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.

NJ Shore Spectacular Family Portrait Session

Capture family memories with a Jersey Shore portrait session. Stunning beach backdrops and fun-filled moments in Ocean City, NJ. Book your session today.

A Photographer’s Dream at the Jersey Shore.

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Playing in the sand at the New Jersey Shore. Loved this beach photography session!

The Jersey Shore is a popular vacation destination located along the coast of New Jersey. It offers miles of sandy beaches, a lively boardwalk, and a plethora of fun activities for the entire family. One of the best ways to capture your memories is through Jersey Shore beach portraits.

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Looking out at the Atlantic Ocean. Dolphins were dancing this night!

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Love this beautiful capture of both sisters!


Capturing the Joy of Three Playful Siblings

We had the privilege of capturing the heartwarming moments of three remarkable children. Meet these incredible kiddos who radiate joy and innocence, making for a truly memorable photoshoot.

under the boardwalk and Steel Pier in Atlantic City NJ

The kiddos enjoying their beach session and all smiles under Steel Pier in Atlantic City, NJ.

Double the Fun with the Twin Sisters


This dynamic duo shines brighter than the sun itself. These lovely twin sisters bring twice the joy, laughter, and fun to any adventure. Dressed in similar tutu du monde outfits that beautifully complement their blonde and brunette hair. Together, they exude a captivating energy that creates an effortless harmony in every frame.


The bond between these two sisters is undeniable; their smiles mirror one another, while their sparkling eyes are filled with pure mischief. You can almost hear their laughter echoing through the photographs as they splash in the crystal-clear water and build sandcastles with unwavering determination.

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Smiling away on the Jersey Shore Beach.

The Energetic, Adorable Brother


In the midst of these incredible twins stands their charming brother, an uncontainable burst of energy and curiosity. While he may be older, his youthful exuberance matches theirs perfectly. With his sandy blond hair glistening in the sunlight and an infectious smile that radiates joy, this little gentleman grabs your attention from the moment you lay eyes on him.
The brother's enthusiasm for life is contagious. Whether he's digging deep into the sand, playfully splashing in the water, or chasing seagulls along the shore, his spirit is never dampened. His love for his sisters is obvious, always making sure to include them in his escapades while sharing secret childhood jokes and grinning mischievously.

Girl in a tutu du monde dress laughing and playing in the waves in Atlantic City, NJ

We are all smiles for our magical beach portraits in NJ.

Atlantic City | An Unforgettable Adventure


Witnessing these three siblings together creates an atmosphere of magic and excitement. With sand between their toes and the soft sound of waves crashing against the shore, time seems to stand still as they create everlasting memories. Their laughter fills the air as they embrace every moment in their playful exploration, reminding us all to indulge our inner child.


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You got to have fun on the Atlantic City Boardwalk!

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The children enjoying the breeze at the Jersey Shore.

Our team at Shooting Star Photography LLC was honored to be part of this incredible day, capturing the magic of these three amazing kiddos. These photographs will forever serve as a testament to the precious bond shared by these siblings, an enduring reminder of the joy and love they radiate.


If you're looking for heartwarming moments frozen in time, contact us at Shooting Star Photography LLC. We exist to capture the beauty and treasured moments of life, just like we did for these wonderful children.

girl looking out at on the ocean in atlantic city new jersey for her beach portrait she is wearing tutu du monde which goes perfectly with the setting

Love tutu du monde for beach portraits and I love how she’s looking out at the ocean in Atlantic City, NJ.

Ocean City, NJ Portraits

It is such a fantastic place to start your Jersey Shore vacation.

Known as America's Greatest Family Resort, Ocean City boasts a wide range of activities and attractions, including a 2.5-mile-long boardwalk, amusement parks, water parks, mini-golf courses, and excellent restaurants. The town also has one of the cleanest and safest beaches on the East Coast, making it an ideal location for a family vacation.

capturing children in atlantic city new jersey for a magical portrait session

These kids… crack me up!

When it comes to Jersey Shore beach portraits, timing is everything. The best time to schedule your portrait session is during the golden hour, which is an hour before sunset when the sun casts a beautiful golden glow across the beach. The golden hour provides the perfect lighting for capturing stunning and memorable photos of your family.

There are several great beaches along the Jersey Shore that are perfect for beach portraits. Brigantine, Avalon, Ventnor, Margate, Longport, Sea Isle, Cape May, and Wildwood are just a few of the many options available. Each of these beaches has its own unique features and scenery, such as dunes, lighthouses, and jetties, providing the perfect backdrop for your photos.

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Can you believe this kid is now over 6 foot tall? he sky rocketed after this session!

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Need to twirl my sisters… Check.. Mom… you owe me!

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Under the pier and beautiful lighting.

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All smiles and a nice dip from a hot day with our beach photo shoot. We had soooo much fun!

In addition to beach portraits, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy along the Jersey Shore. Gillian's Wonderland Pier, Playland's Castaway Cove, and Morey's Piers are just a few of the amusement parks that offer a variety of rides and attractions for kids of all ages. The boardwalks are lined with shops, restaurants, and arcades, providing endless entertainment options for the whole family.

Overall, the Jersey Shore and Ocean City NJ offer an excellent vacation destination for families looking for a fun and memorable summer vacation. Be sure to book your beach portrait session during the golden hour to capture the perfect family photo and don't forget to explore all that the Jersey Shore has to offer!

Happy Shooting, My Friends!

Dee Giumetti

Shooting Star Photography

Check out our NJ Beach Portfolio
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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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New Jersey Beach Sessions

Capture stunning family beach portraits along New Jersey's scenic coastline, from Cape May to Seaside Heights. Perfect for timeless, picturesque memories.

Magical New Jersey Beach Sessions

I truly love the beach and one of my favorite sessions to do. From June until September this year, that is basically all I did besides lavender sessions. The New Jersey shore was my home and I honestly don’t mind it one bit.We did sessions in LBI, Atlantic City, Ocean City, Sea Isle, Avalon, Stone Harbor, Wildwood and Cape May Beach sessions are our most coveted sessions and they tend to sell out quickly.My go to look is generally pastels. I love adding beautiful color to beach skies. So I usually ask clients to stay with a general color theme when they come into our sessions.

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Twirling adds movement and fun to your Ocean City, New Jersey photo shoot!

I love baby blues, pinks, yellows and lilacs for the beach. Lavender is ultimately my favorite. I love how I can edit around this color and incorporate all the lovely beach tones. I even provide the wardrobe for this color scheme so as to make everything look perfect.For something dramatic, like maternity photographer, black can even be eye catching. However, wouldn’t suggest an entire family in black as would be too harsh for an entire family.This little lady killed her beach session this year. She’s wearing a cute little romper from tutu du monde and holding a lantern.These lanterns are a huge hit. I have a ton of them with different light combos.

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Jersey Shore beach sessions offer a wide variety of fun backdrops for the whole family!

New Jersey family beach sessions can be gorgeous for several reasons:

  1. Scenic Beaches: New Jersey boasts a stunning coastline with beautiful beaches. From the sandy shores of Cape May to the vibrant boardwalks of Seaside Heights, there are numerous picturesque locations for family beach sessions. The natural beauty of the coastline provides a visually appealing backdrop for photography.

  2. Golden Hour Lighting: The lighting during the golden hour, which occurs around sunrise or sunset, is particularly flattering for photography. The soft, warm light creates a magical ambiance, casting a beautiful glow on the subjects and the surrounding beach scenery. This lighting enhances the overall aesthetics of the family beach sessions, resulting in stunning images.

  3. Diverse Landscapes: New Jersey's beaches offer a diverse range of landscapes. From wide stretches of sand dunes to rocky cliffs, each beach has its unique features. This variety allows photographers to experiment with different compositions and capture a wide range of images, adding depth and interest to the family beach sessions.

  4. Candid and Relaxed Atmosphere: The beach setting often evokes a sense of relaxation, making it easier for families to feel at ease during the photoshoot. When people are comfortable and relaxed, it translates into natural and candid moments. These genuine interactions and expressions create heartfelt and beautiful photographs that capture the essence of family bonds.

  5. Playful Activities: Beaches provide a playful and interactive environment for families to engage in various activities. Building sandcastles, splashing in the waves, flying kites, or playing beach games can result in joyful and lively moments. These activities bring out the genuine happiness and connection between family members, making the images vibrant and full of life.

  6. Seasonal Changes: New Jersey experiences distinct seasons, and each season offers a unique atmosphere for beach photography. Whether it's the colorful foliage of autumn, the blooming flowers of spring, or the sun-soaked days of summer, the changing seasons provide different moods and backdrops for capturing beautiful family beach sessions throughout the year.

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Pastels are the best at the Jersey Shore for your beach session!

Check out some of our NJ Beach Portraits

Overall, the combination of New Jersey's scenic beaches, beautiful lighting, diverse landscapes, relaxed atmosphere, playful activities, and seasonal variations contributes to the gorgeousness of family beach sessions in the state.If you are a photographer and working with little children, this can be a lifesaver. The kiddos get fascinated with them. It also adds some artistic pop to your images.Try them out in your next session! All you need is a lantern and battery powered lights and voila!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography-Southern New Jersey, Philadelphia and Delaware photographer

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Ferris-Go-Wheel Dreaming

First off, my love is beach photography and city/urban shooting. All photographers have something they love to shoot and both these environments are my jam.I really just love capturing these environments. I find it easier to bring in the colors I want to showcase compositionally. I love pastels and I truly think this color scheme thrives in a beach or city environment.One thing about the city, is it offers a Mecca of great architecture and scenery. I love the hustle and bustle and no color casts on faces generally as buildings act as natural reflectors.Beach the same thing. I generally choose locations with soft even light as beach light can bounce off waves and the sand and most photographers can't do beach photography well. They most often struggle with overblown highlights. My goal is no hot spots on your face and to capture you in the most beautiful light :) I see it all the time... and it's my biggest pet peeve in this industry.So... if you want the BEST out of me...and to highlight yourself in the best light... do a beach or urban session! It makes your skin truly yummy and you really do shine!!I typically have my spots I love shooting at the Jersey Shore. One of them, is this spot below. I find it truly magical and I'm sure you do, too. I love the colors and the light:)Hope to see you next year for your beach session!Happy Shooting, my friends!Ocean city nj photographer, family photographer Avalon New Jersey, LBI photographer, photographer in cape May New Jersey, jersey shore photographers

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