Fine Art Family Photography Stories & Resources
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.
Explore Portrait Experiences:
New Jersey 2024 Beach Mini Sessions
Capture timeless memories with a top family photographer at Jersey Shore, including Cape May, Avalon, Wildwood, Ocean City, and Atlantic City beach portraits.
Riding the Wave: 2024 Beach Sessions Unveiled – A Tradition of Sold-Out Success!
Are you ready to soak up the sun, laughter, and picture-perfect moments? We're thrilled to announce the launch of our highly anticipated 2024 mini beach sessions, hitting the shores this Black Friday weekend! 🏖️ Have a unique portrait experience in Ocean City, Atlantic City, Sea Isle, Cape May and many other beautiful beach towns?
Let’s create some pastel magic together. It’s time to rock and roll!
A couple having their maternity session in Ocean City, New Jersey. I love throwing my clients in the water to cool off and to have some fun after their beach session!
Beautiful family capture taken in Sea Isle, New Jersey. Love the hugs and smiles!
Family capture with Gillian’s pier in the background.
This family did Steel Pier. Extra magical memories were made.
Jersey Shore Beach Photographer
Year after year, our New Jersey beach sessions have become the hottest ticket in town, selling out faster than sunscreen on a scorching summer day. I like the reference actually, but trying to be funny here. The secret? I am not just a photographer; I’m a “memory-maker”, capturing the essence of joy and love against the backdrop of some of the East Coast's most iconic beach destinations.
Photographer Serving Locations from Atlantic City to Cape May:
Our lens spans the entire Jersey Shore, from the glittering lights of Atlantic City to the Victorian charm of Cape May. Whether it's the vibrant energy of Ocean City, the serene beauty of Sea Isle, the quaint allure of Stone Harbor, or the classic nostalgia of Wildwood – we're there, ready to freeze those precious moments in time. It’s time to get out the beach gear soon as summer will arrive sooner than you expect!
This photo was taken on the beach in LBI. We actually have this boat available for props. These are so much fun!
Beautiful capture in the water in Sea Isle City, New Jersey.
The magical ferris wheel is always a delight for fantasy and magic… but it is the real deal!
Beautiful beach capture in Ocean City, New Jersey. Just enjoying the waves and the water of the Jersey Shore.
A magical Wildwood capture. We offer these only a handful of times per year.
Our Beach Sessions-More Than Just Sand and Sun:
What sets our beach sessions apart? It's not just about capturing your family against the backdrop of the waves (although we do that spectacularly!). It's about creating an experience. Picture Ferris wheel adventures, roller coaster fun, and the perfect blend of sea breeze and laughter. I've scouted the best spots, for the best light…. including our favorite hidden gem in Ocean City with a myriad of backgrounds that will make your photos truly unique.
Why Book Early (especially, those Wildwood Beach Portraits).
Given our track record of selling out every year, securing your spot early is not just a suggestion – it's a necessity. These beach sessions are like a limited edition, and once the slots are gone, they're gone. Don't miss your chance to turn ordinary moments into extraordinary memories.
Beautiful capture along the Delaware Bay.
Magical ferris wheel photos always are the best and our favorite.
Playing in the sand, making memories and building sand castles.
Twirling in the sand and making memories for mom!
How to Reserve Your Spot:
Mark your calendars for Black Friday weekend, when we'll be unveiling the dates for our 2024 beach sessions. Set your alarms, gather the family, and be ready to snag your spot in the sand – because this is one wave you won't want to miss!
Join the New Jersey Beach Photographer Tradition:
Our New Jersey beach sessions have become more than just a photo shoot; they're a tradition of creating lasting memories that families cherish for a lifetime. So, gear up for another year of sun-soaked joy, laughter, and sold-out success. See you on the shorelines of 2024! 🌊📸 #BeachSessions2024 #CaptureTheWave
Which spot are you going to choose? Wildwood? Cape May, Ocean City?
We will be launching our 2024 dates starting on black Friday!
Happy Shooting, my friends,
Dee
Shooting Star Photography
Your best beach photographer :)
Our Latest Magical Wildwood Family Shoot
Smiling under the sun, our latest Wildwood family photo session captured unforgettable moments on the beach. A day filled with joy, laughter, and love!
Wildwood, New Jersey
Welcome to the beautiful beach town of Wildwood, New Jersey! The sun was shining, the waves were crashing, and the smiles were endless during our latest family photo session. As a Wildwood, New Jersey family photographer, it was a joy to capture the love and laughter of this lovely family as they enjoyed a fun-filled day on the beach. With two adorable sisters and their mom, this session was full of sweet moments and stunning blue hues. Keep reading to see all the fun we had under the sun during this Wildwood family session!
