Fine Art Family Photography Stories & Resources

little girl in a vintage dress hugging a pony in an orchard outside of Philadelphia for a sweet moment

A journal for families seeking timeless portraits across South Jersey, Philadelphia, and the surrounding region.

This journal shares fine-art family photography stories, session inspiration, and location guides for families throughout South Jersey and the greater Philadelphia area. Each post is designed to help parents plan meaningful portrait experiences while exploring the artistry behind Shooting Star Photography’s heirloom approach.

Family Photography in Millville NJ | in Cumberland County

Capture family love in Millville, NJ with captivating backdrops in Cumberland County. Book a session with Shooting Star Photography your NJ photographer.

Millville NJ | Cumberland County | A Captivating Backdrop for Your Family Photo Shoot


Cumberland County, located in the charming state of New Jersey, holds a treasure trove of captivating landscapes and diverse settings that make it an exceptional choice for your upcoming family photo shoot. From picturesque coastal areas to quaint rural backdrops, this county offers a plethora of options to ensure that your family portraits are infused with a distinct and enchanting charm. Here's why Cumberland County, NJ, is an awesome backdrop for your family photo shoot.

Collage of fall family photo session in Millville, New Jersey, featuring toddler son, mom, and dad in cozy sweaters, captured by a top Philadelphia photographer.


1. Coastal Beauty in Cumberland County

Millville and surrounding areas boast stunning coastal areas along the Delaware Bay, making it an ideal location for capturing timeless family memories with a flair of serenity. Whether you choose to pose against the backdrop of golden sand dunes or dance underneath the picturesque sunset, the invigorating beach atmosphere and tranquil waters offer an unparalleled setting for your family photography.

Boy in a cozy sweater on a vintage rocking horse during a family photo shoot in Millville, New Jersey, near Lake Audrey, by a South Jersey photographer, featuring a family portrait session in Cumberland County.

2. Rich History in Millville

For families inclined towards a nostalgic ambiance, Cumberland County's historical sites weave an enchanting tale. From the beautiful architecture of Bridgeton's downtown district to the historic buildings in Greenwich, this county is a treasure trove of picturesque locations. The fusion of timeless elegance and the deep-rooted history ingrained in these sites will surely add a touch of sophistication and character to your family portraits.

Mom and her son posing together during a family photo shoot in Cumberland County, Millville, near Lake Audrey, captured by a South Jersey photographer, specializing in family portraits for the Philadelphia area.

3. Rural Family Charm:

The county's rural landscapes present an idyllic milieu for capturing natural and candid family moments. From vast farmlands to enchanting orchards, Cumberland County offers a rustic charm that allows your family's love and connection to shine through effortlessly. Stroll through the blooming fields, play hide-and-seek amidst the rows of corn, or gather around the hay bales—these simple yet captivating backdrops will exude a genuine sense of joy and togetherness in your photographs.

Dad and son smiling during a family photo shoot at Lake Audrey in Millville, NJ. Captured by a New Jersey photographer specializing in family portraits for South Jersey and the Philadelphia area.


4. Seasonal Beauty:

Depending on the time of year, Cumberland County showcases breathtaking seasonal beauty that can enhance the allure of your family portraits. In the spring, frolic amidst the colorful cherry blossom trees or explore the vibrant gardens bursting with tulips. In the fall, embrace the warm hues of the foliage and engage in delightful activities such as apple picking or pumpkin carving. The county's dynamic seasons ensure that each photo shoot captures the essence of the moment and reflects the unique charm of each season.

Boy posing with his mom and dad during a family photo shoot at Lake Audrey in Millville, Cumberland County, NJ. Captured by a New Jersey family photographer specializing in South Jersey and Philadelphia family portraits.


5. Community Spirit:

Cumberland County is home to a vibrant and diverse community, whose warmth and welcoming nature exude an irresistible positive energy. Whether you wish to incorporate the local culture, festivals, or events into your family photo shoot, the county's rich community spirit will infuse your portraits with a strong sense of belonging and unity.


Cumberland County, NJ, is a treasure trove of magnificent backdrops, seamlessly blending coastal beauty, rich history, rural charm, seasonal delights, and a strong community spirit. Its diversity and natural wonders serve as a perfect setting for your family to shine in front of the camera, creating memories that will be cherished for generations to come. So, embark on an adventure and let Cumberland County be the canvas for your family's story in the form of breathtaking photographs.

Mom and dad swinging their son in the air at Lake Audrey in Millville, NJ. Family photo shoot captured by a South Jersey and Philadelphia photographer.
First birthday photo shoot in South Jersey. Boy on rocking horse in sweater, looking at the camera. Captured by a South Jersey photographer.

Goodbye Summer, Hello Fall in Millville, NJ!

Wow, can you believe summer is officially coming to an end? This Labor Day weekend brought a crisp change in the air, with temperatures dipping into the upper 60s—sweater weather already! As the seasons shift, we're gearing up for an exciting fall here in South Jersey, especially in beautiful Millville and the surrounding areas.

At Shooting Star Photography, we’re thrilled to work with families, children, and soon-to-be moms (maternity photography holds a special place in my heart). Fall is all about warm, earthy tones, natural light, and capturing the pure joy and innocence of the season. Below, you’ll find highlights from last year’s sessions, showcasing the magic we love to create.

Our calendar is already packed for the rest of the year, and we’re so grateful for all the support from Millville, South Jersey, and even Philadelphia! This year has been nothing short of incredible, and we can’t wait to finish it strong.

Mom and dad in beautiful lighting at Lake Audrey, Cumberland County. Family photo shoot by a New Jersey photographer, capturing love in South Jersey.

What’s New for Fall 2025?

  • Mini Sessions:

  • We’ve introduced four unique themes this year—Unicorn, Princess at a Castle, City Sessions, and Tree Farm sessions. These mini sessions were booked out quickly (thank you, everyone!).

  • Luxury Additions: We’re bringing in new high-end dresses, gorgeous maternity gowns, fresh locations, and even a snow machine to make this fall and winter extra magical.

  • Seasonal Vibes: We love those rich, warm fall tones and are embracing them for every session this season.

As life picks up with back-to-school routines and holiday preparations, we know how busy things can get. That’s why we’re here to make your photography experience stress-free, fun, and memorable.

Thank You, Millville and Beyond!


To all our amazing clients from Millville, South Jersey, and Philadelphia, thank you for trusting us to capture your precious memories. We’re excited to wow you with more breathtaking sessions this fall and winter.

If you’re planning for next year, keep an eye out—we’ll be announcing our new calendar soon. For now, enjoy the crisp air, pumpkin spice everything, and the beauty of fall in South Jersey!

Playing ring around the rosy as a family at Lake Audrey, Millville NJ. Family photo shoot by a New Jersey photographer capturing joyful moments in South Jersey.

Happy Shooting, my friends! Hope to see you this year!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography    

Read More
beach photographer jer..., Family Session in Sout... Shooting Star Photography beach photographer jer..., Family Session in Sout... Shooting Star Photography

Beach Family Photographer at the New Jersey Shore. South Jersey beach photographer!

South Jersey beach family photographer, best photographer in ocean city new jersey, beach photographer in south jersey, philadelphia beach photographer, Sea Isle City family photographers

Once upon a time, on the beautiful beaches of the Jersey Shore, there was a photography company called Shooting Star Photography. They were the best photographers in the area, especially when it came to capturing the essence of beach life. Their specialty was taking family, maternity, and children's portraits that truly captured the beauty of the beach and the joy of being together as a family.

WIldwood Mini Sessions, Maternity and beach photographer in South Jersey, New Jersey family photographer, beach photographer in NJ, Best Photographers in Philadelphia, beach mini sessions nj, ocean city new jersey photographer, sea isle

Having fun. A family enjoying the beach at the Jersey Shore!

Shooting Star Photography is known for their attention to detail and their ability to make every customer feel special. They have a knack for finding the perfect location for each photoshoot, whether it is in Ocean City, Sea Isle, Wildwood, or Cape May. They knew all the best spots and were able to capture the essence of each beach in their photos.

The photographers at Shooting Star Photography love what they do, and it shows in their work. They enjoy making magic for their customers and making each photoshoot an awesome experience. They encourage their clients to take a dip in the ocean, play in the sand, and laugh together as a family. They believe that capturing these fleeting moments in time is the most important part of their job.

WIldwood Mini Sessions, Maternity and beach photographer in South Jersey, New Jersey family photographer, beach photographer in NJ, Best Photographers in Philadelphia, beach mini sessions nj, ocean city new jersey photographer, sea isle

Best beach photographers in Ocean City, New Jersey. Little girls photo shoot.

One day, a family from out of town came to Shooting Star Photography for a beach photoshoot. The family was nervous and unsure of what to expect, but the photographer quickly put them at ease. They took them to a secluded spot on the beach, away from the crowds, and began to work their magic.

