Elegant Cape May Family Portraits Professional Photographer

As a fine art photographer based in South Jersey, Cape May holds a special place in my heart. Known for its Victorian charm, stunning beaches, and timeless elegance, Cape May is the perfect backdrop for unforgettable portraits. Whether you’re looking for family photos, couples’ sessions, or milestone moments, Cape May offers a picturesque setting like no other.

Why Cape May Is the Perfect Location for Your Portrait Session

Cape May isn’t just another beach town—it’s a treasure trove of beauty and character. Here are some reasons why Cape May is the ideal spot for your next photo session:

1. Victorian Architecture
   The historic Victorian homes and bed-and-breakfasts create a timeless, romantic backdrop. Imagine walking down tree-lined streets with colorful gingerbread-style houses as the setting for your portraits.

2. Cape May Beaches
   The soft sand, sparkling water, and dramatic sunsets make Cape May’s beaches a dreamy location. Whether it’s a golden hour session or early morning light, the natural beauty of the shore shines through in every photo.

3. Cape May Lighthouse and Nature Trails
   For a touch of adventure and scenic charm, the Cape May Lighthouse and nearby trails provide breathtaking views. These spots are perfect for families, couples, and even solo portraits.

4. Seasonal Magic
   From the spring blooms at the Physick Estate to the vibrant fall foliage and Christmas decorations that light up the town, Cape May transforms with each season, making it a versatile destination year-round.

What Makes My Photography Stand Out in Cape May

Family Portraits (with even the pop) among the cottages in Cape May, NJ.

With over ten years of experience as a professional fine art photographer, I specialize in creating one-of-a-kind portraits. My sessions are relaxed, fun, and designed to capture genuine moments while highlighting the beauty of Cape May’s unique locations.

• Hand-Edited Photos: Every image is meticulously hand-edited to bring out the best in each shot, ensuring you receive stunning, timeless portraits.

• Creative Styling: I provide styling advice and help you choose outfits that complement the location and your personal vision.

• Attention to Detail: From lighting to composition, I focus on every detail to make your portraits truly exceptional.

The family posing for portraits in the beautiful setting of Cape May (in front of one of the many B &B’s in Cape May.

Popular Session Types in Cape May

1. Family Beach Portraits

   Celebrate family milestones with a beach session at sunset. Cape May’s gentle waves and golden sands make for the perfect setting.

2. Engagement and Couples Photography

   The romantic vibe of Cape May is unmatched. Whether strolling along Washington Street Mall or sharing a moment by the lighthouse, these sessions exude love and connection.

   3. Maternity and Milestone Sessions

Capture the joy of motherhood or special moments in your life with Cape May’s serene and beautiful backdrop.

Seasonal Mini Sessions

Keep an eye out for my seasonal specials! From springtime florals to magical holiday sessions, there’s always something special happening in Cape May.

A little girl posing with her dog under one of the gas lamps in Cape May.

Let’s Create Magic Together

Whether you’re vacationing in Cape May or live nearby, I’d love to help you preserve your memories. As a photographer dedicated to fine art and storytelling, I’m here to ensure your session is as unique as you are.

Family posing for portraits in front of the Mainstay Bed and Breakfast in Cape May, NJ.

Ready to book your Cape May portrait session?

Visit my website www.shootingstarsouthjersey.com to learn more about my services and see examples of my work. Don’t forget to follow along on Facebook for updates and special announcements: Shooting Star Photography NJ.

Two girls posing for their portrait in front of the Abbey on Gurney Street in Cape May NJ.

Cape May NJ Photographer | Fine Art Portraits with a Jersey Shore Flair

Cape May offers endless possibilities for stunning photography. Let’s explore this enchanting town together and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Check out these great places to also stay at in Cape May.

The Abbey (which I use a lot in my portraits and show above.)

Cape May Magazine Article

The Mainstay Inn in Cape May is very popular. I do a lot of my Christmas sessions here.

A cute little girl posing in front of the Mainstay Inn in Cape May at Christmas.

Contact us today to book your Cape May family portrait. Can be done ANY time of year. We do a lot of beach sessions in the summer, but wanted to celebrate how beautiful Cape May can be at Christmas.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Family Photographer | A Captivating Cape May PhotoShoot!

