Planning Family Photos in Cape May, New Jersey

A Local Photographer’s Guide to the Perfect Jersey Shore Session

Cape May, New Jersey is one of the most charming places along the Jersey Shore for family portraits. With its wide beaches, historic streets, and soft coastal light, it offers an incredible variety of backdrops — all within a short walk.

If you’re visiting Cape May on vacation and thinking about scheduling a family photo session, this guide will help you choose the best locations, timing, and style so your images feel timeless and effortless.

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Why Cape May Is Perfect for Family Photography

Cape May is unique among Jersey Shore towns because it blends natural coastline with historic architecture.

As a family photographer working throughout the Jersey Shore, I love Cape May for:

• Soft, open beaches that photograph beautifully at sunset

• Natural dunes and sea grass for calm, organic portraits

• Victorian homes and quiet streets for elegant variety

• A relaxed vacation pace that helps kids feel at ease

This combination allows for a gallery that feels full and story-driven, not repetitive.

Best Time of Day for Cape May Family Photos

For the most flattering light, I always recommend:

🌅 Golden Hour (Best Option)

• The hour before sunset offers warm tones and gentle contrast

• Ideal for children and family sessions

• Produces that classic, coastal glow Cape May is known for

🌤️ Morning Sessions (Great for Young Kids)

• Quieter beaches

• Cooler temperatures

• Perfect for families with early bedtimes

Midday sessions are possible, but light is stronger and more directional. When needed, I adjust location and angles to keep images soft and natural.

Favorite Cape May Locations for Family Portraits

Each Cape May session is tailored to the family, but these locations photograph especially well:

• Cape May Beach & Dunes

Natural, timeless, and perfect for relaxed family moments

• Historic Cape May Streets

Victorian homes add charm and texture without overpowering the images.

• Promenade & Shoreline Paths

Ideal for walking, movement, and candid connections.

(Photography permits may be required in certain areas — I handle location planning so families don’t need to worry.)

What to Wear for Cape May Family Photos

Cape May photographs best with soft, coastal tones.

Recommended color palettes:

• Creams, sand, soft blue, sage, muted blush

• Barefoot or neutral footwear

• Light layers for texture and movement

Avoid heavy logos, neon colors, or overly stiff outfits — the goal is to complement the scenery, not compete with it.

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What Makes a Cape May Family Session Feel Natural

Vacation sessions work best when they feel unhurried.

During your Cape May family photography session, I:

• Guide gently (no awkward posing)

• Encourage movement and interaction

• Allow kids space to be themselves

• Blend posed moments with natural connection

The result is a gallery that feels authentic and emotional — not staged.

When to Book a Cape May Family Photographer

Summer dates — especially sunset sessions — book quickly in Cape May.

I recommend reserving:

• 4–8 weeks in advance for peak season

• Earlier for extended families or special dates

Weather flexibility is always built into planning, because coastal conditions change quickly.

Visiting the Jersey Shore Beyond Cape May?

If your family is staying elsewhere along the coast, I also photograph families throughout the Jersey Shore — including nearby beach towns — and help you choose the best location based on light, crowd levels, and your family’s style.

👉 You can explore full Jersey Shore family photography options here:

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Final Thoughts

Cape May is a beautiful place to document a season of life — especially when you’re together, unhurried, and present. A family photo session here becomes more than a keepsake; it becomes part of the memory of your shore trip itself.

The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Family Photoshoot in South Jersey & Philadelphia

How to Plan a Stress-Free Family Photoshoot in South Jersey & Philadelphia

If you’ve ever tried to get everyone ready for family photos at the same time, you already know it’s not for the faint of heart. Someone can’t find a shoe, someone is suddenly starving, and someone absolutely refuses to wear the outfit they loved yesterday.

(And yes — sometimes that someone is the mom.)

The good news? A family photoshoot doesn’t have to feel chaotic or overwhelming. With the right preparation, the right expectations, and a photographer who understands real families and real kids, the experience can actually feel relaxed… maybe even enjoyable.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know to plan a family photoshoot in South Jersey or Philadelphia — without stress, pressure, or perfectionism.

