How to Be a Photographer in 2023

It is a strange time that we live in. Technology keeps getting better and better. We don’t need to process film anymore (often would take days or weeks) and images can be transferred over wifi within seconds. Artificial Intelligence or AI, will be changing the face of the game. We’ll start to see more and more of it.

With newer camera phones, better technology in cameras and more learning resources available… it is easy to be a photographer these days. Okay, I am kidding. That’s not true. It’s not.

Down on the farm with these three kiddos!

The photography field keeps scraping to the bottom of the barrel. Trends are the new norm. Actual REAL photography isn’t being taught “because it can be fixed in photoshop” but honestly, that’s not the way it should be or how it goes down. There’s your vision, there’s the camera and HOW you shoot something. Put these three in and you can get a number of variables. There are rules in photography and any great photographer can break them and then there is just plain out no… never do.

Mommy and Me. Always fun sessions to photograph!

There is one major thing as photographers, we all should get down and it is lighting. Weather working with natural lighting, studio lighting.. you need to learn these basics. It is a MUST and if anyone is coming into this game… if you can slay your light, you’ll go far in this field.

Now, we don’t always have the best of luck with working in the best lighting situations and at times, we have to work it. Whether it is a bad reception hall, or a harsh bright day… these are the challenges you may face in your career… and it is with only practice you will learn how to shoot in every condition possible. That’s when you’ve graduated to a “top dog” as I call it.

Peonies in South Jersey!

When a photographer garners the experience to work in ANY condition and kill… and it sounds easier than it is, but it isn’t.. then you will become a master at this game.

Unicorn Sessions in South Jersey,

Meanwhile, we’re the peons over here… “still learning.” If you stop learning as a photographer, that’s when you need to quit. You can always be creative and always learn something in this game. That’s what makes it fun and exciting. It’s what has kept most in business around.

There’s a lot to further discuss in this business and the plan is in doing so, as I continue on with the blogging this year. This is a tough business. Time to dust off those boots and let’s get to work.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee Giumetti

One Dress- Multiple Looks

I can't tell you how many times am asked if this dress (not this one in particular) can be used in this particular setting. The answer is YES. If you have the right photographer, they can help stylize each and every session to capture what you want to do!

Love this Anna Triant Dress and the brunette beauty truly shines. We took this at Weymouth Furnace in Atlantic County.

Fairy sessions in a local park.

Fairy Magical Sessions. I always love adding a little magic to our images.

Winter fairy. We actually created this "snow" effect in post to make it more magical.

Twirling on the streets of Philadelphia.

Same dress (which is made by Anna Triant) by the way. Different location in Philadelphia. It's also the same girl as above.

Twirling in a meadow in Sewell, NJ.

Taken in a local park in Sewell, New Jersey. Same dress as all other examples.

Having fun in the cornfields in Alloway, Salem County, NJ.

Photoshoot in Alloway, Salem County, New Jersey. From country gal to city girl.. styles can be versatile.

As you can see, just one dress, can be used in a variety of locations and situations. That's what we are here for and to create beautiful images for our customers.

If looking to book the most magical Philly photographer around, we are here for you!

Have a magical day, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Family Photographers in the Philadelphia Area and South Jersey

I met the beautiful “C” family when I first started this business.  I can’t tell you what it means to me, to see my families grow over the years. I’ve seen this little girl turn into a little woman. I’ve seen family members go off to college and unfortunately, members who have passed (but grateful that I was able to capture memories), onward to this little guys First Holy Communion. Boy, it’s been a ride. Two dogs later and two kids heading off to high school. It surely perks you up to see how much time has flown by and how important it is to capture these memories. 

What is special about booking a fall photo session in South Jersey? 

A fall photo session can be a unique and special experience for several reasons:

1. Beautiful Colors: Fall is known for its stunning and vibrant colors. The changing leaves create a warm and cozy atmosphere that can make for beautiful backdrops in photos.

2. Cooler Weather: Fall brings cooler temperatures, which can make for a more comfortable and enjoyable photo session. There's no need to worry about sweating or feeling uncomfortable in the heat, which can be a concern during summer sessions.

3. Wardrobe Options: Fall fashion is known for its cozy sweaters, scarves, and boots, which can make for stylish and fun wardrobe options for a photo session. These clothing items can add a pop of color and texture to photos, making them more interesting and visually appealing.

4. Mood and Atmosphere: The fall season has a unique mood and atmosphere that can make for a cozy and intimate photo session. The warm and cozy feeling of fall can create a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere, which can result in more natural and genuine photos.

5. Holiday Cards: Fall photo sessions are perfect for holiday cards and family portraits. Taking photos in the fall allows you to get ahead of the holiday rush and have plenty of time to select and send out your holiday cards.

Overall, a fall photo session can be a unique and special experience that captures the beauty and warmth of the season.

