Wildwood NJ | Magical Jersey Shore | Family Beach Session

How to Perfectly Pose and Dress for Your 2024 Wildwood Family Beach Session

(updated from our 2024 blog)

Ready for the Wildwood beach photo session of your dreams? Picture this: the waves are rolling in, the sun is soft and golden, and your family is looking fabulous. But wait—what about those tricky questions: What do we wear? How do we pose without looking like awkward mannequins? Don’t panic! I’m here to guide you through the madness and make your Wildwood family beach session one to remember for all the right reasons. So, grab your sunscreen and let's dive in!

I Love photographing at the Jersey Shore!

Why Wildwood? The Magic of a Jersey Shore Beach Session

If you've ever been to Wildwood, New Jersey, you know it’s not just another beach—it’s the beach for family photos! With a mix of sun, sea, and sand (not to mention its fabulous boardwalk), Wildwood is a photography dream. Natural lighting here is like a gift from the heavens—soft, warm, and flattering for all ages (and let's face it, who doesn’t need a little help from Mother Nature in the glow department?). Whether it’s the sun setting over the horizon or the quiet waves at sunrise, the beauty of this place will make your photos pop.

So, yeah, Wildwood’s got it all—great backdrops and awesome lighting. But let's not forget about the main event: you and your family! The key to creating images you’ll treasure for years is to make sure your photos feel you. (Don’t worry, I’ll help you do just that!)

What to Wear Without Looking Like a Beach-Side Disaster
Let’s get real for a second: choosing outfits for family photos isn’t always a stroll in the sand. But don't sweat it! We’re going for a coordinated look, not a matching one. Start with the basics—think soft, beachy tones that scream vacation vibes. Aqua blues, sandy beiges, blush pinks, and crisp whites are perfect. Bonus: they’ll blend beautifully with the beach surroundings!

Fabric-wise, you want comfort. Go for flowy dresses, breezy linen shirts, and comfy cotton. You’ll be walking on the sand, so keep it light. Just please avoid those stiff, uncomfortable outfits no one can move in (I’m looking at you, uncomfortable heels). Accessories like hats, sunglasses, or barefoot sandals? Yes, please! Just keep it fun and casual.

And for the love of all things holy—don’t match too much! Coordinating is the goal here, but we still want each person’s personality to shine through. Let your family’s uniqueness take center stage (this isn’t a pageant, folks).

Family posing for me in Wildwood. I love the coordinating blues with this session. Blues are my favorite to work with.

How to Pose Without Looking Like You’re In a Commercial for Laundry Detergent

Family beach photoshoots are all about capturing genuine, unscripted moments. So, what does that mean? No stiff smiles or awkward hands. Try this: forget the “pose.” Instead, engage with your family in natural ways. Walk along the beach together, splash in the water, or have a full-on sandcastle competition. The more relaxed and playful you are, the better your photos will turn out.

Of course, I’ll be there to offer some guidance. Maybe we’ll stand you close together for a cozy shot, or perhaps we’ll get everyone to scatter for some “surprise candid” shots. The key here is to enjoy the moment and trust that I'll capture all those tiny, loving moments that make your family so special.

Golden Hour = Golden Photos

Okay, if you’re going to schedule one thing for your Wildwood beach session, let it be golden hour. It’s the best time for photos—right after sunrise or just before sunset—when the light is soft and flattering. You’ll get that warm, golden glow that makes everything look dreamy. Trust me, this is the magic hour when even your crazy kids will look like they just stepped off the cover of a parenting magazine.

Let’s be real, though—golden hour doesn’t last long, so it’s important to time your session just right. I’ll take care of all the logistics, so no need to stress about timing. Just sit back and enjoy the glow.

Making Memories While You’re Being Photographed

A beach session isn’t just about the photos—it’s about making memories! Wildwood’s sandy shores are perfect for fun, spontaneous moments. Encourage your kids to play in the surf, chase the seagulls (okay, maybe not), or hunt for seashells. These activities will not only make your family look relaxed but will also add a sense of adventure to your photos.

Let’s skip the stiff poses and go for real emotions. Giggles, hugs, and hand-holding—these are the moments that make your photos truly shine.

All smiles in front of the Ferris Wheel in Wildwood, NJ with this family.

