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.

Magical Unicorn Family Portrait Photographer in Delaware

Experience a dreamy unicorn photo session in Delaware with Shooting Star Photography. Create magical 'mommy and me' memories in a fairytale setting!

Hi there, magical souls! I'm your whimsical guide and photographer in New Jersey, here to take you through an enchanting journey—a "mommy and me" styled unicorn photo session that will sprinkle your world with fairy dust! At Shooting Star Photography, we believe in capturing the precious moments you share with your little ones in the most dreamy way possible. So, saddle up on our unicorn, and let's gallop through the 20 steps to making your fairytale photo session come to life!

Mother and child with a unicorn in a magical Delaware photoshoot, capturing a whimsical family moment with a fairytale backdrop.

Dreaming Up Your Perfect Session

Alright, let's kick things off with a dash of imagination! Picture this: a world where soft pastels paint the sky, enchanting gardens sprawl at our feet, and a majestic unicorn awaits to join us. It's your turn to dream—what feelings do you want to capture in this magical realm? Is it the heartwarming bond, a spark of whimsy, or perhaps a touch of fantasy? Scribble down your dreams and share them with me. Together, we'll weave these dreams into the very fabric of your session, crafting an experience that's as magical as the tales we adore.

Choosing Your Magic Date

Once our fairy tale is envisioned, picking our magic date is next! I get it, life's busy—especially for you amazing parents juggling your wands and warrior shields daily. That's why we offer flexible scheduling to ensure our adventure doesn't add to the spell of chaos. Let's find a day where you can leave the hustle behind and step into a world of wonder with your little one, stress-free. Together, we'll make it a date that fits seamlessly into your epic saga.

Securing Your Spot with Shooting Star Photography

To ensure our magical journey together is officially on the books, reach out to us to secure your spot. A little bit of pixie dust (a simple booking deposit) guarantees that our unicorn is reserved just for you on your chosen day. We've made this process as effortless as possible because we believe nothing should stand in the way of your enchantment. So, let's lock in your date and start counting down to a day filled with laughter, love, and a touch of unicorn magic!

Planning Your Enchanted Outfits

Diving into your closet for our magical session is like opening a treasure chest—there are no wrong choices, only opportunities for enchantment! Imagine gowns that float like whispers on the wind and little crowns made of the finest forest finds. But remember, the real spell is comfort; we want you to dance with the unicorns, not wrestle with wardrobe mishaps. Let's pick outfits that let both of you shine in the ethereal light, embracing the whimsy and wonder of our journey together.

Little girl in a purple dress riding a unicorn in a magical Delaware photoshoot, capturing a fairytale moment with dreamy lighting and scenery.

Location, Location, Magical Location

As a seasoned photographer in New Jersey, I've uncovered the most spellbinding spots, perfect for our unicorn-themed adventures. Imagine whimsical forests, shimmering lakes, and fields aglow with the golden hour's touch—these are just a few canvases for our storybook session. Together, we'll select a locale that not only breathes life into our magical tale but is also a breeze for you to reach. This ensures our session is nothing short of enchanting, leaving the real world behind the moment you step into our carefully chosen fairytale setting.

Meeting Your Unicorn

Before the sparkle of our photo shoot begins, you and your little dreamer will have a special moment to meet our star unicorn. This magical encounter is designed to sprinkle a bit of comfort and excitement into your hearts, making sure those genuine, joy-filled smiles come effortlessly when the camera starts clicking. It's a whimsical introduction that sets the stage for a photo session filled with laughter, love, and, of course, a little unicorn magic.

Personalizing Your Experience

Your fairy tale session is as unique as your family's story. Whether it’s weaving in a treasured family heirloom or featuring a favorite fairy tale book, we're all ears! Tell us your whimsical wishes or cherished memories you'd love to capture. This personal touch transforms your photo shoot into a magical narrative that's exclusively yours. Let’s collaborate to ensure every sparkle and smile reflects the genuine, magical bond you share.

Capturing the Magic in Delaware

When our photo shoot day arrives, it's our time to let the magic unfold naturally. I'll be there to gently guide you into sweet moments and capture those spontaneous bursts of joy and love. Forget about striking the perfect pose; it's the heartfelt giggles, the soft cuddles, and the playful twirls that we're truly after. These genuine, unscripted interactions are where the real enchantment lies, ready to be immortalized through my lens.