Family Sessions with the pups are always the best. Fall Session in South Jersey.

Siblings. I Love being able to watch these kiddos grow throughout the year.

Family is truly everything. It is not cliche. It is what gets me up every single morning.

It’s not about making memories, anyone can do that, but I just want to give every individual that comes my way, the best that I can offer. It’s a pride thing for me. It's my art that I love to share with the world. I CANNOT give my clients something mediocre as I know these will be keepsakes they may want to hang on their walls. It’s got to be art, it’s got to be what the client wants and envisions and I also want to be proud for anything that leaves my doors. 

Fall photo session with this handsome guy!!! Had to do the cool hand over hair move.

fall photo sessions. Love the falling leaves and colors.

I got to capture this absolutely stunning family in one of my favorite forest spots. I love the light any time of year and when it is fall, the colors just come alive (as you see here). I hope you enjoy! I look forward to creating something special for you and your family! 

Let us create some magic for you and your family.

Happy 2022!

Dee Giumetti

Shooting Star Photography

Exciting Upcoming Spring Unicorn Sessions – Book Now!

Capturing Childhood Magic with Unicorn Sessions in South Jersey

There’s something undeniably magical about unicorns. They’re symbols of childhood wonder, imagination, and pure joy. As a photographer, there’s nothing quite like witnessing that sparkle in a child’s eye when they meet their very own unicorn. It’s these precious moments that I get to capture, and honestly, I love every single second of it.

At Shooting Star Photography, we specialize in creating these enchanting unicorn experiences. It's not just a photo shoot—it’s a chance for your child to step into their very own fairy tale. From the moment they meet the unicorn, to the last click of the camera, the entire session is designed to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Little girl with her magical unicorn!

Why Unicorn Sessions?

Childhood is a magical time. It’s when kids believe in the impossible, where every day is a new adventure, and where dreams truly feel limitless. Unicorns represent that magic—those fleeting moments of innocence and wonder that make childhood so special. As a parent myself, I know how quickly those years pass by, and that's why I’m passionate about capturing these moments for you and your family.

Each unicorn session we offer is tailored to bring out the best in your little one’s imagination. It’s a chance for them to experience something truly magical—and for you to have photos that’ll make your heart swell for years to come.

What to Expect from Your Unicorn Session

When you book a unicorn session with us, you don’t have to worry about a thing. We take care of all the details. We provide the beautiful dresses, the headpieces, and, of course, the unicorn! All you have to do is bring your child with their biggest smile and excitement for the adventure ahead. I promise, it’s going to be a fun ride!

Every session is unique, but one thing remains the same: the joy. The moment the unicorn comes into view, it’s like the world stops for a second, and your child’s eyes light up with amazement. It’s a moment of pure, unfiltered happiness—and I get to be there to capture it.

A mini pony unicorn experience in Southern NJ. Girl posing with her pony.

A Day with the Unicorn

The unicorns we work with are as gentle as they are beautiful. Your child will get to spend quality time with the unicorn, interacting, bonding, and even petting them. It’s not just about posing for photos; it’s about creating memories. The magic of the session is in the moments we capture—the giggles, the wide smiles, and the carefree spirit of childhood.

Located in the stunning South Jersey countryside, we offer these sessions in some of the most picturesque settings. Whether it’s a peaceful forest backdrop or a sprawling field, these natural settings add to the enchantment and beauty of the shoot. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped right into a storybook!

Why These Sessions Matter

As a photographer, there’s nothing more rewarding than hearing families say how much they cherish their photos. Many of my clients have told me how much joy it brings them to display their child’s unicorn portraits at home. It’s a reminder of that fleeting time when their little one was full of wonder and magic, and those photos become a treasured part of their home.

But these sessions are more than just about beautiful pictures—they’re about creating an experience your child will remember for years. It’s a chance to celebrate their imagination and create something truly special for your family to hold on to.

Beautiful unicorn mini session portrait in Glassboro, NJ.

Booking Your Magical Unicorn Session

If you’re ready to create some unforgettable memories, booking your unicorn session is easy! Our next session is coming up in May, and we’d love to see you there. These sessions are a great way to celebrate a birthday, a special milestone, or just because your child deserves a bit of magic in their life.

You can book your session by visiting this link. The session takes place in Williamstown, New Jersey, which offers the perfect woodland backdrop for a unicorn adventure.

This is my daughter posing with Drifter her favorite unicorn.

Pricing and Details

The price for a magical unicorn experience is $300, and that includes everything you need for the session: the unicorn, the dresses, the headpieces, and the fun! We work hard to make sure the entire process is seamless so you can just focus on having a good time and creating memories with your child.

For more information, including exact session times and availability, be sure to check out the booking page.

Questions? We’re Here to Help!

Have any questions? Want more details about what to expect? Don’t hesitate to reach out! We want to make sure you’re completely comfortable and excited for your unicorn session, so if there’s anything you need, we’re just a message away.