Choosing the Right Style for Your Family

Every family is different, and your photos should reflect who you are, not a trend or a template.

Some families love a dreamy, fine-art look with flowing dresses, golden light, and a touch of storybook magic. Others prefer something more natural, candid, and relaxed — images that feel effortless and true to everyday life.

And many parents fall somewhere in between.

The most important thing is choosing a style that feels authentic. Your children don’t need to “perform.” They don’t need to pose perfectly. The best images come from allowing kids to move, laugh, explore, and be themselves — with gentle guidance along the way.

Learn more about my approach to relaxed, fine-art family portraits designed around real connection.

Outfit Planning (Without the Panic)

“What do we wear?”
This is, without question, the number one stress point for parents.

Clothing absolutely impacts the final look of your images — but it doesn’t need to turn into a multi-day spiral of shopping, returning, and second-guessing.

A few simple guidelines go a long way:

For city sessions (Philadelphia, Old City, Broad Street, urban locations):

• Jewel tones

• Black, navy, emerald, deep reds

• Clean lines and classic silhouettes

For floral fields, farms, and gardens:

• Soft neutrals

• Creams, blush, muted blues

• Flowy fabrics and natural textures

For beach sessions:

• Whites and soft blues

• Movement-friendly dresses

• Breezy, natural fabrics

The goal isn’t matching — it’s coordinating. Think complementary tones, not identical outfits.

And remember: wardrobe support exists so you don’t have to do this alone.

Picking the Right Location

One of the best parts about photographing families in South Jersey and Philadelphia is the variety of locations available.

Within a short drive, you can choose from:

• Jersey Shore beaches like Wildwood, Ocean City, Sea Isle, and Cape May

• Seasonal flower fields and farms

• Forested trails and quiet wooded paths

• Historic city streets and classic Philadelphia architecture

• Castle-like locations and storybook settings

The right location enhances your session naturally — no heavy styling or forced posing required. Your photographer should help guide this decision based on season, light, and your family’s energy level.

ee Where I Photograph Families Throughout the Year
From beaches and flower fields to city streets and seasonal settings, explore locations and experiences offered throughout the year.

Adding a Little Magic (If You Want To)

For some families, a simple portrait session is perfect.
For others — especially young children — adding an imaginative element can completely transform the experience.

Whimsical sessions featuring unicorns, mermaids, castles, or fairytale themes allow kids to step into a story rather than feeling like they’re “taking pictures.” When children feel engaged and excited, everything flows more naturally.

These experiences aren’t about props or costumes alone — they’re about confidence, wonder, and letting kids feel like the main character for a moment.

Timing Your Session (This Matters More Than You Think)

Lighting can make or break an outdoor session.

The most flattering light happens:

• About one hour before sunset (golden hour)

• Early morning when the light is soft and gentle

Good light means:

• Better skin tones

• Fewer harsh shadows

• A timeless, fine-art feel

Poor lighting leads to squinting, strong shadows, and unnecessary stress — which is why timing matters just as much as location.

This is something your photographer should guide you through so you don’t have to guess.

Preparing the Kids (Without Overthinking It)

Children don’t need long prep talks or strict instructions.

A few simple things help:

• Feed them beforehand

• Bring water

• Bring one small backup snack (bribery is sometimes strategic)

• Let them know this will be fun — not a “stand still and smile” situation

Most importantly: parents set the tone.
Relaxed parents = relaxed kids.

Children are allowed to move. They’re allowed to laugh. They’re allowed to be themselves.

That’s where the magic lives.

The Part Parents Don’t Expect

Something almost always happens during a family session.

A shy child opens up.
A sibling bond shows itself quietly.
A parent sees themselves — not exhausted, not rushed — but present and connected.

Parents often tell me afterward:

• “She still talks about it.”

• “I didn’t realize how grown they look.”

