Luxury Photographer | Main Line Philadelphia & Bucks County

The NJ Photographer's Guide to a Magical Princess Birthday Shoot

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Once Upon a Time, in Main Line Philly…

or is it Mainline? It seems to differ upon the generation you speak to.

As a photographer, nothing gets me more excited than a princess photo shoot – especially when it’s for a birthday girl ready to turn her big day into an epic fairy tale. Let’s face it, there’s no better way to celebrate than by making your little one feel like royalty. Whether you’re in Mainline Philadelphia, Bucks County, or beyond, I’ve got the insider scoop to make your princess shoot magical (and hilarious). So, grab your tiara and let’s dive into the "Dee-ified" Princess Birthday Portrait Experience!

Holding her princess crown in her hand.

Step 1: Conceptualizing the Magic (aka Figuring Out What Makes Her Her)

The first thing we need to talk about: what kind of princess are we working with? Does she have a secret identity as a fairy-tale queen, or is she all about that Frozen life? It's essential that we vibe on the idea of her personality and favorite characters before even touching a camera. Sometimes, I feel like a detective, solving the mystery of which princess should rule her kingdom... but, y’know, with glitter.

She’s the cutest princess around!

Step 2: Assembling the Perfect Princess Wardrobe (Princesses Deserve Options)

Listen, this is her moment. As much as I love helping pick out the perfect dress (yes, I will totally get lost in the sparkles), it’s important she feels like herself. So, I always encourage my princesses to get involved. Is she into puffed sleeves? Does she want to wear a gown fit for a ball? Or is she more of a casual princess who likes to twirl in comfort? Whatever it is, we’ll have plenty of options – all comfortable enough to dance, jump, or even leap tall castles in a single bound (metaphorically, of course).

ALL the gorgeous dresses you see on our website are from our luxury client closet!

Two princesses wanted to wear rainbow… Rainbow is what they got!

Step 3: Tiaras, Crowns, and Royalty Vibes

Let’s be real – the crown is where the magic happens. When that tiara goes on, the transformation is instant. Suddenly, every little girl feels like she can rule the world (or at least the living room). We’ve got plenty of options – from glittery tiaras to the classic gold crown – each one designed to give that royal wow factor. Plus, it’s hilarious to watch them try them on and pick which one makes them feel the most regal.

Step 4: Picking the Perfect Backdrop (Fairy Tale, Meet Reality)

Okay, we need a backdrop that says "fairy tale" without overshadowing the main star of the show – the birthday girl. Whether we’re outside in a garden or in front of a digitally crafted castle (thanks, technology), the goal is to enhance the magic, not steal the spotlight. So we’ll go for something that complements her outfit and makes her feel like she's in her own royal world – but also won’t distract from her epic pose. (Trust me, it's a balance.)

Doing a twirl.

Step 5: Lighting the Magic (Because Bad Lighting is Never Royal)

You know what’s worse than a bad hair day? Bad lighting. That's why I pay extra attention to ensuring every shot is lit to perfection. Whether it's outdoor sunlight or studio lamps (yes, I know all the tricks), we’ll make sure the light hits just right to make her glow like the true princess she is. After all, every royal needs her moment in the spotlight!

The Princess showing off at the castle window.

Step 6: Posing Like a Pro (Posing, but Make It Fun)

I’m all about guiding my little princesses to pose like the pros – think “sitting on your royal throne” rather than “stiff as a board.” I might ask them to twirl, stand tall, or laugh like they've just seen their royal pet dragon. The key here? Make it lighthearted and natural, so her genuine joy shines through (trust me, those are the best shots). The goal is for her to feel like a real princess, not like she’s about to do a performance review.

Step 7: Candid Moments (The “Not Posed” Magic)

Now, while the posed shots are great, I live for those candid moments where the princess is just being herself – laughing, twirling, or looking at her crown with awe. These are the shots that make me tear up every time (don’t judge, I’m emotionally invested in every shoot). These moments capture the magic of the day, and they end up being the most cherished photos because they show her true spirit.

Little lady posing for us!

Step 8: Keeping It Fun & Comfortable (Because Even Princesses Need Snacks)

The key to a smooth shoot is making sure the birthday girl is relaxed and enjoying herself. So, we keep things light and fun – with frequent breaks, snacks, and maybe even a little princess playlist. The best part? She’s not just posing for the camera; she’s living in the moment, making memories, and laughing the whole time. I can’t stress this enough – the more fun, the better the photos!

Step 9: Editing (Fairy Dust, but Not Too Much)

Once the shoot is over, it’s time to work some magic in the editing room. Don’t worry – I won’t make her look like a cartoon character. I aim for a soft, dreamy glow to give that fairy-tale vibe without going overboard. Think of it like adding the perfect filter to a photo, but with a dash of elegance and a lot of sparkle.

A perfectly poised and posed princess.

Step 10: Delivering the Royal Treasures (AKA Those Photos You’ll Frame Forever)

The best part? The grand reveal of the photos. I love sending sneak peeks before the full gallery, just to keep the anticipation going. When the final images are ready, they come in a beautifully designed package or digital gallery, and let me tell you – the look on the parents' faces when they see their little one’s photos is priceless. These aren’t just photos; they’re cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

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

Broad Street in Philadelphia Photographer

The Magic of Broad Street: Why It’s the Perfect Location for Your Philadelphia Photo Shoot

Philadelphia’s Broad Street is more than just a major thoroughfare—it's an iconic destination that offers an eclectic mix of cityscapes, culture, and history, making it an ideal location for your next photo shoot. Whether you're planning a family session, celebrating a milestone, or simply capturing the spirit of Philadelphia, Broad Street provides a unique and dramatic backdrop for stunning photography.

