious! I had SO much fun with him, we definitely plan to do another event together in 2022!

If you were one of the 16 families that were able to join us in 2021, please leave a 2-3 sentence review on Google for us. This is an event that we are planning to continue, whether it be inside the studio or outside again. September was definitely hot for Santa so your feedback will be appreciated an used to plan future Santa sessions!

REVIEW US HERE

QUESTIONNAIRE HERE

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Brianna and Danny wanted to have a spring engagement session prior to their June wedding at The Reeds At Shelter Haven. When discussing locations for their engagement session, I mentioned a few that I thought may have some liviness to them in the month of April. As many of you know, April weather in New Jersey can be hit or miss and there are not many types of trees and flowers in bloom just yet

One of the first locations that came to mind was Branch Brook Park in Newark because the park is known across the country for it’s annual cherry blossom festival that typically takes place in the first three weeks of April give or take based on when the weather starts warming up. The trick to this location is scheduling the portrait session during the 2-3 week window when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.

This was my very first visit to the park. I was told to expect it to be busy as crowds come from all over to walk the paths of the park and bask in the beauty of the blooms but luckily, we found a few spots that were just perfect for their session. Take a peek at some of my favorite images from their engagement session below!

BRANCH BROOK PARK ENGAGEMENT SESSION

HOW THEY MET

BRI: We met on Bumble! I almost swiped left, because Danny’s profile said, “looking for something casual,” and I was well past wanting a casual relationship. But, his love for dogs and his good jawline made the cut!

Our first date was at a local bar, The Shepherd and the Knucklehead, where we both were super comfortable off the bat. I was definitely more forward and upfront – didn’t hold anything back, and Danny serenaded me, song after song!

I actually invited myself to a wedding that Danny said he had in the following month, clearly indicating that I was into him! He probably said “yeaaa for sure” out of obligation, but after a few more dates, he formally asked me to be his date to the wedding. Not sure who had better dance skills, him or me, but from there on, he was hooked.

WHEN THEY KNEW THEY HAD FOUND THE ONE

BRI: I knew I found the one when my intense passion for getting married and starting a family didn’t scare him away.

DANNY: I knew that Bri was the one when she made the first move and kissed me goodbye on our first date.

THE PROPOSAL

BRI: Yes, I was 100% surprised!

THE BACKSTORY – Danny reached out to me last summer about proposing to his girlfriend on the beach in Seaside Park. Danny planned an elaborate proposal for Brianna on the beach at sunset. It was simply beautiful and I am so grateful to have been such a special part of their story. Both of their families were present but blended into the beachfront as Danny brought Brianna to the beach after a dinner date that summer night.

ALL ABOUT THE RING

BRI: My ring is GORGEOUS. My fiance is classy and generous! My jeweler is amazing! It all just works :).

I sent my cousin one ring, back in the day, telling her what I liked “if / when” Danny were to propose. That was used as inspiration! But, Danny really deserves the credit here… he created it and chose the perfect diamond!

ONE THING THEY LOVE ABOUT EACH OTHER

BRI: I love that Danny is not shy about his love for me. He is a very real person, so when he loves, he makes it known.

DANNY: I love how much Bri truly cares for me; I can see it in her eyes and hear it in her voice.

WHY THEY PICKED THEIR WEDDING VENUE

We both love the beach and warm weather. The shore has good vibes, and the fresh air is relaxing. We loved how The Reeds offered beach ceremonies! Our wedding date, June 18, was just a lucky Friday that was available!! However, it is Danny’s Abuela’s (Grandmother’s) birthday, so it holds meaning there. We are most excited to tear up the dance floor!

ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE?

Baby Davenport is due in November!

WHAT DID YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR ENGAGEMENT SESSION?

Get a photographer who is awesome and you can be friendly with! Our engagement shoot (both really!) went so well. I believe that Marianne totally captured the moment, while making sure that we were being candid and not too robotic!

DO YOU LOVE PINTEREST?

Pin these images or any from the post above!

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Kerry and Stephen have been together for over 9 years and have shared many life experiences together such as completing their degrees, finding and renovating their first home, and adopting their furry family member, Kali, their calico cat. It will be very meaningful for them to finally tie the knot to recognize their 10 years of shared adventures.

Kerry and Stephen’s engagement session had been planned at least twice throughout the summer but like many couples, they’ve had to deal with COVID-19 and had to reschedule many of their plans.

For their fall engagement session, I met up with Kerry and Stephen at Grounds For Sculpture. This place is absolutely gorgeous and full of lucious, exotic horticulture, I always love shooting there. It takes my breath away each and every time I visit. Take a peek at some of my favorite images below!

GROUNDS FOR SCULPTURE ENGAGEMENT SESSION

HOW THEY MET

Kerry: Stephen and I met online on OkCupid when I asked the simple question “Have you gone on any adventures lately?” We had been matched for several years prior, but never managed to connect before that day.

We were drawn to one another’s love for travel, the outdoors, and great food. On our third date he made the first move. Little did we know that day would define our life course going forward.

WHEN THEY KNEW THEY HAD FOUND THE ONE

Kerry: More so than anyone else, Stephen made me laugh. We have a sense of humor that is totally compatible and helps us get through both the good and bad times.

Stephen: I realized Kerry was the one when we purchased and renovated our starter home together. During the 9 months of renovation, she showed me how tough and driven she could be. The experience brought us closer together and I realized how special she was.

THE PROPOSAL

Kerry: Stephen proposed to me on a cruise we took to Mexico, Belize, and Honduras. It was Captain’s Night and we were dressed in our finest to prepare for dinner and a photo shoot. Before leaving the cabin, I asked “How do I look?” Stephen replied, “Beautiful, but you are missing one thing!” At that point, he got down on one knee and proposed. I was elated to wear the stunning ring for our photo shoot that night.

ALL ABOUT THE RING

Kerry: My ring is a simple, classic, and elegant diamond solitaire with diamond side stones. I love that it compliments my style and isn’t too flashy.

Stephen: For me it was important to find a ring that fits Kerry’s fashion sense and personality. Simultaneously uncomplicated yet charming, it reminds me of what I love about her.

ONE THING THEY LOVE ABOUT EACH OTHER

Kerry: Stephen has a passion for trying new things and has become my best travel companion. He is always chasing adventure in life and has taught me to live outside my comfort zone.

Stephen: Kerry is both patient and kind, and she has been my rock through challenging situations. She encourages me to slow down and appreciate those things that are in front of me, by being present in the moment.

WHY THEY PICKED THEIR WEDDING VENUE

We will be welcoming guests from all over the country, as well as, Europe. For us, it was most important to pick a beautiful outdoor setting that reflects our love for nature. The lakeside venue at The Mill offers both incredible views, as well as amenities that our guests will love. We are excited to unite our friends and family from such diverse places at a single gathering. It is rare to bring everyone together, and we cannot wait to see our loved ones.

WHAT DID YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR ENGAGEMENT SESSION?

We weren’t entirely sure what to expect and were surprised at the sheer number of photos that were taken. After easing into the session and getting comfortable, we found that posing in such a wide variety of settings was very fun.

By the end of the evening, we did not want it to end. Marianne did a fantastic job making us feel at ease and ensuring we got the most out of our shoot. Feeling comfortable with your photographer is essential to getting great results!

DO YOU LOVE PINTEREST?

Pin these images or any from the post above!

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• All areas & fabrics used in studio will be sanitized after every session.
• All props are sanitized with a non-chemical, hospital grade disinfectant.
• No outside props will be allowed until further notice.
• Only immediate family members will be allowed until further notice.
• Hand sanitizer will be given to you upon entry into the studio.
• No shoes will be allowed upon studio entry, please leave them at the door.
• I will be wearing a face mask to handle your baby.
• I ask that we maintain 6-feet distance between us at all times.

Do Your Part

In order to maintain the utmost safety, I ask that you consider these following steps to ensure my well being, as well as, your own.

• Please arrive in a face mask or cover.
• If you’ve been in contact with anyone other than your immediate family, please disclose to me 2 days prior to your appointment.
• Please cancel your appointment within 24 hours if you are experiencing any of these symptoms: Fever, cough, dizziness, lack of taste/smell, fatigue (not from lack of sleep). 

Re-opening Procedure

I will be scheduling sessions with older babies first and I will only photograph 1 baby per day to provide ample time to allow for cleaning. The exact timeline will be dependent on state regulations, the most recent notice for re-opening is May 15th 2020. All policies and scheduling are subject to change. 

Imagery By Marianne 480 Strickland Blvd Chadwick Beach (Toms River), NJ 08735

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This modern chic North Shore House NJ wedding photo shoot was styled by the amazing vendors listed below and photographed by me back in 2019.

I was so busy in 2019 with current wedding and newborn clients and the birth of our daughter, Marlee, I updated my portfolio but I never shared the images on my blog so today, I am sharing just a handful of favorites from this photo shoot.

I hope this provides some eye candy for you all while at home quarantining. I have such bad withdrawal from taking pictures at wedding events, capturing pregnant bellies and my newborn baby clients, as well as, photographing my commercial clients. It’s been a tough two weeks of furloughed employment but at least I get to spend it with my two kiddos. Happy Quarantining!