• “I’m so glad we did this now.”

These moments are fleeting. The images are how we remember them.

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After the Session

After your photoshoot, you can expect:

• A curated proofing gallery

• Carefully edited images in a clean or fine-art style

• Options to select favorites and create artwork for your home

This is where the experience turns into something lasting — images that don’t live on a phone, but on your walls and in your family story.

Final Thoughts

Family photos aren’t about perfection.

They’re about documenting this chapter — the ages, the relationships, the season you’re in right now. Whether you’re walking through city streets, running along the shoreline, twirling in wildflowers, or creating something magical together, the value is in showing up.

You deserve photos that feel like you.
And your children deserve to see how loved they were — exactly as they are.

Many of These Experiences Are Also Offered as Mini Sessions
For families looking for a shorter, curated session during peak seasons, select experiences are available as mini sessions.

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

The Ultimate Guide to New Jersey Family Mini Sessions & Full Sessions

Planning family photos can feel overwhelming — especially if you’re juggling busy schedules, strong personalities, and the hope that this time everyone will smile at the same time. The good news? There’s no one “right” way to photograph your family — just the option that fits your season of life best.

At Shooting Star Photography, families can choose between mini sessions and full family sessions, each designed with intention, flexibility, and a calm, child-led approach.

This guide will help you decide which experience is right for you.

What Is a Family Mini Session?

Mini sessions are designed for families who want a beautiful, efficient portrait experience without a long time commitment.

They’re ideal for:

• Families with young children

• Parents who want updated portraits once or twice a year

• Seasonal sessions like spring, fall, or holiday offerings

• Kids who do best with shorter attention spans

Mini sessions are thoughtfully guided, relaxed, and focused on connection — not perfection.

What Is a Full Family Session?

Full sessions allow more time for children to warm up, explore, and settle naturally into the experience.

They’re a great fit if:

• You want more variety in your gallery

• Your children need time to feel comfortable

• You’d like a storytelling approach with movement and candid moments

• You’re celebrating a milestone or season of change

Full sessions are slower-paced and allow space for deeper connection and flexibility.

Which One Is Right for Your Family?

If you want:

• Quick, seasonal portraits → a mini session is perfect

• A relaxed, storytelling experience → a full session may be the better choice

Many families alternate — booking mini sessions throughout the year and reserving full sessions for milestones.

What Parents Ask Most Often

What if my child doesn’t cooperate?
That’s more common than perfect smiles — and it’s okay. Sessions are child-led, playful, and pressure-free.

What should we wear?
Soft colors, natural textures, and outfits that allow movement photograph best. Avoid loud patterns and logos.

What about weather?
Outdoor sessions are rescheduled if conditions aren’t ideal. Light, timing, and comfort always come first.

Where to Book Mini Sessions

Mini Sessions are released in limited quantities throughout the year and include seasonal offerings such as spring florals, farm sessions, and holiday portraits.

A Final Thought

Family photos aren’t about perfect behavior — they’re about preserving a season of life as it truly is. Whether you choose a mini session or a full session, the goal is the same: timeless images that feel honest, warm, and meaningful years from now.

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

The Ultimate Guide to Unicorn Photoshoots with Kids

How to Photograph Kids with Unicorns (Without Losing Your Sanity)

Photographing kids is already a challenge. Add a unicorn into the mix, and you’ve got yourself a full-fledged magical circus. But hey, if you’re a photographer in New Jersey or Philadelphia specializing in family photography (or just a parent trying to snap an Instagram-worthy shot), I’ve got you covered. Here’s everything you need to know to capture unicorn magic while keeping your sanity intact.

This is a great place in the summer for both family photo shoots and wildflower sessions with unicorns.

1. Know Your Subject (Both the Kid and the Unicorn)

Kids have wild imaginations, which means that in their world, unicorns are 100% real. To get the best shots, ask them questions: What’s their unicorn’s name? Does it have magical powers? Is it a sassy unicorn with an attitude problem? Understanding their vision makes for more natural, joyful expressions. Bonus: It also helps distract them from the fact that they have to stand still for more than two seconds.

