Ben Franklin Bridge-Camden, New Jersey

A beautiful sister photo session at the Ben Franklin Bridge!

Astonishing Portrait Session of Two Sisters at Ben Franklin Bridge in New Jersey.

On a beautiful May evening, I embarked on a journey to capture the remarkable portrait session of two sisters at the iconic Ben Franklin Bridge. The radiance they brought to the scene was beyond my expectations. The sisters, hailing from the New York area, arrived excited to pick out their dresses and commence the photoshoot.

As soon as they arrived, their vibrant personalities and undeniable charm set the tone for a memorable photo shoot. The girls' gorgeous outfits perfectly complemented one another, showcasing their individual beauty and strong bond as sisters. The resulting photos captured the essence of sisterhood and love, while showcasing their personalities in each snap.

Weather-wise it was a nice balmy 78 and a little windy! However, some wind, not the crazy hurricane types, can actually add some movement to images.

The bond between the sisters was palpable and evident not only in their physical resemblance but also in their interactions. Their laughter filled the bridge, creating an atmosphere of warmth and genuine affection. Witnessing their pure joy was an inspiration for me as a photographer.

Throughout the session, the sisters effortlessly posed with grace and poise, displaying their unique beauty and connection. Their complete trust in our vision allowed me to capture their true essence, preserving their sisterly bond in every frame.

I was fortunate to have a brother and two sisters growing up. I totally wish that we had photography like this to showcase our memories. I couldn’t fathom having a portrait session like this. It would have been incredible! Now, I have candids and polaroids of the film days of those times and of course your standard corny studio portraits, but if there was anything like this experience, I think it would be a highlight of my childhood!

This was my favorite image of the whole session. I love the connection she has. She looks so kind and so happy. I love these Ben Franklin Bridge Sessions so much!

As the session drew to a close, I reflected on the magical experience I shared with these two sisters. The Ben Franklin Bridge provided an extraordinary canvas for their portraits, but it was their infectious spirit and love for one another that truly brought the images to life.

From the moment of meeting these two little beans, to picking out the dresses, walking up to the top and then photographing, I can’t say how pleasant of a time we had. I always say it is a good days work when there is a ton of laughter and twirls involved and we definitely got that here with these two.

We are grateful to have been a part of this incredible session and eagerly await the day to see these two sisters again.they came all the way from New York State to see us!

These images will serve as a tangible reminder of their bond for years to come, bringing joy to all who see them. The entire experience was not only successful but also incredibly fun for all involved.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee.

Shooting Star Photography.

Family Photographer Extraordinaire!

Family Beach Fun in Ocean City, New Jersey

Top Ten Of Family Fun, Places To Eat and Things to Do in Ocean City, NJ

Enjoying a family photo session in Ocean City or any of the beautiful coastline of New Jersey, is what we are about!

Twirling with mommy!

Ocean City, New Jersey, often referred to as America's Greatest Family Resort, is a charming coastal town located on a barrier island along the Jersey Shore. With its pristine beaches, vibrant boardwalk, and plethora of family-friendly activities, Ocean City offers a perfect destination for a fun-filled family vacation. In this article, we will explore a wide range of exciting attractions and things to do in Ocean City, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all ages.

I’ve talked a bit about Ocean City, as we do a ton of beach sessions every year. I developed my top ten list of eateries in this beloved resort town.

Ocean City, New Jersey, is a beloved destination known for its family-friendly atmosphere, pristine beaches, and charming boardwalk. Whether you're visiting for a day or an extended stay, you'll find a variety of dining options that cater to different tastes. Here are some of the best restaurants to consider when you're in town:

1. The Crab Trap

• Cuisine: Seafood

• Location: 2 Broadway, Somers Point, NJ

• Why Visit: A local favorite for over 50 years, The Crab Trap is renowned for its fresh seafood and waterfront views. The menu features everything from crab cakes and lobster to a variety of fish dishes, all prepared with high-quality ingredients. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly service make it a must-visit.

2. Jon & Patty’s Coffee Bar & Bistro

• Cuisine: American, Breakfast & Brunch

• Location: 637 Asbury Ave, Ocean City, NJ

• Why Visit: This cozy spot is perfect for breakfast or brunch, offering a wide range of options, including pancakes, omelets, sandwiches, and salads. The coffee bar is a highlight, with a selection of specialty drinks that pair perfectly with their homemade pastries.

3. Ike’s Famous Crabcakes

• Cuisine: Seafood, Fast Casual

• Location: 1344 Boardwalk, Ocean City, NJ

• Why Visit: Known for their delicious and freshly made crab cakes, Ike’s is a go-to spot for a quick and satisfying meal on the boardwalk. The menu also includes shrimp, scallops, and other seafood favorites, all available to-go so you can enjoy your meal on the beach.

