A Guide to Mini Sessions | Medford NJ Portrait Photography

Capturing Spring's Magic

Spring, with its blooming flowers, warming temperatures, and renewed energy, is a photographer's dream. As the world awakens from its winter slumber, it's the perfect time to capture the beauty and vitality of the season. As a photographer, I've always been drawn to the magic of spring, and I'm thrilled to offer a variety of spring mini sessions this year. These sessions are designed to help families capture the fleeting moments of springtime joy without the stress of a full-length photo shoot. Join me as we explore the wonders of spring and learn how to make the most of these mini sessions.

Dogwoods are the first sign of spring in the Philadelphia region!

Understanding Spring Mini Sessions

Spring mini sessions are like a breath of fresh air in the world of photography. They offer a quick and convenient way for families to capture the magic of spring without committing to a lengthy photo shoot. Each session lasts around 15 minutes, making them perfect for families with young children or busy schedules. Despite their short duration, spring mini sessions are incredibly powerful, providing families with beautiful, professional photos that capture the essence of the season. From cherry blossoms to tulips to peonies, these sessions offer a glimpse into the beauty of spring that can be cherished for years to come.

Choosing the Right Location

Selecting the perfect location for spring mini sessions is essential to capturing the beauty of the season. I spend weeks scouting out the best spots, looking for places that are bursting with color and life. From parks to gardens to scenic overlooks, each location is chosen for its ability to showcase the beauty of spring in all its glory. Accessibility is also a key consideration, ensuring that families of all ages and abilities can easily access the location. By choosing the right location, we can create a stunning backdrop for your family photos that truly captures the magic of spring.

Preparing for Your Mini Session

Preparing for a spring mini session is like preparing for a day of adventure. It's essential to choose the right clothing and props to complement the season's vibrant colors and textures. Soft pastels, floral prints, and lightweight fabrics are perfect for springtime photo shoots, while props like blankets, flower crowns, and baskets of fresh flowers can add an extra touch of magic to your photos. It's also important to make sure everyone is well-rested and fed before the session to ensure that they're ready to smile and have fun. By taking the time to prepare, we can ensure that your spring mini session is a fun and memorable experience for the whole family.

Maximizing Your Session Time

With only 15 minutes to work with, it's essential to make the most of your spring mini session. Arriving on time is crucial, as it allows us to chat and get to know each other before the session begins. During the session, we'll move quickly from one location to the next, capturing a variety of shots in a short amount of time. I'll provide gentle guidance and direction to help you feel comfortable in front of the camera, but I'll also encourage you to relax and have fun. By keeping the energy high and the mood light, we can create beautiful, natural-looking photos that truly capture the essence of spring.

Understanding Lighting and Timing

Lighting plays a crucial role in photography, especially when it comes to capturing the beauty of spring. I prefer to schedule spring mini sessions during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and warm. This magical lighting enhances the natural beauty of the season, casting a soft glow over everything it touches. By scheduling our sessions during these optimal times, we can ensure that your photos have a warm, inviting feel that perfectly captures the magic of spring.

Encouraging Natural Interaction

First signs of spring are usually these yellow beauties! I cannot wait. Should be here soon!

One of the keys to capturing beautiful, natural-looking photos is to encourage natural interaction between family members. Instead of posing stiffly for the camera, I encourage families to interact with each other in a natural and spontaneous way. This might mean playing games, telling jokes, or simply enjoying each other's company. By encouraging natural interaction, we can capture genuine smiles, laughter, and expressions that truly reflect the unique personality of your family.

Capturing the Details

While it's essential to capture the big moments during a spring mini session, it's also important to pay attention to the little details that make spring so special. From the delicate petals of a flower to the sparkle of dew on the grass, these small details can add depth and texture to your photos, making them truly magical. I love to zoom in on these details, capturing the beauty of spring in all its glory. By paying attention to the details, we can create photos that are not only beautiful but also meaningful, capturing the essence of spring in all its glory.

