When the kiddos want chicken nuggets, you give them nuggets... The Golden Nugget Tavern... that is!

There’s something about tradition, local watering holes and about a place that captures the local flavor of real people. I truly believe, The Golden Nugget Tavern captures this essence. You walk into this place and it is a friendly, no frills, down to earth atmosphere. You’ll see families, old, young, small kiddos, teens, blue collar, among white collar individuals. It is the true flavor of South Jersey. 

It’s not a cookie cutter boujee establishment. Unlike, a lot of new restaurants or even pubs and you see these new guys trying to keep up with the trends. Often times, these new restaurants are missing character or a comfort/familiarity/ambiance. Nope, this is a place that transports you back in time. 

Three kiddos having fun in the meadow in Winslow.

This place is right around the corner from the GOLDEN NUGGET. Get your family session and then head over to, "The Nugget" after!

From the old collectibles in the glass display cabinets, to the 2010 Kenny Chesney concert advertisement on the wall, down to the animals, most likely hunted from around South Jersey and proudly displayed around the bar. It’s an atmosphere that actually makes you feel at ease, there’s a true comfort and I truly feel it captures the feel of South Jersey. 

All smiles during her photo session!

Cutie smiles. Love my families!

Hugs with the family!

Absolutely beautiful location.

Not only do they have shuffleboard (and I haven’t seen sawdust shavings at an establishment in a long time) as most don’t keep up with maintenance usually. To the pool table, that was actively being played by a father and son (maybe 10 years old and beating his dad), it’s an establishment that you could get use to. 

Often times greeted by staff, as you enter, like it is Cheers. You sit down and immediately are handed a menu and asking for what you would like to drink. Anything on the menu, does not disappoint. In fact, their buffalo chicken salad is a star, as well as their Golden Nugget bites (need to get wet, with your choice of sauce). You will not leave this place hungry. Nor disappointed. 

Ring around the Rosie fun!

Ring around the rosie fun! This was the real sky that night. It was awesome!

You’ll most likely leave with happy faces, from you and your kids and full bellies, wanting to come back again and again. 

We haven’t tried the outdoor bar/dining area yet because it has been hot the few times we’ve gone this year. We prefer air conditioning in 90 plus degree weather. Hehe. However, the outdoor area looks very nice. As well as numerous and maintained horse shoe pits, all over the place and most have tournaments often. 

A fall photo session shoot! In South Jersey!

Forest fun!

This is an establishment that has been a part of the South Jersey landscape for decades. It’s not to be missed. It really should be on everyone’s bucket list to just try out once, if ever in the area. I think you’ll enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, lively patrons (I love hearing people laugh and just having a good time) we saw a lot of young and old families gathering while here, good food, cold drinks and great staff. If wanting to see what South Jersey is about, this is the place.

If ever wanting a great restaurant recommendation for after your fun shoot with us! We got you covered!

Have a magical day, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Still Opening My Studio- 2020 Strong!

God gave you all a gift. He put that inside you. He gave you the gift of giving your absolute best with the minimal effort. Have you ever looked around you and said... "How did I get her in this point in life?" And where you can look around and see the blessings given all around you. Yes, you may have worked your booty off... but some of these gifts just come naturally in life.

Some of these gifts may include:

:Making people feel good 

:Making people laugh

:Photography 

:Intelligence- Always learning. Always growing. 

:Writing

:Friendship 

:Sunday Dinners 

Make 2020 YOUR YEAR. Own it. Taken in Medford, New Jersey.

I believe the gift I was given was to make people smile. Make them laugh. I am a total comedian at heart. I love capturing moments behind the lens and love reveling in moments and being in the moment sans camera. It's just always how I have been.

Even in this uneasy, crazy time... I still find humor. It's dark as we don't know what the future holds, but I have hope.

As photographers, you need to find your passion and what drives you as the artist you are.

Even doing a YOU series. Like individual adult portraits telling people’s love story. Or capturing the joy of family life. Listen to your heart and let it drive you to great heights.