I absolutely love the holidays and the joy that comes from it. However, I don’t like to cold… and I am impressed how many parents can dress up every single year and pose in the freezing cold.

If you're more of a beach person during warmer months, check out my Jersey Shore Family Beach Portraits for dreamy summer sessions!

Why I Love Cape May for Christmas Portraits

I absolutely adore the holidays—the joy, the lights, the warm fuzzy feelings. But let me tell you, I don’t love the cold! Yet every year, I’m in awe of the families who brave the chill, dress to the nines, and bring their festive vibes to Cape May for our annual Christmas photo sessions.

The Magic of Cape May During the Holidays

There’s just something about Cape May in December that feels like stepping into a snow globe (minus the snow most days, thankfully!). The historic Victorian homes sparkle with twinkling lights and festive wreaths, while the salty sea air mixes with the scent of pine. It’s magic—pure and simple.

Looking for something equally magical but less chilly? My Unicorn Portrait Sessions are perfect for kids who love whimsical, one-of-a-kind experiences!Picture-Perfect Locations for Your Christmas Portraits

1. Twinkle Lights and Victorian Charm
   Imagine the timeless beauty of Cape May’s Victorian homes decked out in their Christmas best. One of my favorite spots? A charming bed-and-breakfast that serves as the perfect backdrop for holiday smiles and cozy family moments.

2. Downtown Cape May
   Whether it’s strolling in front of the beautifully decorated shops or capturing the festive vibes along the streets, Cape May’s downtown area is a must for holiday portraits. I mean, can we talk about how THIS DRESS (🔥) paired perfectly with the Victorian vibes?

3. The Beach in Winter
   Yes, you heard me—Cape May’s beaches are just as stunning in winter. The golden light of the low winter sun, the peaceful waves, and cozy sweaters make for dreamy Christmas portraits.

This dress is FIRE and worked perfectly for all the victorian homes and shops as we walked around Cape May for this gorgeous portrait session!

What Makes These Sessions Special?

It’s not just about the backdrop (though Cape May really is a showstopper). It’s the little moments in between—the tickle fights, the whispered secrets, the belly laughs that bring everyone together. Those are the memories I love to capture. THIS is what it’s about!

Why Choose Cape May for Your Family Photos?

If you’re looking for a photographer who knows all the best spots in Cape May, look no further! Whether it’s the iconic Victorian homes, the charming downtown, or the serene beaches, Cape May offers something truly unique and timeless year-round.

Interested in celebrating other milestones? Take a look at my First Holy Communion Portraits for another meaningful way to preserve your family’s memories. Book Your 2024 Christmas Session Now!

Don’t miss the chance to capture your family’s holiday memories in one of the most beautiful seaside towns in New Jersey. Information and booking details for our Cape May Christmas Sessions can be found here. Let’s make this year unforgettable!

As you can see here… she is all smiles in front of one of my favorite bed and breakfast spots in Victoria Cape May. I love doing these portraits on an annual basis!

Capture timeless memories with your loved ones amidst the picturesque backdrop of Victorian homes in Cape May, NJ.

During Christmas, our portrait sessions offer a perfect blend of nostalgia and elegance, allowing your family's bond to shine through in every photo. Let us commemorate your togetherness against the charming architecture and scenic beauty of this historic seaside town. Book your session today and treasure these moments for a lifetime.I am always impressed by the families who love traveling to Cape May annually..

Classic Family Christmas Portrait in Cape May!

There's something about Cape May in December that wraps you up like a warm blanket. Maybe it's the salty breeze mixing with the scent of pine, or the cozy charm of the old Victorian homes dressed up in twinkling lights. Whatever it is, it's magic. And that's exactly why we decided to have our family portrait session there this Christmas.

As we strolled down the quaint streets, lined with historic houses adorned with wreaths and bows, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over me.

But it wasn't just about the picturesque scenery. It was about the moments in between—the spontaneous tickle fights, the whispered secrets, the shared jokes that had us all doubled over in laughter! THIS IS WHAT IT IS ABOUT!!!!

If you are every looking for a photographer and what to have fun with the family in Cape May… look no further! We have all the spots to shoot from every month and time of year! From the beach to the bay, Cape May is always offering something truly genuine and fun for families!