2. Location, Location, Location

Want instant fairy-tale vibes? Skip the playground and head to an open field, a sun-drenched meadow, or a wildflower patch. If you’re a New Jersey photographer, spots like Dalton Farms are gold. If you're in Philadelphia, dreamy parks like Wissahickon Valley work wonders. Early morning and golden hour add an extra sprinkle of enchantment—plus, softer light means fewer squinting kids and easier editing.

This is the real light and sunset of this location. The light just kissed her and Drifter just right.

3. Props: Because Sometimes the Unicorn Needs Help

Let’s be real—not everyone has access to a real unicorn (tragic, I know). But props can work wonders. Think flower crowns, delicate lace blankets, and soft pastel dresses. Add a touch of sparkle with biodegradable glitter or let kids blow bubbles to create a whimsical effect. For the full storybook look, vintage furniture, tea sets, and fairy wings add a level of wow (and keep little hands occupied).

This one is my favorite of the session with added magic.

4. Dress the Part (Without a Meltdown)

A unicorn photoshoot is a perfect excuse to break out the tulle, sequins, and flower crowns. But word to the wise—make sure the outfits are comfortable. Nothing ruins the magic faster than an itchy dress and a toddler having a wardrobe-induced meltdown. Soft, breathable fabrics that allow movement are key. And yes, let the kid wear the tiara. It’s their moment.

5. Let the Kids Be Kids

The best unicorn photos aren’t stiffly posed—they’re full of movement and wonder. Let the kids dance, twirl, or pretend to feed their unicorn imaginary snacks. Capture those in-between moments—the giggles, the wide-eyed wonder, the tiny hand reaching out as if they really see their mythical best friend. That’s where the real magic happens.

Up close portrait.

6. Embrace the Chaos

Kids will get distracted. They will chase butterflies, pick grass, and possibly try to ride the unicorn (real or imagined). And guess what? That’s okay! Some of the best shots come from embracing their unpredictable energy. Instead of forcing the perfect pose, let them play and interact naturally. Candid moments are pure gold in unicorn photography.

7. Editing: The Real Magic Happens Here

Let’s be honest—post-processing is where unicorn photos go from adorable to otherworldly. Soft pastels, dreamy bokeh, and a touch of sparkle can take an image from cute to “wow, did you step into a fairytale?” Avoid over-editing, though—there’s a fine line between magical and “someone went too hard on the Photoshop sliders.”

All smiles here for our unicorn session.

8. Enjoy the Ride (Because They Grow Up Too Fast)

At the end of the day, unicorn photography is about capturing the fleeting magic of childhood. The wonder, the laughter, the belief that anything is possible. Whether you’re a parent snapping pics on your phone or a professional photographer in New Jersey or Philadelphia creating fine art portraits, the goal is the same—freezing a moment of pure, unfiltered magic.

So take a deep breath, grab your camera, and remember: even if everything goes off the rails, at least you’ll have some hilarious stories (and maybe a viral blooper reel). Now go forth and create some unicorn magic!

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

SEO And Blogging For Business Owners | Photographers

Everything You Need To Get You On Track For Your Photography Business!

SEO Blogging: The Ultimate Guide to Getting Started

If you’re a business owner and not blogging, you’re leaving money (and Google rankings) on the table. Whether you’re a Philadelphia family photographer, an NJ family photographer, or running a boys’ birthday photo shoot business, blogging helps you attract the right audience, showcase your expertise, and boost your SEO.

And before you panic about needing a PhD in Google-speak—don’t worry. This guide is here to break it all down without making your brain hurt.

SEO Tips for Photographers! It is tough out there!

Why Blogging is a Must for Business Owners

1. Google Likes Fresh Content

Think of Google as a hungry monster that constantly craves fresh, relevant content. The more you feed it (with blogs), the higher you rank.

