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.

Wildwood NJ Beach Photographer | Jersey Shore Memories

Create lasting family memories with a Wildwood couture beach photo shoot. Explore a magical day capturing timeless moments against Wildwood's sandy beaches.

When Wildwood's Beach Magic Meets a Little Redhead in Lavender – A Jersey Shore Family Photoshoot

Let’s face it—beach photo shoots can be a wild adventure, especially when you’re working with an energetic 8-year-old redhead who knows how to twirl, laugh, and turn a simple beach day into a magical photo op. As a South Jersey photographer, I’m lucky enough to live and work in a spot where stunning memories are made on Wildwood’s sandy shores.

Girl in lavender dress walking along the beach at the Jersey Shore.

A beautiful moment captured at the Jersey Shore as a young girl in a flowing lavender dress strolls along the beach, her silhouette glowing in the soft sunlight. The beach's serene beauty and the gentle waves add to the tranquil, magical vibe of this photo.

Red-headed girl twirling joyfully on the beach at the Jersey Shore.

A carefree red-haired girl twirls with joy on the sandy beach, her vibrant hair dancing in the breeze. The sun's golden rays highlight her playful spirit as the waves crash in the background, making this beach moment truly magical.

Recently, I had the joy of capturing a family portrait session on North Wildwood Beach, and, spoiler alert, it involved some serious cuteness. Imagine this: a little girl with fiery red hair in a whimsical lavender dress, dancing and twirling in front of the ocean breeze. Talk about making every moment memorable. But this wasn’t just about capturing a cute outfit—it was about capturing her. Her personality. Her joy. Her love for life (and the beach).

Girl in lavender dress with the Wildwood roller coaster in the background.

A charming moment captured in Wildwood, with a young girl in a lavender dress standing against the backdrop of the iconic roller coaster. Her joyful expression contrasts beautifully with the excitement of the amusement park, making for a fun and lively beach portrait.

Why North Wildwood is the Perfect Backdrop for Family Photos

Photographers are always hunting for beautiful backdrops, and North Wildwood is a goldmine. The beaches here are the epitome of serene beauty, with glowing sunsets and sandy stretches that make every family look like they're living in a postcard. For this shoot, we didn’t just want to snap a few nice photos—we aimed to create a laid-back, fun atmosphere where the family could relax and be themselves. And guess what? It worked. The magic in these photos came from the family's natural bond, their laughs, and the playful moments that unfolded as we strolled along the beach.

Girl twirling with a big smile and the Wildwood roller coaster in the background.

A joyful moment captured in Wildwood as a young girl twirls in her dress, smiling brightly. The iconic roller coaster adds a touch of excitement to the scene, perfectly blending the fun of the beach and amusement park atmosphere.

Lavender Dresses & Wind in the Hair – Meet Our Star of the Day

Now, let’s talk about that little redhead in her lavender dress. I’m still smiling just thinking about her. She was a ball of energy, and the contrast between her vibrant hair and the calm beach was nothing short of stunning. Her dress? Perfection. It swirled in the breeze and gave the photos that extra touch of whimsy. She wasn’t just a model for the day—she was the star. Each time she spun around, I snapped, and each moment felt like magic. It was like watching a fairy tale unfold on the beach, minus the pumpkins (but there were lanterns, and that’s close enough).

Redhead girl holding a lantern on the beach in a lavender dress.

A peaceful beach scene where a redhead girl in a lavender dress gently holds a lantern, the soft glow adding warmth to the cool tones of the ocean behind her. The serene atmosphere captures the magic of the moment.

How to Keep Kids Engaged for Natural Family Photos

As any photographer (especially those of us at the Jersey Shore) will tell you, kids aren’t exactly known for standing still and posing on command. But the trick is simple: let them be themselves. For this session, I let the little redhead lead the way. Twirl? Sure. Run in the sand? Absolutely. Every giggle, every moment of joy, was caught on camera, and the best part? It felt like we were just hanging out at the beach, not “posing.” No stiff smiles here—just pure, spontaneous fun.

Girl in a lavender dress with wind-swept hair by the ocean.

A moment of pure movement as the wind sweeps through the girl's lavender dress, creating a dynamic and graceful scene by the ocean. Her hair flows freely, embodying the natural beauty of the shore.

A Little Magic with Lanterns

Now, here’s my favorite pro tip for beach photo shoots: bring lanterns. Sure, they add a little whimsical charm, but they also give kids something to hold so they’re not standing awkwardly in front of the camera. Plus, they make for some pretty magical photos. Just imagine: a twirling redhead, a lantern in hand, the golden hour sun behind her. Cue dramatic music.

Girl playing on the beach in Wildwood, NJ, fully immersed in the moment.

A joyful moment of pure childhood bliss as the girl plays on the beach in Wildwood, NJ. She’s fully in the moment, embracing the freedom and fun of a perfect day by the ocean.

The Fun in the Challenges

If you’re a parent, you know that photo sessions with little ones can sometimes feel like herding cats. But in my experience, the best photos come when you just embrace the chaos. Sure, getting a little sand on your shoes and a few wet feet in the ocean might happen, but it’s all part of the fun. And let’s be honest, it adds authenticity. After all, family photos should reflect the real, messy, beautiful moments of life. That’s what makes them unforgettable. And that’s exactly what we got with this shoot.

Girl holding a lantern with the ocean in the background on the beach.

Under the twilight sky, a girl holds a lantern as the ocean gently laps at the shore behind her. The serene beauty of the beach and the soft glow of the lantern create a magical, peaceful atmosphere.

Post-Shoot Reflections: The Power of Family & Fun

After the shoot, as the sun dipped below the horizon and the last of the light turned the beach into a soft glow, I couldn’t help but feel grateful. I wasn’t just a photographer that day—I was a part of this family’s journey, creating memories that would be cherished forever. The laughter, the twirling, the candid moments… They’re all captured in these photos, forever etched in the sands of North Wildwood.

Girl in lavender dress standing in the water holding a lantern.

I told her to get in the water. She’s like YEEEES! They can be so much fun!

And I can’t help but feel that I’ve gained a new favorite beach memory—and a new redhead to remember for years to come. (Sorry, kiddo, you’re stuck in my memory bank!)

Close-up of a super cute little girl in Wildwood, NJ.

A close-up shot of an adorable little girl with a bright smile, captured in the heart of Wildwood, NJ. Her joyful expression radiates pure happiness as the fun-filled beach day unfolds around her.

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A stunning beach shot in Wildwood, NJ, capturing the peaceful serenity of the golden sands and sparkling ocean. The perfect backdrop for a fun-filled family day by the sea, where the waves gently meet the shore.

Final Thoughts: Why I Love Photographing Families on the Jersey Shore

At the end of the day, it’s not about the perfect pose—it’s about the real moments. And Wildwood? Wildwood is the perfect place to let those moments unfold. From the playful waves to the endless sand to the gorgeous sunsets, this beach provides the ideal stage for families to laugh, love, and be their true selves. And as a photographer, I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Girl flipping her hair and having fun on the beach in Wildwood, NJ.

A playful moment of a girl joyfully flipping her hair on the beach in Wildwood, NJ, as the sun shines down on her and the waves crash in the background. Capturing the carefree energy of summer by the sea.

Check out more magical Wildwood NJ Portraits

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

More Jersey Shore | Wildwood NJ Magic!

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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!

Check Out Our Portfolio For More Awesome Work!

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

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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.

Learn more and give us a holler!
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Family Portrait Session in Wildwood, NJ

Award-winning South Jersey Beach Photographer capturing cherished family memories in Wildwood, NJ. Book your beach family photos today!

Wildwood, NJ-Photographer

South Jersey Beach Photographer | Family Beach Photos

The summer season with Shooting Star Photography filled up faster than I ever expected. After years of unpredictability, it felt especially meaningful to return to full, joy-filled days photographing families along the South Jersey beaches. What started with cautious optimism quickly turned into a calendar packed with sessions, sunsets, and sandy toes — the kind of busy that reminds you exactly why you love what you do.For families seeking a dedicated family photography experience, check out my full Jersey Shore family photography page here!

Jersey Shore Family Photography
NJ family photographer photographing a girl running towards the rollercoaster at the dog beach in Wildwood NJ

Little girl in pink dress at the dog beach in Wildwood, NJ

A Summer to Remember with a South Jersey Beach Photographer

Ah, Wildwood. The sweet sound of the tram car, the smell of fresh pizza, and the magical moments on the beach. As a South Jersey family beach photographer, there's no better place to capture your summer memories than right here. In fact, if I could live on the Wildwood boardwalk, I totally would (minus the seagulls, of course).

kids in wildwood having a fun time

Sisters posing for their portraits in Wildwood. Super adorable. All sessions are styled!

Big shoutout to all the families who trusted me with their memories. From Long Beach Island to Cape May, it’s been a wild (and wonderfully chaotic) summer!

Fun on the Wildwood Beach and Boardwalk

Not just another beach day... it’s your family’s best beach day.

You know what makes Wildwood so perfect for family portraits? Everything. From the iconic Wildwood boardwalk with its neon lights to the stunning sunsets on the beach, there’s a backdrop for every moment. Last summer, I had the pleasure of photographing the Johnson family. After a quick pit stop for some Angelo’s pizza (because how could we not?), we spent the afternoon on Morey’s Pier, capturing their kids screaming with joy on the Ferris wheel.

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Dancing away in Wildwood, NJ.

Then, just as the sun was dipping below the horizon, we headed to the beach for a sunset session. If you haven’t seen the sky over Wildwood at sunset, you’re missing out on some next-level magic.

kicking up sand on the beach in Wildwood

Little one playing with sand in Wildwood.

From Sandcastles to Sunsets: The Wildwood Family Sessions You’ve Been Waiting For

Spoiler alert: your kids will love it. And you’ll love the photos.

I’m a bit of a Wildwood enthusiast, and I’ve had the privilege of photographing many families over the years. The Young family is a perfect example of how Wildwood’s beaches and dunes can transform into a family portrait wonderland. I captured one of the most stunning moments when their little dancer twirled along the shore as the sun set in the background—orange skies, glowing sand, and a scene straight out of a movie.

Portrait of a boy holding a lantern on the beach in Wildwood, NJ, during a sunset session.

Capturing the magic of childhood since 2015.

Magical Moments in Wildwood

If you're looking for the perfect family photo session, Wildwood is a place where magic happens. I love working with families who want to make their memories last forever, and what better way than with a family photo session at the Jersey Shore? Whether you want beach portraits with the ocean as your backdrop or more whimsical shots among the dune grasses, Wildwood has it all.

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A maternity photography session in Wildwood, NJ.

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A little girl in her mint dress dancing on the beach in Wildwood, NJ.

Why Wildwood is the Ultimate Family Beach Photo Destination

So, why Wildwood? Well, let’s just say it's the ultimate playground for family memories and photoshoots. The roller coasters, the beach, the boardwalk—Wildwood has it all! As a Jersey Shore family photographer, I know a thing or two about what makes a location magical for portraits. And Wildwood? It’s like the Disney World of the Jersey Shore, with a lot more sand and a lot less Mickey Mouse.

A collage of our Wildwood NJ Portraits

Pastel perfection!

Beach photography, especially here at Wildwood, is a bit of an art form. Lighting can be tricky (hello, midday sun!), but I’ve perfected the skill of working with soft lighting to make sure your photos look stunning every time. Whether it’s capturing the soft golden glow at sunset or the dreaminess of early morning light, I’ve got it covered.

  1. The Sunsets: I’ve photographed enough sunsets to know that nothing beats a Wildwood sky at dusk. Those orange hues? Perfection.

  2. The Vibe: It's a mix of nostalgia, excitement, and family fun. Every moment here feels like it could be part of a family’s story.

  3. The Fun: There’s so much to do. If you love amusement rides, arcade games, and salty beach air, then Wildwood is your place.

two girls all smiles in Wildwood NJ

Two pals just having a blast in the water in Wildwood, NJ.

The Beach, the Sand, and Making Memories

I’m a firm believer that family photo sessions should be fun—not forced. That’s why I love incorporating Wildwood’s playful atmosphere into my photo shoots. Whether it’s playing in the sand, running toward the waves, or simply chilling by the water, your session will feel more like a family day out than a traditional “photoshoot.” And trust me, that’s when the magic happens.

Here are just a few of the ways we make those memories:

  • A little one running toward the waves, feet in the sand, and a look of pure joy on their face.

  • Your kids laughing and playing as the golden light of sunset falls over the beach.

  • That candid moment when the whole family gets together to jump in the waves—and ends up covered in water but having the time of their lives.

These moments are what make Wildwood so special, and I'm here to preserve those precious memories for you.

family photoshoot in front of the roller coaster on the best beach on earth

Family portrait in front of the roller coaster! Love this.

Want Your Own Magical Wildwood Photo Session?

If you’re dreaming of photos in Wildwood that showcase your family’s unique personality, I’ve got you covered! Let’s make your memories come to life with stunning beach portraits. Whether it’s a playful session at the beach or an adventurous walk down the boardwalk, we can create the perfect photo session for you and your family.

Two sisters hug on the dog beach in Wildwood, NJ, with the ocean waves at their feet and Morey’s Pier in the background, adding a touch of iconic boardwalk charm to the scene.

Sisters hugging in front of the Roller Coaster. Making Magic at the Jersey Shore!

Book Your Wildwood Mini Session Today!

Shooting Star Photography has been capturing beautiful family moments along the Jersey Shore since 2015, and we’re ready to make your next family photo session unforgettable!

Trust me, we’ll have a blast, even if your kids insist on running away from the camera... because we all know that’s going to happen!

Thank you to all the wonderful families who made last summer so special. Your trust and support are why I love my job, and Wildwood has become one of my favorite spots to photograph the magic of childhood. Let’s make more memories, shall we?

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee Giumetti 

Serving Wildwood, North Wildwood, Cape May, and the New Jersey Shore.

We love you Jersey!!!! All the ocean waves and boardwalk craves! :)

Ready for a family session along the Jersey Shore? Visit the Jersey Shore photography page to learn more about sessions and locations

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

Discover a fun family session at Ridley Creek State Park with Shooting Star Photography—perfect for family portraits in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware!

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.

Family of three in black attire posing in the gardens near the pond at Ridley Creek State Park

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!

Dad in suit and daughter in red Little Dreamers couture dress smiling at each other in the forest at Ridley Creek State Park

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.

Mom and dad posing with daughter behind the mansion at Ridley Creek State Park

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.

Smiling girl in red Little Dreamers dress standing in the garden at Ridley Creek State Park
New Jersey photographer girl in red dress smiling with balloons at Ridley Creek Mansion gardens

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.

Girl holding balloons in red Little Dreamers dress to celebrate her birthday at Ridley Creek State Park

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.

Philadelphia photographer young girl in red dress smiling and looking out at the distance at Ridley Creek State Park, Pennsylvania

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.

New Jersey photographer family of three sharing a funny moment under cool trees at Ridley Creek State Park
Mom and dad smiling together for a family portrait at Ridley Creek State Park

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.

New Jersey photographer family in black outfits posing on the stairs at Ridley Creek Mansion, Pennsylvania

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.

Philadelphia photographer little girl holding flowers smiling at camera in red dress on stairs at Ridley Creek Mansion garden

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

New Jersey photographer mom and daughter sharing a joyful moment in the garden, smiling at each other
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