Valentine’s Portraits | NJ & Philadelphia

Valentine’s Portraits in New Jersey & Philadelphia — Coming Soon 2026

Some love stories don’t need words.

They live in the quiet moments — a small hand reaching for yours, a shared laugh, the way someone looks at you when they think no one is watching. That feeling is the heart behind my Valentine’s Portraits, returning in 2026.

Set against a timeless stone staircase and framed by soft red florals, these portraits are designed to feel romantic, refined, and enduring — never themed, never overdone.

A romantic Valentine’s portrait backdrop featuring a heart-shaped arrangement of red florals on a timeless stone staircase, used for fine-art Valentine’s portraits in New Jersey and Philadelphia.

A Valentine’s Experience Designed to Last

This isn’t a backdrop you’ll outgrow.

The floral heart installation was created intentionally — classic textures, rich reds, and an editorial feel that lets emotion lead. The result is a portrait that feels like it belongs in a frame, not just a seasonal post.

These sessions are about love in all its forms:

• Children in their sweetest years

• Siblings with an unspoken bond

• Couples who want something elegant and natural

• Families who simply want to remember this season of life

Timeless Styling, Thoughtful Design

Valentine’s portraits are styled with simplicity and intention:

• Romantic florals without visual clutter

• Neutral tones that complement the stone setting

• Gentle guidance that keeps expressions natural and relaxed

The focus stays exactly where it should — on connection.

For Children, Couples & Families

This experience is perfect for:

• Children’s Valentine portraits with a fine-art feel

• Mom and child portraits (because you belong in the frame)

• Couples looking for romantic imagery without pressure

• Sibling portraits that feel genuine and timeless

Every session is approached with care, patience, and artistry.

A Meaningful Alternative to Valentine’s Gifts

Flowers fade. Chocolates disappear.

Portraits become heirlooms.

Valentine’s portraits make a thoughtful gift for partners, grandparents, or yourself — especially if you’ve been saying “we really need new photos” for years.

Serving South Jersey & Philadelphia

Based in South Jersey and serving Philadelphia and surrounding areas, I specialize in fine-art portrait experiences that are elegant, relaxed, and emotionally driven.

Each session is created to feel effortless — no stiff posing, no rushing — just beautiful, honest moments.

Coming Soon — Valentine’s Portraits 2026

Valentine’s sessions will be offered in limited availability on January 24th to ensure each family receives a fully curated experience.

Details and booking can be found via the button and it will take you to our booking site!

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

Top 5 Reasons Families Book Seasonal Fine Art Portraits in New Jersey

There’s something special about portraits created during a specific season — when the light, colors, and feeling of the moment all come together naturally. More families are choosing seasonal fine art portraits because they offer something timeless, meaningful, and deeply connected to childhood and nature.

As a New Jersey portrait photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful seasonal sessions can be. Here are the top five reasons families continue to book them year after year.

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1. Seasonal Light Creates a Look You Can’t Replicate

Each season brings its own kind of magic.

Spring offers soft, airy light and gentle tones, while summer delivers golden evenings filled with warmth and movement. That natural light is impossible to recreate artificially — and it’s what gives seasonal fine art portraits their painterly, timeless quality.

When sessions are planned around the season, the environment becomes part of the story instead of just a backdrop.

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2. Limited-Time Sessions Feel More Meaningful

There’s something about knowing a moment won’t last forever that makes it more special.

Cherry blossoms bloom briefly. Summer fields glow for just a few short weeks. Childhood itself moves far too fast.

Seasonal sessions embrace that fleeting nature, turning it into something tangible — portraits that hold onto a moment that would otherwise quietly pass by.

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3. Children Are More Natural in Outdoor Seasonal Settings

One of the biggest reasons families love seasonal portraits is how relaxed children feel outdoors. There’s room to move, explore, twirl, and simply be themselves.

As an NJ family photographer specializing in outdoor fine art sessions, I focus on movement, connection, and natural interaction — allowing children to shine without stiff posing or pressure.

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4. Seasonal Portraits Tell a Story Over Time

Many families choose to photograph their children season after season. Over the years, these portraits become a visual story — not just of how a child grows, but of the memories tied to each stage of life.

Spring feels different from summer.

Summer feels different from fall.

Together, seasonal portraits create a collection that feels intentional, personal, and heirloom-worthy.

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5. New Jersey Offers Incredible Seasonal Locations

From flower fields and open meadows to golden summer landscapes, South Jersey offers some of the most beautiful seasonal scenery for fine art photography.

These locations allow portraits to feel grounded in place — natural, authentic, and connected to the environment families love and live in.

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Planning a Seasonal Fine Art Portrait Session

Seasonal fine art sessions are offered for a limited time each year and are carefully planned around light, location, and availability. Families who book early have the best selection of dates and the most flexibility.

If seasonal portraits speak to you, I invite you to explore upcoming sessions and begin planning a time that feels right for your family.