4. Manco & Manco Pizza

• Cuisine: Pizza

• Location: Multiple locations along the Ocean City Boardwalk

• Why Visit: A trip to Ocean City isn’t complete without a slice from Manco & Manco. Established in 1956, this iconic pizzeria is known for its thin-crust pizza with a perfect balance of cheese and sauce. Whether you grab a slice to go or sit down for a pie, it’s a classic Ocean City experience.

5. Cafe Beach Club

• Cuisine: American, Breakfast & Brunch

• Location: 1282 Boardwalk, Ocean City, NJ

• Why Visit: Located right on the boardwalk, Cafe Beach Club offers both indoor and outdoor seating with stunning ocean views. The menu features breakfast and lunch options, including omelets, pancakes, sandwiches, and salads. It’s a great spot to enjoy a leisurely meal while taking in the sights and sounds of the beach.

6. Hula Restaurant and Sauce Co.

• Cuisine: Hawaiian, American

• Location: 940 Boardwalk, Ocean City, NJ

• Why Visit: For something a little different, Hula Restaurant offers a taste of the islands with dishes like poke bowls, teriyaki chicken, and pineapple fried rice. The casual atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great choice for a laid-back meal.

7. Drip N' Scoop

• Cuisine: Ice Cream, Donuts, Coffee

• Location: 960 Asbury Ave, Ocean City, NJ

• Why Visit: Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, Drip N' Scoop specializes in homemade ice cream, fresh donuts, and premium coffee. Their unique combinations, like ice cream sandwiched between donuts, make it a fun and indulgent treat.

8. Piccini Wood Fired Brick Oven Pizza

• Cuisine: Italian, Pizza

• Location: 13th & West Ave, Ocean City, NJ

• Why Visit: Piccini offers a delicious variety of wood-fired pizzas with a crispy crust and flavorful toppings. In addition to pizza, the menu includes Italian favorites like pasta dishes, calzones, and fresh salads, all made with quality ingredients.

9. Varsity Inn

• Cuisine: American, Breakfast & Lunch

• Location: 605 E 8th St, Ocean City, NJ

• Why Visit: A longstanding Ocean City establishment, Varsity Inn is known for its hearty breakfast and lunch options. The casual diner vibe and friendly service make it a great spot to fuel up before hitting the beach or boardwalk.

10. Uncle Bill’s Pancake House

• Cuisine: Breakfast, American

• Location: 2112 Asbury Ave, Ocean City, NJ

• Why Visit: A family-friendly favorite, Uncle Bill’s Pancake House has been serving up delicious pancakes and breakfast classics for decades. The extensive menu features a variety of pancakes, waffles, and omelets, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

These restaurants represent just a taste of what Ocean City, NJ, has to offer. Whether you're in the mood for fresh seafood, classic boardwalk fare, or a sweet treat, there's something to satisfy every craving.

Family photo fun!

A seagull was flying above and grabbed a whole french fry.

1. Enjoy the Beautiful Beaches:

   Ocean City boasts some of the finest beaches on the East Coast. With miles of soft, powdery sand and clear blue waters, families can spend their days sunbathing, building sandcastles, and playing beach games. The beaches are well-maintained and provide a safe and enjoyable environment for swimmers and surfers alike.

2. Explore the Boardwalk:

   The Ocean City Boardwalk is the heart and soul of the town, brimming with entertainment, shops, and delicious treats. Take a leisurely stroll along the 2.5-mile wooden walkway, lined with amusement parks, arcades, and quaint shops. Indulge in mouthwatering saltwater taffy, funnel cakes, and ice cream from the numerous confectioneries and eateries.

3. Visit Wonderland Pier:

   Located on the boardwalk, Wonderland Pier is a classic amusement park that offers thrilling rides, games, and entertainment for the whole family. Take a ride on the Ferris wheel to enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline, experience the exhilaration of roller coasters, or challenge each other to a friendly competition at the arcade.

4. Discover the Ocean City Historical Museum:

   For those interested in learning about the town's rich history, a visit to the Ocean City Historical Museum is a must. The museum showcases exhibits that highlight the area's past, including its origins as a religious retreat and its development into a bustling resort town. Explore artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that provide insight into Ocean City's unique heritage.

5. Experience Watersports and Fishing:

   Ocean City is an ideal destination for water enthusiasts. Engage in a variety of exciting watersports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. The calm back bays provide an excellent setting for fishing, where families can try their hand at catching flounder, striped bass, or bluefish. Charter boat services are available for those seeking a deep-sea fishing adventure.