Preparing Kids for the Session Without Losing Your Sanity

Ah, kids and photo sessions—sometimes it’s like trying to get a cat to wear a bowtie. But don’t worry, you’ve got this! Explain to your little ones that the session will be an adventure. Remind them it’s all about fun, not about being perfect. Pack snacks, drinks, and maybe a favorite toy to keep them happy. Oh, and let’s try to avoid scheduling during nap time—trust me, you want them at their best for these photos!

Props for Unique Photos (But Don’t Go Overboard)

Props can be fun! Just don’t go all “circus act” on me. Bring along something meaningful, like a favorite family toy, a colorful beach ball, or even a kite. I can help guide you on which props will add personality to your photos without overwhelming the natural beauty of the beach.

Beautiful Sister Photoshoot at the Jersey Shore.

Choosing the Perfect Photographer (Spoiler: It’s Me)

If you want a stress-free, fun-filled beach session, choose a photographer who knows the Jersey Shore inside and out. I’ve got the experience, the know-how, and the humor to make your family photo session one to remember. Whether you’re a Wildwood regular or a first-time visitor, I’ll make sure we take full advantage of the beach’s beauty.

Jersey Shore Family Photography is the da bomb.

Check out our Jersey Shore Beach Portfolio.

Contact us if you’d like to book for the 2025! Season! Beach Bookings are our most popular with our services.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Jersey Shore Family Photos | NJ Beach Portrait Fun

Atlantic City Family Photoshoot: Where Love Meets Laughter

You know those perfect family moments—the ones where everyone is smiling, the kids aren’t running away, and nobody has sand in their mouth? Yeah, me neither. But trust me, we’ll still get the most magical shots of your family, right here on the shores of Atlantic City.

A tender moment between two sisters on the shores of Atlantic City, dressed in soft neutral tones, as they share a loving gaze against the backdrop of the ocean. The golden light enhances the warmth of their bond, creating a timeless portrait of sisterhood.

From epic sibling giggles to dads who suddenly realize twirling their kid midair is a serious workout, every beach session is a mix of chaos, comedy, and beauty. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Two sisters share a heartfelt embrace on the sandy shores of Atlantic City, their neutral dresses flowing in the ocean breeze. The soft, golden light captures the warmth of their bond, creating a touching and timeless family moment.

The Beach is Our Playground

Atlantic City isn’t just for casinos and saltwater taffy—it’s a stunning backdrop for family photos! With golden-hour skies, rolling waves, and the iconic boardwalk, every shot feels like a postcard moment (minus the awkward tourist photobombs).

A beautiful family portrait on the sandy beaches of Atlantic City, capturing mom, dad, and their two daughters in a joyful moment. With the soft ocean waves in the background and the golden sunset light, this photograph radiates love, togetherness, and happiness.

🌊 Sandy toes & sun-kissed noses? Check.
📸 Authentic smiles and belly laughs? Absolutely.
✨ Memories you’ll actually want to hang on your walls? 100%.

A heartwarming moment of pure joy as dad twirls his two daughters on the beach at Jersey Shore. The laughter of the girls fills the air, with the sun setting behind them, creating a playful, carefree family portrait that radiates happiness and love. Fun times and smiles!

Why Atlantic City for Family Photos?

Besides the fact that the beach is basically a giant, natural light reflector (hello, perfect glow!), Atlantic City offers:

• Variety: Boardwalk charm, ocean waves, and Steel Pier nostalgia.

• Fun Factor: Kids + sand = instant entertainment (or at least a distraction while I snap the good stuff).

• Timeless Vibes: The ocean never goes out of style. Neither does your family’s love.

A dreamy moment as a girl holds a lantern by the ocean at the Jersey Shore, with the soft glow of the lantern contrasting against the fading light of the sunset. The gentle waves and warm golden hues create a magical atmosphere, adding an enchanting touch to this beach portrait.

Let’s Talk Poses (and the Lack Thereof)

I keep things light and natural—no stiff, awkward prom poses here. If your little one wants to twirl? Go for it. If your toddler suddenly refuses shoes? Even better. Some of the best shots come from the perfectly imperfect moments.

And don’t worry, if all else fails, I’ve got the secret weapon—dad jokes. (They work 90% of the time, every time.)