Post-Session:

What to Expect After your spring mini session, the fun doesn't stop. I'll carefully edit each photo to ensure that it looks its best, enhancing colors, adjusting lighting, and removing any distractions. Within a few weeks, you'll receive a personalized gallery of your photos, where you can choose your favorites to print and share with family and friends. I'll be there to guide you through the selection process, offering my professional advice to help you choose the perfect photos to cherish for years to come.

Girl in a red dress among the yellow flowers. Love the ‘POP’ it gives!

Creating Lasting Memories

At the end of the day, spring mini sessions are about more than just taking photos. They're about creating lasting memories that you can cherish for years to come. Whether it's the laughter of your children, the beauty of the flowers, or the warmth of the sun on your face, these sessions capture the magic of spring in all its glory. As a photographer, it's my privilege to be able to capture these moments for you, freezing them in time so that you can revisit them whenever you like. These photos are more than just images; they're a testament to the beauty and joy of spring, and the love that binds your family together.

Booking Your Spring Mini Session

If you're ready to capture the magic of spring with your loved ones, now is the time to book your spring mini session. Slots fill up quickly, so don't wait! Reach out to me today to schedule your session and let's create some beautiful memories together. Whether it's the first blooms of cherry blossoms, the vibrant colors of tulips, or the softness of peonies, I'm here to capture it all. Let's make this spring one to remember, one photo at a time.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Our Spring mini sessions can be found here.

Family Photo Shoot in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia

Cherry Blossoms and Family Photo Shoot: A Magical (and Slightly Chaotic) Day in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia

As a New Jersey family photographer, I always tell my clients, "Get in front of the camera with your kids!" Sure, it’s easy to be the one behind the lens, but those moments with your children? They’re priceless—and probably messy, but hey, that's what makes them real! I've had the pleasure of photographing this lovely family multiple times, and every session is an adventure. This time, we decided to take the chaos to Fairmount Park in Philadelphia, where the cherry blossoms were in full bloom, and the love (and occasional tantrum) was in full force.

This heartwarming family portrait features a mother posing with her son and daughter in the stunning Fairmount Park, Philadelphia. The trio is surrounded by the park’s lush greenery and vibrant cherry blossoms, capturing a moment of love and connection. The children are dressed in soft, coordinated outfits while mom beams with joy. This family photo shoot perfectly highlights the warmth of a "mommy and me" session in one of Philadelphia’s most beautiful outdoor settings.

A Picture-Perfect Setting for a Family Photo Shoot

Fairmount Park is basically the fairy tale of Philadelphia parks. We’re talking cherry blossoms, fountains, and enough greenery to make you think you accidentally stumbled into a Pinterest board. Seriously, every corner of this park looks like it was designed by someone who watched too many romantic comedies. The sun filtered through the branches, and petals were floating like confetti, making it feel like the world’s best outdoor wedding—but with fewer vows and more running-around-in-circles moments. Definitely a magical vibe.

In this enchanting moment, a little boy and girl dance together in the soft, golden light beneath a canopy of blooming cherry blossoms in Philadelphia.

The Family: Cute, Chaos, and Candid Moments

Let me tell you about this family—they’re a dream. Mom was dressed in the most beautiful blush dress (we’re talking chic) and looked like she just walked off a magazine cover. Meanwhile, her daughter, in a pink dress matching the blossoms, was the embodiment of sweetness. Like a real-life fairy princess. And then there’s her son, looking all vintage and cool, like he stepped out of a ‘50s family movie—yet somehow, he was still trying to eat the petals off the ground. Oh, kids… They were all such troopers, though, and their genuine love for each other made it impossible for me to snap a bad photo (which is basically the dream as a photographer).

The golden sunlight gently filters through the blossoms, highlighting their joyful expressions and creating a perfect moment of connection. This portrait captures the essence of family togetherness and the beauty of spring in Philadelphia’s cherry blossom season.

