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.

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South Jersey-Cherry blossoms are blooming all month long!

Welcome to the world of cherry blossom sessions. Occurring all month long the Philadelphia and NJ region. We welcome you to join us for this magical cherry blossom experience!

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Twirling among the Cherry Blossom Trees in Philly.

If you're looking for a truly magical and enchanting photo shoot, look no further than a cherry blossom session. Every spring, the cherry blossoms burst into bloom, creating a breathtaking display of pink and white petals that seem to cascade like snowflakes. And nowhere is this display more stunning than in Philadelphia, where the grounds come alive with the beauty of the cherry blossom trees.

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Sisters dancing in the magical light.

One of the most beautiful features of the cherry blossom display is the weeping cherries, whose delicate branches droop and flow like a river of petals. As you walk through the grounds, you'll be surrounded by the soft rustling of the branches and the gentle swaying of the blossoms.

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Magical pinks and pastels come alive just in time for the beginning of spring in the Philadelphia area.

But it's not just the weeping cherries that are a sight to behold. The Yoshino cherry trees put on a show-stopping display of cotton candy pink blossoms, which seem to glow with an otherworldly light. As the sun filters through the trees, the light glistens and dances, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that is truly magical.

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Capturing natural is what we are about. See how she’s just having fun, smiling and twirling… in the moment? That’s what creates beautiful art!

As you walk through the cherry blossom display, you'll be struck by the sheer beauty of it all. The petals falling around you create a soft, snow-like effect that seems to transport you to another world. And with the exquisite backdrop of the Philadelphia grounds, you'll have a stunning setting for your photo shoot.

Whether you're looking for family portraits, engagement photos, or just some beautiful shots to capture the moment, a cherry blossom photo shoot is an experience you won't soon forget. The natural beauty of the cherry blossom display, combined with the exquisite backdrop of Philadelphia's grounds, creates a truly enchanting atmosphere that is perfect for capturing your most special moments.

So if you're looking for a photo shoot that is both beautiful and magical, consider a cherry blossom session in Philadelphia. With the weeping cherries flowing and the Yoshinos putting on a cotton candy display, you'll be surrounded by breathtaking beauty that will create memories to last a lifetime.


If you are interested in a Philadelphia or New Jersey cherry blossom session, they are blooming this entire month. You may find out more information by clicking below.


Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

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Happy New Year, Philly! Christmas in the South Philly!

Miracle on 13th Street Family Photography Session

Happy New Year, Philly! Christmas in the South Philly!

Join us for a holiday fun photoshoot as we roam around 13th Street taking in all the Christmas cheer!

Miracle on 13th Street in Philadelphia!

Happy 2023! Can you believe it? We made it! Woo hoo. I hope you are healthy and living life.

Celebrating Christmas in Philadephia is awesome!

Oh boy, let me tell you about the magic that happens on the 13th Philadelphia Street during the holiday season. It's what we affectionately call the "Miracle on 13th." Now, picture this: colorful lights twinkling, storefronts adorned with garlands, and the cheerful sound of carols filling the air. But what makes this street truly special is the down-to-earth vibe that permeates the entire atmosphere.
Walking down the street, you'll find yourself surrounded by the warmest smiles and the friendliest hellos. It's like the holiday spirit somehow seeps into the very hearts of everyone who sets foot on this enchanted street. People come from far and wide to soak in the joyful energy and experience the pure bliss that only the Miracle on 13th can deliver.

Family Holiday Photo Shoot in Philadelphia


Now, let's talk about the shops. You won't find any run-of-the-mill stores here. No sir! Each boutique, bakery, and café boasts a unique charm that is impossible to resist. Whether you're searching for that perfect vintage sweater, an artisanal candle that smells like winter dreams, or the most delightful gingerbread cookie you've ever tasted, you will find it here. And did I mention the hot chocolate? Oh, believe me, it's like sipping on a cup of liquid happiness.


As you roam the street, you might stumble upon a street performer crooning a classic tune or a group of kids giggling and tossing snowballs at each other. There's a whimsical surprise waiting around every corner, be it a pop-up art exhibit or a whimsically decorated tree that seems to radiate its own special magic.

Philadelphia during the holidays


But perhaps the most enchanting part of all is the sense of community that fills the air. The Miracle on 13th brings people together – families, friends, and strangers who quickly become friends. It's a place where memories are made, where laughter echoes through the air, and where the holiday spirit is celebrated with open hearts and open arms.


So, if you find yourself in Philadelphia during the holiday season, don't miss out on the Miracle on 13th. Embrace the joy, immerse yourself in the magic, and let the whimsical atmosphere transport you to a place where the holidays truly come alive. It's down-to-earth, it's fun, and it's a beautiful reminder of the power of community and the pure magic of the season.

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Looking suave for Christmas in Philly! We love all the magical sparkling lights.

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Brother and sister posing for an awesome photo shoot on the miracle of 13th street in Philadelphia.

Christmas time is here! Love the bold colors.

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Join us for a magical Christmas Experience in 2023!

Christmas was awesome this year. We almost had ourselves a "White Christmas!"

Dee, the talented photographer behind Shooting Star Photography, loves capturing the special moments that families share, and this Christmas photo session was no exception.

On a chilly December day in Philadelphia, Dee met up with a group of preteen cousins who were all dressed up in their finest attire. Two boys and one young lady looked absolutely stunning as they walked through the bustling streets of the city, with the iconic architecture providing a striking backdrop for their photos.

As they walked through the city, Dee captured candid shots of the cousins laughing and joking around, as well as more posed shots of them standing together in front of the city's iconic landmarks. But Dee wasn't content with simply sticking to the sidewalks - she had a bold vision for this photo shoot.

As the traffic came to a halt at a nearby intersection, Dee saw an opportunity to create some truly epic shots. With the cousins looking on excitedly, Dee took a deep breath and led them into the middle of the street, where she positioned them in front of the iconic Philadelphia skyline. The boys even wore their suits, adding a touch of elegance to the already stunning backdrop.

The result was a series of truly breathtaking photos that captured the beauty and energy of Philadelphia during the holiday season. The cousins were thrilled with the results, and their families were overjoyed to have such beautiful and timeless memories of their loved ones.

Dee's creativity, expertise, and adventurous spirit made this photo session truly special. Her ability to work with families of all kinds, from siblings to cousins, ensures that every shoot is unique and tailored to the individuals she is working with. And, with her keen eye for detail and stunning photography skills, Dee is able to capture the magic of these special moments and turn them into cherished memories that will be treasured for years to come.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee Giumetti

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Simple Studio Branding/Head Shot Sessions

Simple branding sessions and headshots are a wonderful way to update your linkedin or your social media accounts for your business. It is a way to showcase who you are. You don’t need to go all out and be fancy, either. Sometimes a simple shirt and jeans, is all you need.

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As part of my new studio offering, I am offering simple studio branding sessions or headshots in my Collingswood, New Jersey Studio. As part of this session, it will be focused on just you, simple and casual. You can opt to switch out to a suit! This session will include a light and simple edit among a white background, to showcase your natural beauty. The total session cost is $275 and includes 3 high resolution digital files, with unlimited printing rights. You will also get to choose with three you would like to have.

These simple studio, headshot sessions are just the look you need to update your dating profile or linkedin account.

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Sometimes simple and classic in the studio is the way to go!

I love capturing the REAL you. Simple and sweet!

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Super cute and casual.

Come on into our South Jersey studio and let's capture some magic together!

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Love this simple jeans and top look It's great to have a little fun behind the camera!

As always, we LOVE our clients and love what we do. Of course, we had to do a little goddess session for her, too. Have a little fun in the studio, right?

Give us a call at 8568577299, to schedule your headshot or branding session.We’d love to create something simple and fun for you. This was just a fun 15 min session in casual gear, but we can do anything you wish! We’d love to create something special for you!

Happy Shooting,

Dee

South's Jersey's funniest photographer :)

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The Magic of Childhood

The Magic of Childhood

I love talking about people’s childhoods. When it comes to photography a lot of my childhood, I like to bring forth and to create a story. In my eyes, my childhood was magical and I wish that today's kids could enjoy the same childhood. 

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Wildflowers and moon watching at a gorgeous photo session in Mullica Hill, New Jersey.

My kids are at the ages of 7 and 4. They are now starting to inquire and ask how my childhood was and the things I did. Almost everything I talk about, my kids say they wish they could do this stuff today.

In a way, I feel bad for my children. I feel they are missing out on a real childhood. Everything just seems so planned and no surprises. With my childhood, I’d come home from school, do my homework, then head on out until the lights came on.

There was no need for texts or phone calls. You’d pop into a friend’s house and say hey, Mrs. so and so... is Jenny home? Jenny would come to the door and you’dsay, “come on, let’s go ride our bikes.” The next thing you hear is Jenny saying, “bye” to her mom and her mom screaming back, “come back before dark!” And off we went!

It was a time before the internet. We’d ride our bikes, usually in a big group. Head up to the school. Maybe play some basketball, or suicide (it’s a game with a tennis ball). When those Street lights came on, it meant it was time to head home. Have dinner. Wash up. Go to bed.

Through all these activities, it was very rare to see any parents around...

Weekends, we’d go the the mall, movies, dances, sleepovers (a ton of them) or roller skating.

If winter, you’d find us at Flower’s Hill.

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Love my little monkey!

Snow portraits are the best!

If it was summer, we’d explore the forest, make forts, go crick stomping, hit up every friend’s pool, play knock knock zoom zoom, jailbreak and flashlight tag.

Of course there was sports, but today things are very competitive. We joined mostly to be social and to be with our friends.

Our only rule..was to stay out of trouble and to be home when the lights came on.

It was frowned down upon to be home and play video games all day long. We were generally encouraged to explore and be kids. I know some parents use to go as far as locking their kids out of the house until it was nighttime when I was growing up!

In a way, I feel sorry for how things are these days. It’s all about play dates and parental supervision. Sleepovers are rare, unless the parents REALLY know each other. Popping in, or stopping by, without a text, or a call is frowned down upon and basic blasphemy to do to anyone.

In my day, if you traveled to an area and knew someone and DIDN’T try to stop by... you were considered rude. It was okay to just show up and knock... if they weren’t home, it showed effort on your part and was respected.

Kids are now left at home to their own devices. Whether it be reading, video games etc. they miss the exploring and natural curiosities of just growing up and learning things on their own. I feel these kids are missing out with bonding with friends and exploring their own environments.

Don’t get me wrong, kids still do things, but I think they lose the social connection and there’s a big disconnect. Some kids are struggling with anxiety and lacking how to be social.

We didn’t need Facebook or the internet because trust me, if you did something bad... word somehow got back to your parents and hell would be leashed.

I mean kid parties now.... Parents are required to stay there. In my day, drop off, have fun, get picked up... or walk home afterwards..and that was that.

What the heck happened? Now, if kids did this stuff these days, most likely cps would be knocking. This is the crazy past, but it is what it is.

I understand a lot of it is becausebad things happen to little kiddos and there are bad people in this world. However, statistically we’re much safer than we ever have been. Due to technology.

So I guess my question would be... what happened? And why the shift?

More kids are staying indoors more than ever and obesity is going through the roof because of it.

Do you think things could ever go back the way they were? Even on a small scale?Or are we just all doomed? 😂

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Our Magical Sessions!

Did you know unicorns are not found in Greek mythology? They are actually in accounts of their natural history! For Greek writers, they were convinced that unicorns were real. Not only were unicorns written about in Greece (Mesopotamia), they were also written in texts in the ancient text myths of India and China.  The first mention of unicorns are written in 2700BC!! Unicorns are described as a creature of great power and wisdom. It's no wonder why adults and children love them!There is nothing more spectacular and fulfilling then to make a child smile! A pure, genuine, happy smile. No fakery, just kids being themselves. It's every artist's dream to achieve that in their work. It's what I strive for in EVERY SINGLE SESSION. I want the best for my clients, every single time. When I get inquiries from parents that are looking for birthday photos with the classic cheesy smiles, it's just not in line with the work we do. We turn folks away. It's about managing expectations. We don't want you to waste a cent on something that is not us and something we cannot deliver. Life is too busy to waste! magical unicorn sessions, new jersey magical photography sessions, philadelphia family photographer, delaware county pa photographer, photographers in south jersey, unicorn photography sessionsunicorn photography sessions, magical unicorn sessions, photographers in south jersey, photographers jersey shore, photographers philadelphia, children's photographer haddonfield New JerseyI want to talk about out our magical unicorn sessions. We love them. It's not just a photo shoot to us, it's an experience for all who are involved. We bring two racks of dresses, headpieces and of course, the showstopper... the unicorn! You have a ton of princess dresses to choose from. We bring a changing tent so that you can have your privacy and get ready. All you need to do is show up! Everything is on location.Safety is huge for us. We have extra insurance because we are working with a live animal. We also contract with an experienced professional/handler who is also insured. The ponies we work with are experienced. Most are twenty plus years old and their behavior is pretty predictable at this stage in their life. The ponies we use, are use to being around children. A lot of them do pony parties and riding lessons. It's important that safety comes first in every single unicorn session we do. It's why we have an age limit for these types of sessions. Our goal is to not only provide you with beautiful imagery, but we want your children to feel safe and to have a magical experience! We really love creating these sessions for our customers. We have one date left this year. It is a rescheduled date. If interested, please email us, or fill out our contact form! We'd love to work with you! Happy Shooting, my friends! DeeShooting Star PhotographyNew Jersey Photographer          

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