Sneak Peeks and Fairy Dust

While you're eagerly waiting for the full magical reveal, we’ll send you fluttering into excitement with a few sneak peeks of our enchanting time together. Think of it as a little fairy dust sprinkled in your inbox to give you a glimpse of the magic we captured. It’s just a taste of the wonder that’s to come, keeping the anticipation high and your heart fluttering with joy until the grand unveiling.

The Grand Reveal

And now, the moment that twinkles brighter than a constellation—our grand reveal! Imagine stepping into a space filled with the magical moments we captured, each photo a doorway back to our enchanting adventure. Your heart might skip a beat as you lay eyes on these memories, now immortalized. It’s here, amidst the joy and giggles frozen in time, that you’ll truly grasp the magic we’ve woven together. Get ready to relive the wonder and whisk yourself back to a realm where unicorns roam freely.

Selecting Your Favorites

Diving into our treasure chest of captured moments together, it's time for the enchanting task of selecting your favorites. Picture us, side by side, flipping through the magic of your day, each photo sparking memories and joy. I'm here to guide you, to help you spot those genuine glimmers of love and laughter that make your heart sing. This step is all about choosing the snapshots that tug at your heartstrings, ensuring the essence of your magical journey is captured just as you remember it.

Little girl standing beside a unicorn in a magical Delaware portrait session, creating a whimsical and fairytale-inspired moment.

Custom Products and Keepsakes

After our adventure together, it's time to bring the magic of our unicorn world into your home with custom products and keepsakes. From the sparkle in your eye captured on canvas to the joy of your little one's laughter bound in an heirloom album, we curate these treasures with all the love and enchantment of our session. It's about keeping the magic alive, letting it fill your spaces and hearts every day. Let’s turn these moments into tangible memories that dance through your life.

Designing Your Album

As we sit down to design your album, it's like we're casting a spell together, mixing and matching images to perfectly tell the story of our enchanting day. Flipping through the proofs, we'll choose layouts that complement the whimsy and warmth of each moment captured. From the cover that beckons a peek inside, to the magical scenes that unfold page by page, our collaboration brings your fairy tale to life, ensuring every glance brings a smile and a sprinkle of that day's magic.

Finalizing Your Order

With our magical day immortalized, it's time to dot the i's and cross the t's on your order. We'll breeze through the details together, making sure your cherished keepsakes are just as you've dreamed. This step is the wand wave that sets everything in motion, ensuring that soon, the enchantment of our day together will fill your home and hearts.

The Anticipation Builds

As we craft your enchanting keepsakes, think of it like a potion brewing - each detail being perfected with care. The thrill of what's to come dances through the air, a prelude to the joy that will soon fill your home. With every update we send, imagine a sprinkle of fairy dust, heightening the excitement for the magical reveal. It's a delightful waiting game where dreams become tangible treasures, soon to be in your hands.

Close-up of a little girl with a unicorn in a magical Delaware photoshoot, capturing a dreamy and fairytale-inspired moment

Delivery Day

Oh, happy day! Your enchanting keepsakes have journeyed through the mystical lands and have finally arrived. Envision the excitement as you unwrap these treasures, each piece a portal back to our whimsical adventure. It's like the final chapter of our fairy tale unfolding right in your living room, ready to be cherished and relived. As you open the package, the magic of our day together bursts forth, ready to fill your home with joy and wonder.

Sharing the Magic

Now comes the enchanting moment of spreading the wonder far and wide. Imagine your home coming alive as you place each piece of our magical day on display, or the smiles that light up faces as you share our captured moments online. We're thrilled to see how you keep the magic alive in your world. Don't forget to tag us—your happiness in showcasing these memories is the spark that fuels our creative journey. Let the magic we created together inspire stories and dreams in every corner it touches.

Creating Lasting Memories

Each photograph we capture is a shimmering droplet of time, forever preserving the laughter, the hugs, and the magic shared between you and your little one. These aren't just pictures; they're your family's legacy, embossed with the joy and enchantment of your unique journey. As you flip through these images years from now, you'll be transported back, feeling every giggle and whisper of fairy dust as if no time has passed at all.

