Kids' Photoshoot: Tips from a South Jersey Photographer

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Brother and sister looking dapper!

This little cutie sitting among the leaves!

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.

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 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.

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

Ridley Creek State Park | Maternity, Family, and Kids Photography in Pennsylvania & New Jersey

A Picture-Perfect Family Session at Ridley Creek State Park

When it comes to family photo sessions, it’s safe to say we have a slight obsession. From the heart of Philadelphia to the peaceful towns of South Jersey and Delaware, we’ve got you covered for all your photography needs. Whether you’re looking for a sun-drenched forest or a windswept beach, we can create the kind of memories that you’ll want to hang on your walls for years.

And when we say "we’ve got you covered," we mean it—like, "My car is packed with all the dresses and accessories you could possibly need" kind of covered. But hey, I digress. Let’s talk about this family session at Ridley Creek State Park, which was nothing short of magical!

The Dreamy Red Tutu and a Fall Forest Backdrop

If you’re not familiar with Ridley Creek State Park, let me paint a picture for you: A gorgeous mansion with sprawling gardens, a serene pond, and a forest that lights up just right in the afternoon sun. Seriously, this place is a photographer’s dream. Add in a sweet family with a daughter in a show-stopping red Little Dreamers tutu gown, and you’ve got yourself a session for the books!

But, of course, no shoot is complete without a little bit of adventure, right? We showed up, ready to get started, and found ourselves competing with not one, not two, but three weddings happening on the same day. No big deal, right? Just a little extra challenge to make sure we’re not in anyone’s way while still getting those epic shots. The wedding crowds didn’t scare us off—nope, we were determined to bring the love to life, wedding chaos and all.

Location, Location, Location

You know what they say—location is everything. But when you’re working with a family as photogenic as this one, the location really needs to shine. Ridley Creek is the perfect spot for everything from formal portraits (hello, mansion gardens!) to relaxed, candid moments (the forest light is chef’s kiss). The rich colors of fall made this session extra special, and I’m pretty sure we made some magic happen with those golden-hour sunbeams.

Dressing the Part (or, How We Make You Feel Like Royalty)

Let’s talk wardrobe for a second. At Shooting Star Photography, we know that little ones love to feel like royalty, and I love helping them step into their best princess or prince moment. For this session, we had a stunning red tutu gown (of course), plus a bag full of dresses, boys’ outfits, and headpieces. Whether you're going for fairy-tale glamour or casual chic, we have something in our trusty car for every client.

Oh, and let’s not forget the “backstage” vibes—because, yes, I bring a changing tent with me! No one wants to change in public, so I make sure everyone is comfortable and ready to go without flashing the park-goers. We’ve got it all covered, from headpieces to privacy.

Family, Love, and the Shooting Star Photography Experience

One thing that never changes in every single session is the heart and soul we pour into it. Sure, we get gorgeous shots, but what we really love is showing the connection and love between families. That’s why we take the time to get to know you and understand what’s most important for your session. This family was all about celebrating their bond—and I think the photos speak for themselves.

Looking Ahead: 2025 Family Sessions

I’m beyond excited for what’s coming in 2025. With another sold-out season around the corner, I’m already booking up for those fall sessions—yes, the red tutu gown will be ready, so don’t wait too long! Let’s create something beautiful, memorable, and uniquely yours.

Until then, enjoy this peek into one of my favorite family sessions of all time. And as always, thank you for letting me be part of your family’s journey.

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