Philadelphia Family Sessions. These bring me great joy!

Remember.... in the midst of this Corona virus. The person you are today... isn’t going to be the person you are a year from now or 10 years from now. Radiate love in every area of your life. Even if its at home at the moment.

I still plan to open my studio and make 2020 THE KICK BUTT YEAR. I may have been delayed, but it won't stop me from pursing my dream. Maple Shade, New Jersey here I come. I can't wait to be a part of the community. I'm very excited for what the future brings!

The Magic of Childhood

The Magic of Childhood

I love talking about people’s childhoods. When it comes to photography a lot of my childhood, I like to bring forth and to create a story. In my eyes, my childhood was magical and I wish that today's kids could enjoy the same childhood. 

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Wildflowers and moon watching at a gorgeous photo session in Mullica Hill, New Jersey.

My kids are at the ages of 7 and 4. They are now starting to inquire and ask how my childhood was and the things I did. Almost everything I talk about, my kids say they wish they could do this stuff today.

In a way, I feel bad for my children. I feel they are missing out on a real childhood. Everything just seems so planned and no surprises. With my childhood, I’d come home from school, do my homework, then head on out until the lights came on.

There was no need for texts or phone calls. You’d pop into a friend’s house and say hey, Mrs. so and so... is Jenny home? Jenny would come to the door and you’dsay, “come on, let’s go ride our bikes.” The next thing you hear is Jenny saying, “bye” to her mom and her mom screaming back, “come back before dark!” And off we went!

It was a time before the internet. We’d ride our bikes, usually in a big group. Head up to the school. Maybe play some basketball, or suicide (it’s a game with a tennis ball). When those Street lights came on, it meant it was time to head home. Have dinner. Wash up. Go to bed.

Through all these activities, it was very rare to see any parents around...

Weekends, we’d go the the mall, movies, dances, sleepovers (a ton of them) or roller skating.

If winter, you’d find us at Flower’s Hill.

Love my little monkey!

Snow portraits are the best!

If it was summer, we’d explore the forest, make forts, go crick stomping, hit up every friend’s pool, play knock knock zoom zoom, jailbreak and flashlight tag.

Of course there was sports, but today things are very competitive. We joined mostly to be social and to be with our friends.

Our only rule..was to stay out of trouble and to be home when the lights came on.

It was frowned down upon to be home and play video games all day long. We were generally encouraged to explore and be kids. I know some parents use to go as far as locking their kids out of the house until it was nighttime when I was growing up!

In a way, I feel sorry for how things are these days. It’s all about play dates and parental supervision. Sleepovers are rare, unless the parents REALLY know each other. Popping in, or stopping by, without a text, or a call is frowned down upon and basic blasphemy to do to anyone.

In my day, if you traveled to an area and knew someone and DIDN’T try to stop by... you were considered rude. It was okay to just show up and knock... if they weren’t home, it showed effort on your part and was respected.

Kids are now left at home to their own devices. Whether it be reading, video games etc. they miss the exploring and natural curiosities of just growing up and learning things on their own. I feel these kids are missing out with bonding with friends and exploring their own environments.

Don’t get me wrong, kids still do things, but I think they lose the social connection and there’s a big disconnect. Some kids are struggling with anxiety and lacking how to be social.

We didn’t need Facebook or the internet because trust me, if you did something bad... word somehow got back to your parents and hell would be leashed.

I mean kid parties now.... Parents are required to stay there. In my day, drop off, have fun, get picked up... or walk home afterwards..and that was that.

What the heck happened? Now, if kids did this stuff these days, most likely cps would be knocking. This is the crazy past, but it is what it is.

I understand a lot of it is becausebad things happen to little kiddos and there are bad people in this world. However, statistically we’re much safer than we ever have been. Due to technology.

So I guess my question would be... what happened? And why the shift?

More kids are staying indoors more than ever and obesity is going through the roof because of it.