The Magic of a Mommy and Me Session (Spoiler: Lots of Giggles)

Honestly, a mommy and me session is always a recipe for magic, with a side of chaos. There's something so heartwarming about watching a mom and her kids share giggles, secrets, and spontaneous bursts of running in circles under the blooming trees. I think at one point, they tried to have a "serious" photo, but the daughter thought it was time for a cartwheel contest, and the son decided to eat a petal. But that’s what makes these moments so wonderful: the chaos is the beauty. Every laugh and wild moment captured is a reflection of real, unscripted family love.

Creating Memories (and Probably Some Mess)

Now, let’s talk about what really makes a family session so special: it’s not about perfect poses—it’s about the messiness of life, and those little moments that make you laugh so hard you almost cry. Like when they tossed cherry blossoms in the air and somehow ended up with more in their hair than the ground. Or when Mom and Dad shared an embrace under the trees and the kids used the moment to stage a full-on wrestling match. These moments? So priceless. Not because they were posed, but because they were real, and that’s what makes them unforgettable.

Nature’s Backdrop: Less Fairy Tale, More Family Fun

Fairmount Park’s cherry blossoms played a starring role in our session, and yes, they looked magical. They were vibrant, they were pink, and they were seriously photogenic. But let’s be real: the real magic was watching the kids try to dodge petals while Mom was trying to look effortlessly glamorous. (Spoiler alert: it was adorable, but there was definitely some serious “don’t mess up my hair” energy.) The sun did its thing, casting a warm golden glow over the scene as we fought off a few distracting squirrel sightings, but nothing can steal the spotlight from a family in love.

A young girl gently holds the cherry blossoms, bathed in the soft, golden light of spring in Philadelphia. The delicate pink petals of the blossoms contrast beautifully against her joyful expression, creating a serene and enchanting moment.

An Unforgettable Experience (That Took at Least 2 Snacks to Finish)

At the end of the day, it’s not about how many perfect photos you get—it’s about the memories you create and the snacks you consumed to make it happen. This session was a reminder of why I love what I do: I’m not just capturing beautiful images; I’m capturing real life—complete with laughter, a little chaos, and moments that will be cherished forever. I got to witness this family’s connection, and it was honestly an honor to be the one to document it. Plus, they’re just so much fun to work with.

This charming portrait features a little boy smiling joyfully while dressed in a classic vintage outfit. His bright expression radiates warmth and innocence, with the timeless style of his clothing adding a nostalgic touch to the photo.

A Day to Remember (Even If the Kids Are Still Covered in Petals)

This session is why I do what I do. It wasn’t just about getting the perfect shot; it was about creating memories that this family will laugh about forever. And seriously, you just can’t beat a day in Fairmount Park surrounded by cherry blossoms, laughter, and a bit of wild energy from the kiddos. The combination of love, joy, and a little bit of nature-made mess will always be the highlight of my photography career.

Happy (and slightly messy) shooting, my friends!

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

Check Out More Photoshoots with Cherry Blossoms in South Jersey and Philadelphia Below!

NJ Tulip Photographer | Dalton Farms

Tulip Mini Sessions at Dalton Farms & Beyond – A Whimsical (and Slightly Hilarious) Spring Experience

As the winter snow melts and the first buds of spring begin to bloom, it’s time to emerge from hibernation, dust off those cute outfits, and frolic in a field of tulips like you’re starring in your own fairy tale. (Or at least like you’re trying to get the perfect Instagram shot.) Our exclusive tulip photography sessions offer a magical opportunity to capture the vibrant colors of spring in a breathtaking floral setting—without worrying about sneezing fits or stepping in mud.

A nice collage of our tulip work. We use a private tulip patch and Dalton Farms in South Jersey. Offering two option for our customers.

Gorgeous close-up and smile!

Award-Winning Tulip Photography in South Jersey

We are thrilled to offer fine art, whimsical-style tulip sessions throughout April at two breathtaking locations in South Jersey. We provide a curated collection of dresses to enhance the ethereal beauty of our shoots. (That’s right, we’ve got you covered—literally.) Our locations include:

Dancing around the tulip field at Dalton Farms. Located in Swedesboro, NJ.

