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

Philadelphia- A Photographer’s Dream

The Greater Philadelphia area offers a variety of picturesque locations for a family portrait session.

What areas do we travel for our clients in the Philadelphia, Delaware, and New Jersey regions? 

Shooting Star Photography provides their services as a family and maternity photographer to clients across various locations in the Philadelphia, Delaware, and Eastern Shore regions. These locations include Philadelphia, PA; Main Line, PA; Chester County, PA; Kennett Square, PA; Wilmington, DE;  Ocean City, NJ, Haddonfield, NJ, Moorestown, NJ, Mullica Hill, NJ. This extensive coverage allows us to cater to clients in multiple cities and towns within these regions.

What services do we offer for printing and preserving the photos?

At my photography sessions, I strive to provide a luxurious and effortless experience for my clients. With a focus on capturing natural and genuine family moments, I offer wardrobe and location guidance to ensure simplicity throughout the process.

I understand the desire to have family photos that not only evoke warmth but also appear authentic without any awkwardness. As an experienced photographer, I possess the skills to guide you in creating those frame-worthy connections that truly reflect your family's dynamic.

Additionally, I recognize that many of us struggle with finding the time or motivation to print and preserve our precious photos. That's why I offer a complimentary keepsake design service to make the process of creating heirloom prints a breeze. This means that you can easily enjoy tangible memories that will last for generations to come.

Furthermore, I understand the importance of digital images in our increasingly online lives. For this reason, I provide high-quality digital files in addition to the printed copies, allowing you to cherish your memories both online and offline.

With my services, you can expect the perfect combination of luxury, ease, and preservation, ensuring that your family's memories are beautifully captured and thoughtfully preserved.

Here are some backdrop and location ideas to consider:

From rooftops to Center City, we have you covered on gorgeous and unique locations. No session is the same and that’s how we like it!

Taken in South Philly. Anywhere in Philly can be magical!

The famous Rocky steps. A First Holy Communion Session we did here.

A lady in Rittenhouse Philadelphia.

1. Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Rocky Steps: The iconic steps and surrounding area provide a classic Philadelphia backdrop. Capture your family with the museum in the background or reenact the famous Rocky Balboa run up the steps.

2. Rittenhouse Square: This beautiful park in the heart of Philadelphia features lush greenery, tree-lined paths, and a central fountain. It's a popular spot for outdoor portraits, especially during the spring and summer months.

3. Boathouse Row: Located along the Schuylkill River, Boathouse Row offers a unique and scenic backdrop with its historic rowing clubs. The row of boathouses lit up at night can create a stunning setting for your family portraits.

4. Old City and Elfreth's Alley: Explore the historic streets of Old City, including the charming Elfreth's Alley. The cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and colorful facades make for an excellent backdrop with a touch of Philadelphia's history.

5. Philadelphia Magic Gardens: This mosaic art installation in South Street is a vibrant and eclectic location for family portraits. The colorful tiles, mirrored walls, and artistic elements provide a unique and visually appealing setting.

6. Fairmount Park: As one of the largest urban park systems in the United States, Fairmount Park offers a variety of picturesque locations. Choose from areas like Belmont Plateau, Shofuso Japanese House and Garden, or the Horticulture Center for beautiful natural backdrops.

7. Spruce Street Harbor Park: During the summer months, Spruce Street Harbor Park becomes a vibrant waterfront destination. The hammocks, floating gardens, and colorful LED lights can create a playful and lively atmosphere for your family portraits.

8. The rooftop at Cira Green. We’ve shot two sessions here and we absolutely love it. It’s an awesome rooftop that overlooks center city from West Philadelphia. It’s an awesome architecturally interesting place to shoot.

Another Rittenhouse family Session.

Top of the Rocky steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

The Philly Skyline. Miss Liberty.

Dancing in Fairmount Park Philadelphia. In the winter.

City lights always are fantastic and add to a pop in your Philadelphia photo shoot.

Remember to check the specific rules and regulations of each location regarding photography permits and restrictions. Additionally, consider the time of day and lighting conditions when planning your session to ensure the best possible results. Shooting Star Photography has shot at every venue above.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Shooting Star Photography 2023 Prep Sheet

If you're booking a stylized session with Shooting Star Photography, here's some information to help you prepare for your photo shoot.

See how mom styled for this session? She knew that there would be browns and natural textures.. plus the animals and everything came together. Kids are laughing, throwing grass at each other, the goat is having the time of his life eating grass. The wardrobe and styling made this session.