The oldest sister stands gracefully on the beach, holding a lantern as the soft light of the sunset surrounds her. The peaceful ocean waves add to the serene beauty of the moment, capturing a sense of calm and wonder in this timeless beach portrait.

Why Hang Up Your Family Portraits In Your Home?

Family portraits hold a special significance in a home. Displaying these treasured photographs helps create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

1. Keeps Memories Alive: Hanging up family portraits allows everyone to reminiscence about priceless moments and memories. It serves as a visual record of your family's growth and journey.
2. Personalizes Your Space: Family portraits add a personal touch to your home, conveying a sense of identity and belonging. They make your living space feel more like 'your' home.
3. Showcases Uniqueness: Each family is unique, and displaying your family portraits celebrates this uniqueness. It communicates the value you place on family and relationships.
4. Promotes Bonding: Observing family portraits can be a great conversation starter with guests. It can also be a comforting sight to family members, promoting a sense of togetherness and love.

A close-up shot of the youngest daughter holding a lantern, her face illuminated by its warm glow. The soft, golden light from the lantern contrasts beautifully with the soft beach setting, creating a peaceful, enchanting vibe as the waves gently roll behind her.

In summary, hanging up family portraits in your home is important to cherish memories, personalize your space, showcase uniqueness, and promote bonding within the family.

A heartwarming moment as the two sisters share a joyful smile at the Jersey Shore. The soft golden light of sunset highlights their expressions, creating a perfect blend of warmth and happiness. The beach setting adds a timeless touch to this sweet sisterly moment.

Book Your NJ Beach Session!

If you’re looking for stunning, joy-filled family portraits on the Jersey Shore, let’s make it happen! Whether it’s a sunlit session in Ocean City, a boardwalk adventure in Atlantic City, or a quiet moment in Cape May, I promise you’ll leave with photos that make you smile every time you see them.

A magical family portrait taken on the Jersey Shore beach at sunset. The family of four stands together, bathed in soft golden light, with the ocean and sky creating a stunning backdrop. Their love and connection shine through, making this moment unforgettable.

📅 Ready to book? Let’s chat!

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

A close-up of the oldest daughter standing on the beach in Atlantic City, holding a lantern. The warm, inviting glow of the lantern softly illuminates her face as the ocean breeze and golden sunset create a serene, magical atmosphere around her.

Stunning Ben Franklin Bridge Photography Session

Capture the Magic: A Couture Session on the Ben Franklin Bridge

Ben Franklin Bridge in Camden
Photo credit: Shooting Star Photography LLC
Date: 05/02/2023

As the golden sunset painted the sky a canvas of vibrant hues, we embarked on a truly enchanting photography session on the iconic Ben Franklin Bridge in Camden. A picturesque setting that seemed alive with possibilities and filled with a sense of grandeur, this bridge became the perfect backdrop for our young model's journey through the lens.

Little beauty. She’s such a wonderful little lady!

NJ Birthday Portraits

Gently swaying in the breeze, our lovely subject, a graceful seven-year-old, chose to wear a stunning black dress that seamlessly complemented the ethereal atmosphere. The contrast of her dress against the surrounding urban landscape evoked a timeless elegance and added a dash of mystery to her innocent charm.

To elevate the whimsy and bring an extra touch of magic to the day, we decided to incorporate a bouquet of vibrant balloons. These delightful pops of color exuded joy, playfulness, and added an element of surprise to an already enchanting scene. With each click of the camera, the balloons became symbolic of the pure joy and innocence that defines childhood. These Bridge sessions are HUGELY Popular for Birthday Portraits.

Photographing sessions on the Ben Franklin Bridge has proven time and time again to be a stroke of genius. This impressive architectural masterpiece stands tall, connecting the vibrant cities of Philadelphia and Camden, and provides a unique and inviting canvas for capturing memorable moments. Its towering presence serves as a stunning testament to the power of human ingenuity, while the rushing Delaware River below adds a serene and fluid element to the composition.

Trying to not let the balloons go away!

At Shooting Star Photography LLC, I firmly believe in creating unforgettable experiences, and our couture sessions on the Ben Franklin Bridge are designed to make dreams come to life. Whether it's the naturally flattering light that bathes the bridge or the breathtaking views that unfold in every direction, this location offers a multitude of enchanting possibilities for our clients.