If you would like to book your Christmas in Cape Session, information can be found via this link!

Cape May Family Session Info

We hope to see you for the 2024 season!

Happy Shooting, my families!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Mommy and Me Photoshoot in Mt. Laurel, NJ: Tulips & Laughter

Spring Has Sprung (And So Have the Tulips)

Okay, let’s get real for a sec. Spring is here, the birds are chirping, and it’s the season for “OMG, look at all the pretty flowers!” But you know what’s even better? A mommy and me photoshoot in the epic tulip fields at Dalton Farms in Mt. Laurel, NJ. Seriously, this place is a goldmine for stunning photos that’ll make your Instagram followers jealous (in the best way possible).

Mom wanted to capture this special time with her little boy. She wanted a vintage look and we hope we delivered. We had some beautiful light at Dalton Farms. It lead to a beautiful tulip session.

The Quest for Perfect Photos (A.K.A. A Spring Mini Session Adventure)

Spring Mini Sessions: They’re short, sweet, and packed with memories you’ll want to frame (or send to your grandma). Perfect for busy moms who don’t have time for a full-day photoshoot but still want those heart-melting moments captured in a NJ family photographer's masterpiece.

As much as I’d love to photograph your toddler’s entire life story, these sessions are designed for moms who are like, “Can we get this done before my kid’s snack time?” Spoiler alert: we can, and we will! Plus, we’ll squeeze in as much cuteness as humanly possible.

Love the way he is looking at the camera and how mom is looking at her.

And trust me, Dalton Farms? It’s not just tulips. It’s magic. It's like stepping into a Pinterest board made of dreams, minus the pressure to perfect your DIY projects. I’ll be there to snap those fleeting moments of toddler joy (like when they find a ladybug or pretend to eat dirt—because toddlers).

This is the best pose for the little ones! They tend to have fun and it keeps them contained (and not running all over the place).

Dalton Farms: The Place Where Time Slows Down (And You Can Ignore Your To-Do List)

The tulip fields at Dalton Farms, located right here in Mt. Laurel, are, let’s just say, #Goals. Each row of blooms is like Mother Nature’s personal backdrop designer, and when you step into that sea of colors, you’ll feel like you’re in a fairy tale, minus the wicked stepmothers and poison apples.

I’m telling you, there’s something special about watching your little one run wild (or dramatically flop down into the tulips) while I catch every smile, giggle, and tiny tantrum (because, hey, toddlers).

So whether you're a mom from Mt. Laurel or a nearby South Jersey town like Swedesboro or Sicklerville, Dalton Farms is worth the short drive. And don’t worry about traveling too far. I’ve been known to make road trips to the most magical places.

Love this huge smile on his face as mama kisses him!

Candid Moments, Even If Your Toddler’s Idea of a “Pose” Is Falling Over

I’m not into stiff, posed photos—no one has time for that. What I am into is capturing those spontaneous, “Did my kid just do that?” moments. Picture this: Your little one, knee-deep in tulips, trying to smell the flowers like they’re definitely not going to sneeze. That’s the stuff.

Tulip for mama!

"But What If My Kid Is a Runner?" Don’t Worry, I Got This.

Okay, so your kid might take off like a little blur through the tulips. This happens. But guess what? That’s actually prime photo material—sprint mode = adorable action shot. Plus, if you’re lucky, we’ll get a classic shot where they’re completely unaware that their mom’s about to chase them down like a toddler ninja. Pure. Comedy. Gold.

We got a runner! LOL

The Magic of Spring Light (Because Every Mom Deserves Some Glowy Photos)

Let’s talk about the real star of the show: Spring light. Dalton Farms has this glow that makes every tulip look like it’s been kissed by a magical fairy godmother. Whether we’re shooting at sunrise, midday, or the golden hour (yes, there’s such a thing), the light will turn even your chaotic family moment into a masterpiece.

Walking together in the tulip field.

As the sun rises, the tulips light up like they’re saying, “Hey, let’s make this photoshoot so Instagrammable that even your most skeptical friends will be impressed.” The soft morning light? Perfect for those sweet “I love you” moments with your toddler. By noon, the tulips turn into bright, vibrant pops of color, making every shot feel like it’s straight out of a dream.