Mother and daughter in matching purple gowns sharing a heartfelt moment in a magical Delaware photoshoot.

Planning Your Next Adventure

Oh, the joy doesn't have to stop here! Picture this: as seasons change or new milestones arise, we're here, ready with our camera and a sprinkle of creativity to embark on your next magical chapter. Be it celebrating a birthday, welcoming a new family member, or just because—our doors are always open for your return. Think of us as your family's personal storytellers, eagerly awaiting to capture your evolving fairy tale.

Staying Connected with Shooting Star Photography

Don't be a stranger after our magical journey together! Dive into our social media galaxy and hit follow for a sprinkle of joy in your daily scroll. Sign up for our newsletter, where we share not just photography tips but also peeks into our latest enchanting adventures. By joining the Shooting Star Photography family, you're not just staying updated; you're keeping the magic alive and well in your heart and home. Let’s keep weaving wonderful stories together!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

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Dreamy Cherry Blossom Sisters Shoot in Philadelphia

Capturing the magical bond between siblings amidst cherry blossoms in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia. A dreamy, portrait session filled with love and laughter.

Behind The Lens: A Cherry Blossom Sisters Shoot in Philadelphia

As a photographer based outside of Philadelphia, I’ve had the pleasure of capturing all sorts of amazing moments around this beautiful city. But when I was approached to photograph a sisters' shoot surrounded by the blooming cherry blossoms at Fairmount Park, let’s just say I might have done a happy dance. (Don't judge me—it's a photographer thing.) This dreamy, pink-tinted shoot was everything I dreamed of and more, so I’m here to share a behind-the-scenes peek into the magic!

Girl holding cherry blossom in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia, during a dreamy sisters' photoshoot

A beautiful young girl holding a delicate cherry blossom in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia.

The Concept of the Sisters Shoot: Sibling Goals, Am I Right?

When the idea for this sisters' shoot came to me, I was so on board. There’s something special about capturing the bond between siblings, and I was excited to showcase each sister's unique personality in a dreamy, fine-art style session. With the cherry blossoms in full bloom, I knew the backdrop would be nothing short of breathtaking.

I wanted to make sure we caught both the candid moments of them interacting and the pure joy that comes from sibling love. Plus, I mean, who wouldn’t want their childhood memories immortalized next to these stunning pink blossoms? It’s like the definition of romantic spring goals.

We even styled the shoot with soft pink tones to match the pastel-hued cherry blossoms, ensuring everything was as dreamy as a fairytale. The lush green of Fairmount Park and those gorgeous pink trees made it feel like a scene straight out of a movie, minus the special effects. (Well, minus most of the special effects.)

Sisters smiling at each other in pink couture dresses during a cherry blossom photoshoot in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia.

Two sisters share a joyful moment, smiling at each other while wearing elegant pink couture dresses during their photoshoot in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia.

Scouting the Perfect Spot at Fairmount Park: Nature's Hidden Gems

Finding the perfect location for a shoot is crucial—especially when the subject is a pair of sisters and the setting is a giant park with an insane amount of options. After a little wandering (okay, maybe a lot of wandering), I found the spot where the cherry blossoms were in full, Instagram-worthy bloom. The soft pink flowers were just begging to be in a shoot, and the combination of these flowers and the sisters in pink dresses? Absolutely picture-perfect.

As we got ready to shoot, I adjusted the lighting, moved a few branches (we photographers never touch the flowers, I swear), and made sure the frame was as dreamy as the sisters’ bond. Because in photography, it's all about making magic happen—whether it's with light, flowers, or a killer pair of dresses.

Girl twirling in a pink dress surrounded by cherry blossoms and daffodils during a photoshoot in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia.

A young girl twirls gracefully in her pink dress, surrounded by blooming cherry blossoms and daffodils in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia. The vibrant spring flowers and soft pink hues create a whimsical and enchanting atmosphere during this dreamy photoshoot.