OUR SIMPLE PREP SHEET

Hi good ol' Shooting Star family! I have pretty much everything up here on this website. We sure like to blog and stay current! We wanted to write out a little prep guide for our clients to make the most of your session. I do get questions, from time to time, about how our stylizing services work. I try to be as cohesive as possible to make the experience fun for my customers, and I keep the process very easy and convenient for everyone.

COMPLIMENTARY WARDROBE OR WARDROBE STYLING

* I provide dresses for girls and a few for moms. I also have some style prep you can use for the men and boys. These are all courtesy items for our customers. It does not mean you need to wear them. Often, many customers show up dressed and ready to kill.

If you do wear our offerings...

* I send out a questionnaire to all customers, even for special/mini sessions. It helps me get to know you and your family a little better. I like to capture people's personalities, and this helps me understand my clients better.

* This questionnaire is also pretty awesome because you can tell me what you expect to get out of your session.

* I ask for sizes.

* I often can email a client what I'm thinking of having their child wear. If that's not the case, I bring a whole truckload of dresses to choose from based on the theme and setting.

Holding her precious chicken. She’s wearings something neutral and natural that goes with the setting. Highlighting her features and surroundings perfectly.

HOW TO ARRIVE TO YOUR STYLIZED SESSION

* I do recommend a very fresh-faced look (for children). No makeup, well-moisturized skin. Lip gloss or chapstick to keep your lips moist and prevent cracking during our session.

* In terms of hair, I like long and loose curls. Nothing crazy or dramatic. I honestly love capturing kids for who they really are, and I prefer a more natural approach. No long hair, no problem. We love short hair, too! A simple and fresh cut is always a plus about a week before your session. I can provide headpieces that will coordinate with your dresses. Just ask!

* I do suggest leggings if it's cold out. We can generally hide them under the dresses. I also provide shawls or furs for extra comfort during the cold winter months.

* For shoe choices, I prefer neutrals like silver, gold, black, brown, or taupe. They will go with anything and not be too distracting in your photographs.

* Try to wear neutral undergarments so that you won't have any crazy patterns or colors bleed through your clothing. For example, no black bras with a white T-shirt, unless you're a rebel. Then rock it!

Maternity Preparation

* I will bring three gowns for you to choose from. Please avoid flip flops as they do not photograph well. Closed toe shoes, boots, going barefoot, or neutral-colored sandals are preferred.

* I will also provide some headpieces for you to choose from. Please wear your hair the way you like it. However, what photographs best and my personal preference hair down, either straight or curly.

* Please bring nude boy shorts or underwear, and a nude strapless bra or nude bra in general. I do not provide these items due to hygiene reasons.

* Please keep makeup as simple as possible. Dark/heavy makeup does not mix well for outdoor portraits, as you will be moving around and may sweat a little. You do not want heavy makeup dripping all over your face.

* Bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated.

* We include immediate family (if you have other children) and the father in the beginning of your session, so plan your outfit accordingly. Towards the end, we will ask you to change (if you want) and do some formal shots with the father, and then some formals of yourself.

* We will have an assistant on hand to help you with whatever you need.

Children's Prep Sheet

* At this time, we only have dresses and gowns for girls ages 1-14. We do have a few boys' items - please inquire.

* We pull about 3 items for a half-hour shoot and about 5-7 items for an hour shoot. We cycle our dresses frequently, so we aren't photographing the same dress all the time.

* Please arrive 15 minutes early, so we can dress your child in a wardrobe prior to the start of the session.

* Make sure your child is wearing neutral undergarments and is clean. Also, check for any boogers.—- you think I’m joking, but I’m not!

* Please bring a few pairs of dress shoes, preferably white, silver, gold, black or neutrals, as they can go with anything. We do not provide shoes for our clients.

* Makeup is not recommended for any child, as I like them to be children. I do not alter appearances as other photographers do and will not alter a child's appearance other than skin correction.

* We also have a wide selection of headpieces to choose from.

* We will not liquify ribs, alter ears, eyes, give nose jobs, or slim a child under any circumstances. We want your child to have a fun experience and feel like a princess. They will be treated as one!

* Bring water and snacks so that we can take breaks throughout the session, and your child can take a few moments for themselves.

Family Sessions

* At this time, we do not have a full inventory to style an entire family session. However, we can provide you with some great tips.

* Attention to detail is everything, including socks! Especially for men, we can see your socks in certain posing placements. Also, please keep phones out of pockets and hair ties off of wrists. We will do a quick check before we start our session.

* Wear neutral colors, pastels, or jeweled tones. Prints are okay, but nothing too loud.

* Textures film well. So if you have silks, chiffons, feathers, tulle, these are great choices to wear on camera!

* Please keep makeup light and fresh.

* Bring snacks and drinks for the kids, and make sure they are well-rested prior to their session.

* You can always contact me if you're undecided about a wardrobe selection. We're here to help!

* Dad’s- watch the color of your socks and bulging pockets full of keys or phones. Never a good look. Clean dress shirt or polo works wonders. Usually khaki’s or gray neutral pants go well. Neutral dress shoe.

He’s wearing just about anything you could pull from a boy’s closet, but as you can see the colors compliment perfectly with the overall setting. Making this another stunner.

The Big NO NO's!

My typical no no's are: 

1. Black or very dark colored clothing.  They do not look flattering on film. Weird right? As they always tell you it looks slimming. Black doesn’t do well on the beach. However, sometimes it can be appropriate for a moody effect, a field, forest or city or very formal portraits (which that can be killer).

2. Dark makeup. It may look pretty in person, but can have you looking freaky on camera.  Light makeup and a more natural look always looks best.

3. Bright colors and heavy prints. Lighter prints are okay.  Anything too crazy is going to be too distracting and it honestly looks awful in most situations.  Bright colors often times give color casts on skin which is why I usually don't recommend them. Jewel tones are great, neutrals, soft complimentary colors. When I say bright.. I mean the really saturated magentas, the fluorescent greens and oranges. They are usually a disaster.

.All outdoor sessions will take place about an hour to an hour and a half prior to sunset. On particular beaches, we may start about a half hour prior to sunset and work with the light when it has set.

As you can see above, it's a straight-forward simple preparation guide. I provide a wardrobe tent when on location for privacy when getting changed. I truly want my customers to have a seamless experience from start to finish, and I'll pretty much take care of everything. All you need to do is show up and smile. Hopefully, this was a nice little article for you, and I hope to see you soon! Feel free to reach out with any questions. I'm always here to help.

Happy Shooting!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

NJ Farm Photo Sessions For Families- August 6th

New Jersey is a small state, but it boasts a thriving agricultural industry, with around 9,900 farms and 734,000 acres of farming. It's no surprise that New Jersey is a top 10 producer of various fruits, vegetables, and herbs, including blueberries, peaches, bell peppers, squash, tomatoes, and cranberries. As a photographer, I love photographing farm sessions because they are one of our more popular photography sessions.

But farm sessions aren't just about taking beautiful photos. They can also be a great way to engage children in learning about animals and how to care for them. By spending time with farm animals, children can develop a love and appreciation for creatures in our world. It's an opportunity to teach them that animals also need warmth, food, and care, and that this translates into caring about others and where our food comes from.

Observing children interacting with farm animals can be a magical experience. Animals are naturally curious, just like children, and they often enjoy the attention and affection they receive from little ones. During farm sessions, we generally interact with a variety of animals, including ponies, donkeys, horses, goats, cows, pigs, and sometimes even chickens and bunnies.

To prepare for a farm session, I recommend wearing cotton or vintage-style clothing, and boots are a must, especially if it has rained recently. It can get very muddy, but that just adds to the fun of the experience.

The farm I work with has some of the most incredible light, which makes for stunning photos, and they have a fantastic variety of animals. While you may not get perfectly posed photos during a farm session, what you do get is some of my best work.

If you're looking for a unique activity for your family and kids to do, I strongly recommend a farm session. It's an opportunity to learn, connect with nature, and have fun. Plus, you'll come away with beautiful photos that capture the joy and wonder of spending time with farm animals.

In conclusion, New Jersey may be a small state, but it has a thriving agricultural industry that produces a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Farm sessions are a fantastic way to engage children in learning about animals and how to care for them while having fun and making memories. And as a photographer, I can attest that farm sessions are some of the most rewarding photography sessions I do. So, if you're looking for a unique family activity that combines education, nature, and fun, consider booking a farm session. You won't be disappointed!

Here is the information for our next mini session. However, to get results and the best light (as shown above) we recommend a full photography session OR the last session booked for your mini session.

Happy Shooting, my friends.

Dee Giumetti