All smiles and fun at Dalton Farms.

More Than Just Photos—It's a Family Memory

At the end of the day, this isn’t just about getting the perfect photo (though let’s be real, that’s a big perk). It’s about capturing the raw, beautiful moments of you and your little one exploring, laughing, and bonding in the tulip fields.

And when you look at those photos years from now, you'll remember how chaotic, beautiful, and hilarious that spring day was. You know, when your kid tried to eat a flower. Or ran off into a sea of color. Or tried to give a tulip a hug (because, why not?).

The look on his face is priceless.

So, When Do We Start?

Ready for a fun, funny, and fabulous photoshoot at Dalton Farms in Mt. Laurel, NJ? Book your Mommy and Me Spring Mini Session with me today! Trust me, these moments fly by faster than you can say “tulip selfie.”

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

Unforgettable Family Portraits | South Jersey Photographer

Family photo sessions—honestly, are they ever really about the perfect pose? I’d say they’re more about the moments. Like the time the “G” family came to me for a shoot, and let’s just say it was a bit of an adventure (complete with a few curveballs!). But don’t worry, we made it happen. With a little creativity, a dash of chaos, and some good old-fashioned love, we captured memories that’ll make them smile for years to come.

A family of five smiles joyfully while posing on the iconic Ben Franklin Bridge, dressed in soft pastel colors, capturing the essence of their bond and love.

The Journey Begins—Hold Onto Your Hats!

Alright, picture this: the day before the shoot. The “G” family is buzzing around like a group of caffeinated squirrels, getting outfits ready, kids hyped, and the excitement could literally be bottled. Everyone’s in that pre-photo shoot frenzy where you’re just hoping no one gets a crayon stain on their pastel outfits before the big day. Fun, right? We were basically living in a Pinterest board of dreams. But also, chaos.

A young girl, dressed in a beautiful Anna Triant dress, joyfully holds balloons while posing on the Ben Franklin Bridge in New Jersey. The pastel-colored dress and balloons add a whimsical touch to the backdrop of the iconic bridge and the Camden skyline in the distance.

But that’s why I love family shoots. Because it’s not about a stiff, perfect photo—it's about everyone coming together for a moment that’s theirs, even if that moment involves some behind-the-scenes madness.

A heartwarming moment as three kids, two boys and a girl, smile for portraits on the Ben Franklin Bridge. The picturesque backdrop of the bridge and Philadelphia skyline highlights their bright expressions and joyful personalities. The soft pastel tones of their outfits complement the serene atmosphere of the photo session.

Pastel Perfection (Or, How to Look Like a Pinterest Board)

I had a vision. I’m all about creating that soft, dreamy vibe with pastel tones. Peach, mint, lavender—basically, a pastel explosion, but in the best way possible. The family was ready for it, and it worked perfectly with the backdrop of the legendary Ben Franklin Bridge. Seriously, I think the pastel combo made everyone look like they’d just stepped out of a fairy tale.

Capturing a candid moment, the three kids—two boys and a girl—pose playfully on the Ben Franklin Bridge during their family portrait session. Their laughter and natural chemistry shine through, adding authenticity and charm to the portrait against the iconic backdrop of Philadelphia’s skyline.

But here’s the real trick: these pastel colors didn’t just look nice, they embodied the family's bond. So yeah, it’s not just about what’s pretty—it's about what feels right.

The Magic of the Perfect Pose (Spoiler: It's Not Always Perfect)

Posing is hard, y’all. I mean, what are we even doing half the time? The key isn’t getting a perfectly straight back or the most symmetrical smile—nope. It’s about those real moments. You know, like when the kids refuse to stop giggling or the dad cracks a joke just to get the kids to smile. Those are the moments that make your heart go aww (and trust me, there’s a lot of those in this session).

In fact, the real magic happens when the family lets their guard down, when they stop worrying about being perfect, and just enjoy the moment. That’s when the pictures are at their best.

A heartwarming close-up of the family of five, posing together with big smiles on the Ben Franklin Bridge. The Philadelphia skyline creates a stunning backdrop, showcasing the family's love and unity in a moment frozen in time.

Oh, and the Weather? Let’s Talk About That, Shall We?