Unicorn Sessions in the Philadelphia area!

Philadelphia Sessions in FULL SWING!!!

I LOVE this time of year. It's all about the twinkling lights and hustle and bustle of the city! The good ol' city of Philadelphia. I have made these a mainstay and staple in my business and my other photographers have tried to copy, but no one does it best! We know that weddings have been popular here, however, couture and family sessions were never a big thing... until we started doing them!

Why is Broad Street in Philly an awesome spot for photo shoots? 

Broad Street in Philadelphia is an awesome spot for photo shoots due to the following reasons:

1. Iconic Landmarks: Broad Street is one of Philadelphia's major thoroughfares, lined with numerous iconic landmarks and architectural gems. These landmarks, such as Philadelphia City Hall, the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, the Academy of Music, and the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, provide visually captivating backdrops for photography.

2. Cityscape and Skyline Views: Broad Street offers excellent views of the Philadelphia skyline, especially when photographed from strategic vantage points. The juxtaposition of the historic and modern buildings along the street creates an interesting visual contrast, resulting in stunning cityscape shots.

3. Vibrant Street Life: As a bustling street in the heart of Philadelphia, Broad Street is always filled with energy and activity. It serves as a hub for cultural events, parades, and gatherings, making it an ideal location for capturing candid moments, street photography, and showcasing the city's vibrant atmosphere.

4. Wide and Spacious Boulevard: Broad Street is known for its width and spaciousness, allowing for unique composition opportunities in photography. The broad expanse of the street enables photographers to experiment with different angles, perspectives, and depth of field, enhancing the visual impact of their shots.

5. Architectural Diversity: Along Broad Street, you'll find a diverse range of architectural styles, ranging from neoclassical and Beaux-Arts to modern designs. This architectural diversity presents a wealth of possibilities for capturing contrasting aesthetics and playing with different visual elements.

6. Accessibility and Convenience: Broad Street is easily accessible, with multiple transportation options available, including subway stations and bus routes. Its central location and proximity to other notable landmarks and neighborhoods in Philadelphia make it a convenient spot for photo shoots.

7. Historical Significance: Broad Street has a rich history and has played a significant role in the city's development. This historical context adds depth and meaning to the photographs, capturing the essence of Philadelphia's heritage.

Overall, the combination of iconic landmarks, cityscape views, vibrant street life, spacious boulevard, architectural diversity, accessibility, and historical significance make Broad Street an excellent location for capturing compelling and memorable photographs in Philadelphia.Now, is the time to book your fall family city photo session! WE have a huge huge month this upcoming November. With our move-in date of our studio in Maple Shade, New Jersey, effective November 1st and a ton of things going on in the heart of the busiest season we have ever had! We truly love our customers and EVERYTHING we put out on the table.

It's been a labor of love and a lot of blood, sweat and tears. At Shooting Star Photography, we hope to continue with the BEST service and high-quality images that you have expected and seen over the past five to six years.

One of my most favorite Philadelphia captures.. EVERRRR. It was FREEZING cold this day, but she was a trooper! Broad Street Philadelphia, family photographers in south jersey

One of my most favorite Philadelphia captures.. EVERRRR. It was FREEZING cold this day, but she was a trooper!

For these upcoming sessions on November 8th, we will be offering up styling. We can only do 4 spots, but we cannot wait to offer these to our clients this year! They are truly showstoppers for your annual Christmas Cards!

Father and daughter enjoying a moment on Broad Street in Philadelphia. Truly one of my favorite places to shoot in the city and in the South Jersey area.

Father and daughter enjoying a moment on Broad Street in Philadelphia. Truly one of my favorite places to shoot in the city and in the South Jersey area.

I'm always in love with father and daughter captures! They truly are the BEST!!!!!

Another beautiful family session taken in Philly! Love the way this family looks at each other! I cannot wait to open up my store in Maple Shade, NJ as Philadelphia will only be moments away!

Another beautiful family session taken in Philly! Love the way this family looks at each other! I cannot wait to open up my store in Maple Shade, NJ as Philadelphia will only be moments away!

One of my most FAVORITE CLIENTS. I see these guys a few times a year. LOVE THE WAY they are looking at one another! Another gorgeous Broad Street session in the books!

One of my most FAVORITE CLIENTS. I see these guys a few times a year. LOVE THE WAY they are looking at one another! Another gorgeous Broad Street session in the books!

If you would like to book one of these sessions, you may do so here! Hope to see you out for one of the best spots in Philadelphia! We LOVE YOU SOUTH JERSEY AND PHILLY!!!!

https://shootingstarphotographyllc.bigcartel.com/product/sunday-november-8th-the-best-twinkle-street-of-philadelphia

If you ever have any questions, feel free to reach out!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee Giumetti

Shooting Star Photography