What a Quiet Film Reminded Me About Time, Childhood, and Photography

I watched a film recently that stayed with me long after the screen went dark. Not because it was dramatic or loud — but because it was honest. The kind of honest that feels almost uncomfortable at first. About time passing whether we’re ready or not. About building a life moment by moment, only to realize later how much of it has already slipped quietly into memory.

The film was Train Dreams.

And it didn’t try to impress me. It simply observed.

Some stories don’t rush to explain themselves. They don’t tell you what to feel. They allow moments to exist — small, ordinary moments — and trust that their weight will be understood later. That’s what this film did. And somewhere in its stillness, it reminded me exactly why I photograph childhood the way I do.

Time Doesn’t Announce Itself

Time rarely warns us when something is about to become memory.Childhood feels endless when you’re inside it. Days blur together. Seasons come and go. A dress is worn again and again until one day it suddenly doesn’t fit. A hand reaches for yours without thinking — until one day it doesn’t.

There is no moment where life pauses and says, this matters.

You only realize it later.

That quiet truth is what stayed with me after watching this film. And it’s the same truth I carry with me every time I photograph a child or a family.

Why I Photograph Gently

I don’t photograph childhood to make it bigger than it is.

I photograph it because it is already enough.

I’m drawn to the in-between moments — the pause, the softness, the way children move when they aren’t being asked to perform. I don’t need perfection or forced smiles. I need honesty. Because honesty is what survives time.

Some of the most meaningful photographs are the ones that feel almost too simple at first glance. A child holding a balloon. A sibling leaning into another without realizing it. A mother standing still while everything around her moves.

These are not dramatic moments.

They are real ones.

And real moments are the ones we miss the most later.

Photographing for the Future You

There’s something the film reminded me of very clearly: we don’t document life to preserve it exactly as it was. We document it because memory fades. Because the details soften. Because one day, what feels ordinary now will feel impossibly distant.

Photography doesn’t stop time.

It simply witnesses it.

When I photograph children, I’m thinking about the future version of you — the one who will look back and remember not just how your child looked, but who they were. Their spirit. Their softness. Their way of being in the world at that exact moment.

That’s why I don’t chase trends.

That’s why I don’t rush sessions.

That’s why I photograph childhood like a story that deserves to be told quietly and honestly.

Some Stories Only Ask to Be Witnessed

Train Dreams didn’t try to convince me of anything. It trusted the viewer to sit with what was shown. To feel the weight of time without being told what it meant.

Childhood asks for the same respect.

Some stories don’t shout to be remembered.

They simply ask to be witnessed.

That’s how childhood feels to me.

And that’s why I photograph it gently.

When you’re ready to preserve the ordinary — I’m here.

Dee
Shooting Star Photography
Serving Philadelphia, Mainline, Northern Delaware, and all of Southern New Jersey.

Beach Days & Tutu Dreams: The Joys of the Jersey Shore

There’s something wildly wonderful about the Jersey Shore — the kind of place where childhood feels louder, brighter, and a little more magical. Maybe it’s the salty breeze that turns everything into an adventure, or the way the sunlight dances across the sand as little feet run free along the water’s edge.

For this session, it was all about wonder.

A quiet moment of wonder in Sea Isle—this little one in her purple Tutu du Monde dress found magic in the sand and sunshine.

Some moments were full of movement — skipping across the shoreline, dress catching the breeze just right. Others were quiet and reflective — gazing out at the horizon, fingers brushing through the sand, soaking in the rhythm of the waves. Together, they told the story of a beach day as childhood experiences it: unhurried, curious, and full of possibility.

Twirls, giggles, and sea breeze—this beach session in Sea Isle City was straight out of a dream.

These are the moments that matter most.
The unscripted ones.
The in-between ones.
The ones that don’t ask a child to perform — only to exist.

Waves crashing, wind in her face, and hands full of sand—childhood at the Jersey Shore in its purest form.

Beach sessions are designed around natural light, shifting tides, and a child’s own rhythm. There’s no rush and no pressure to pose. Just room to explore, play, and let personality shine in the soft glow of golden hour.

A breeze, a smile, and a moment all her own—sunset sessions in Sea Isle City are full of quiet magic.

Whether it’s a short weekend at the shore or a long summer stay filled with sandy toes and sun-washed afternoons, these sessions are about preserving the feeling of childhood — the freedom, the joy, and the fleeting beauty of a season that never lasts long enough.

A quiet pause by the sea—sometimes the most magical moments are the ones in between.

Soft steps and sandy discoveries—Sea Isle City gave this little beach explorer all the magic she needed.

A beach portrait session allows children to experience the shore exactly as it was meant to be: playful, peaceful, and full of wonder — a feeling reflected throughout my Jersey Shore fine art portraits.

If you’re drawn to imagery that feels natural, story-driven, and rooted in real moments, you can explore more of my children’s fine art portrait work here.

That beach day glow—her smile says it all.

If you’re drawn to natural, story-driven portraits that let children simply be, you can explore my children’s fine art portrait sessions here.