Capturing the Magic of Sibling Love: A Blossoming Bond

As the shoot progressed, I took full advantage of the gorgeous cherry blossoms and the playful chemistry between the sisters. Every smile, every little moment of them just being themselves made my job easier. Their pink dresses matched the surroundings way better than I had imagined. I was snapping shots left and right, making sure I captured everything from their giggles to the moments of sibling-seriousness (because, let’s be real, those happen, too).

Cherry blossoms gave us this magical atmosphere, and every picture radiated it. The sisters' personalities? They shone through in every frame—so much love and fun! Plus, golden hour was throwing in its two cents, casting this soft glow over the entire scene. It doesn’t get more photography-fairy-tale than that.

Close-up of a smiling girl bathed in soft golden light during a cherry blossom photoshoot in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia.

A close-up of a young girl with a radiant smile, surrounded by soft golden light during a cherry blossom photoshoot in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia. The warm glow enhances the enchanting and joyful atmosphere of the moment, capturing her beauty and the serenity of spring.

Golden Hour Magic: When the Light Turns Everything into Gold

If you don’t know what "golden hour" is, it’s the time just before sunset when the sun is casting the perfect soft, warm light over everything. It’s basically the photographer’s equivalent of winning the lottery. And lucky me—during the cherry blossom sisters shoot, golden hour was on my side. The sun made everything glow like it was dipped in honey (if that’s a thing), and I was able to play around with angles and shots to make sure we got that perfect shot.

Girl twirling in a pink couture dress surrounded by cherry blossoms and daffodils in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia.

A young girl joyfully twirling in a flowing pink couture dress amidst blooming cherry blossoms and daffodils in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia. The soft petals and vibrant flowers create a dreamy backdrop, highlighting her playful and carefree spirit during this magical photoshoot.

I experimented with lighting and composition (because that’s what cool photographers do), and the result was pure magic. From soft, romantic moments to the final frames as the light faded, it was the kind of shoot that made me look at the camera and think, "Did I just capture the best thing ever?"

The Challenge for Busy Parents: Trust Me, I Get It

I know how crazy life can be as a parent. Finding time for a photoshoot, scheduling, wardrobe coordination—it’s a lot. But capturing those memories? Totally worth it. So, I do everything I can to make the process smooth and stress-free. I work with parents to customize each session to meet their needs, ensuring it’s as simple as possible for everyone involved. And hey, I might even be able to throw in a few jokes to lighten the mood. (No guarantees, though.)

Sisters posing and smiling together in pink couture dresses amidst cherry blossoms in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia.

Two sisters sharing a joyful moment, posing and smiling in their elegant pink couture dresses surrounded by blooming cherry blossoms in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia. The soft pastel hues and natural beauty of the park create a timeless and heartwarming portrait of their bond.

The Rewarding Experience: A Magical Day with Magical People

Looking back, I can confidently say this cherry blossom sisters shoot was one for the books. Capturing the sibling bond in such a breathtaking setting made this shoot one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. From the glowing golden hour to the timeless cherry blossoms, it was a session that felt like an enchanted memory in the making.

Magical fine art portrait of a girl twirling in a pink dress amidst cherry blossoms in Philadelphia.

A magical fine art portrait of a young girl gracefully twirling in a pink dress, surrounded by blooming cherry blossoms in Philadelphia. The dreamy atmosphere captures the elegance and whimsy of the moment, showcasing the beauty of both the subject and the enchanting setting.

The final images are filled with laughter, love, and all the things that make siblings (and photography) so special. As a photographer, there’s nothing quite like giving families memories that they’ll treasure forever. And for me, that’s the real magic.

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

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Lovely Lavender Photography Series in New Jersey

Capture timeless family memories in New Jersey's lavender fields with Shooting Star Photography. Book your lavender session now!

a collage of photos of sessions at a lavender farm in NJ

One of the many lavender farms that we team up with year after year, to enjoy the lavender fields in New Jersey. They are so stunning and the aroma in the air is heavenly!

ovely Lavender Photography Series in New Jersey

Lavender fields in New Jersey? Oh, you bet! I’m lucky enough to team up with some of the most stunning lavender farms in South Jersey, where you can expect gorgeous blooms, heavenly scents, and some seriously good times.