Because no epic photo session is without a tiny drama, right? Mother Nature decided to throw in some extra clouds and a hint of rain for fun. Classic, right? But guess what? We worked with it. A little drizzle never stopped us from getting a shot, and the overcast skies actually gave us some perfect lighting! I told the family to just roll with it. And they did. No problem. Just a few puddles to dodge.

Hello smiley giggly one! A joyful moment captured on the Ben Franklin Bridge as a young girl smiles brightly while holding colorful balloons. The vibrant colors and her infectious happiness add a magical touch to the family portrait session.

The Final Result: A Masterpiece, Kind of Like Family Life Itself

And just like that, with a few laughs, a sprinkle of chaos, and a whole lot of love, we wrapped up the session. The final portrait wasn’t just a picture—it was an epic moment in time. The Ben Franklin Bridge looked amazing, the pastel outfits shimmered in the soft light, and the family’s bond came through in every frame. This wasn’t just a family photo—this was their adventure, captured for life.

A cheerful boy holding colorful balloons while flashing a big smile on the Ben Franklin Bridge. The playful scene captures the joy of family portraits with a fun and vibrant pop of color.

A charming boy dressed in a tie smiles for his family portrait, with the iconic Philadelphia skyline serving as a stunning backdrop on the Ben Franklin Bridge. This portrait captures the perfect blend of sophistication and joy.

The oldest boy in the family beams with a joyful smile, with the iconic Philadelphia skyline behind him as a striking backdrop on the Ben Franklin Bridge. This portrait perfectly captures the essence of youthful happiness and the beauty of the city.

A cheerful child stands on the Ben Franklin Bridge, holding vibrant balloons and flashing a big smile. The colorful balloons add a fun, playful touch to this joyful family portrait, capturing the carefree spirit of childhood against the beautiful backdrop of the Philadelphia skyline.

The whole family beams with joy in this perfect "money shot" moment on the Ben Franklin Bridge. The parents and their three children share a genuine, heartwarming smile, perfectly capturing the love and connection that make family portraits so special. With the iconic Philadelphia skyline in the background, this photo represents the essence of unity, happiness, and timeless memories.

A joyful close-up portrait of a kid with a big smile, taken on the Ben Franklin Bridge with the Philadelphia skyline in the background. This image perfectly captures the innocence and excitement of childhood, showcasing the natural joy of the moment during a family photo session in South Jersey.

Lessons Learned (Or, How to Deal with the Family Chaos)

The biggest takeaway from this session? Sometimes, the best photos come from the messiest moments. Sure, we didn’t have everything 100% perfect, but that’s what makes it real. The giggles, the quick wardrobe changes, and even the unexpected weather—it all came together to tell their unique family story. And I wouldn’t have had it any other way.

A charming portrait of a little girl smiling brightly with the stunning Philadelphia skyline in the background. This image captures the warmth and innocence of childhood, set against the iconic Ben Franklin Bridge, during a family photo session in South Jersey.

So, to all my fellow parents out there stressing about the "perfect" family picture—take a deep breath. Sometimes the beauty is in the mess.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

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

Check Out More Family Sessions we have done in the Greater Philadelphia Area

The Perfect Family Photo Session in New Jersey

Fine Art Portraits

South Jersey Family Photographer | Capturing Timeless Moments with Love

Searching for the Perfect Family Photographer in South Jersey?

I love the play on colors with the yellows, navy, jeans for this classic family session in Williamstown.

I always like to get a natural interaction. It’s more of seeing your kiddo’s profiles and to capture the love shared among the family.

All smiles and decked out in cozy sweaters!

Well, your search just got a whole lot easier! I can’t even believe how many years I've been lucky enough to work with families in South Jersey. I’ve seen babies grow into teens, and it’s been an incredible ride! For those who don't know me, I’m Dee, your friendly neighborhood family photographer. It’s not just about snapping a picture; it’s about creating art that will last through generations. Let’s dive into an enchanting family photoshoot I recently had the pleasure of capturing in Williamstown, New Jersey, where we blended the natural beauty of the forest with a timeless, high-end vibe.

Classic shot of mom and her babies. I love this one and hope this one is proudly displayed on the wall!

