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.

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Capturing A College Milestone- Photography Session at Salem County Sportsmen’s Club

Salem County Sportsmen's Club in New Jersey/College Graduation Photo Shoot Fun!

I don’t just capture girls in pretty dresses. We are more than that at Shooting Star Photography.

Salem County Sportsmen's Club Graduation Shoot

Recently, our team had the pleasure of capturing the celebratory moments of Danielle's college graduation at the beautiful Salem County Sportsmen's Club in New Jersey. The serene and picturesque surroundings provided the perfect backdrop for honoring this significant milestone in Danielle's life.


The expansive grounds of the Salem County Sportsmen's Club allowed us to craft a diverse array of stunning shots, incorporating the natural beauty of the landscape into the celebration. The rustic charm of the club's facilities added an authentic ambiance to the photographs, perfectly complementing the joy and pride of the occasion.


Against this charming backdrop, Danielle's radiant spirit and the palpable sense of achievement made for truly captivating photographs. Her family and friends joined in the celebration, their genuine happiness shining through in each and every shot.
We are thrilled to have been part of this special day and to have had the opportunity to preserve the memories of Danielle's college graduation in such a remarkable setting. Through our lenses, we were able to encapsulate the joy, pride, and jubilation that filled the air, creating a collection of photographs that will be cherished for years to come.


We extend our warmest congratulations to Danielle on her academic success and thank her for allowing us to capture these invaluable moments. It was a pleasure to witness and photograph such a significant and touching celebration at the Salem County Sportsmen's Club.

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What an honor it was to capture this milestone of College Graduation!

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I love the College Colors!

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It’s getting serious here.. kidding. She’s awesome!

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The end of the fall season at the Salem County Sportsmen’s Club.

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I love her shoes!

I’ve been in business a number of years and I think it is about time I show the scale of the work we do. I always say I need to get more of my work up and never have the time. Well, I am now making the time. 

I met this beautiful soul and she was wanting to capture this big milestone of graduating college. Such an accomplishment, right?

We had the photo session in November at the Salem County Sportsmen’s Club. She is an active young woman who likes to shoot guns, ski, skateboard and not only is active, and wholeheartedly super down to earth, but it is intelligent. 

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Now, time for some fun!!!

When you are smiling.. the whole world smiles back at you!

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Close up time! Isn’t she gorgeous?

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Bringing out the hobbies!

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Hanging out on the dock.

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Time for some skateboarding fun.

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All her toys and hobbies! Yes, she does them all!

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We took many more captures from the day and gave to her, but it was all about having a fun time and also staying warm!

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A kiss for mom at the end of the session… ALWAYS makes for a fun session.

I love when I am given the opportunity to shoot a milestone. It is such a meaningful gesture and always is an honor. 

I hope you enjoy some of these captures and she has a bright future ahead of her!


If you’d like to capture this special time.. I get it… College graduation is HUGE!


It is a significant milestone in one's life, and capturing this moment through photographs can help preserve and celebrate this accomplishment.

Here are a few reasons why capturing college graduation photos are important and I gathered up the most awesome list:

  1. Commemorate the achievement: Graduating from college is a significant achievement that requires dedication, hard work, and sacrifice. Having graduation photos serves as a tangible reminder of this accomplishment that can be treasured for years to come.

  2. Share with family and friends: Graduation photos are a great way to share the achievement with loved ones who couldn't attend the ceremony. They can also be shared on social media platforms to celebrate and share the achievement with a wider audience.

  3. Professional networking: For those entering the job market, graduation photos can be used for professional networking purposes, such as including them in a resume or LinkedIn profile.

  4. Memories for the future: Graduation photos provide a way to look back on this momentous occasion years later, bringing back fond memories and reminding us of our accomplishments.

Having a photo session also allows graduates to capture the moment in a professional and aesthetically pleasing manner. A professional photographer can help create high-quality images that capture the essence of the achievement and can be treasured for a lifetime. Plus, working with someone who is going to make you feel at home and laugh is always a genuine plus too!

Happy Shooting, My friends!

De Giumetti

Shooting Star Photography

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Shooting Star Photography- Loving every single minute!

Fall Sessions have arrived.... 2022!

Can you believe this year, is almost over?

My goal is to provide my clients with the greatest experience, for the greatest people in your life!

i understand how frustrating it is to wrangle up the family together, to get ready, to get your portraits done. the joys, anxiety and challenges of preparing for a shoot.  however, i also know how important these special moments are to you to capture and I do my upmost best to capture these memories for you. 

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Couples and engagement shoot! This was shot in downtown Mullica Hill.

At shooting star photography, located in southern new jersey,  we will take charge of the photo session.  we know what it takes, we want your photographs to be unique and your images to have a truly personal feel. 