2. Be the Expert in Your Niche

Blogging allows you to establish authority. Want to be the go-to expert in South Jersey photography or the best photographers in Atlantic City? Start posting your knowledge, tips, and industry insights.

3. Drive More Traffic (and Clients) to Your Site

A well-written blog brings organic traffic, which means more potential customers without paying for ads. Wouldn’t you rather have Google do the work instead of constantly chasing leads?

4. Keep People on Your Site Longer

A blog is like a first date. If your content is boring, people will bounce. But if it’s engaging, helpful, and a little fun? They stick around—and maybe even book a session.

5. More Social Media Content

A blog post isn’t just a blog post—it’s a goldmine of social media content. Break it up into Instagram posts, Pinterest pins, Facebook updates, and email newsletters. Work smarter, not harder.

What to Blog About (Even If You Think You Have Nothing to Say)

Still staring at a blank screen? Here are some killer blog post ideas for photographers and small business owners:

✅ Behind-the-Scenes – A sneak peek at your latest beach sessions or a crazy client story (we all have them).

✅ Client Spotlights – Feature past clients and their experiences—bonus if you include stunning portraits from Atlantic City or Philadelphia.

✅ Tips & Tricks – “What to Wear for a Boys’ Birthday Photo Shoot” or “Best Locations for South Jersey Family Photography.”

✅ Your Entrepreneurial Journey – How you got started and what you’ve learned (mistakes included).

✅ SEO & Marketing Tips – Yep, just like this one. Educate your audience and boost your rankings.

✅ Case Studies & Transformations – Share how a client’s session turned into stunning, wall-worthy portraits.

✅ Common Misconceptions – “Why You Don’t Need to Lose 10 Pounds Before Booking a Session” or “Why a Cheap Photographer Will Cost You More in the Long Run.”

For example, my expertise is fine art beach photography and I write about it a lot.

SEO Hacks to Get Your Blog Ranking Like a Pro

Want your blog to actually show up on Google? Use these SEO tips:

📌 Use Keywords Naturally – Like “SEO for photographers”, “photographers in South Jersey”, or “blogging for SEO.”

📌 Break Up Text – Google and readers love short paragraphs, bullet points, and subheadings.

📌 Add Internal & External Links – Link to your other blog posts and reputable sites for extra SEO power.

📌 Optimize Images – Rename image files (not just “IMG_1234.jpg”) and add alt text like “Boy in navy tux smiling in a Philadelphia photo shoot.”

📌 Write Engaging Meta Descriptions – A 150-character preview of your post that makes people want to click.

📌 Update Old Posts – Keep them fresh by adding new info, better keywords, and updated images.

📌 Be Consistent – Blogging once a year won’t cut it. Aim for at least 1-4 times per month.

I sometimes blog about items I have put together and then incorporated into a session.

Need Help with SEO & Blogging?

I get it—writing for SEO can feel like learning another language. But the good news? You don’t have to do it alone.

At Shooting Star Photography, we not only specialize in fine art beach photography, family photography, and boys’ birthday shoots—we also offer SEO and blogging help!

👇 Click Below to Get SEO Services That Actually Work! 👇

Happy Shooting!

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

Unlocking Blogging Success: Insights and Strategies

1. The Blogging Landscape:

• Over 2 million blog posts are crafted daily.

• 67% of daily bloggers deem themselves successful.

• Articles exceeding 3000 words tend to yield superior results.

2. Crafting a Blog Post:

• It takes an average of 4 hours to write a post.

• The average reader spends 52 seconds perusing a blog post.

• The standard length of a blog post is 1,416 words in 2023.

• Only 14% of bloggers create content surpassing 2000 words.

• 44% of bloggers publish new content 3-6 times monthly.

3. Headlines and Visibility:

• Blogging increases search ranking chances by 434%.

• Headlines of 6-13 words attract more traffic.

• Odd-numbered headlines outperform even-numbered ones.

4. Content Optimization:

• 38% of bloggers update older articles.

• Updating content is successful for 34% of bloggers.