   6. Play Miniature Golf:

   Ocean City is famous for its multitude of mini-golf courses, offering fun and friendly competition for the whole family. Whether you prefer a pirate-themed course or a glow-in-the-dark adventure, there are options to suit every taste. Spend a delightful afternoon putting around whimsical landscapes and enjoying the company of loved ones.

   7. Visit the Ocean City Arts Center:

   For a dose of creativity, head to the Ocean City Arts Center, where you can explore various art forms. The center hosts rotating art exhibitions, workshops, and classes for all ages, providing opportunities to unleash your inner artist. Engage in pottery, painting, or drawing sessions, and bring home a unique souvenir of your time in Ocean City.

   8. Enjoy Nature at Corson's Inlet State Park:

   A short drive south of Ocean City, Corson's Inlet State Park is a pristine natural area that offers a tranquil retreat from the bustling beach town. Explore the park's trails and dunes, go birdwatching, or enjoy a picnic amidst the picturesque surroundings. It's a perfect spot to reconnect with nature and experience the coastal ecosystem up close.

   9. Attend Family-Friendly Events:

   Ocean City hosts a myriad of family-friendly events throughout the year, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere. From the Night in Venice to movie nights on the beach. 

   10. Of course, the big one… book a family beach session on the beaches of Ocean City, NJ with Shooting Star Photography!

Classic shot of the family!

Running away from dad.

Had to get a classic of little guy!

As you can see, there’s always fun to be had by families staying in Ocean City at the Jersey Shore! 

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Deirdre Giumetti

Shooting Star Photography

Magical Southern New Jersey Photographer

Fairy sessions are a real hoot! We love creating beautiful and captivating imagery.

As you can see this little lady had a fun time at her birthday photo shoot!

Fairy Photo Session In South Jersey

A fairy photo shoot with children can be a magical and memorable experience for both the children and the adults involved. Here are some ideas to make the photo shoot extra special:

1. Choose a magical location: Find a beautiful outdoor location that has a fairy-tale feel, such as a forest, garden, or park. The location should have plenty of natural light and interesting backdrops for photos. We have a ton of excellent options to choose from! 

2. Setting the scene: We can create a fairy garden or a fairy tea party setting with decorations like flowers, butterfly wings, fairy lights, and soft blankets. You could also add some props like fairy wands, flower crowns, and glittery fairy dust.

3. Dress the children: Have the children dress up in fairy costumes or tutus, or provide them with fairy wings and accessories to wear during the photo shoot. Make sure their outfits match the setting and are comfortable enough for them to move around in.

4. Be playful: Let the children have fun and be playful during the photo shoot. I encourage them to dance, twirl, and play pretend. Capturing candid moments of them laughing and enjoying themselves.

5. Use natural light: Natural light is the best way to capture the magical feel of a fairy photo shoot. I try to schedule the photo shoot during the golden hour, which is the hour before sunset or after sunrise when the light is soft and warm.

6. Edit the photos: After the photo shoot, we edit the photos to enhance the magical feel. I’ll add some sparkle or fairy dust to the photos, or play around with the colors to make them look more dreamy and ethereal.

Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and create a memorable experience for the children. A fairy photo shoot is a wonderful way to ignite their imagination and create lasting memories!

I love photography. The love I have oozes into my photographs and with the families, I am blessed to work with. I love making magic for everyone I shoot for. There's always that ONE image in a gallery that makes your heart sing. I love capturing kids as they are and the innocence at this age. I have two children myself and is why I got into photography in the first place.   Children love to dress up like prince and princesses. I enjoy bringing this magic to life... telling their story, or their "fairytale." 

Most of the dress designers, I work with, are from the United States. I love being able to provide these dresses to my clients as part of their storytelling session.  My daughter doesn't like to "dress up" so I also have shorter dress styles for children who aren't too much into it. We have accessories (IE, hairpieces that coordinate with each of our designer gowns). This 2018 brought out a lot of heart in me. With a lot of the adversary I had to face with medical emergencies with my own family. It helped me to truly value moments, in general.

I am proud to be able to offer that in return to the many families I have worked with in the past four years in business. I am honored if you choose us to photograph and allow us into your family's lives. Let us create something truly magical for you. For memories to be enjoyed for generations. Classic, dreamy-styled portraiture.. You'll have all your friends talking!!! I wish everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving and a blessed Holiday Season.

It's been a rollercoaster year! I hope for 2019, to be even better!!! 

Happy Shooting, my friends!!! 

Dee

Shooting Star Photography 

Creative Family Portraits at Daretown Lake in South Jersey!

Creative Family Portraits: Capturing Joy and Connection

Creative family portraits can be a delightful and enjoyable experience for several reasons. Firstly, they offer a platform for families to express their unique dynamics and individuality. By incorporating fun themes, costumes, or unusual settings, families can infuse their portraits with elements of humor, creativity, and personal style, turning the session into a playful and memorable activity.