• Dalton Farms in Swedesboro, NJ – A historic family-owned farm featuring stunning tulip fields, rustic barns, and a charming farmhouse backdrop. If you’ve ever dreamed of being in a Dutch painting without leaving New Jersey, this is your moment.

• A Private Tulip Patch in Swedesboro – An exclusive, serene setting reserved just for our clients. No photobombing strangers, no crowds—just you, the flowers, and maybe a bee or two that didn’t get the memo.

Beautiful light in our tulip patch. We have Mini Sessions available for this season!

Both locations are bursting with color, making them the perfect backdrop for your dream springtime session.

Why Choose a Tulip Mini Session?

New Jersey is called “The Garden State” for a reason! (And no, it’s not just because of our tomatoes.) The sweet scent of fresh blooms and the vibrant hues of tulips create a picture-perfect setting for capturing once-in-a-lifetime moments. Our tulip mini sessions highlight the pure joy and wonder of spring—because let’s be honest, after months of winter, we all need a little color in our lives.

Twirling around in the tulips. I love this place! Located near Swedesboro, NJ.

What to Expect from Your Session

Our tulip mini sessions are crafted to be a stress-free and enjoyable experience. (Translation: We won’t make you do awkward poses that feel like yoga.) Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with a stunning sea of tulips, providing an incredible canvas for your photos. We provide a selection of exquisite dresses to complement the natural surroundings, helping to create that fairy-tale atmosphere our clients love.

All fun and smiles! In the tulip patch!

Sessions last approximately 20-30 minutes, making them the perfect bite-sized photography experience. But don’t let the short timeframe fool you—during that time, we capture an impressive variety of stunning images. From candid giggles and twirling dresses to serene, romantic moments, our goal is to provide you with a gallery of breathtaking photos that you’ll cherish forever. (And yes, we’ll get that one shot where your toddler isn’t making a weird face.)

Close up in the tulip patch!

A Passion for Floral Photography

Flowers have always been a deep passion of mine. With a master gardener certificate earned in the early 2000s, I’ve spent years cultivating an appreciation for blooms and their fleeting beauty. Springtime in South Jersey brings an explosion of color, from crocuses and daffodils to the grand arrival of tulips!

Beautiful image of this little princess in the patch!

One of my favorite things about tulip photography is the way each session tells a different story. Whether it’s a mother and daughter twirling in a sea of flowers, a newly engaged couple stealing a romantic moment, or children laughing as they explore the colorful fields, every session is unique. The vibrant hues of tulips create an unparalleled backdrop, enhancing the whimsical, dream-like aesthetic that my photography is known for. (And if your kids decide to play hide-and-seek in the flowers, don’t worry—I’ve seen it all.)

Love the pairing of cool tones with the warm tones of the tulips!

Tips for a Successful Tulip Mini Session

To make the most of your tulip session, here are some helpful tips:

• Dress for the occasion – We provide dresses for our clients, but if you prefer to bring your own, opt for light, airy fabrics in pastel or earth tones to complement the tulip fields. (Sequins and superhero capes are totally welcome, though.)

• Time your session right – Morning and late afternoon provide the best natural light for capturing that golden glow. Plus, the earlier you come, the fewer people you have to dodge in the background.

• Keep it playful – Movement is key! Twirl, dance, laugh, and enjoy the moment to create beautiful, authentic photos. If your kid insists on pretending to be a tulip, we’ll roll with it.

• Trust the process – We specialize in creating artistic and timeless images, so relax and let us guide you through the session. No need to practice your “serious model face” in the mirror—natural smiles are always best!

Just a girl twirling in the beautiful patch at sunset.

Book Your Tulip Session Today!

Our tulip sessions book quickly because, sadly, tulips don’t last forever. (We’ve had words with Mother Nature, but she won’t budge.) Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of a tulip session at Dalton Farms or our private tulip patch! Secure your spot today by visiting our booking page: [Insert Booking Link Here]

Kids just being kids and having fun!

Spring only comes once a year, and with it, the fleeting beauty of tulips. Let us help you celebrate the season with stunning fine art portraits that will stand the test of time. (And if you want to run through the fields in slow motion like a rom-com heroine, we fully support that.)

Mom wanted to document their baby chickens as well. So here are some of those photos!

We’re gearing up for an great 2025 season! If you would like to book for this special session and we can even coordinate outfits for you! Get in contact with us today!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Tulip Mini Session Photographer | Dalton Farms NJ

Tiptoe Through the Tulips: Why You Need A Mini Session

Spring is in the air, and you know what that means—flowers, allergies, and the desperate urge to take cute photos before summer sweat season kicks in. If you’ve been dreaming of a magical, flower-filled photo shoot, now’s your chance! Our Tulip Mini Sessions in South Jersey are back, and they’re better than ever.

Imagine this: you, twirling through a field of vibrant tulips, the sun gently kissing your face, your kids actually smiling (for once), and not a single awkwardly posed family photo in sight. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, wake up and book your session before these tulips disappear faster than your motivation to hit the gym after New Year’s.

She’s exploring and having a fun time in the tulip patch!

Tulips: The Beyoncé of Spring Flowers

Let’s be honest—tulips are the divas of the flower world. They show up, steal the spotlight for a couple of weeks, then dramatically fade away like a one-hit wonder from the early 2000s. And that’s exactly why a tulip photo session is a must! You’ve got one fleeting chance to bask in their beauty before they ghost us until next year.

All smiles and fun among the colorful beauties. Love her vintage attire!

At Dalton Farms in Swedesboro, NJ, the fields are bursting with rows upon rows of these floral superstars, making it the ultimate backdrop for your spring portraits. If you want something more exclusive, we also offer sessions in a private tulip patch—no crowds, just pure floral magic (and fewer accidental photobombs from strangers).

Walking or tiptoeing in the tulips as they say… has her basket and picking some tulips!

What Makes Our Tulip Sessions Special?

1. Dresses Provided: We take the stress out of outfit planning by offering a collection of stunning, flowy dresses. Because nothing says "I have my life together" like effortlessly coordinating with a field of flowers.

2. Whimsical, Fine Art Style: Our photography is designed to make you look like you just stepped out of a storybook—without the need for a fairy godmother.

3. Perfect for Everyone: Whether you’re booking a family session, a dreamy couples shoot, or just want some magical solo portraits (because self-love, duh), our tulip sessions are for you.

4. Expert Posing & Natural Light: We know all the best angles and use that golden hour glow to ensure you look like an absolute vision.

I love my tulip location. Located in South Jersey!

How to Prepare for Your Tulip Session (Without Losing Your Sanity)

✔ Embrace the unpredictable weather – Spring in New Jersey is basically Mother Nature’s mood swing season. One day it’s 75 and sunny, the next day it’s snowing. Bring layers, and let’s hope for the best.

✔ Get your kids excited – Tell them we’re going on a magical adventure where they get to play in a sea of flowers! (Bribery with snacks also works wonders.)

✔ Wear comfortable shoes – Yes, stilettos look great, but unless you enjoy sinking into the dirt like a toddler in quicksand, we suggest comfy flats or cute boots.

✔ Bring the energy – Jump, twirl, laugh—this is your moment to shine! The best photos come from real, candid joy (and the occasional wind-blown hair flip).

Picking tulips for her mama! Love the bouquet of color she picked out.

Vintage photoshoot. All are playing their instruments. Kid with trumpet, girl with her flute-a-phone, girl playing piano and other girl playing with her small Spanish Guitar.

Book Your Tulip Mini Session Before They’re Gone!

Much like that last slice of pizza at a party, these sessions disappear fast. Tulip season is short, and once these blooms are gone, you’ll have to wait another whole year!

Love the vintage look and vibe for these sessions.

📅 Session Dates: April (Limited Availability)
📍 Locations: Dalton Farms, Swedesboro, NJ + Private Tulip Patch
🎟️ Booking: Click here to reserve your spot! [Insert Booking Link]

Don’t miss out on the chance to create stunning, award-worthy tulip portraits—and, let’s be honest, give yourself some fresh new content for Instagram. 😉

Book your NJ Mini Session today!!!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Your NJ Mini Session Photographer

P.S. Also, check out another tulip session we have done. Here’s that blog for a more couture look!

Photographers in South Jersey, Rejoice!

Hello, Spring! Let’s Make Some Magical Memories!

Alright, winter, it’s time to pack your frosty bags and head out! As the chill of winter bids us farewell and we get a glimpse of that glorious spring sunshine, it's time to celebrate the most magical season of them all! Spring is basically nature's way of hitting the reset button, and I'm here to help you capture all that fresh, blooming joy with your loved ones. Whether you're running through flowers like you're in a rom-com or enjoying a cozy afternoon picnic (with maybe a little dirt on your jeans), we’ve got your South Jersey photography needs covered. Let’s make those memories!

Spring photo sessions? Check. Family fun? Double check. Beautiful lighting? Triple check.

Welcome to the World of Spring Photography Magic!

Here at Shooting Star Photography, we’re all about making your experience from start to finish as fun as it is fabulous. As a local who’s wandered through more gardens and scenic spots than you can shake a camera at (thanks to my work with southjerseyexplorer.com), I know a thing or two about hidden gems in the area. From the lush landscapes of Burlington to the scenic beauty of Cape May, we've got the perfect spot for your spring photoshoot. Oh, and did I mention our outdoor studio is home to one of the top 10 most beautiful gardens in South Jersey? Yup, it’s true. We’ve got a stone-terraced garden leading to a peaceful stream where the only thing more beautiful than the scenery is you—no, seriously, you'll look amazing.

Brother and sister having fun for our shoot!

Did Someone Say “Private and Unique”?

While most photographers might be showing you the same old locations (been there, done that), we’re all about giving you something special and out of the ordinary. Want to shoot at a place no one else has? A little privacy with a lot of beauty? We’ve got your back. With a combination of gorgeous natural elements, stunning architecture, and lighting that makes you feel like you're the star of your own personal movie, every shoot with us is an experience you’ll never forget. We’re talking about a location so exclusive, it might as well come with a velvet rope.

Spring light can be beautiful light!

The "In-Home Studio"—or, Let’s Bring the Magic to You!

Can’t make it to our enchanting garden? No problem! Our in-home studio option (or the bring-the-studio-to-you option) gives you the freedom to keep things cozy and relaxed. Convenience is key, my friends, and we are all about making your life easier while still delivering those high-quality photos that’ll make you look like you just stepped off a magazine cover.

First Holy Communion Sessions are all about the spring! It’s time to book!

A Little Bit About Me... Your New Favorite Photographer

Now, I’m not just any photographer. I’ve got years of experience, thousands of dollars invested in top-notch education and gear (no cheap camera here, folks), and I’m always learning—because who wants to be stuck in the past, right? I’m not just clicking buttons; I’m constantly brushing up on my skills, attending classes, and testing out new techniques, all to make sure you get nothing less than the best.

Fun fact: Before I was snapping shots of gorgeous families and magical moments, I was working in the corporate world, rubbing elbows with CEOs and VPs at a Fortune 500 company. I promise you—no one knows how to handle business quite like this gal. Your session will be as fun as it is efficient because I’m all about blending that business sense with an energetic, relaxed vibe.

Let’s Make Some Magic Happen!

So, if you’re ready to make memories that’ll last a lifetime (and you’re not afraid to have a little fun while doing it), let’s chat! No hunting me down—communication is my middle name. Ok, maybe it’s not, but it might as well be. I value every client and am here to make sure you have the best photography experience possible.

Looking forward to making some photo magic with you soon. Until then, stay fabulous!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

– Dee
Shooting Star Photography

Serving Philadelphia, Mainline, Northern Delaware, and all of Southern New Jersey.