The Family & the Setting: A Beautiful Bond

Meet the amazing family that I had the honor of working with. It’s not the first time I’ve had the pleasure of capturing their milestones — we’ve been at it for about 3-4 years now! This family of four consists of mom, dad, and their two beautiful daughters, and let me tell you, the love they share is truly infectious. From the get-go, they wanted something classic, elegant, and, of course, timeless — and guess what? We nailed it.

After a bit of location scouting, we settled on a forest setting for this session. Who doesn’t love a picturesque, natural backdrop for their family photos? As the family expressed their vision, we discussed outfit options that would enhance the beauty of the surroundings. Classic neutrals and natural looks were the way to go! We wanted them to look amazing now and 20 years from now (trust me, you don’t want those 90s neon colors in the mix).

Dad and his two babies! Super sweet.

Creating a Timeless Family Look

When it comes to capturing a family portrait that stands the test of time, it’s all in the details. We focused on neutral tones and classic, flattering styles that would look great in any decade. Nothing too trendy — I want these images to be hanging on their walls, looking just as fabulous when their grandkids visit!

To keep it simple, we also went with natural-looking hair and makeup. You know the drill—let your natural beauty shine through, especially with a backdrop like the forest! It’s all about capturing the family’s true essence and their personalities. The golden autumn light in the forest played off the family’s wardrobe beautifully. And let's be honest — the girls looked like they were straight out of a fashion magazine.

The warmth of the forest plays perfectly off the cooler tones of the girls.

Little cutie in her denim jacket.

Love this little cutie rocking the denim and knit dress.

The Magic of the Forest: A Natural Wonderland

I’ll be real with you, the forest setting was pure magic. The warmth of the woods, the colors starting to change as fall approached, and that soft, dreamy light made the session feel otherworldly. And did I mention the girls were thrilled to explore nature? We had twirls, laughter, and a lot of candid moments of pure joy, which is what I live for in a photoshoot.

The forest not only created the perfect backdrop for individual portraits but also set the tone for the entire session. It felt serene and peaceful, and that vibe radiated through the photos. The best part? The family felt so comfortable in the space, they started really being themselves.

The sisters again.

A Family’s True Connection Captured

One of the main things I strive for in any session is authenticity. I love capturing the sweet, candid moments where the family is just being their goofy, wonderful selves. You know — the real moments of love and connection. No stiff, forced smiles here! It’s those little interactions that make the photos pop. The giggles, the hugs, and those quiet moments between siblings — that’s the magic.

The girls are dressed in Little Dreamers Tutus design. I love her couture dresses!

Transforming into Fine Art: A Royal Touch

Alright, now let’s talk about the fine art portion of the shoot — because, of course, no shoot is complete without a little dose of fancy, right? After the forest fun, the girls got all dolled up in Little Dreamers Tutus dresses — and let me tell you, the transformation was jaw-dropping. The girls looked like princesses straight out of a fairytale.

At this point, I wasn’t just taking photos. I was creating art. The couture dresses, the soft lighting, the girls twirling — everything came together to create something truly unforgettable. These fine art portraits have that wow factor. You know the kind of image that belongs in a gallery? Yep, we created those.

I love creating a magical feel to forest imagery.

Photography is an Art, and You’re the Muse

Photography isn’t just about pointing and shooting. It’s an art form, and I take that very seriously. Every image requires attention to detail, from the composition to the lighting to the way a subject holds a slight smile or glance. My goal is always to make you feel relaxed and at ease so that we can capture your true essence.

It’s not just about looking perfect — it’s about capturing your personality, your love, your story. And when you work with me, that’s what we create: not just pictures, but heirlooms that will be passed down for generations.

Hugs and love in the forest of Williamstown.

The Unforgettable Experience: More Than Just a Photoshoot

This session wasn’t just another family photoshoot. It was an experience. From the forest exploration to the couture transformation, the family got to spend quality time together, making memories while I worked my magic behind the lens. They left the shoot feeling thrilled, and I left feeling honored to have been a part of their story.

As always, need to get a classic shot of our twirl! She nailed it by smiling at the camera!

Book Your Fine Art Family Session Today!

Ready to make your family portraits truly unforgettable? Whether you want something classic, fun, or a little bit of both, I’d love to work with you! Let’s chat about how we can make your family’s memories timeless.