The Best South Jersey Locations For A Photoshoot
The Best South Jersey Locations for a Photoshoot
South Jersey is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, historic sites, and picturesque hidden gems that make the perfect backdrops for photoshoots. Whether you're looking for serene forests, breathtaking beaches, or charming rustic settings, South Jersey has it all. As a South Jersey photographer, I've scouted countless locations, and I’m excited to share some of my favorites with you!
Beautiful spot in the Pine Barrens.
Wharton State Forest - Hammonton, NJ
If you love nature and adventure, Wharton State Forest is a must-visit. Covering more than 122,000 acres, this forest offers a mix of towering pines, sandy trails, and peaceful lakes. For a unique and dreamy photoshoot, consider taking a canoe or kayak out on the Batsto River to capture stunning reflections on the water. Whether you're shooting a family session, an engagement shoot, or a solo portrait session, the natural beauty here is unbeatable.
On the way to Bodine Field.
Ruins of an old tavern in the Pine barrens.
The Pine Barrens always have nice places to explore.
Beautiful fall colors in the Pine Barrens.
Bellplain State Forest - Woodbine, NJ
Belleplain State Forest is another hidden gem, known for its diverse wildlife and tranquil scenery. With miles of hiking trails, quiet lakes, and towering trees, this location is perfect for those looking for an earthy and intimate setting. Whether you're going for a romantic couples session or a whimsical children’s portrait, Belleplain offers countless beautiful backdrops.
Cape May Point State Park - Cape May, NJ
If you’re looking for breathtaking beach photography, Cape May Point State Park is a dream location. With wide, unspoiled beaches, rolling dunes, and the iconic Cape May lighthouse, this spot is perfect for capturing golden hour magic. Whether it’s a maternity shoot, family session, or bridal portraits, this park offers stunning scenery and natural lighting that’s second to none.
Batsto Village - Hammonton, NJ
Step back in time with a session at Batsto Village, a well-preserved 18th-century historic site nestled in the Pinelands. Featuring old-fashioned mills, barns, and rustic wooden fences, this location is ideal for vintage-inspired portraits or rustic-themed family sessions. The surrounding forest and tranquil streams add even more variety to your photos.
Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge - Oceanville, NJ
For nature lovers and birdwatchers, this wildlife refuge is an absolute paradise. Featuring salt marshes, winding boardwalks, and diverse wildlife, it’s perfect for ethereal, nature-inspired photoshoots. Whether you’re capturing a senior portrait, an engagement session, or just want a peaceful place for breathtaking images, this spot is worth the visit.
Under the bridge at Corson’s Inlet in Ocean City, NJ.
Moss at Corson’s Inlet.
Ocean City Boardwalk - Ocean City, NJ
Nothing says classic Jersey Shore photography quite like the Ocean City Boardwalk. With colorful shops, amusement park rides, and a vast sandy beach, this location offers both fun and nostalgia. Whether you're photographing families, couples, or high school seniors, the boardwalk atmosphere creates a lively and vibrant setting.
Lake Nummy - Belleplain State Forest, NJ
Nestled within Belleplain State Forest, Lake Nummy is a serene and scenic spot, featuring crystal-clear waters and dense forest surroundings. Ideal for romantic sunset sessions, family portraits, and maternity photography, this hidden gem offers peace, beauty, and privacy all in one location.
A backroad in Salem County.
Why I Love Scouting Photoshoot Locations in South Jersey
As a South Jersey portrait photographer, I’ve spent years exploring every inch of this beautiful region, taking notes on how the sunlight hits a particular spot, discovering hidden paths, and finding the perfect locations for every type of session. My photography journey has always been about combining my love for exploration, storytelling, and capturing emotion in a way that feels authentic and magical.
Love the old fence way markers. This was outside of the Pinelands in South Jersey.
One of the biggest joys of being a photographer is seeing a client’s face light up when they view their photos—whether it’s a family session on a private beach, a milestone moment in a rustic field, or an engagement shoot at a historic landmark. Each location tells a unique story, and I love bringing those stories to life through my lens.
Check out some more pictures of our beautiful Garden State Below!
Wisteria wonderland.
Beautiful stretch of woods in New Jersey.
The dunes in Sea Isle City at Towsend’s Inlet.
Along the Delaware Bay in South Jersey.
Private beach and you can see the horseshoe crabs coming to shore on the Delaware Bay.
private sunset beach along the Delaware Bay. I love these little spots where you won’t see anyone around.
The turquoise water of the blue holes in New Jersey. I have researched every single one of them in the Garden State.
A lot of abandoned tracks in our state with historic cabooses. I’ve even seen homes converted from these.
East Point Lighthouse along the Delaware Bay.
East Point Lighthouse beaches never disappoint. A lot of preservation efforts have been underway here in the past decade.
This is the family barn in South Jersey. It use to be a dairy farm.
A historic site in the Lower Alloways area of South Jersey.
In the Pine Barrens after some snow.
Daretown Lake and old historic mill in Elmer, NJ.
Near Tuckerton NJ.
Also, check out our other blog on more unique locations in NJ
Sunset along the Delaware Bay, never disappoints.
Another picture of this beauty.
This is a historic truss bridge and one that is still standing in South Jersey. There are not many left out there.
Located on the Salem River. Great little fishing spot.
This is one of my favorite places in the fall in the Pine Barrens. Look at the lily pads.
I love the fall in South Jersey. Our woods and colors are always beautiful.
If you ever get to explore the backroads, you’ll see the wonders of the wildflowers in South Jersey.
Wildflowers near a sitting bench. Couldn’t be more gorgeous!
A view of one of the pretty lakes in South Jersey.
Love when the orchards come alive. Mostly, found in Gloucester County and Salem County areas.
A walkway into the Millville blue hole. A popular swimming hole in South Jersey.
A random farm field location in South Jersey. Believe was in Salem County.
A beautiful field in Salem County.
A scene from “Irish Hill” in Runnemede, NJ.
Looking for a Private Photoshoot Location?
Beyond South Jersey’s incredible public spots, I also have a private terraced garden and babbling stream at Shooting Star Photography Studio, offering full privacy for those seeking a quiet and picturesque setting. Stay tuned for a future blog post all about this magical space!
Book Your South Jersey Photoshoot Today!
If you’re searching for a photographer who knows all the best spots in South Jersey, I’d love to work with you! Whether you’re looking for beach photography, rustic farm sessions, wildflower fields, or a one-of-a-kind private location, I can help bring your vision to life. Let’s create something beautiful together!
Happy Shooting!
Dee
New Jersey Portrait Photographer & Scouting Enthusiast