Dee
Shooting Star Photography
Serving Philadelphia, Mainline, Northern Delaware, and all of Southern New Jersey.

Fierce, Fun, and Full of Blossoms: A Cherry Blossom Portrait Session in Philadelphia

Some kids walk into a session and instantly fill the space with personality. This little Philly firecracker was one of them — confident, expressive, and completely herself from the very first moment.

Blossoms and royalty — a princess moment under Philly’s pink canopy of spring.

We styled her in a soft pink dress, her sweet glasses, and let the rest unfold naturally. And unfold it did. Twirls beneath the blossoms, spontaneous giggles, and yes — a few very serious karate-inspired power poses mixed right in. Because when a kid tells you they love karate, you don’t ask them to tone it down. You let it become part of the story.

That’s the beauty of photographing children exactly as they are. The magic isn’t in perfection — it’s in personality.

Pink Dresses, Power Moves, and Springtime Joy

A quiet moment of wonder beneath the blooms — childhood, beautifully paused.

This session took place during peak cherry blossom season in Fairmount Park, one of Philadelphia’s most beautiful spring backdrops. The blossoms were in full bloom, soft petals floating through the air, and this little one owned every second of it.

She ran through fallen petals, climbed low branches, paused for quiet moments beneath the trees, and then snapped right back into playful motion. There was no stiffness, no forced posing — just joyful, energetic storytelling in motion.

Sunshine, petals, and pure joy — a pink dress and a Philly spring day to remember.

And those glasses? Absolute perfection. Not just an accessory, but part of who she is. The kind of detail that makes a portrait feel honest and timeless all at once.

This wasn’t a session about standing still. It was about movement, confidence, and letting a child lead the way.

A Kid Who Kicks Expectations

Who says you can’t throw a power pose in a pink dress? This girl's got spring and spunk.

What stood out most during this session was her confidence. Even in a soft pink dress, she radiated strength — proud stances, playful determination, and that unmistakable spark kids have when they’re allowed to fully be themselves.

She talked about karate between twirls, struck a few “power poses” just because she felt like it, and reminded me exactly why children’s portraits matter so much. These images freeze a moment in time — not just how they looked, but who they were at this age.

Philadelphia kids have a certain grit and charm to them. They’re expressive. They’re bold. And they bring stories into every frame.

Why Philadelphia Is Perfect for Children’s Portraits

Golden blooms and giggles — daffodil daydreams in the heart of Fairmount Park.

Philadelphia is one of my favorite places to photograph children, especially in the spring. The city offers a beautiful mix of natural softness and urban character that works effortlessly with a child’s energy.

• Cherry blossoms and seasonal blooms bring softness, color, and a sense of wonder

• Historic parks and hidden corners create story-rich backdrops

• Four distinct seasons mean every session feels different and intentional

• Easy-to-access locations keep sessions relaxed and kid-friendly

• Heart and personality everywhere you look — in the city and its families

Whether it’s blossoms in the spring, warm light in the fall, or something whimsical year-round, Philadelphia gives children the space to shine.

If you have a little one with a big personality — whether they love twirling, power poses, quiet moments, or joyful chaos — I’d love to plan a session that tells their story. From cherry blossoms to imaginative themes, the goal is always the same: portraits that feel genuine, expressive, and timeless.

Spring sweetness in bloom — this Philly girl brought big smiles and pink petals to match her dress.

If you’re looking for a children’s portrait experience that celebrates personality, movement, and seasonal beauty, you can explore my Children’s Fine Art Portraits here →

Dee
Shooting Star Photography
Serving Philadelphia, Mainline, Northern Delaware, and all of Southern New Jersey.

Top 5 Reasons a Magical Unicorn Photo Session Feels Like a Dream Come True

If your child has ever twirled through the house pretending to be a mythical creature, squealed at the sight of sparkles, or begged for “just one more” enchanted bedtime story, this one’s for you.

A little magic in motion—this sweet moment from our Unicorn Mini Sessions captures the wonder of childhood in a South Jersey forest.

Magical Unicorn Portrait Sessions are more than a photo opportunity — they’re an experience. One rooted in imagination, wonder, and the kind of childhood magic that feels very real in the moment. Each August, we bring that magic to life right here in South Jersey, tucked inside a dreamy forest setting where fairytales don’t feel so far away.

Here’s why unicorn sessions hold such a special place in so many families’ hearts.

1. Real Magic (Yes, Real Unicorns… Almost)

Riding through a dream—this magical moment from our South Jersey Unicorn Mini Session feels straight out of a fairy tale.

Let’s clear this up right away — these are real animals, lovingly transformed into unicorns with the help of gentle handlers and a whole lot of imagination. They’re calm, well cared for, and perfectly suited for children, making the experience both magical and safe.

The result? Genuine wonder. Wide eyes. Big smiles. Moments that feel straight out of a storybook — because for your child, they absolutely are.

2. Styling Is Fully Taken Care Of

Pure joy and unicorn dreams—this sweet smile says it all during our one-day-only magical session in the South Jersey forest.