This is why we continue to do what we do and sell out, year after year. 

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Maternity Capture in Williamstown, New Jersey!

Whether wanting a photo session in Philadelphia, Delaware, or the suburbs of Southern New Jersey, we have you covered on gorgeous and expansive locations to suit your needs.

We, not only want you to have gorgeous images, but we want to create everlasting memories. Providing you with the best service out there.

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Family beach session at the Jersey shore. Yes, the background is real. We add a little magic! We were the first to offer this session and I know teach it to photographers across the US.

After you submit your contact form, i will then call (or email) based on your preference, so we can discuss and plan out your own custom portrait experience. We will cover everything from location, dates, vision for the shoot, clothing etc. This might sound overwhelming but don't worry as i'll be here to guide you through the process. I got you!

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A magical kiss, with a magical unicorn!

Whether it be a family session, a children's session, maternity or engagement... 

Let us capture your joy! Let's make some art!

With love and happy shooting, my friends!

Dee Giumetti

Owner

Shooting Star Photography

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Family Sessions... ROCK

Family Sessions... ROCK

It is no surprise how much we love to photograph our families! Most of our sessions are family sessions. Shooting Star Photography has scouted locations all around South Jersey and beyond, for the most ultimate family session. Whether you are looking for a forest setting (shown here), a wildflower field, or at the Jersey Shore we will make sure we capture you in the best light imaginable.

It's all about capturing these times and making memories, right? That's all we want. We want you to be able to look back on these, years to come, see them on your walls and SMILE at the memories made.

It is no surprise how much we love to photograph our families! Most of our sessions are family sessions. Shooting Star Photography has scouted locations all around South Jersey and beyond, for the most ultimate family session. Whether you are looking for a forest setting (shown here), a wildflower field, or at the Jersey Shore we will make sure we capture you in the best light imaginable.

It's all about capturing these times and making memories, right? That's all we want. We want you to be able to look back on these, years to come, see them on your walls and SMILE at the memories made.

Whether your child went off to college, your child can walk or talk, or just entering high school, it is important to capture these times. They are fleeting. Time moves on, no matter how we wish to stop it.

This particular mama wanted to capture this time of her adolescent kiddos. Before they were going off to school. She also just had a milestone weight loss journey and wanted to capture this time of joy in her life.

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Family capture and killing it in red. With mom and her "babies."

As you can see, mom killed it with her kiddos. We got to capture some great smiles, had a lot of laughs and just had a great day!

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Smile kiddos! These are going up on the wall.

Mom wanted a magical forest feel and I think she got that here! We took the family to one of our favorite spots in Gloucester County. It doesn't matter what season of the year it is at this location. It is ALWAYS gorgeous! Even in the winter, we have done snow sessons!

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Mom and daughter.

Our year is almost filled up. We have no more availability until September. If you are looking for that magical family session, we are here to make it happen!

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Mom and her girls.

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I wanted to get one pretty amazing one of mom and just love it. Hey, got to show off that new figure, right? We love magical fall sessions!

We love what we do and we love creating magic. Contact us today and let the magic commence!

Have a magical day, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

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Country Roads Take Me Home- Living in Woodstown, NJ.

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This photo was published in an international magazine. It is called, “Inspire.” I love beautiful light!

A lot of people think that you need to have the most beautiful locations to have portraits done. Honestly, it is all about light. If you can find an area that has beautiful light, any location will work. Try it out yourself! 

Here are some examples of using “your backyard” and literally I used my backyard (when I lived in Salem County and now living in Camden Country) in most of these images. If it wasn’t in my backyard, it was down the street. The trick to getting good in photography, is using what you have and the resources around you. You’ll then be a master in no time. 

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My little girl playing “her little piano.” She actually learned a little on how to play with this thing!

Playing music and enjoying life in downtown Woodstown, South Jersey.

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Woodstown living and she was great for me this day. At this age, I usually got a crier.

My little girl on North Main Street in Woodstown, New Jersey.

In my yard, I get a lot of great afternoon light. My kids, when they were younger, well, I drove them nuts and wanted to photograph their cuteness all the time… but of course, that gets old and well, they start to rebel. So the bribes would commence. I’d ask them to just come out to the yard to take a few photos. 

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Vintage photoshoot in Woodstown.

My daughter and the neighborhood friends in the alley near our house in Woodstown.

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Alley fun! I have taken some of my most favorite portraits in this little alley in Woodstown!

The neighborhood gang!

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Backyard smooches with my little gal! Taken in my backyard in Woodstown.

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Love putting clients in vintage colors and beautiful light!

A fun movement capture of a little lady!

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A tree, great light and an adorable subject in the backyard of South Jersey. I miss country living a bit! Fun times and days!