Family beach sessions at the Jersey shore are always a beautiful place to have your family portraits taken at. Ocean City, Sea Isle, Avalon, Stone Harbor, Wildwood and Cape May are among some of the beautiful beach backgrounds to choose from!
The Perfect Setting for a Perfect Day
When it comes to capturing precious family moments, the location can make all the difference. And what better place to create lasting memories than the breathtaking beach town of Wildwood, New Jersey? Known for its pristine shores and vibrant atmosphere, Wildwood provides the perfect backdrop for a picture-perfect day.
As a seasoned photographer in Wildwood, I have had the privilege of capturing countless family beach sessions. And let me tell you, there is something truly magical about the combination of whimsy and wonder that the ocean and sand bring to every photograph. The salty breeze, the crashing waves, and the golden sun create an ambiance of happiness that is hard to replicate anywhere else.
beautiful girl in blue posing for her portrait at the dog beach in Wildwood, NJ. Isn’t it magical?
With my camera in hand, I watched this lovely family embrace the joyous spirit of the beach. The kids' laughter echoed against the sea, as they chased seagulls and built sandcastles. Their beaming smiles were the truest reflection of their happiness, illuminated by the warm sun. And with the shimmering blue hues of the ocean as our backdrop, every shot was transformed into a work of art.
The girls just dancing at sunset on the beach in Wildwood.
Wildwood, New Jersey offers a unique blend of charm and natural beauty, making it an ideal setting for a family photo session. The Jersey Shore's vibrant culture and lively atmosphere bring an energy and authenticity to the images, capturing the essence of this coastal haven. From the bustling boardwalk to the vast stretches of sandy beaches, every corner of Wildwood offers a picturesque view that sets the stage for an unforgettable experience.
The girls having fun on the beach in front of the Wildwood Ferris Wheel.
As a family beach photographer, I have dedicated my career to capturing genuine moments of love and connection. It is in these moments that true joy can be found, and preserving them becomes an act of profound significance. The beach serves as a symbol of togetherness, reminding us of the value of family bonds and the importance of creating lasting memories.
I love this natural portrait of her.
If you're searching for the best beach photographer in Wildwood, look no further. With my passion for photography and my commitment to capturing genuine emotions, I strive to provide a personalized experience that goes beyond simply taking pictures. Let me freeze those precious moments in time so you can relive them for years to come. Whether you're a local or just visiting the area, a family session at the Jersey Shore will leave you with memories to treasure forever. So pack your bags, embrace the beauty of Wildwood, and let me capture the magic of your family under the sun.
Twirling and having fun in the sand! Get it girl!
Picture-perfect Wardrobe Selection
As a Wildwood, New Jersey family photographer, I know that choosing the perfect wardrobe for a family photo session can sometimes feel like a daunting task. But fear not, because I am here to help guide you through the process and ensure that your family looks picture-perfect!
When it comes to selecting outfits for a beach session, it's important to keep a few key factors in mind. First and foremost, comfort is key. You want your family to feel relaxed and at ease during the session, and that starts with choosing clothing that they feel comfortable in. Opt for soft, breathable fabrics that allow for easy movement, especially for the little ones who may want to run around and explore.
Mom is trying to wrangle up the little one. I think she’s cooked at this point. Hahaha
Yep, she’s done.
In terms of colors, it's always a good idea to consider the location and the overall aesthetic you're going for. Since we'll be on the beautiful beaches of Wildwood, New Jersey, shades of blue always work well to complement the natural surroundings. Think soft blues, aquamarines, and seafoam greens. These colors not only look stunning against the backdrop of the ocean, but they also evoke a sense of calm and serenity.
This little girl was having a ball. Twirling around on the beach!
Coordinating outfits without being too matchy-matchy is also a key aspect of a picture-perfect wardrobe. I always recommend choosing a color palette and building the outfits around that. For example, you could have the mom wear a flowy, beachy dress in a soft blue hue, while the dad and kids opt for complementary colors like khakis and white. This creates a cohesive look without everyone wearing the exact same thing.
Accessorizing is another way to elevate your family's style and add a touch of personality to the photos. Think hats, sunglasses, or even beach props like seashells or surfboards. These little details can make a big difference in the overall aesthetic and add a fun element to the session.
Two sisters gazing out onto the beach.