Parents already juggle enough. That’s why unicorn sessions are designed to be completely stress-free.

From flowing princess gowns and boho fairy dresses to custom headpieces and flower crowns, everything is thoughtfully styled and ready when you arrive. No last-minute outfit panic. No guessing what will photograph well. Just show up and let your child step into the magic.

3. A Forest Setting That Feels Enchanted

A picture-perfect moment in pink—posing like a fairy princess in the enchanted forest of our South Jersey unicorn session.

Each summer, we photograph unicorn sessions in a beautiful South Jersey forest location filled with soft light, natural textures, and just enough whimsy to feel otherworldly.

It’s the kind of place where kids instinctively twirl, explore, and let their imaginations run wild. The setting doesn’t overpower the experience — it enhances it, allowing the focus to stay exactly where it should: on your child and their sense of wonder.

4. Fine Art Portraits, Hand-Edited With Care

Lighting the way to wonder—this sweet smile and glowing lantern added a touch of magic to our South Jersey unicorn portrait session.

These aren’t quick snapshots or cookie-cutter edits. Every image is carefully hand-edited in our signature fine art style, with attention to light, tone, and emotion.

The finished portraits feel timeless and story-driven — images you can picture hanging on the wall long after the unicorn phase has passed, still carrying the magic of who your child was in that moment.

5. Because Childhood Belief Is Fleeting (and Beautiful)

Smiles and sparkles—this joyful moment from our South Jersey unicorn session is pure magic in every way.

There’s something incredibly special about the age when children still believe wholeheartedly in magic. In unicorns. In fairytales. In worlds where anything feels possible.

These sessions preserve that season of life — not just how your child looked, but how it felt to be them right now. Years from now, these portraits become reminders of a time when imagination ruled and joy came easily.

Unicorn sessions aren’t about perfect posing or forced smiles. They’re about wonder, confidence, and letting kids be fully themselves in a space where magic feels real.

If you’d like to see what makes these experiences so special, you can explore the full Magical Unicorn Portrait experience here →

Dee
Shooting Star Photography
Serving Philadelphia, Mainline, Northern Delaware, and all of Southern New Jersey.

Sisterhood, Style & Storybook Scenery: A Couture Session at Mary Coffin Gardens

There’s something undeniably special about photographing sisters together — the quiet understanding, the shared giggles, the way they move as if they’ve known each other forever (because they have).

This couture portrait session at Mary Coffin Gardens in Delaware felt like stepping into a storybook. With flowing gowns, lush greenery, and two sisters completely at ease with one another, the entire experience unfolded effortlessly — the kind of session where magic doesn’t need to be forced.

A Garden That Feels Like a Secret

Mary Coffin Gardens is one of those rare places that instantly slows you down. Tucked away and quietly beautiful, it offers winding paths, archways of greenery, and pockets of light that feel almost cinematic.

The garden’s historic roots and ever-changing seasonal landscape make it an ideal backdrop for fine art portraiture. Every turn offers something new — textured stone, blooming florals, shaded walkways — all of it lending itself naturally to storytelling imagery.

It’s the kind of location that doesn’t distract from the subjects, but gently frames them.

Couture That Tells a Story

For this session, the sisters were styled in rich, detailed couture gowns designed to move beautifully in natural light. Flowing tulle, delicate lace, and layered textures added softness and depth, enhancing the fairytale feel without overpowering their personalities.

These pieces aren’t just outfits — they’re part of the narrative. When paired with a setting like Mary Coffin Gardens, the result feels timeless, elegant, and intentional.

Every twirl, every laugh, every quiet moment between them became part of the story we were creating together.

Connection Is Always the Focus

While the gowns and setting are undeniably beautiful, the heart of this session was the bond between the sisters.

They shared whispered jokes, spontaneous laughter, and the kind of closeness that can’t be posed. Those moments — the in-between ones — are what transform a portrait session into something meaningful.

This is what I aim for in every children’s session: imagery that reflects who they are together, not just how they look.

Why Couture Garden Sessions Are So Meaningful

Couture garden sessions are ideal for:

• Celebrating the bond between sisters

• Marking a milestone or season of childhood

• Creating artwork that feels heirloom-worthy

• Families who love expressive, story-driven imagery

These sessions are calm, unhurried, and thoughtfully guided — allowing children to be themselves while creating portraits that feel elevated and lasting.

Ready to Create Something Timeless?

I travel throughout Delaware, Philadelphia, and South Jersey for special sessions like this, offering couture wardrobe pieces for little girls up to size 12/14 and guidance every step of the way.

If you’re dreaming of a portrait experience that blends connection, artistry, and a touch of fairytale magic, I’d love to help bring that vision to life.

Let’s tell your story beautifully.

If you’re dreaming of a portrait experience that blends connection, artistry, and a touch of fairytale magic, I’d love to help bring that vision to life.

Dee
Shooting Star Photography
Serving Philadelphia, the Main Line, Northern Delaware, and all of Southern New Jersey.