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 Sessions | South Jersey Portrait Photographer

Don't miss this unbeatable March portrait deal in South Jersey—luxury, convenience, and timeless memories at an incredible value. Magical Portraits. Book now!

As a South Jersey portrait photographer, I'm thrilled to announce an unbeatable deal for March that you won't want to miss. This month, I am offering a special March 2024 portrait session package designed exclusively for busy parents and individuals looking to capture those fleeting, precious moments. Understanding the challenges of coordinating schedules and the desire to preserve memories, I've crafted an offer that combines convenience, luxury, and affordability. Let's dive into the details of this exciting March deal and why it's the perfect opportunity for a portrait session.

A girl posing for portraits in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia, during cherry blossom season, wearing a Little Dreamers Tutus red dress, captured by a South Jersey-based photographer.

This Deal is for March Only.

An Offer You Can't Miss: $125 Weekday Evening Package

This March, I'm excited to present a unique opportunity that blends value, quality, and convenience into one irresistible package. For a limited time, I'm offering a special weekday evening package at the exclusive rate of $125. This isn't just any session—it encompasses the session fee and allows you to select 2 exquisite images of your choice, ensuring you receive personalized keepsakes that speak to your heart.

Girls smiling with a unicorn during an elegant portrait session, photographed by a South Jersey-based photographer. Perfect for children's portraits in New York, NYC, NJ, and Cherry Hill.

Girls posing for pretty portraits with a unicorn. Wearing Anna Triant Couture and Dollcake for this magical session.

Crafted with your busy schedule in mind, this package provides the perfect solution for those who find it challenging to fit a portrait session into their bustling lives. I understand how demanding life can be, especially for parents juggling multiple responsibilities. That's why I've chosen weekday evenings for these sessions, providing a convenient time for you to step away from the day's demands and enjoy a moment dedicated to capturing your family's essence.

A girl wearing a Dollcake dress posing for her unicorn portraits, captured by a South Jersey family photographer. Perfect for families in Cherry Hill, NJ.

I love how my clients come from New York to shoot with me!

The value of this package goes beyond the financial savings. It's about offering an accessible way for you to preserve memories without compromising on the quality of the experience or the final product. My goal is to make professional photography accessible to more families, enabling them to own beautiful portraits that will be treasured for years to come.

This special offer is designed to encourage you to seize the moment and invest in capturing the now—because these days, no matter how ordinary they may seem, are fleeting. By choosing to participate in this special March offer, you're not just booking a photography session; you're choosing to celebrate and document your family's story at a moment in time that will never come again.

A beautiful girl in an Anna Triant gown from New York State modeling for unicorn portraits, captured by a South Jersey photographer.

Anna Triant Couture is pure fire for dresses!

Not Just Photos, But Treasured Memories

Photographs are the time capsules of our existence, holding within them the laughter, tears, and love that define our lives. Through my lens, I aim to capture these fleeting moments, transforming them into everlasting memories for you and your loved ones. I take great pride in being able to freeze time, if just for a moment, allowing you to relive those precious memories years down the line. My photography is not merely about taking pictures; it's about narrating your unique story, encapsulating the essence of the connections that bind you together. During our sessions, I endeavor to create a warm and inviting atmosphere where your family can be themselves, free from the constraints of posed smiles or rigid postures.

Two sisters posing on a ladder for their couture portraits, captured by a South Jersey-based photographer, showcasing timeless elegance.

Beautiful lighting and portraits in the New Jersey forest.

This approach allows the natural dynamics of your relationships to emerge, capturing genuine expressions and unguarded moments that truly reflect the spirit of your family. Whether it's the tender gaze between siblings, the comforting embrace of a parent, or the shared laughter over an inside joke, these are the instances that you'll cherish forever. It's these snapshots of life, brimming with emotion and authenticity, that become your treasured memories. My goal is to provide you with a collection of images that not only portray the beauty of your family but also resonate with the love and joy that you share. In this way, each photograph becomes a cherished heirloom, a testament to the beautiful story that is uniquely yours.

A girl posing in a forest in a gorgeous pink Anna Triant Couture gown, captured by a South Jersey-based photographer, ideal for clients in New York and surrounding areas.

Love this little lady!

Convenience with Our Luxury Client Closet

To elevate your portrait session to the next level and ensure you and your family look your absolute best, we are thrilled to offer access to our luxury client closet. This exclusive feature is a testament to our commitment to not just meet, but exceed your expectations. Our client closet is stocked with an array of stylish, high-quality clothing options, meticulously selected to complement any family or individual session. We understand that preparing for a photo shoot can be daunting, especially when trying to coordinate outfits that look cohesive and photograph well.

A princess wearing a tiara and a pink ballgown in the forest of New Jersey, photographed by a South Jersey-based photographer, ideal for clients in New York.

Magical Children’s Photographer offering a client closet for your session!

That's where our luxury client closet comes into play. It's designed to alleviate the stress of outfit selection and shopping, providing you with a convenient solution that saves time and ensures everyone in your family feels comfortable and looks fantastic. Whether you're envisioning a classic, timeless look or something more contemporary and vibrant, our collection caters to a diverse range of styles, sizes, and preferences. This added value is part of our dedication to making your portrait experience as seamless and enjoyable as possible.

A gorgeous children's portrait in the forest of New Jersey, captured by a South Jersey-based photographer specializing in magical outdoor sessions

Twirling and basking in that beautiful light!

We invite you to explore these options prior to your session. It’s an opportunity for you to experiment with styles you may not typically choose or to simply enjoy the ease of arriving to your session knowing that everything has been taken care of. This is just one of the many ways we strive to provide a service that’s not only about capturing beautiful moments but also about creating an enjoyable and stress-free experience from start to finish.

A girl twirling in a forest in a beautiful Anna Triant gown, captured by a South Jersey-based photographer, ideal for New York clients seeking elegant portrait sessions.

The smile says it all. These kids talk about this experience… years down the road.


Making Time Stand Still in March

March holds a unique charm, a blend of seasons that provides a canvas unlike any other for portrait photography. In my years as a South Jersey portrait photographer, I've found that this month offers a distinct backdrop that beautifully frames the stories of the families I photograph. As we transition from the cool embrace of winter to the budding warmth of spring, the natural world around us offers a variety of stunning settings for your family's portraits. The soft, diffused light of March's cloudy days, the occasional burst of early spring blooms, and the lingering frost on the ground all contribute to creating compelling, dynamic images that are rich in texture and mood.

A girl wearing a purple Dollcake dress posing for a portrait in the forest of New Jersey, captured by a South Jersey-based photographer, ideal for New York clients seeking couture children's photography.

Girl in Dollcake gown. Oh so pretty!

In choosing to book your session in March, you're embracing the opportunity to capture your family against the backdrop of this unique seasonal shift. It's not just about the photographs themselves but the experience of coming together as a family, sharing moments of laughter and love amidst the fleeting beauty of March. This month provides a rare opportunity to create portraits that stand out, filled with depth and emotion, set against the natural wonders that this time of year brings.

As we venture out for your session, whether it's amidst the serene, still-bare trees or capturing the early signs of spring's arrival, each photograph we take together will be a testament to your family's bond and the beauty of the moment. March, with its unpredictable weather and emerging life, reflects the journey of life itself—ever-changing, vibrant, and beautifully unpredictable.

A girl in a beautiful Dollcake gown, captured in a sunlit forest for an enchanting portrait session by a South Jersey-based photographer, perfect for New York clients seeking magical children's photography.

Posing for portraits in the forest and looking up at the sunlight. Basking in the warmth.

Why Choose Us for Your March Portrait Session

Selecting a photographer for your family portraits is more than a transaction—it's inviting someone into your family's story, someone who can discern and immortalize the fleeting moments that you'll cherish forever. As a seasoned South Jersey portrait photographer, I bring a unique blend of expertise and heartfelt passion to every session. My experience enables me to see and capture the nuances of family interactions, those unspoken moments of love and laughter that often go unnoticed.

My approach is deeply personal. I strive to understand your family's essence, your individual personalities, and how you interact with one another. This understanding allows me to create not just photographs, but storied memories that reflect the true nature of your relationships. I am committed to crafting an experience that is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible, recognizing the value of your time and the importance of these moments in your life.

A twirling back shot of a girl in a magical gown in the forest, captured by a South Jersey-based photographer, ideal for New York clients seeking stunning children's portraits.

Love this twirling backshot in the NJ forest.

Choosing our studio for your March portrait session means you're not only getting a special deal but also a commitment to excellence. We pride ourselves on our ability to make every family feel at ease, to turn a photography session into a fun and memorable event. With access to our luxury client closet, we take the guesswork out of what to wear, ensuring that your family not only looks great but feels great too.

Every family has a story to tell, and my mission is to tell yours in the most beautiful, authentic way possible. Let's make this March not just another month, but a milestone in your family's journey, captured with care, professionalism, and a genuine love for what we do.

New logo for Shooting Star Photography, launching March 2024, featuring an exclusive mini session offering perfect for New York clients seeking elegant, timeless portraits in New Jersey.

Looking forward to a beautiful spring season!!!

Booking Your March 2024 Special Portrait Session Offering

Securing your spot for our exclusive March 2024 portrait session offering is a breeze. I've streamlined the process to ensure it's as convenient and user-friendly as possible, reflecting the hassle-free experience I aim to provide from start to finish. Through our website, you'll find a detailed calendar showcasing the available dates and times for these special sessions. This intuitive platform allows you to quickly view what slots best match your family's schedule and book directly online.

A girl dancing gracefully in a Dollcake dress in a magical forest, captured by a South Jersey-based photographer, perfect for New York clients looking for exquisite children's portraits.

More Dollcake Magic. Check out their gorgeous website!

I understand that every family is unique, with specific visions or questions that might arise when planning something as special as a portrait session. That's why I encourage you to get in touch with any inquiries or special requests you might have. Whether it's discussing the perfect outfits from our luxury client closet or any specific ideas you'd like to bring to life during your shoot, I'm here to make sure your session is tailored to you.

Keep in mind, the March 2024 special is a limited-time offering, and availability tends to fill up quickly. To ensure you don't miss out on this opportunity to create lasting memories with your loved ones, I recommend securing your booking as soon as possible. Let's embrace the beauty of March together, crafting timeless portraits that you'll look back on with joy and love. I can't wait to work with you and capture those irreplaceable moments that define the essence of your family's story.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

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Kids' Photoshoot: Tips from a South Jersey Photographer

Top South Jersey photographer Dee shares expert advice on planning a fun, stress-free session for your family at Ridley Creek State Park in Pennsylvania.

How to Plan an Effortless Session With Children

Let’s be real for a minute—getting your kids ready for a photo shoot can sometimes feel like you’re preparing for a major event. There’s the fight over clothes, the tantrums (sometimes), and of course, the last-minute snack requests. But don’t worry, fellow parents, I’ve got your back! As a South Jersey photographer who has spent years photographing families, I know how to make a photoshoot fun, stress-free, and memorable.

Dapper teen brother and sister smiling at each other in a joyful moment under the fall foliage at Ridley Creek State Park, captured in a natural, playful pose.

Another of the dapper brother and sister.

Take, for example, my recent photo session with a brother and sister at Ridley Creek State Park in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania. What could’ve been a typical chaotic kids’ session turned into an unforgettable experience full of laughter, beautiful memories, and stunning photos.

Teen brother and sister smiling for the camera under vibrant fall foliage at Ridley Creek State Park, captured by photographers in Pennsylvania, showcasing the beauty of a family photo shoot.

Brother and sister for the perfect wall art for mom!

1. The Location: Ridley Creek State Park – Kid’s Playground + Insta Wonderland

You’ve heard it before: location is key to a successful photoshoot. And let me tell you, Ridley Creek State Park is the Swiss Army knife of locations for a photoshoot—wooded areas, beautiful historic mansions, flowing creeks, and vibrant fall foliage that feels like you’re walking through a Pinterest board.

For this shoot, the kids ran wild through the park’s 2,600 acres (but don’t worry, they stayed within sight), while I captured some magical moments. The grand mansion’s stone steps became the perfect dance floor for an impromptu “dance party,” and the autumn leaves showered down like natural confetti every time they jumped into them.

Seriously, if you’re looking for a gorgeous location that offers more photo ops than your Pinterest mood board can handle, this is it.

Teen boy wearing a cap, looking dapper and enjoying the fountain at Ridley Creek State Park, captured by photographers in Pennsylvania. A stylish moment in the park!

Love this kid and the fountain at Ridley Creek Park!

2. The Mansion Grounds: A Kid's Playground That’s Fancy Enough to Look Like Royalty

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “A mansion? Really? My kid’s got dirt on their shirt and a snack in hand!” But here’s the truth: kids don’t care about fancy backdrops—you care. A photoshoot at Ridley Creek’s mansion grounds is like giving your kids a VIP tour of a castle. And trust me, the contrast between their joyful, messy selves and the mansion’s timeless beauty is magic in itself.

Picture the kids frolicking among stone arches and climbing trellises, acting like the stars of their own fairy tale. The elegance of the mansion enhances their charm—proving that kids, no matter how messy or goofy, will always make the photo that much better.

Teen girl wearing a custom-made butterfly gown, posing in the woods near the mansion at Ridley Creek State Park, captured by photographers in Pennsylvania. A magical start to the photo shoot!

We started off in the woods near the mansion in a custom made butterfly gown!

3. Fall Foliage & Ruins: More ‘Wild Explorers,’ Less ‘Perfect Poses’

Here’s the thing: perfection is overrated. So when we headed into the park’s beautiful fall foliage and ancient ruins, the kids were free to explore, climb, and play. And guess what? That’s where the magic happens.

No one had to worry about perfect hair or stiff poses. Instead, they were laughing while jumping into piles of leaves and discovering hidden treasures (like sticks). Those spontaneous, unplanned moments are the ones you’ll want to remember—not the perfectly posed smiles.

Teen boy posing in a vibrant garden at Ridley Creek State Park, smiling confidently for the camera, with colorful foliage and a peaceful atmosphere.

The grounds at the Ridley Mansion are awesome. Even if not doing a photo shoot, definitely a place to check out.

4. Tips for a Mostly Stress-Free Kids’ Photoshoot (Keyword: Mostly)

Alright, parents, here’s the good stuff—my tips for a photoshoot that’s as stress-free as possible.

  • Location is Everything: Make sure you choose a place where the kids can move around and explore. A small, cramped studio? Not ideal. Ridley Creek’s wide open spaces were perfect for giving the kids room to roam.

  • Snacks Are Your Secret Weapon: I'm not talking a full-blown picnic, but a quick snack break (granola bars, crackers, etc.) can help avoid meltdowns.

  • Outfits, But Make It Comfortable: The last thing you want is an uncomfortable kid who now refuses to smile. Choose clothing that’s cute and practical.

  • The Golden Hour (Not the Golden Rule): Kids are at their most energetic in the morning or late afternoon, so aim for those times to get the best natural light and the most vibrant shots.

  • Let Them Be Kids: Stop trying to micromanage their every move. Let them jump, twirl, and explore. You’ll get real smiles, real laughs, and the moments you’ll cherish forever.

Teen girl in a red dress and red floral crown standing beneath stunning red foliage at Ridley Creek State Park, showcasing vibrant autumn colors in a dreamy setting.

Now onto couture. This is one of my favorite dresses!

Teen girl in a custom butterfly dress and her brother smiling together in the fall woods at Ridley Creek State Park, captured by a Pennsylvania photographer.

Brother and sister looking dapper!

A joyful moment! Teen girl smiling while sitting in colorful fall leaves at Ridley Creek State Park, wearing a custom butterfly dress and crown, photographed by a Pennsylvania photographer.

This little cutie sitting among the leaves!

Teen girl twirling gracefully in a stunning red dress at Ridley Creek State Park mansion, capturing the elegance of the moment by a Pennsylvania photographer

Keep twirling lady!

5. Leave It to the Pros (Yes, I’m Talking About Me)

I get it—planning the perfect photoshoot and keeping kids happy feels like a never-ending job. But that’s why you hire a professional! A photographer like me knows how to make the session feel more like an adventure than a chore. Plus, I’m a pro at getting your kids to feel comfortable and have fun.

Teen girl twirling in a red dress among vibrant fall colors at Ridley Creek State Park, showcasing the beauty of the season by a Philadelphia photographer.

Twirling among the fall colors. I love this shot!

As a seasoned Pennsylvania photographer working with families across the Philadelphia area, South Jersey, and beyond, I’m here to make sure your family’s photoshoot is an experience, not a stressful task.

All smiles! Teen girl in a red dress with a natural, beautiful smile, captured in the stunning fall landscape at Ridley Creek State Park by a Philadelphia photographer.

All smiles here! Natural.. beautiful smiles.

So, what are you waiting for?

Forget the perfect Pinterest board and let’s focus on making beautiful memories. Trust me, your kids won’t stay little forever, and these are the moments you’ll want to remember.

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

Check Out Our Portfolio For More Awesome Work!

Here are some more Ridley Creek Park Sessions in Delaware County!

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A Vintage Family Tulip Session in South Jersey

Capture timeless portraits in a vibrant tulip patch with a New Jersey photographer. Perfect for family, kids, and vintage-inspired sessions in South Jersey.

Where Memories and Flowers Bloom

Embarking on a family photo shoot is kind of like biting into a perfect piece of bacon—crispy, satisfying, and utterly unforgettable. Recently, I had the chance to capture a truly special session set in a beautiful, vintage-style tulip patch here in South Jersey. It’s springtime, folks, and what better way to celebrate the season in the Garden State than by photographing a lively family in one of our many stunning outdoor locations?

This family holds a special place in my heart. I’ve been photographing these kiddos since they were little, and now it was time to capture their preteen and teen years for their parents. It’s always amazing to see how families grow, evolve, and change—like discovering that the little ones are now into sports, have new dreams, and are becoming more independent (and honestly, how their parents still look the same as they did years ago—seriously, what’s the secret?!).

Siblings looking at each other in a vibrant tulip patch, dressed in vintage attire, capturing a moment of family connection.

Setting the Scene: A Field of Tulips and Childhood Magic

Picture this: A classic tulip patch, tucked away in the heart of South Jersey, where the grass is lush and the flowers are exploding in all their colorful glory. This was the perfect backdrop for the family session of the year. As I clicked away, I could see the kids—three sisters and their charming little brother—twirling in their lace-trimmed dresses, looking like they stepped out of a vintage family album. Meanwhile, their brother rocked a tweed suit with all the charm of a young gentleman from a 1920s postcard.

The beauty of their vintage-inspired outfits, paired with the timeless backdrop of the tulip patch, was like stepping into a sepia-toned time machine. These photos didn’t just capture a moment—they created one. Every click of the shutter added a layer of nostalgia to the scene, making the whole experience feel like a delightful throwback to a simpler time.

Girl with a flower crown twirling in a white dress, smiling in the tulip field during her portrait session.

A Tapestry of Colors: When Tulips Meet Vintage Charm

As any South Jersey photographer will tell you, spring in the Garden State is nothing short of spectacular. The tulip fields are ablaze with color—reds, yellows, pinks, and purples that you just can’t get enough of. It was like stepping into a painter’s dream, and the family, dressed in their vintage best, were the perfect subjects for this colorful canvas.

The vibrant colors of the tulips added a rich layer of artistic beauty to each shot. No longer were we just taking family photos—we were creating works of art. Every photograph told a story, each one more vibrant than the last, thanks to the breathtaking backdrop and the family’s effortless energy.

Boy wearing suspenders, smiling at the camera in a vibrant tulip patch, captured by a New Jersey photographer.

The Magic of Family Bonding: Love, Laughter, and Tulips

At the heart of every family photo shoot is the magic of love and connection. And let me tell you, this family had it in spades. From the sisters giggling as they twirled around to the little brother showing off his best ‘gentleman’ moves, it was impossible not to feel the warmth of their bond. The parents, watching with pride, occasionally joined in for some playful moments, adding to the joy that filled the air.

The unposed, candid moments we captured were, without a doubt, my favorites. There’s just something about a family laughing, sharing secrets, and basking in each other’s company that’s even more beautiful than any perfectly staged shot. And in this case, the tulips were just the cherry on top of a perfect family story.

All the kids looking at the camera with a beautiful vintage look, surrounded by vibrant tulips, captured by a New Jersey photographer.
Girl in a salmon-colored vintage dress and floral crown, looking at the camera for a portrait in a vibrant tulip field, captured by a New Jersey photographer.

Through My Lens: Capturing More Than Just a Moment

As a fine art photographer, I have a passion for turning ordinary moments into extraordinary memories. This tulip session was no exception. Each shot was carefully composed to capture the light, colors, and emotions of the day. My love for soft pastels and natural light really shone through in these images, creating a serene yet striking aesthetic that was as timeless as the family I was photographing.

What’s even more special about this session is that it wasn’t just about finding the perfect lighting or composition (though that was certainly part of it). It was about the little moments—the quiet laughs, the shared glances, and the genuine love that radiated between each family member. As I looked through my lens, I didn’t just see a beautiful field of tulips and well-dressed kids; I saw the heart of a family.

Girl in a tulip patch, posing for a portrait while holding a tulip and smiling, captured by a New Jersey photographer.

A Memorable Day in a Field of Flowers

At the end of the day, this session wasn’t just about creating beautiful pictures—it was about telling a story. It’s about the moments in between the poses: the laughter, the little secrets, the way a family interacts in the comfort of their own love. These tulip photos will serve as a beautiful reminder of a day spent together in one of New Jersey’s most gorgeous settings—a memory frozen in time, thanks to the magic of photography.

So, if you’re looking to capture your own family’s story—whether it’s in a tulip field or another stunning South Jersey location—I’d be honored to help make it happen. After all, I specialize in creating not just photos, but beautiful memories.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

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

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The Perfect Family Photo Session in New Jersey

Looking for a family photographer in South Jersey to create timeless fine art portraits? Let me artistically capture your precious moments and watch your family grow!

Fine Art Portraits

South Jersey Family Photographer | Capturing Timeless Moments with Love

Searching for the Perfect Family Photographer in South Jersey?

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I love the play on colors with the yellows, navy, jeans for this classic family session in Williamstown.

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I always like to get a natural interaction. It’s more of seeing your kiddo’s profiles and to capture the love shared among the family.

NJ Fine Art Photographer capturing a beautiful family in the fall forest

All smiles and decked out in cozy sweaters!

Well, your search just got a whole lot easier! I can’t even believe how many years I've been lucky enough to work with families in South Jersey. I’ve seen babies grow into teens, and it’s been an incredible ride! For those who don't know me, I’m Dee, your friendly neighborhood family photographer. It’s not just about snapping a picture; it’s about creating art that will last through generations. Let’s dive into an enchanting family photoshoot I recently had the pleasure of capturing in Williamstown, New Jersey, where we blended the natural beauty of the forest with a timeless, high-end vibe.

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Classic shot of mom and her babies. I love this one and hope this one is proudly displayed on the wall!

The Family & the Setting: A Beautiful Bond

Meet the amazing family that I had the honor of working with. It’s not the first time I’ve had the pleasure of capturing their milestones — we’ve been at it for about 3-4 years now! This family of four consists of mom, dad, and their two beautiful daughters, and let me tell you, the love they share is truly infectious. From the get-go, they wanted something classic, elegant, and, of course, timeless — and guess what? We nailed it.

After a bit of location scouting, we settled on a forest setting for this session. Who doesn’t love a picturesque, natural backdrop for their family photos? As the family expressed their vision, we discussed outfit options that would enhance the beauty of the surroundings. Classic neutrals and natural looks were the way to go! We wanted them to look amazing now and 20 years from now (trust me, you don’t want those 90s neon colors in the mix).

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Dad and his two babies! Super sweet.

Creating a Timeless Family Look

When it comes to capturing a family portrait that stands the test of time, it’s all in the details. We focused on neutral tones and classic, flattering styles that would look great in any decade. Nothing too trendy — I want these images to be hanging on their walls, looking just as fabulous when their grandkids visit!

To keep it simple, we also went with natural-looking hair and makeup. You know the drill—let your natural beauty shine through, especially with a backdrop like the forest! It’s all about capturing the family’s true essence and their personalities. The golden autumn light in the forest played off the family’s wardrobe beautifully. And let's be honest — the girls looked like they were straight out of a fashion magazine.

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The warmth of the forest plays perfectly off the cooler tones of the girls.

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Little cutie in her denim jacket.

beautiful closeup of a little girl in denim for her portrait in NJ

Love this little cutie rocking the denim and knit dress.

The Magic of the Forest: A Natural Wonderland

I’ll be real with you, the forest setting was pure magic. The warmth of the woods, the colors starting to change as fall approached, and that soft, dreamy light made the session feel otherworldly. And did I mention the girls were thrilled to explore nature? We had twirls, laughter, and a lot of candid moments of pure joy, which is what I live for in a photoshoot.

The forest not only created the perfect backdrop for individual portraits but also set the tone for the entire session. It felt serene and peaceful, and that vibe radiated through the photos. The best part? The family felt so comfortable in the space, they started really being themselves.

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The sisters again.

A Family’s True Connection Captured

One of the main things I strive for in any session is authenticity. I love capturing the sweet, candid moments where the family is just being their goofy, wonderful selves. You know — the real moments of love and connection. No stiff, forced smiles here! It’s those little interactions that make the photos pop. The giggles, the hugs, and those quiet moments between siblings — that’s the magic.

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The girls are dressed in Little Dreamers Tutus design. I love her couture dresses!

Transforming into Fine Art: A Royal Touch

Alright, now let’s talk about the fine art portion of the shoot — because, of course, no shoot is complete without a little dose of fancy, right? After the forest fun, the girls got all dolled up in Little Dreamers Tutus dresses — and let me tell you, the transformation was jaw-dropping. The girls looked like princesses straight out of a fairytale.

At this point, I wasn’t just taking photos. I was creating art. The couture dresses, the soft lighting, the girls twirling — everything came together to create something truly unforgettable. These fine art portraits have that wow factor. You know the kind of image that belongs in a gallery? Yep, we created those.

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I love creating a magical feel to forest imagery.

Photography is an Art, and You’re the Muse

Photography isn’t just about pointing and shooting. It’s an art form, and I take that very seriously. Every image requires attention to detail, from the composition to the lighting to the way a subject holds a slight smile or glance. My goal is always to make you feel relaxed and at ease so that we can capture your true essence.

It’s not just about looking perfect — it’s about capturing your personality, your love, your story. And when you work with me, that’s what we create: not just pictures, but heirlooms that will be passed down for generations.

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Hugs and love in the forest of Williamstown.

The Unforgettable Experience: More Than Just a Photoshoot

This session wasn’t just another family photoshoot. It was an experience. From the forest exploration to the couture transformation, the family got to spend quality time together, making memories while I worked my magic behind the lens. They left the shoot feeling thrilled, and I left feeling honored to have been a part of their story.

a little girl wearing a blue little dreamers tutus dress in blue in the forest of NJ

As always, need to get a classic shot of our twirl! She nailed it by smiling at the camera!

Book Your Fine Art Family Session Today!

Ready to make your family portraits truly unforgettable? Whether you want something classic, fun, or a little bit of both, I’d love to work with you! Let’s chat about how we can make your family’s memories timeless.

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New Jersey 2024 Beach Mini Sessions

Capture timeless memories with a top family photographer at Jersey Shore, including Cape May, Avalon, Wildwood, Ocean City, and Atlantic City beach portraits.

Riding the Wave: 2024 Beach Sessions Unveiled – A Tradition of Sold-Out Success!

Are you ready to soak up the sun, laughter, and picture-perfect moments? We're thrilled to announce the launch of our highly anticipated 2024 mini beach sessions, hitting the shores this Black Friday weekend! 🏖️ Have a unique portrait experience in Ocean City, Atlantic City, Sea Isle, Cape May and many other beautiful beach towns?

Let’s create some pastel magic together. It’s time to rock and roll!

Maternity portrait session in Ocean City, NJ—couple enjoying the ocean waves, beautifully captured by a New Jersey photographer.

A couple having their maternity session in Ocean City, New Jersey. I love throwing my clients in the water to cool off and to have some fun after their beach session!

Family posing for portraits during a mini session on the beach in Sea Isle City, New Jersey, captured by a local NJ photographer.

Beautiful family capture taken in Sea Isle, New Jersey. Love the hugs and smiles!

Family portrait with Gillian's Pier in the background during a photoshoot in Ocean City, New Jersey.

Family capture with Gillian’s pier in the background.

Mom holding up her boy with dad at the Ferris wheel in Atlantic City, New Jersey, during a fun family portrait session.

This family did Steel Pier. Extra magical memories were made.

Jersey Shore Beach Photographer

Year after year, our New Jersey beach sessions have become the hottest ticket in town, selling out faster than sunscreen on a scorching summer day. I like the reference actually, but trying to be funny here. The secret? I am not just a photographer; I’m a “memory-maker”, capturing the essence of joy and love against the backdrop of some of the East Coast's most iconic beach destinations.

Photographer Serving Locations from Atlantic City to Cape May:

Our lens spans the entire Jersey Shore, from the glittering lights of Atlantic City to the Victorian charm of Cape May. Whether it's the vibrant energy of Ocean City, the serene beauty of Sea Isle, the quaint allure of Stone Harbor, or the classic nostalgia of Wildwood – we're there, ready to freeze those precious moments in time. It’s time to get out the beach gear soon as summer will arrive sooner than you expect!

Family portrait on the beach in Long Beach Island (LBI) with a boat prop, captured by a local New Jersey photographer.

This photo was taken on the beach in LBI. We actually have this boat available for props. These are so much fun!

Beautiful portrait of a girl holding a lantern in a turquoise dress in the water in Sea Isle City, New Jersey.

Beautiful capture in the water in Sea Isle City, New Jersey.

Magical portrait of a brother and sister holding hands in front of the iconic Ferris wheel, with a sense of fantasy and wonder at the fair.

The magical ferris wheel is always a delight for fantasy and magic… but it is the real deal!

Beautiful beach portrait of a girl looking out at the ocean during a mini session in Ocean City, New Jersey, capturing the essence of the Jersey Shore.

Beautiful beach capture in Ocean City, New Jersey. Just enjoying the waves and the water of the Jersey Shore.

Girl in a colorful rainbow dress twirling on the beach in Wildwood, NJ, for a magical and rare photo opportunity.

A magical Wildwood capture. We offer these only a handful of times per year.

Our Beach Sessions-More Than Just Sand and Sun:

What sets our beach sessions apart? It's not just about capturing your family against the backdrop of the waves (although we do that spectacularly!). It's about creating an experience. Picture Ferris wheel adventures, roller coaster fun, and the perfect blend of sea breeze and laughter. I've scouted the best spots, for the best light…. including our favorite hidden gem in Ocean City with a myriad of backgrounds that will make your photos truly unique.

Why Book Early (especially, those Wildwood Beach Portraits).

Given our track record of selling out every year, securing your spot early is not just a suggestion – it's a necessity. These beach sessions are like a limited edition, and once the slots are gone, they're gone. Don't miss your chance to turn ordinary moments into extraordinary memories.

Portrait of a girl on the Delaware Bay side at Cape May Villa Beach, capturing the serene beauty of the Jersey Shore.

Beautiful capture along the Delaware Bay.

Girl in a green dress posing by the magical Ferris wheel on the Jersey Shore, creating a fairytale-like portrait.

Magical ferris wheel photos always are the best and our favorite.

Girl in a bathing suit playing in the sand and building sandcastles, creating fun and memorable moments on the beach.

Playing in the sand, making memories and building sand castles.

Magical portrait of a girl in a purple dress spinning on the sand in Atlantic City, capturing a moment of childhood joy for mom.

Twirling in the sand and making memories for mom!

How to Reserve Your Spot:

Mark your calendars for Black Friday weekend, when we'll be unveiling the dates for our 2024 beach sessions. Set your alarms, gather the family, and be ready to snag your spot in the sand – because this is one wave you won't want to miss!

Join the New Jersey Beach Photographer Tradition:

Our New Jersey beach sessions have become more than just a photo shoot; they're a tradition of creating lasting memories that families cherish for a lifetime. So, gear up for another year of sun-soaked joy, laughter, and sold-out success. See you on the shorelines of 2024! 🌊📸 #BeachSessions2024 #CaptureTheWave

Which spot are you going to choose? Wildwood? Cape May, Ocean City?

We will be launching our 2024 dates starting on black Friday!

Happy Shooting, my friends,

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Your best beach photographer :)

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