Do you think things could ever go back the way they were? Even on a small scale?Or are we just all doomed? 😂

Grandpa and me...

Every single session we do for our clients is truly unique. Not one photograph will look the same because we truly love making every single photograph a true keepsake and piece of art.It's honestly what we we trained to do in this business. As I reflect back on this 2018 year, I have to say it was the hardest year of my life. As I look back, I almost lost my mother, who is my assistant.. She was hospitalized for over a month. It was a nightmare during this time. We thought she may not make it and that she may no longer be with us. She's a huge asset to this photography business. She's the best assistant I could ever ask for and am grateful for everything she does. I am so elated she is still here with us and recovered fully. About 10 days after my mom came home, it was my husband's turn. He had flu-like symptoms and his condition got worse and worse. He was then hospitalized. The doctors were baffled as to what was happening. Every specialist they had on hand, he saw. His condition got worse and worse to the point where we almost lost him. He lost all bodily functioning, he lost his ability to walk. It was a very scary time. They put him on every antibiotic known to man. It was within two weeks, he started to finally show some life again and slowly got better. He was later transferred to an inpatient subacute rehabilitation center to learn how to walk all over again. It was later found out by infectious disease that what he caught, only effects about 2,000 patients a year with about a 60% mortality rate. He's lucky to be here. When I look back on the year, I see myself. I see how strong I was. As a wife, daughter, mother.. and I honestly don't know how I got through it all. I kept every single photography session that I had scheduled.  I did not cancel on anyone. In fact, the sessions were very therapeutic for me as I was going through this. It's true how art can soothe the soul. There were some delays on editing galleries, but very understandable in the situation and I did inform customers of the situation. Under normal circumstances, most folks would be able to take a leave of absence from their jobs. However, as a single business owner, I unfortunately was unable to do that. I just trucked through.  I realized how strong I really am and how I kept it together. I know most folks would crumble. I just feel fortunate to have both the folks I love dearly still here with me. In any event... as I look back and everything I went through. I realize how very important photographs are. I made a point to get myself photographed with my children this past fall.. as I didn't have any. I also made an appointment with a photographer I admire for 2019 and I plan to make an appointment with another one as well. It's very important. This is why I am sharing this... This is grandpa. He doesn't live in the US (hopefully, soon though) and I told my customer it was important to bring her father so that he could be in some images. This will be a keepsake for the family for years to come to remember. Our children get older every day and the folks that we love.. we continue to lose, year after year. Time does not stand still. This is why it's important to capture these moments. I truly hope this mama got this blown up and proudly displayed in the house. It's beautiful. Get those photographs folks. Capture these precious moments. One day you may not have your loved ones with you.. and all you have left are these. This is why I love what I do and why I got into photography in the first place. If you would like to book your family session, please reach out. We would love to customize something special for you!!! Happy Shooting, my friends!!!! Dee Shooting Star Photography

The most magical beach sessions in New Jersey!

Jersey Shore Beach Photographer

A portrait session at the Jersey Shore captures the unique blend of serene beauty and vibrant energy that defines this coastal region. As the sun dips low over the horizon, casting a golden hue across the sandy beaches, every moment becomes infused with a touch of magic. The sound of crashing waves provides a soothing backdrop, while the salty breeze carries with it a sense of freedom and adventure.

Against this picturesque backdrop, individuals and families come together to freeze time and create lasting memories. The photographer expertly frames each shot, preserving not just smiles and poses, but also the genuine emotions that emerge when loved ones gather in such a captivating setting.

The Jersey Shore's charm lies in its ability to evoke nostalgia for carefree days gone by, while simultaneously inspiring hope for tomorrow's possibilities. In this fleeting moment during the portrait session, all worries seem to melt away, leaving only the joy of being present amidst such natural beauty.

Whether it's a candid shot of children playing in the surf or a tender embrace between partners against a painted sky, each photograph tells a story of connection, love, and the enduring magic found at the Jersey Shore.

Magical beach moments in Sea Isle City, New Jersey.

Playing in the ocean at Ocean City, New Jersey.

Brother and sister moment in Wildwood, NJ.

At Townsend’s inlet in Sea Isle. Kids just playing in the sand.

Cape May bay side. Beautiful sunsets can be found here.

Sea Isle City, Wildwood, and Ocean City are all fantastic choices for family beach sessions. These beach towns offer a perfect combination of stunning natural beauty and a wide range of family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking to capture playful moments in the sand, stunning sunsets by the ocean, or simply create lasting memories with your loved ones, these destinations have it all.

Sea Isle City is known for its pristine white sandy beaches, rolling dunes, and beautiful ocean views. It provides the perfect backdrop for timeless family portraits. With its laid-back atmosphere and smaller crowds, Sea Isle City offers a peaceful and relaxed environment, allowing families to truly connect with each other. The picturesque bayfront area also provides an opportunity for unique and diverse photo opportunities.

Wildwood, on the other hand, is famous for its vibrant boardwalk and amusement parks. It's a hub of family-friendly activities, making it an ideal spot for capturing fun and dynamic moments. From riding the thrilling roller coasters to playing mini-golf or indulging in delicious treats at the various boardwalk eateries, Wildwood offers endless entertainment for all ages.

The colorful boardwalk lights and lively atmosphere add a touch of excitement and playfulness to any family beach session.

Ocean City, known as "America's Greatest Family Resort," lives up to its reputation with its inviting beaches and plethora of family-oriented attractions. Its well-maintained boardwalk is perfect for capturing candid shots of families strolling along, ice cream cones in hand. The expansive beaches also provide ample space for children to build sandcastles, fly kites, or play beach games, ensuring that the whole family can have fun while creating beautiful memories.

All three destinations offer a wide range of beachfront accommodation options, making it convenient and comfortable for families to enjoy their beach sessions. They also boast a variety of local shops and restaurants, allowing families to extend their beach sessions by exploring these charming coastal towns.

Whether you prefer a serene and intimate atmosphere, a lively and adventurous experience, or a combination of both, Sea Isle City, Wildwood, and Ocean City have something to offer every family. These locations are guaranteed to provide breathtaking backdrops for your family beach session, ensuring that you will have cherished photographs to treasure for a lifetime.

The Jersey shore can give many varieties of looks for any type of beach shoot.

 I LOVE the beach and would say this is the type of photography I thrive in. I believe my work stands out from the rest in regards to beach photography.  I have scoured beaches from Central Jersey down to the shores of Cape May.. to the Delaware Bay to offer my clients the BEST and most private beach locations in the industry and area. It's the work that I tend to get known for and win awards for. The pastel colors and skies... the light.. I am quite particular when it comes to my work and the lighting situations that I like to use for my clients. 

I am all about giving my best so that my customers have photographs that they will cherish for decades to come.  There's something quite special about beach photography. Maybe it's the wind.. the waves.. the calmness.. the light. Most folks, seem to be transformed and more relaxed for these types of sessions. Perhaps, it's the feet dipping into the soft Jersey sand. It's odd that we have different colored sand from beautiful white and soft.. to more tan or river mud in the area, depending on the ecology and area of New Jersey. 

I love coordinating colors that will just pop at the beach. I love color and you'll see this a lot in the work I provide. Most photographers, tend to blow out their highlights because they aren't too familiar with beach photography or their lighting. You'll see flash being used at midday. For me, that's unacceptable. I understand that flash is used to help balance out the harsh shadows from the sun of the beach and understand WHY sometimes it is used.

Maybe for certain nap times for the little ones and the reason why needs to be taken at this time... but for me lighting is important. I want soft beautiful light and there's a method to my madness. In regards to the locations I use and my lighting choices. If you would like to book your Southern Jersey beach session for 2018, I recommend so shortly! We only offer a limited amount of beach sessions per year and they are sold out every time!I would love to capture these beautiful moments for you!   

Happy Shooting, my friend!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography