Hi Denise! Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in town?
I’m Bergen County born and raised! I grew up in Elmwood Park, left for a bit, and found my way back when I was pregnant with my second child eight years ago. I now live in Midland Park and couldn’t be happier to be raising my family here.
How old are your kids?
I have two amazing kids—Olivia, 11, and Leo, 8. Fun fact: they actually share the same birthday!
What is your favorite thing to do with them?
Anything outdoors! We love hiking, beach days, or just exploring new places together. If there’s sunshine and fresh air, we’re in our happy place.
Are you involved in a business venture? Please share!
Yes! I own a small photography business right here in Midland Park, Liv & Luna Photography. I specialize in family and milestone photography, offering both cozy in-studio sessions and natural outdoor shoots that capture families as they truly are.
Why is this so important?
I don’t have many photos from my own childhood, and the few that I do have mean the world to me. That realization sparked my love for photography—I wanted to give other families the gift of being able to look back and feel those moments all over again. Photos have this incredible way of holding emotion, connection, and story in one place, and that’s something I never take for granted.
What sets you apart?
I’m a true small business—it’s just me behind every part of the experience! From the first email to the final edit, clients work directly with me. My photography style leans toward simplicity and timelessness rather than trends—images that still tell a powerful story years from now.
If you could give one tip to fellow moms, what would it be?
Be present and love yourself. So many moms tell me during sessions, “Can you fix my hair?” or “Make my arms smaller?” But our kids don’t see those things—they see us, their safe place and biggest comfort. Let them remember you exactly as you are, because to them, you’re already perfect.
What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
People are always surprised to learn I’m such a creature of habit! I’m up before 5 a.m. every day—I love the peace that early mornings bring. I drink my coffee in the dark, get my workout in, and practice gratitude before the world wakes up. It sets the tone for everything.
How has this community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?
This community has been everything. My business has grown entirely through word of mouth—clients sharing their experiences and referring friends. I don’t rely on ads or SEO, and yet I stay busy year-round because of the trust and loyalty of local families. It’s humbling and such a testament to how supportive this area is of small, local businesses.
To learn more about Liv & Luna Photography visit their Linktree and follow them on Instagram.