And here is the list of amazing contributors

Host: @styledshootsacrossamerica

Concept/Design/Coordination: @la_rue_events

Venue: @northshorehouse

Flowers: @whisperandbrookflowerco

Cake: @keepitsweetcakes

Macaroons/Mini Desserts: @itstartedwithacupcake

Hair & Makeup: @makeupbyroxy & @emilycolorshair

Bridal Stylist: @iamyoko.j

Stationary/Calligraphy: l@aurenyvonnedesign

Lounge Rentals: @feyeandrenne_collective

Ceremony Chairs/Farm Tables: @Daylilygroup

Table Top Rentals/Maggie: designsbymagnolia

Gowns: @sewnsew_bridal_and_tuxedo

Shoes: @badgleymischkabride

Models – Bride & Groom – Shannon + Joe: @shanstens & @joey_the_p

Models – Bridesmaids – Claudia + Darcey: @claudiangelhardt & @darceypezz

The post North Shore House Wedding Shoot | NJ Wedding Photographer appeared first on imagerybymarianne.com.

Last August, I took a road trip to Massachusetts with my husband, Mike, to photograph the wedding of Andrea and Chad at Granite Links Golf Course in Quincy, MA.

Chad works for the same company as my husband, Jersey Mike’s. I met both Andrea and Chad at a JM’s conference and later at another JM owners wedding., we sat next to each other and discussed their own wedding plans. Before I knew it, we were on the phone booking her wedding photography package.

Andrea and Chad are super laid back people and wanted very basic coverage just so they had some photos. They did not want hours and hours of coverage. We did not do getting ready photos and their First Look was with their dog.

The ceremony was gorgeous and their reception overlooked the Boston skyline which was nothing sort of breathe-taking. There were a lot of Jersey Mike’s family in attendance and they danced the night away.

• 100 Quarry Hills Dr, Quincy, MA 02169

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Molly and Kyle reached out to me a few weeks prior to Molly’s due date. They booked their newborn session with me and we waited for baby to arrive to solidify a date. During that time, I sent them my newborn session planning questionnaire so that I could get an idea of the colors and personal style that Mom and Dad like. This is so important when planning your session so that the images created during your session match the colors and stylings in and around your home where you will be proudly displaying your photos.

Molly and Kyle chose not to find out what the baby’s gender was going to be so all that I knew prior to the baby’s birth was that they like natural, earth tones and houseplants.

I ended up being at the hospital to see other families the morning that they were discharging so I went to see them and meet the baby.

At my visit, I explained to Mom some of my go-to tips and tricks to preparing baby for a successful photo session.

During the photo session, little Emmeline (pronounced Emma-Line, so adorable), was so cooperative! I always start my sessions with family photos if the parents request it because I keep the room so warm, I do not want the rest of the family being hot and sweaty looking in their photos.

After family photos, I wrapped Emmeline in a swaddle cloth and placed her in a trench bowl on top of a really cool watercolor style backdrop with boho and lace layers for a rustic chic beach look. Of course, no girls look is complete without a matching floral headband.

Mom and dad embraced Emmeline’s natural beauty with a few nude photos to remember all of the little baby rolls and tiny hands and feet.

I also placed Emmeline in a vintage wooden crate ontop of a white washed wooden floordrop surrounded by succulents from Mom and Dad’s home (Grandma even handmade some of the pottery!) along with boho fringe layers, curly furs, a pearled swaddle and knit hat.

Ending this beautiful session post with a favorite image of Dad snuggling with his baby girl (holy heart-melting!).

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This groom’s mother hired me for a quick portrait session and party celebration for her son and his new wife because they eloped in another part of the country. Their summer elopement celebration at Manasquan Inlet was a somewhat last minute idea Mom had to celebrate the happy couple at I time when more family could get together.

It was so windy and incredibly busy at the beach and inlet because it was July but we managed to get a few beautiful portraits in the 10 or so minutes we had to stop here prior to the party starting at The Spring Lake Manor.

415 State Route 71, Spring Lake, NJ 07762

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This summer surprise proposal took place on the beach in Lavallette, NJ. Albino really wanted to surprise Lisa and he sure did a good job! It just happened to be an evening that there were not a lot of people on the beach prior to the sunset so I figured I would be sticking out like a sore thumb. I did my best to stay close to the people fishing and trying to keep my attention near the ocean so I could pretend I was photographing birds or surfers.

Once the surprise took place, Albino could relax a little and enjoy Lisa’s reaction. Once Lisa’s initial shock settled, we went for a walk on the beach, sat for some champagne and took another quick stroll on the boardwalk before they scurried to the family beach house to tell everyone to fabulous news.

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