From spontaneous laughter to serene introspection, the Ben Franklin Bridge allows our photographers to capture emotions, relationships, and the essence of our subjects in a truly unique setting. The resulting images are nothing short of awe-inspiring, encapsulating the magic and beauty that lie within each individual.

NJ Magical Couture Sessions

Join us on the Ben Franklin Bridge, where dreams are transformed into breathtaking realities. Allow us to create a couture session that captures your essence, celebrates your uniqueness, and immortalizes your precious moments in a way that will leave you spellbound.

Contact Shooting Star Photography LLC today and unlock the treasure trove of possibilities that await you on the Ben Franklin Bridge.

Beauty on the Ben. Can’t get better than this!

The Ben Franklin Bridge.

Oh my lawwwwd. Check out this gorgeous session of this lady lady on the Ben Franklin Bridge! It was her birthday photo session and boy, we did not want to disappoint or let this family down.

We met at the foot of the bridge and she picked BLACK. I LOVE THAT. Most little gals want to go with pink. Nope, not this little lady! I am so glad she did as the black dress choice POPS at this location. I mean, look at this with the balloons and everything.

I am all about history and I love this place. It is one of my favorites to shoot at so check out some history insight below!

The Ben Franklin Bridge is a suspension bridge that spans the Delaware River, connecting Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Camden, New Jersey. It was named after Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States and a prominent citizen of Philadelphia.

The bridge was designed by the renowned engineer Paul Philippe Cret and opened to the public on July 1, 1926. It was the longest suspension bridge in the world at the time, with a total length of 1.8 miles (2.9 kilometers).

The Ben Rocks!

The construction of the bridge was a massive undertaking that took more than five years to complete. It required the cooperation of both Pennsylvania and New Jersey, as well as the financial backing of a group of investors led by the city of Philadelphia.

During its construction, the bridge was a major source of employment for the local population, providing jobs for thousands of workers. It was also the site of several tragic accidents, including a collapse of the scaffolding that killed 16 workers in 1925.

Today, the Ben Franklin Bridge is an important transportation link for the Philadelphia metropolitan area, carrying more than 100,000 vehicles and pedestrians every day. It has undergone several renovations and upgrades over the years to maintain its structural integrity and ensure its continued usefulness.

It’s also one of my favorite places to shoot, today!

Posing on the bridge!

Fun facts about Ben Franklin.. this bridge’s namesake!

Now… onto fun facts about Ben Franklin! Our Philadelphia treasure. There is going to be a mini series on Ben Franklin coming out in a bit. Played by Michael Douglas. I can’t wait!

Some fun facts about Ben Franklin:

1. Franklin was an inventor and scientist who is credited with many discoveries, including the lightning rod and bifocal glasses.

2. He also invented a musical instrument called the glass armonica, which used rotating glass bowls to produce music.

3. Franklin was a prolific writer and printer, and he started several newspapers and magazines, including the Pennsylvania Gazette.

4. He was also a diplomat and helped negotiate the Treaty of Paris, which ended the American Revolutionary War.

5. Franklin was known for his wit and humor, and he wrote a book called "Poor Richard's Almanack," which included many aphorisms and sayings that are still quoted today.

6. He was a vegetarian and believed that eating meat was unhealthy.

7. Franklin was a strong advocate for education, and he helped establish the University of Pennsylvania.

8. He was a member of several secret societies, including the Freemasons and the Hellfire Club.

9. Franklin was the first postmaster general of the United States, and he helped establish the postal system that is still in use today.

10. He once wrote an essay called "Fart Proudly," in which he argued that farting was a natural and healthy bodily function.

I actually joke with the kids about the fart essay. You know kids and farts.. it always gets out a hearty smile too!

Up close beauty shot!

As you can see the bridge and Ben (that’s why I call it the Ben photo shoot series), is always a fun and unique portrait session. We can bring balloons. It adds to the magic and we truly love these sessions. They are one of our favorites!

I love how this whole session came out. Mom and dad were happy too! It was such a great day and as you can see, we got some FANTASTIC portraits out of this. I am award-worthy work!

Look at this lady lady? Don’t you want a rocking session here? It’s fabulous!

If you would like to book your magical Ben Franklin Bridge Photo session, contact us today!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee Giumetti

Shooting Star Photography