Creative family portraits also provide the opportunity for families to make lasting memories together. When families engage in creative and interactive poses or activities during the photo shoot, it naturally fosters a lighthearted and joyful atmosphere. These moments of shared laughter and bonding not only add warmth and authenticity to the portraits but also create cherished memories for everyone involved.

Creative Family portraits... l live for!!!

What can I say I LOVE this family and I enjoy taking them to one of my go to spots.  It's practically in my own backyard in Southern NJ.  As I tend to just about travel, EVERYWHERE.   It was time for another round of portraits for these three amigos.. aka brother and sisters... so we decided to capture the lovely fall foliage... that New Jersey has to offer!   

So... we decided on the lovely Daretown Lake located in Salem County, NJ. I LOVE Daretown Lake. I feel like it offers a bunch of different types of scenery in a very small space.

• There's a Lake... It's gorgeous.. it's clean.

• There's an old mill. There are not many left around according to NJ historians on the saw mills in the area. The nearest one I am aware of is at Kirby's Mill in Medford.

• There's a beautiful forest trail.. I find it gorgeous all time of year even in the spring.. and I hate spring greens. It will be the death of me those greens!

• There's a great little gate to where you sometimes can catch cattle grazing on the hillside. The light at the end of the day is truly magnificent in this spot.

• There's an old barn. It has been recently renovated and looks great in the background of a lot of shots. Light gets a bit tricky as it can be harsh.. but at just the right angle it can shine!

Dare to be bold @Daretown Lake!

Elmer NJ awesome location for photo shoot!

Creative photo session in NJ, Elmer Lake. The fall foliage is to die for here.

Mom actually made these dresses for the girls and they go perfectly with the location.

The forest at Daretown lake is magical!

Beautiful sisters enjoying their photo shoot at Daretown Lake in Elmer!

Boho cuteness!

Bringing it down boho style after our session, we had a little fun and got creative!

When it comes to creative family portraits, the possibilities are endless! Here are some ideas to inspire you:

1. Themed Portraits: Choose a theme that reflects your family's interests or hobbies. It could be superheroes, favorite movies, historical eras, or even a specific color scheme. Dress up accordingly and create a fun and unique portrait.

2. Location Shoots: Instead of traditional indoor studio shots, take your family portraits outdoors in a picturesque location. It could be a beach, park, forest, or even an urban setting with graffiti walls or colorful buildings.

3. Silhouette Portraits: Capture the silhouettes of your family members against a beautiful sunset or with dramatic lighting. Silhouette portraits can be visually striking and create a timeless feel.

4. Seasonal Portraits: Plan your family portrait session according to the season. In spring, you can incorporate blooming flowers or cherry blossoms. In summer, consider a beach-themed shoot. Autumn offers vibrant foliage, while winter allows for cozy indoor setups or snow-filled outdoor scenes.

5. Generation Collage: Gather multiple generations of your family and create a collage-style portrait. Have everyone dress in a unified color or theme and arrange the photos in a visually appealing manner.

6. Fantasy Portraits: If your family enjoys fantasy or cosplay, consider creating a portrait that reflects that. Dress up as characters from your favorite fantasy book or movie and incorporate props and special effects to enhance the magical atmosphere.

7. Pet-Inclusive Portraits: Pets are an important part of many families. Incorporate your beloved furry friends into the portrait session. Dress them up or have them pose with the family, capturing the unique bond between humans and animals.

8. Unconventional Poses: Experiment with unconventional poses and compositions. Think outside the box and encourage your family to strike playful or creative poses. This can result in dynamic and engaging portraits.

9. Reflections and Mirrors: Incorporate mirrors or other reflective surfaces to add depth and uniqueness to your family portraits. Experiment with angles and perspectives to capture interesting reflections.

10. Personalized Props: Incorporate props that have personal significance to your family. It could be musical instruments, sports equipment, books, or items that represent your family's hobbies and passions.

Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and let your family's personality shine through in the portraits. Discuss your ideas with a professional photographer who can help bring your vision to life.

Why Daretown Lake in Salem County?

I came upon this location when I was living in Camden County and doing research for my Salem County book. I fell in love with the people of Salem County and the area. I wanted to move here... so we were expecting another little munchkin and decided to set up familial roots in Woodstown.

If you have never been, I urge you to check out it's little historic charm. I could not be happier anywhere else and the peace and quiet truly sucks you in! When I was featured in the Philadelphia Inquirer not to long ago, I took the reporter on a tour of the country here and to Daretown Lake.. This area is the part of New Jersey that I absolutely adore.    If you are looking for some creative family portraits of your family.. Count me in! You won't be disappointed. I like to impress! 

Happy Shooting, my friends! 

Dee