⸻Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Serving Philadelphia, Mainline, Northern Delaware, and all of Southern New Jersey.

Vintage Santa Mini | South Jersey

AUDUBON NJ | Santa Sessions | Mini Sessions | South Jersey

Vintage Santa Lap Sessions in Audubon, NJ – One Magical Moment with Santa!🎄

There’s nothing like the magic in a child’s eyes when they see Santa — and this year, that moment can be short, sweet, and picture-perfect!

I’m so excited to announce our Vintage Santa Lap Sessions in Audubon, New Jersey on Friday, November 21st. 🎅✨ These quick, stress-free sessions are designed for families who just want that one perfect holiday photo without the chaos of long lines or crowded malls.

Two sisters share a joyful moment with Santa on our vintage Christmas set in South Jersey — a timeless, heartwarming photo that captures the magic of the holidays.

Our vintage Christmas set features classic textures and tones that feel straight out of a timeless holiday card — think cozy, simple, vintage, nostalgic, and full of Christmas charm. Each session includes:

• 2 minutes with Santa (yes, really — quick and easy!)

• One professionally edited image included (with the option to purchase more)

• Access to a beautifully designed vintage canvas backdrop for that fine-art look

Promotional poster for Vintage Santa Lap Sessions by Shooting Star Photography in Audubon, NJ. Showcasing a cozy vintage Christmas set and details for the November 21st event — $55, one image, two-minute session. Perfect for families looking for South Jersey Santa photos and holiday mini sessions.

Whether it’s your little one’s first Christmas or your family’s annual tradition, these sessions are a perfect way to celebrate the season in style.

📍 Location: Audubon, NJ
📅 Date: Friday, November 21st
💰 Price: $55 | One image | 2 minutes max

Spots are extremely limited, and these sessions tend to sell out fast every year — so grab your time slot before they’re gone!

✨ Click here to book your Santa Lap Session

Three sweet siblings — two big sisters and their baby — share a magical holiday moment with Santa in Audubon, NJ. This vintage Christmas set brings South Jersey holiday magic to life with timeless charm and warm, nostalgic tones.

🌟 Why Families Love Our Santa Sessions

Parents love that it’s short, simple, and fun. The kids love Santa (and usually giggle the entire time). And I love delivering that one perfect photo that makes the Christmas card shine.

If you’ve been searching for “Santa photos near me” or “holiday mini sessions in South Jersey,” this is your sign to book!

Let’s make this Christmas magical — one smile at a time. 🎁

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

Check Out Some More Of Our “Christmas Sessions” we’ve done over the years!

Christmas Family Photoshoot at Smithville Village | NJ Magic

Capture the Magic of Christmas at Smithville Village with a Cozy Family Photoshoot

Let’s be real—there’s no better way to kick off the holiday season than a family photo shoot in cozy sweaters, right? I mean, who wouldn’t want to bundle up, look cute, and create memories in front of the Christmas lights? That’s exactly what this sweet family did during their winter mini session at Smithville Village in Atlantic County, NJ.

Why Smithville Village Is the Perfect Spot for Your Family's Winter Photoshoot

In front of the bridge at Smithville.

We had a blast, and the cozy vibes were off the charts. Mom, Dad, and their little guy looked absolutely adorable in their matching sweaters, which were perfect for the chilly air but still gave off that “we’re totally ready for a Hallmark movie” energy. And let’s not forget about the cutest little giggles and smiles. Who knew a little boy’s joy could melt the coldest of days? Their love and excitement were contagious and made the session that much more magical.

Smithville Village is the perfect spot for a winter mini session, especially during the holidays. There’s something about those twinkling Christmas lights that just makes everything feel extra festive. After we finished up with photos, the family wandered through the village to soak in all the sights and sounds. The carousel, with its vintage charm, was a highlight for everyone. Who doesn’t love a classic carousel ride, especially when it’s set against the backdrop of a beautiful winter day?

Cozy Sweaters, Christmas Shops, and a Carousel: The Ultimate Family Photoshoot at Smithville Village

All cozy in front of the carousel!

And let’s talk about those Christmas shops for a minute. If you’ve never been to Smithville during the holidays, you’re missing out. The shops are filled with the cutest seasonal decorations, unique gifts, and all the Christmas cheer you could ever need. Whether you’re on the hunt for that perfect ornament or just want to sip hot cocoa while window shopping, Smithville has something for everyone.

He wants to play real life duck, duck goose!

A mini session at Smithville Village isn’t just about the photos—it’s about making memories. You get to enjoy the holiday spirit, bond as a family, and leave with photos that you’ll treasure for years to come. Plus, the whole experience is fun and stress-free, which is exactly what you want during the busy holiday season.

The Smithville Village Holiday Experience: A Perfect Winter Setting for Family Photos

Who doesn’t love the magic in Smithville?

So, this year, don’t stress over getting the perfect holiday photos. A cozy family session at Smithville Village is the perfect way to celebrate the season and create lasting memories with the ones you love. Whether you’re looking for Christmas photos or just want a fun family outing, Smithville’s charm and beauty make it the ideal setting for your winter session.