WIldwood Mini Sessions, Maternity and beach photographer in South Jersey, New Jersey family photographer, beach photographer in NJ, Best Photographers in Philadelphia, beach mini sessions nj, ocean city new jersey photographer, sea isle

Brother and sister enjoying the warm sands in Wildwood, New Jersey. Love those Wildwood Days! And have to love that bow tie!

As the family played in the sand and splashed in the water, the photographer captured every moment. They took photos of the parents holding hands, of the children running and laughing, and of the whole family huddled together in a group hug. The family was having so much fun that they didn't even realize the photoshoot was over.

WIldwood Mini Sessions, Maternity and beach photographer in South Jersey, New Jersey family photographer, beach photographer in NJ, Best Photographers in Philadelphia, beach mini sessions nj, ocean city new jersey photographer, sea isle

Having fun and jumping for joy at the Jersey Shore.

When the photos were ready, the family was amazed. The pictures were beautiful and captured the essence of their family perfectly. They couldn't believe how much fun they had during the shoot, and they were grateful to Shooting Star Photography for making it such an awesome experience.

family photographers, south jersey photographers, jersey shore photographers, cape may new jersey photographers

Beautiful family capture at Steel Pier!

Family beach session at the Jersey shore. Yes, the background is real. We add a little magic! We were the first to offer this session and I know teach it to photographers across the US.

From that day on, the family made Shooting Star Photography their go-to photographer for all their beach photography sessions. They knew that they could trust them to capture their most precious memories and make every moment special. And so, Shooting Star Photography continued to make magic for families all along the Jersey Shore, capturing their joy and creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Read More

Happy Birthday Shooting Star Photography!!!

Happy Birthday Shooting Star Photography! One year old and wiser today. A birthday is a new you and a celebration!

south jersey photographers, philadelphia photographers, shooting star photography, new jersey photographer, best cherry hill nj photographer, sewell nj photographer, blackwood nj photographer, hammonton nj photographer

A collage of my kids and I. Through the last few years! My children are my muses.

It’s my birthday today. Blessed for everything. Blessed for my clients, my life and my children. However, today, I’m realizing that I don’t have enough family photos. I have my children captured every few months, but am lacking on myself getting in front of the camera with them. You know why? I am just as self conscious as most of my clients are. 

south jersey photographers, philadelphia photographers, shooting star photography, new jersey photographer, best cherry hill nj photographer, sewell nj photographer, blackwood nj photographer, hammonton nj photographer

The only professional photo that I like of myself. We photographers don’t get much time in front of the camera.

South Jersey Photographer. Only pro image I have of myself. The shame!

I am always wanting to drop those last few pounds or don’t feel pretty enough.  A great photographer will make those insecurities go away and feel beautiful. A great photography silk kid how to highlight your greatest features had and to also make you feel like the absolute most beautiful thing in the world. 

my kiddos in a collage. From the past year.

Our family sessions are our specialty. In fact, most of the sessions we do and service in the South Jersey and Philadelphia region are family sessions. Family sessions are very important to capture. Our children grow so quickly and it’s truly important to capture these fleeting moments with our children. 

south jersey photographers, philadelphia photographers, shooting star photography, new jersey photographer, best cherry hill nj photographer, sewell nj photographer, blackwood nj photographer, hammonton nj photographer

My kids a few years ago with me!

Only professional photo I have of my children.

I know sometimes we don’t feel skinny or the best in shape, at the moment, but I am telling you, our kids don’t care. They want photographs to look back on with their families. There is nothing better than seeing yourself, with your family, hung up high in your home. Studies have actually shown that it boosts self esteem in our children. It helps children grow strong and gives them a boost of confidence. 

south jersey photographers, philadelphia photographers, shooting star photography, new jersey photographer, best cherry hill nj photographer, sewell nj photographer, blackwood nj photographer, hammonton nj photographer

My significant other and kiddos in tulips.

The studies through the years have shown that it boosts self-confidence in your children. Allowing them to actually visualize and see themselves, help them with a stronger presence and strength.  Let’s face it, a family photo, tells a story. It honors the memories cherished together. This is why it is important to capture and to hang these art pieces up high!

Get in front of the camera!!! Your kids will appreciate it. It is important. You will start to see more posted here, of me just doing that. You need to practice what you preach, right?

Have a magical day, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

South Jersey and Philadelphia photographers

Read More

Family Photographers in the Philadelphia Area and South Jersey

Family Sessions are our specialty among the families of South Jersey. We love creating magic for our clients. What is special about booking a fall photo session in South Jersey?