Now, if you’re imagining fields of purple flowers with a peaceful soundtrack playing in the background, you’re not wrong. But let’s be honest, there’s probably a little chaos sprinkled in there too (because, let’s face it, we all know how family photos can go—someone’s usually falling into the bushes or running away with the lavender stems). But hey, that's what makes memories memorable, right?

Lavender is like nature’s way of saying, “I’ve got this.” It smells like a spa day, looks like a dream, and brings a calm, soothing energy to every photoshoot. Plus, it’s super photogenic—kinda like that friend who looks amazing in every picture.

What’s So Special About Lavender?

Well, lavender isn’t just pretty to look at (though that’s a huge perk). It’s been used for thousands of years for everything from treating insomnia to making your desserts taste a little fancier. Yes, it’s as versatile as your favorite yoga instructor—calming stress, anxiety, and even digestion issues (who knew?). Lavender can even be found in everything from essential oils to bath products. It’s basically nature’s Swiss army knife.

But let’s be honest, the real magic of lavender is how it makes you feel—like you’ve just been wrapped in a cozy blanket after a long day. And nothing says "relaxation" like walking through a field of flowers while I take some seriously beautiful photos of you and your family. (If you're lucky, I'll throw in some awkward family poses for good measure—because who doesn't love a good family photo fail to laugh at years later?)

a girl in a pink couture dress spinning her dress in the field at Hidden Valley Lavender Farm

Gosh, I love this image!!!

Top Lavender Farms in New Jersey for a Picture-Perfect Experience

Lavender and New Jersey? Yep, it’s a thing. And let me tell you, these lavender farms are the kind of place where magic happens—and maybe a little dirt on your shoes (and possibly your shirt, because kids).

Here are some of my favorite spots in New Jersey where you can book a lavender session with me (or just go to admire the purple goodness):

  • The Lavender Farm in Sergeantsville, NJ: This family-owned farm has over 20 varieties of lavender. You can wander the fields, buy lavender goodies, or pretend you’re in a movie montage (just don’t forget to smile like you’re in a shampoo commercial).

  • Hidden Spring Lavender Farm in Skillman, NJ: Lavender oils, soaps, lotions, and even a chance to pick your own lavender? Sign me up. And, yes, you can also take a relaxing stroll through the fields with a camera ready for some epic family shots.

  • Purple Haze Lavender Farm in Flemington, NJ: You guessed it—over 20 lavender varieties, plus events like the annual Lavender Festival. Yes, there’s a festival dedicated to lavender. It’s like a dream come true for flower lovers (and anyone who loves a good festival).

  • Peaceful Valley Lavender Farm in Cream Ridge, NJ: A place where lavender meets yoga. That’s right—lavender yoga and lavender meditation. Don’t worry, though, I’ll be snapping photos of your serene (or maybe not-so-serene) poses.

These farms aren't just pretty; they're filled with opportunities to create those "you had to be there" moments—whether you're picking lavender, shopping for lavender-themed products, or standing in a field while I make you look like a lavender goddess (or god).

Why Lavender Fields are the Perfect Photography Backdrop (and How You’ll Totally Rock It)

Lavender fields are basically the VIP section of family photography sessions. The vibrant purple flowers, the amazing light, and the heavenly smell—all of it creates the perfect setting for capturing some stunning family moments. If you’ve ever dreamed of looking like you stepped out of a fairytale, this is your chance.

Let’s not forget the sheer magic of lavender. It's the kind of place where kids will suddenly decide to “run wild” (don't worry, it makes for great photos), where parents may momentarily forget that they're standing in the middle of a field and just start laughing with their kids. It's all about embracing the moment, and lavender fields are the perfect place for that.

Ready to Book Your Lavender Session?

If you want to experience the magic of lavender fields—and let me help you create family memories that will really make you smile—then it’s time to book your lavender session. We’re talking gorgeous photos that are sure to make your walls look like Pinterest came to life.

Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, just want some fun family photos, or you’re looking for that one photo that will make your Instagram followers go, “I need that in my life,” a lavender session is the way to go.

Feel free to reach out to me with any questions, or just to tell me how excited you are about your lavender-filled photoshoot (I’m here for it). Can't wait to see you out there making memories and making me laugh along the way!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

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

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