Check out our family portfolio and give us a ring, (old school here) if you want to schedule a gorgeous Holiday Session at Smithville! Also, check out our family portfolio!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Serving the Philadelphia Region, Northern Delaware and my beloved South Jersey!

Family Portrait Photographer | Woodstown NJ |Christmas

Embracing the Magic of Winter Photography

Winter has always held a special kind of magic, transforming familiar landscapes into enchanting wonderlands of snow and ice. This breathtaking backdrop inspired me to plan a sister photo session in Woodstown, New Jersey. As a photographer passionate about capturing family moments, I wanted to create cherished memories these sisters could hold onto for a lifetime. Today, I’m sharing that journey with you—along with insights and tips for planning your own perfect winter photoshoot!

Two girl dressed in joyfolie dresses in the magical evergreens in Woodstown, New Jersey for Winter Portraits

The Inspiration Behind the Winter Wonderland

Photography has always been deeply intertwined with my love for nature, and winter’s quiet beauty never fails to inspire me. The way snow blankets the world in silence, yet invites laughter and play, makes it the perfect setting for heartfelt portraits. When the opportunity arose for a sister photo session in Woodstown, I was thrilled. I envisioned the bond between them—their laughter ringing through the trees, their warmth contrasting against the crisp winter air. My goal was to blend the unique beauty of their relationship with the enchanting winter landscape, creating a visual story filled with warmth and wonder.

We decorated a giant wreath and had things twinkling in the background for these portraits with these two!

Preparing for a Magical Winter Photoshoot

As the session date approached, I focused on careful planning to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Happy in Woodstown for beautiful Winter Dreamland portraits

Wardrobe Choices: Style Meets Comfort

One of the first things we discussed was wardrobe. Their outfits needed to stand out against the snowy backdrop while also reflecting their individual personalities. We opted for coordinated outfits in soft, complementary tones, enhanced by scarves, hats, and gloves—not just for style but to keep them warm!

Two girls capturing the magical sisterly bond that they have.

Planning the Perfect Poses

While I always prioritize candid moments, having a structured plan for poses helped streamline the session and minimize time spent in the cold. From playful snowball tosses to serene, reflective moments, we mapped out ways to capture their bond in an authentic way.

Mom loved this shot. Of course kids are kids as they get older and they of course did this one for their mama! LOL

Interacting with the Winter Wonderland

To make the most of the snowy setting, we incorporated natural elements—footprints in the fresh snow, soft snowfall in the background, and even a few impromptu snowball fights! These elements added a whimsical touch to their portraits, making each frame feel alive with movement and emotion.

I love these two! They photograph soooo well!!!

Capturing the Bond: A Winter Session to Remember

The snow-covered forests of Woodstown provided the perfect canvas for our session. My goal was to capture not just the beauty of the scenery, but the emotional warmth these sisters shared. From the first click of the shutter, their connection was undeniable.

It is magical wreath time in the forest in Marlton Park in Woodstown, NJ.

They laughed, played, and helped each other navigate the snowy terrain—small gestures that spoke volumes about their bond. Whether they were sharing a quiet moment, giggling over inside jokes, or wrapping their arms around each other for warmth, every image reflected the unbreakable nature of sisterhood.

The magical “money shot” aka… most likely the Christmas card from this session!

The Magic of Post-Processing: Bringing Winter to Life

After the session, I turned to post-processing to enhance the natural beauty of the images. Adjusting contrast and brightness ensured the sisters' radiant smiles stood out against the snowy backdrop. I fine-tuned the colors, balancing cool winter tones with the warmth of their connection. The final edits transformed each image into a timeless keepsake—one that would allow them to relive that special day for years to come.

Hi there!

Preserving Memories: The Power of Photography

When I delivered their final images, their reactions were everything. The joy in their eyes as they flipped through the photos, the laughter as they relived funny moments—it reminded me why I love what I do. Photography isn’t just about freezing time; it’s about preserving emotions, relationships, and the fleeting magic of a single moment.

Tips for Your Own Winter Photoshoot Adventure

If you’re planning your own winter photoshoot, here are some key tips to make it a success:

I love back shots. It tells a story.

✅ Dress Smart: Choose colors that pop against the snow, and layer up for warmth and style. ✅ Time It Right: The best winter light is during the golden hours—early morning or late afternoon. ✅ Be Flexible: Embrace unexpected weather elements—they often add a magical touch! ✅ Take Warm-Up Breaks: Short sessions with breaks in between keep energy levels high. ✅ Capture Candid Moments: The most heartwarming photos come from natural interactions.

Winter photography is about more than just aesthetics—it’s about capturing the warmth of love and connection in the midst of a frosty wonderland. Whether you’re photographing family, friends, or yourself, take a moment to enjoy the season’s beauty and the memories you’re creating.

Happy shooting, my friends!

Dee
Shooting Star Photography