Remember, the goal is to capture genuine moments of joy and connection, so choose outfits that allow your family's true personalities to shine through. And don't forget, as a South Jersey photographer with experience in Wildwood, New Jersey, Ocean City, and Sea Isle, I am here to help you every step of the way. I can offer guidance, inspiration, and even provide suggestions for local boutiques or online stores where you can find the perfect outfits.
In the end, what matters most is the love and laughter that you and your family share. By choosing a picture-perfect wardrobe, you can enhance the beauty of those moments and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. So trust in the process, have fun with the wardrobe selection, and get ready to capture your family's unique story through the lens of my camera.
Mommy and me session in front of the roller coaster in Wildwood, NJ.
Capturing Genuine Joy
As a family photographer in Wildwood, New Jersey, my greatest joy is capturing genuine moments of joy and connection. There's something truly magical about freezing a moment in time and preserving it for years to come. It's like bottling up a feeling and being able to experience it over and over again.
During this Wildwood family photo session, I had the privilege of witnessing and capturing the genuine joy radiating from this lovely family. As the kids ran along the shoreline, their laughter echoed in the salty breeze. Their smiles were infectious, filling the air with happiness. The love between them and their mom was palpable, and I couldn't help but be swept away by the beauty of their bond.
She’s just staring out at the ocean waves! Who wouldn’t?
Being a family photographer is about more than just snapping pictures. It's about creating an experience that allows families to let go, have fun, and be themselves. It's about capturing those raw, unfiltered moments of pure joy. From silly faces to belly laughs, every smile and giggle tells a story of love and connection.
In every click of my camera, I aimed to capture the true essence of this family's happiness. I encouraged them to interact, play, and embrace the magic of the moment. And the result was a series of photographs that exuded pure joy and genuine emotion. From running through the sand to twirling on the shoreline, every moment was a treasure waiting to be preserved.
The sisters staring out in the distance while the sun is setting at the beach.
As a family photographer in Wildwood, New Jersey, Ocean City, and Sea Isle, I am fortunate to witness and document the beauty of families every day. There's something truly special about capturing these fleeting moments and turning them into tangible memories. Life moves so quickly, and it's easy to get caught up in the chaos. But photographs have the power to transport us back to those precious moments and remind us of what truly matters.
If you're searching for a photographer who can capture the genuine joy and connection within your family, look no further. With my experience and passion for photography, I am dedicated to creating an experience that is not only enjoyable but also authentic. I will guide you through the session, allowing your family's unique personalities to shine through. Together, we will create a collection of photographs that will become cherished heirlooms for generations to come.
Girls giving mom those cheesy smiles that she loves!!! We all want these kinds of portraits of our kids.
So, whether you're a local or just visiting the area, I invite you to embrace the beauty of Wildwood, New Jersey, and let me capture the magic of your family under the sun. Trust in the process, have fun, and get ready to create memories that will bring genuine joy to your hearts for years to come. Contact me today to schedule your fine art session with a top New Jersey photographer.
Happy Shooting, my friends!
Dee
Shooting Star Photography
A Jersey Shore | Ocean City, NJ | Photography Experience.
Capture the beauty of Ocean City, NJ with a breathtaking photography experience, showcasing the timeless power of ocean waves and nature’s serene beauty.
Capturing Family Memories in Ocean City, NJ
A Beach Photography Extravaganza! 🏖️
Whether you're a family, a birthday-celebrating child, in need of updated portraits (just because), or even a magical mermaid, Ocean City is THE place to unleash the magic of your photography session! 📸
From the scenic dunes to capturing moments in the delightful month of June, Ocean City offers the perfect backdrop for your photo journey. It's not just a place; it's an experience waiting to be immortalized in pixels and prints.
Little cutie on the beach in Ocean City, NJ. Posing for her beach portrait.
A Symphony of Nature on the Jersey Shore
Ocean City, New Jersey invites you to unwind and create lasting memories with your family. Picture yourself standing at the shoreline, immersed in the mesmerizing dance of nature—the rhythmic rise and fall of the ocean waves. Each wave carries a captivating story, surging forward, crashing against the shore, and then gracefully retreating into the depths.
The waves bring with them a symphony of sound, the soft whisper of water caressing the sand heralding their arrival. Momentum builds, crescendoing into a mighty roar, echoing along the coast. Crashing waves unleash energy, spraying droplets of salty mist, leaving a gentle kiss upon your skin.
Looking out at the beautiful sunset.
As the waves recede, they paint a delicate trail of foam, frothing and swirling before being pulled back into the ocean's embrace. The once smooth beach becomes a canvas, intricate patterns left by the ebb and flow of the tides. The sand, a medley of fine grains, massages your feet with its warmth and gentle texture.