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Snow capture and gorgeous winter light! In my backyard in Woodstown. I put one of my grandmother’s old fur capes on her! She’s too cute!

As you can see, we didn’t do too bad with what is around. We even gathered up some neighborhood kids and did a vintage shoot! 

I hope you enjoyed these images. I encourage you to go outside and make some magic! 

Have a magical day!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography 

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The Peony Blooms in South Jersey: A Fragrant and Beautiful Backdrop for Photography

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Picking the beautiful peonies in South Jersey. We love these sessions and the puffs of colors they provide.

The Enchanting Elegance of Peonies

Peonies, with their exquisite beauty and captivating fragrance, hold a special place in the hearts of photographers and flower enthusiasts alike. Known as the "King of Flowers," these blooms exude an enchanting elegance that is truly one-of-a-kind. Here's why a photo shoot with peonies is so special:

Timeless Beauty

Peonies epitomize timeless beauty with their lush and voluminous petals that unfurl in captivating layers. Their delicate hues vary from soft pastels to vibrant crimsons, offering a versatile range of colors to complement any setting or theme. Whether used as a standalone subject or incorporated into a larger floral arrangement, peonies exude an air of grace and sophistication that can elevate any photo shoot.

Symbolism and Meaning

Peonies are rich in symbolism and meaning, making them a meaningful choice for a photo shoot. These exquisite blooms are often associated with romance, compassion, prosperity, and honor. Consequently, a photo shoot featuring peonies can evoke emotions of love, grace, and appreciation – resonating with viewers on a deep and personal level.

Versatility in Styling

With their versatility in styling, peonies offer countless opportunities for creative expression. From whimsical and dreamy to bold and dramatic, these blooms adapt effortlessly to various themes and concepts. Whether used in bridal portraits, fashion editorials, or still-life compositions, peonies bring an unmatchable allure to the frame.

Ethereal Fragrance

What sets peonies apart from other flowers is their breathtaking fragrance – a sensory experience that transcends imagery. The intoxicating scent of peonies can transform a photo shoot into a multisensory journey, adding another layer of magic to the overall experience. As a photographer, capturing this ethereal essence can transport viewers to a world of fantasy and beauty with just a single glance at the photograph.

Short-lived Splendor

One of the unique aspects of peonies is their ephemeral nature. The blooming season of these beloved flowers is relatively short, typically lasting only a few weeks in late spring or early summer. By planning a photo shoot centered around peonies, you can capture the fleeting beauty and delicate nature of these blossoms, freezing their splendor in time. This speaks to the transient nature of life, reminding us to appreciate the beauty that surrounds us, even if it is temporary.
In conclusion, peonies hold a mesmerizing charm that makes them an ideal choice for a photo shoot. Their timeless beauty, symbolism, versatility, captivating fragrance, and ephemeral nature all contribute to making them an irresistible subject for any photographer seeking to create captivating and emotive imagery. So, embrace the allure of peonies and embark on a visual journey that encapsulates their enchanting elegance.

Spring has sprung, and with it comes the annual bloom of the peony flowers. If you've never experienced the intoxicating fragrance of peonies before, you're in for a treat! These large puffs of flowers resemble enormous roses, but their smell is so much better.

For myself, this is a spot I have been shooting at since the beginning, in 2015. My treasured friend has a backyard that is home to these beautiful peonies, and they typically have a BBQ here every year at the peak of bloom. It's the perfect opportunity to capture memories with loved ones amidst the stunning flowers.

The family who owns the property actually sells the flowers to markets and customers all over the country, making these blooms not just a beautiful sight, but also a valuable crop.

Peonies are not just popular for their beauty and fragrance, but also for their longevity. They are hardy plants that can last for over 100 years, making them a great addition to any garden. They are also a popular choice for weddings, with their vibrant colors and size adding a touch of elegance and romance to any ceremony.

For photographers like myself, the peony blooms provide a stunning backdrop for family portraits, maternity shoots, and even sessions with older teens. With so many options, the peony fields of South Jersey are truly a photographer's paradise.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a beautiful and fragrant location for your next photography session, the peony blooms are definitely worth considering. With their stunning beauty and longevity, they are not just a sight to behold but also a valuable addition to any garden. So, grab your family and I’ll grab my camera and let’s head out to the peony fields of South Jersey for a truly memorable experience!

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Some of our favorite peony sessions throughout the year. We love it here. This is why New Jersey is called the Garden State!

Hope you’ve enjoyed some of our award-winning captures over the years, in the peonies.

We welcome you to come out to these sessions, in May of this 2023 year. They are such a joy!

Have a magical day, my friends!

Dee Giumetti

Shooting Star Photography

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