A fall photo session can be a unique and special experience for several reasons:

Beautiful Colors: Fall is known for its stunning and vibrant colors. The changing leaves create a warm and cozy atmosphere that can make for beautiful backdrops in photos.

Cooler Weather: Fall brings cooler temperatures, which can make for a more comfortable and enjoyable photo session. There's no need to worry about sweating or feeling uncomfortable in the heat, which can be a concern during summer sessions.

Wardrobe Options: Fall fashion is known for its cozy sweaters, scarves, and boots, which can make for stylish and fun wardrobe options for a photo session. These clothing items can add a pop of color and texture to photos, making them more interesting and visually appealing.

Mood and Atmosphere: The fall season has a unique mood and atmosphere that can make for a cozy and intimate photo session. The warm and cozy feeling of fall can create a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere, which can result in more natural and genuine photos.

I met the beautiful “C” family when I first started this business.  I can’t tell you what it means to me, to see my families grow over the years. I’ve seen this little girl turn into a little woman. I’ve seen family members go off to college and unfortunately, members who have passed (but grateful that I was able to capture memories), onward to this little guys First Holy Communion. Boy, it’s been a ride. Two dogs later and two kids heading off to high school. It surely perks you up to see how much time has flown by and how important it is to capture these memories. 

What is special about booking a fall photo session in South Jersey? 

A fall photo session can be a unique and special experience for several reasons:

  1. Beautiful Colors: Fall is known for its stunning and vibrant colors. The changing leaves create a warm and cozy atmosphere that can make for beautiful backdrops in photos.

  2. Cooler Weather: Fall brings cooler temperatures, which can make for a more comfortable and enjoyable photo session. There's no need to worry about sweating or feeling uncomfortable in the heat, which can be a concern during summer sessions.

  3. Wardrobe Options: Fall fashion is known for its cozy sweaters, scarves, and boots, which can make for stylish and fun wardrobe options for a photo session. These clothing items can add a pop of color and texture to photos, making them more interesting and visually appealing.

  4. Mood and Atmosphere: The fall season has a unique mood and atmosphere that can make for a cozy and intimate photo session. The warm and cozy feeling of fall can create a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere, which can result in more natural and genuine photos.

  5. Holiday Cards: Fall photo sessions are perfect for holiday cards and family portraits. Taking photos in the fall allows you to get ahead of the holiday rush and have plenty of time to select and send out your holiday cards.

Overall, a fall photo session can be a unique and special experience that captures the beauty and warmth of the season.

family sessions, south jersey photographers, family photographers in philadelphia, family photographers in haddonfield new jersey, family photographers in new jersey, family photographers ocean city new jersey

Family Sessions with the pups are always the best. Fall Session in South Jersey.

family sessions, south jersey photographers, family photographers in philadelphia, family photographers in haddonfield new jersey, family photographers in new jersey, family photographers ocean city new jersey

Siblings. I Love being able to watch these kiddos grow throughout the year.

family sessions, south jersey photographers, family photographers in philadelphia, family photographers in haddonfield new jersey, family photographers in new jersey, family photographers ocean city new jersey

Family is truly everything. It is not cliche. It is what gets me up every single morning.

It’s not about making memories, anyone can do that, but I just want to give every individual that comes my way, the best that I can offer. It’s a pride thing for me. It's my art that I love to share with the world. I CANNOT give my clients something mediocre as I know these will be keepsakes they may want to hang on their walls. It’s got to be art, it’s got to be what the client wants and envisions and I also want to be proud for anything that leaves my doors. 

family sessions, south jersey photographers, family photographers in philadelphia, family photographers in haddonfield new jersey, family photographers in new jersey, family photographers ocean city new jersey

Fall photo session with this handsome guy!!! Had to do the cool hand over hair move.

fall photo session in south jersey, childrens portraits in washington township new jersey, deptford new jersey family photographers

fall photo sessions. Love the falling leaves and colors.

I got to capture this absolutely stunning family in one of my favorite forest spots. I love the light any time of year and when it is fall, the colors just come alive (as you see here). I hope you enjoy! I look forward to creating something special for you and your family! 

Let us create some magic for you and your family.

Happy 2022!

Dee Giumetti

Shooting Star Photography

Read More

Winter/Christmas Special at Shooting Star Photography

Celebrating Christmas themed sessions in South Jersey. We bring magic to life. Why is celebrating Christmas with family important?

Christmas is traditionally a time for families to come together and celebrate, and there are several reasons why celebrating Christmas with family is important. Here are a few:

Tradition and Culture: For many people, Christmas is an important cultural and religious holiday. Celebrating with family is often seen as a way to honor these traditions and keep them alive for future generations.