Fine Art Sessions: Where Sensory Experience Meets Timeless Beauty
This is the essence of our fine art sessions—calm, simple, classic. We delve into fine art children's photography, a genre that transforms images of children into artistic masterpieces. 🎨 Here's what sets it apart:
Last shot of the evening of these two cuties.
Creative Concepts: Imagine unique themes and concepts—props, costumes, and elaborate sets transporting you into different worlds or evoking specific emotions. Our aim is to create visually stunning images that tell a story.
Attention to Detail: We obsess over details—lighting, composition, color, and texture. Soft, diffused lighting creates a dreamy atmosphere, a canvas for visually pleasing and harmonious images.
Emotion and Expression: Genuine emotions take center stage. We aim to showcase personality, curiosity, innocence, or playfulness through natural interactions, laughter, or thoughtful expressions.
Artistic Editing: The magic doesn't stop at the click. Artistic editing techniques enhance mood and aesthetics—textures, filters, colors—a symphony of elements creating works of art.
Timelessness and Storytelling: We capture childhood essence, creating images that transcend time. Our photographs tell stories, evoke nostalgia, and focus on fleeting moments, imagination, and everyday beauty.
The Symphony Continues: Ocean Waves and Sandy Toes
The combination of ocean waves and the sand beneath your feet creates a sensory symphony. The rhythmic crashing and the malleable sand remind you of life's dynamic nature. In these moments, find solace—a temporary escape, a deep appreciation for the beauty and power of the natural world.
Immerse yourself in this sensory symphony, let the ocean waves and the sand transport you to a place of tranquility and awe. Connect with something greater—the timeless and eternal power of the ocean.
A beautiful family capture with pier in the background in Ocean City, New Jersey.
Ocean City, NJ: A Canvas for Family Moments
Ocean City is the picturesque stage for your family's photo shoot. With sandy beaches, a charming boardwalk, and stunning ocean views, it's a haven for capturing moments. Shooting Star Photography has explored every corner, from the Northern/Garden section to Corson’s Inlet.
A family beach session in Ocean City, New Jersey is the way to go. Beautiful beaches, great smiles, teal colored water. Is where it is at.
📸 Scenic Spots: Choose the beach with its expansive shoreline, dunes, and ocean backdrop. Or opt for the lively, colorful boardwalk, especially during the golden hour. Explore the town's charming streets for a different ambiance.
Timing is Everything: The Golden Hour Magic
The BEST time for your Ocean City, New Jersey shoot? Early morning or late afternoon when soft, flattering light paints the scenery. The golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, provides a warm, magical glow. We diligently check the weather forecast for optimal lighting conditions.
🌅 Soft Pastel Tones at Sunset: A beautiful choice for your Ocean City session. We assist with outfit coordination for a cohesive, visually pleasing look. Consider matching or complementary colors, or choose a theme reflecting your family's personality.
The pastel tones make our beach photography pop! Lets create some magic together!
Magic in the Details: Props, Accessories, and Essentials
Bring the magic alive with props—beach balls, blankets, seashells, or a surfboard. Make the shoot interactive and fun, especially for young children. Pack essentials like water, sunscreen, snacks, and towels. For young ones, bring favorite toys or snacks and plan for outfit changes. Touch-up supplies like makeup and hair products are a must.
Relax, Have Fun, and Let the Magic Unfold
The core of a family photo shoot is enjoying the experience and capturing genuine moments. Encourage your family to relax, be themselves, and have fun. Candid shots result in authentic and cherished photos—our award-winning touch.
Lighting: The Secret Ingredient
Timing matters, even if it clashes with bedtime. Shooting during the golden hour with soft, diffused lighting enhances pastel tones. Avoid harsh midday light that washes out colors. And trust us, beach backgrounds are more fun when people aren't all around!
Beyond the Shoot: Ocean City, NJ Unleashed
Remember to have fun on your vacation because Ocean City is FUN! Pristine beaches stretch for miles along the Atlantic Ocean, offering a picturesque setting for relaxation, sunbathing, swimming, and sandcastle building. As you can see in the image below, we are definitely making some sandcastles!
Sandcastle building with my daughter!
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Ocean City is renowned for its family-friendly environment. It takes pride in providing a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages, actively promoting family-oriented activities and events.
🎡 Boardwalk Bliss: Stretching over two miles, the boardwalk is a beloved attraction with amusement rides, arcades, shops, restaurants, and live entertainment. It provides stunning ocean views and serves as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
Dining, Shopping, and More
Explore a diverse selection of dining options, from casual beachside eateries to upscale restaurants. The town boasts boutique shops, souvenir stores, and specialty shops along the boardwalk and throughout the community.
Plus, you can encounter the local Ocean City, NJ mermaid as you see here!
Brother and sister… a special moment at the Jersey Shore.
These factors, combined with the town's commitment to cleanliness, safety, and providing a family-oriented experience, make Ocean City, NJ the perfect spot for family photos at the Jersey Shore! As you can see with these family photographs above. It’s all about family to me! Let’s make those memories! What what!
In Closing: Happy Shooting, My Friends!
So, pack your smiles, props, and a sense of adventure—your Ocean City, NJ family photo shoot awaits!
Happy shooting, my friends! Let’s make that magic together, what what!
Dee Giumetti
New Jersey Beach Sessions
Capture stunning family beach portraits along New Jersey's scenic coastline, from Cape May to Seaside Heights. Perfect for timeless, picturesque memories.
Magical New Jersey Beach Sessions
I truly love the beach and one of my favorite sessions to do. From June until September this year, that is basically all I did besides lavender sessions. The New Jersey shore was my home and I honestly don’t mind it one bit.We did sessions in LBI, Atlantic City, Ocean City, Sea Isle, Avalon, Stone Harbor, Wildwood and Cape May Beach sessions are our most coveted sessions and they tend to sell out quickly.My go to look is generally pastels. I love adding beautiful color to beach skies. So I usually ask clients to stay with a general color theme when they come into our sessions.
Twirling adds movement and fun to your Ocean City, New Jersey photo shoot!
I love baby blues, pinks, yellows and lilacs for the beach. Lavender is ultimately my favorite. I love how I can edit around this color and incorporate all the lovely beach tones. I even provide the wardrobe for this color scheme so as to make everything look perfect.For something dramatic, like maternity photographer, black can even be eye catching. However, wouldn’t suggest an entire family in black as would be too harsh for an entire family.This little lady killed her beach session this year. She’s wearing a cute little romper from tutu du monde and holding a lantern.These lanterns are a huge hit. I have a ton of them with different light combos.
Jersey Shore beach sessions offer a wide variety of fun backdrops for the whole family!
New Jersey family beach sessions can be gorgeous for several reasons:
Scenic Beaches: New Jersey boasts a stunning coastline with beautiful beaches. From the sandy shores of Cape May to the vibrant boardwalks of Seaside Heights, there are numerous picturesque locations for family beach sessions. The natural beauty of the coastline provides a visually appealing backdrop for photography.
Golden Hour Lighting: The lighting during the golden hour, which occurs around sunrise or sunset, is particularly flattering for photography. The soft, warm light creates a magical ambiance, casting a beautiful glow on the subjects and the surrounding beach scenery. This lighting enhances the overall aesthetics of the family beach sessions, resulting in stunning images.
Diverse Landscapes: New Jersey's beaches offer a diverse range of landscapes. From wide stretches of sand dunes to rocky cliffs, each beach has its unique features. This variety allows photographers to experiment with different compositions and capture a wide range of images, adding depth and interest to the family beach sessions.
Candid and Relaxed Atmosphere: The beach setting often evokes a sense of relaxation, making it easier for families to feel at ease during the photoshoot. When people are comfortable and relaxed, it translates into natural and candid moments. These genuine interactions and expressions create heartfelt and beautiful photographs that capture the essence of family bonds.
Playful Activities: Beaches provide a playful and interactive environment for families to engage in various activities. Building sandcastles, splashing in the waves, flying kites, or playing beach games can result in joyful and lively moments. These activities bring out the genuine happiness and connection between family members, making the images vibrant and full of life.
Seasonal Changes: New Jersey experiences distinct seasons, and each season offers a unique atmosphere for beach photography. Whether it's the colorful foliage of autumn, the blooming flowers of spring, or the sun-soaked days of summer, the changing seasons provide different moods and backdrops for capturing beautiful family beach sessions throughout the year.
Pastels are the best at the Jersey Shore for your beach session!
Overall, the combination of New Jersey's scenic beaches, beautiful lighting, diverse landscapes, relaxed atmosphere, playful activities, and seasonal variations contributes to the gorgeousness of family beach sessions in the state.If you are a photographer and working with little children, this can be a lifesaver. The kiddos get fascinated with them. It also adds some artistic pop to your images.Try them out in your next session! All you need is a lantern and battery powered lights and voila!
Happy Shooting, my friends!
Dee