In this post, we’ll explore why Broad Street is a favorite among local photographers, what makes it so photogenic, and how you can make the most of this iconic location in your photo shoot.

Twisting the night away on Broad Street. An icon in Philadelphia.

1. Cityscape and Architecture: A Perfect Backdrop

One of the primary reasons Broad Street stands out for photo shoots is its stunning cityscape. Stretching from South Philadelphia to North Philadelphia, Broad Street offers a blend of modern and historic architecture. The street is lined with impressive landmarks such as Philadelphia City Hall, the Academy of Music, and the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts. These grand structures provide a beautiful and varied architectural backdrop that will make your photos truly stand out.

As a South Jersey photographer, I always find that the towering buildings and intricate designs of Broad Street create a sense of grandeur. Whether you're capturing the detailed facades or the contrast between old and new, this section of Philadelphia is a treasure trove of photo opportunities.

There are always interesting elements to photograph around the Broad Street area.

2. The Avenue of the Arts: A Creative Atmosphere

Broad Street’s reputation as the Avenue of the Arts is another reason it’s a sought-after photo shoot destination. This stretch of the street is home to Philadelphia’s leading cultural institutions, including renowned theaters, concert halls, and art galleries. The energy and artistic vibe of this area make it an excellent location for creative photo shoots that reflect Philadelphia’s artistic spirit.

Whether you're capturing a portrait in front of the Wilma Theater or showcasing your family in front of the bright lights of the Merriam Theater, the Avenue of the Arts provides a setting that's both sophisticated and artistic. For families looking for a blend of culture and beauty, this is the place to be.

Inside a hotel in Philadelphia. The dress is gorgeous!

3. Broad Street’s Width and Perspective: Dramatic Views

As one of the widest streets in Philadelphia, Broad Street offers a unique advantage for photographers. The wide expanse of the street creates a sense of openness and grandeur, making it perfect for capturing dramatic perspectives. Whether you’re photographing a family session with the skyline as the backdrop or capturing leading lines that draw the viewer’s eye into the distance, the street’s wide lanes allow for creative freedom.

The perspective of the street also lends itself well to incorporating the iconic Philadelphia skyline, creating a sense of place and giving your photos that quintessential Philadelphia feel. When you work with a photographer in South Jersey, it’s these expansive views that set your photos apart and make them stand out.

4. Historical Significance: Celebrate the Past

Broad Street is not just a pretty backdrop—it’s also steeped in historical significance. As a traditional route for parades, processions, and civic events, this street holds a special place in the hearts of Philadelphians. From the annual Mummers Parade to celebrations for Philadelphia’s championship sports teams, Broad Street has witnessed countless iconic moments throughout history.

By choosing Broad Street for your Philadelphia photo shoot, you’re not just capturing a moment in time—you’re connecting with the city’s rich history and celebratory atmosphere. This adds a layer of depth and meaning to your photos that’s hard to replicate anywhere else.

Beautiful little lady in front of gas lamps in Philadelphia.

Close up of the little lady.

5. Vibrant Street Life: Capture the Energy of Philly

Broad Street is bustling with activity, especially during peak hours. The energy of urban life—the hustle and bustle of pedestrians, cars, and cyclists—adds a dynamic and lively element to your photos. The vibrant street life can provide a sense of movement and excitement, perfectly capturing the essence of city living.

This is particularly great for those who want to inject some energy into their photos. Imagine a birthday photo shoot or a family photo session with the vibrant Philadelphia street life adding an extra layer of charm to the images. For families in nearby towns like Haddon Township NJ, Collingswood, and Mullica Hill, a session in the heart of Philadelphia provides an exciting contrast to the more tranquil, suburban settings.

Last shot of the night. Love the bokeh and lights on Broad!

6. Photographing Broad Street: Tips for the Best Shots

When planning your photo shoot on Broad Street, there are a few things to keep in mind to make the most of this location. First, consider exploring different sections of the street to capture its diverse characteristics:

• Near City Hall: The stately architecture and wide streets provide an imposing and formal atmosphere.

• Avenue of the Arts: The theaters, art galleries, and cultural landmarks add an artistic vibe to your photos.

• The Heart of Broad Street: Capture the city’s energy and vibrant street life by incorporating pedestrians and traffic into your shots.

It's also essential to be mindful of traffic and pedestrian safety when shooting on a busy street like Broad Street. Use creative angles, frames, and perspectives to make the most of the environment.

Love this one!

7. Book Your City Photo Shoot with Shooting Star Photography

Whether you’re looking to capture family memories or celebrate a special occasion, Broad Street in Philadelphia offers a perfect blend of city charm, culture, and energy. If you're ready to book a Philadelphia photo shoot, we’re here to help! From family portraits to birthday sessions, we specialize in capturing the beauty of both the city and the suburbs.

Located in Haddon Township, New Jersey, we offer personalized photo sessions throughout the Philadelphia area, including South Jersey, North Delaware, and towns like Woodstown, NJ, Collingswood, and Haddonfield, NJ.

For more information and to schedule your next photo shoot, contact us today. We can't wait to work with you and make your memories last a lifetime!

Happy Shooting,

Dee
Shooting Star Photography
1001 White Horse Pike
Haddon Township, New Jersey