Bonding and Connection: The holidays provide an opportunity for families to spend quality time together and strengthen their bonds. In the busy and fast-paced world we live in, it can be difficult to find time to connect with loved ones. Christmas offers a chance to slow down and focus on the people who matter most.

Memories and Nostalgia: Many people have fond memories of Christmas celebrations with their family from childhood. Recreating those experiences can bring a sense of comfort and joy, and help to create new memories for future generations.

photographers south jersey, philadelphia photographers, delaware photographers, christmas, swedesboro new jersey photographers, salem county photographers, christmas photo shoot, south jersey christmas photographer, santa photographer new jersey,

My little girl smiling away at her Christmas Portrait!

Christmas time is here. It’s not about giving gifts, but for being with those important and remembrance of who Christmas was named for. It’s a birth. I look at it every year as a rebirth, as the new year starts to arrive on the horizon. 

Why is celebrating Christmas with family important?

Christmas is traditionally a time for families to come together and celebrate, and there are several reasons why celebrating Christmas with family is important. Here are a few:

  1. Tradition and Culture: For many people, Christmas is an important cultural and religious holiday. Celebrating with family is often seen as a way to honor these traditions and keep them alive for future generations.

  2. Bonding and Connection: The holidays provide an opportunity for families to spend quality time together and strengthen their bonds. In the busy and fast-paced world we live in, it can be difficult to find time to connect with loved ones. Christmas offers a chance to slow down and focus on the people who matter most.

  3. Memories and Nostalgia: Many people have fond memories of Christmas celebrations with their family from childhood. Recreating those experiences can bring a sense of comfort and joy, and help to create new memories for future generations.

  4. Support and Encouragement: The holiday season can be a difficult time for some people, and having the support and encouragement of family members can make a big difference. Celebrating with loved ones can provide a sense of belonging and security during a time that can otherwise feel stressful or lonely.

photographers south jersey, philadelphia photographers, delaware photographers, christmas, swedesboro new jersey photographers, salem county photographers

Christmas sessions in south jersey. We love these two little ladies!

It’s a day of reflection and being with those who are dear and to think about why we are put on this earth. Are we here to do good? Have I lived the best version of myself for the past year? Most often, that is a no. I make mistakes and am an imperfect being. I try to always do better. I try to treat others with respect and love. I really do think we do try as humans, but negativity can get the best out of us. That’s why it’s important to learn positive ways of thinking or to try to live a healthy lifestyle, which will often times create positive thinking. 

photographers south jersey, philadelphia photographers, delaware photographers, christmas, swedesboro new jersey photographers, salem county photographers

Twirling among the trees in South Jersey for Christmas photos.

photographers south jersey, philadelphia photographers, delaware photographers, christmas, swedesboro new jersey photographers, salem county photographers

Sisters in their vintage Christmas dresses.

As far as Christmas photography sessions go, or any session I do in the Philadelphia and South Jersey area. I always try to show up and do my best. It doesn’t matter what is going on in life. I could be having the greatest day of my life or the worst day, but I will always bring it. I pick locations that are suitable for every client’s taste and I truly try to give 100% and perfection with every session I walk into. Not only on the scene, but as far as images go, I want you to have the best images for years to come, to look back on. The best of memories and look at those images and say.. “Wow, THAT WAS A GOOD AND HAPPY DAY” in my life. That was a day my family laughed and smiled and we were together. 

photographers south jersey, philadelphia photographers, delaware photographers, christmas, swedesboro new jersey photographers, salem county photographers

A South Jersey Christmas.

As far as locations go, this holiday location is gorgeous. Lots of greenery for this time of year and the light is perfection at any time of day. It’s a spot in Gloucester County that is symbolic to me. My husband planted these trees in Boy Scouts.  I am able to do mini sessions here at any time of day. I won’t do bad lighting. It’s not for me. Thats why am picky on the locations I choose. Again, it’s about the best for clients. 

My little lady in her vintage dress. Her daddy planted these trees in Boy Scouts!

In summary, celebrating Christmas with family is important for honoring traditions and culture, strengthening bonds and connections, creating new memories, and providing support and encouragement during a potentially challenging time of year.Let’s treasure this time of year. Let’s make those happy Christmas or Holiday memories. Treasure those who are near and dear to your heart. We only have one life. Let’s make the best of it. 

Happy Holidays!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography 

PS. I love being able to look over at my family portraits on the wall. It brings a smile to my face. My children love it too. I had these last year and they were a huge hit.

Read More

Follow our journey around the Philadelphia Area.