• Applying the Pareto Principle to blogs reveals that 80% of results come from 20% of efforts.

5. Guest Blogging Dynamics:

• 60% of blogs write 1-5 guest posts monthly.

• 3% of blogs contribute over 100 guest posts monthly.

• Blogs with multiple authors are perceived as more credible by 62.96% of readers.

• 79% of editors find guest content too promotional.

6. Social Sharing and Impact:

• 59% share articles without reading them.

• Marketers prioritizing blogging are 13x more likely to have a positive ROI.

• Content marketing costs 62% less than traditional marketing but generates 3 times as many leads.

7. SEO Strategies:

• Break up text with headings, subheadings, and graphics for better readability.

• Targeted keywords enhance Google's recognition of your content.

8. Business Owner's Blog Topics:

• A day in the life of a business owner.

• Behind-the-scenes insights.

• Lists of recommended tools, products, etc.

• Step-by-step process demonstrations.

• Entrepreneurial journey.

• Industry insights with personal experiences.

• Q&A interviews.

• Lessons learned while building the business.

• History of the business in storyteller format.

• "What not to do" posts.

• Product features.

• Valuable lessons from mistakes.

• Inspirational quotes.

• Influencers worth following.

• Business updates.

• Customer testimonials.

• Product and book reviews.

• Support for local charities.

• Success stories.

• Frequently asked questions.

• Free resources.

Mom holding her son at the Jersey Shore.

Here are some secrets to enhance your blog writing:

• Know Your Audience: Understand your target audience's interests, preferences, and pain points. Tailor your content to resonate with them.

• Compelling Headlines: Craft attention-grabbing headlines. Use curiosity, urgency, or a solution-driven approach to entice readers.

• Clear Structure: Organize your content with a clear structure. Use headings, subheadings, and bullet points to make it easy to read and navigate.

• Hook Your Readers: Capture attention in the first few sentences. Pose a question, share an intriguing fact, or tell a short story to engage your audience from the start.

• Consistent Tone: Maintain a consistent tone that aligns with your brand and resonates with your audience. Whether it's formal, conversational, or humorous, stay true to your style.

• Visual Appeal: Incorporate relevant images, infographics, or videos to break up the text and make your content visually appealing.

• Value-Centric Content: Provide value to your readers. Address their questions, solve problems, or offer insights that they find useful.

• Conciseness is Key: Be concise and get to the point. Avoid unnecessary fluff and keep your writing focused on delivering valuable information.

• Storytelling: Weave storytelling elements into your content. Narratives create a connection with readers and make your blog more memorable.

• SEO Optimization: Research and incorporate relevant keywords naturally into your content. Optimize meta titles, descriptions, and use alt text for images to improve search engine visibility.

• Regular Updates: Consistency matters. Aim for a regular posting schedule to keep your audience engaged and coming back for more.

• Interactive Elements: Encourage reader interaction. Pose questions, include polls, or ask for opinions to foster engagement in the comments section.

• Editing and Proofreading: Thoroughly edit and proofread your content before publishing. Clear of grammatical errors and typos for a polished final product.

• Unique Perspective: Offer a unique perspective on topics. Share your experiences, insights, or research that sets your blog apart from others in your niche.

• Call-to-Action (CTA): Conclude each post with a clear CTA (mentioned above). Whether it's encouraging comments, sharing the post, or exploring your products/services, guide readers on the next steps.

• Mobile Optimization: Ensure your blog is mobile-friendly. Many readers access content from smartphones, so optimizing for mobile enhances the user experience.

• Analytics Utilization: Use analytics tools to track the performance of your blog. Understand what works and refine your strategy based on data.

By incorporating these secrets into your blog writing, you can create compelling, engaging, and impactful content that resonates with your audience.

Sooo. get to blogging! It is one of the best marketing decisions you can ever make! Remember, that 20% of what you put out there, you will see 80% back! Chop Chop! Get to work!

We also offer SEO and blogging help! You can find it by clicking the button below!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography