Top 10 Unique Places to Visit in Philadelphia

My List of the Best of Philadelphia: A Top 10 List for Locals and Tourists for a Photoshoot!

Your Philadelphia Destination Photographer!

Philadelphia, is a vibrant city brimming with history, culture, and stunning spots that make it a photographer’s dream. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these top 10 unique places to visit in Philadelphia offer iconic backdrops for family portraits, engagement shoots, or even solo photo sessions. Get ready to explore some of the most captivating locations in the City of Brotherly Love!

1. Philadelphia Museum of Art- Home of the Rocky Steps

Don’t even ask me how I edited out the people. This was waaaaay before AI came into play! However, it made for an iconic photo shoot!

Girl in Pink Little Dreamers Tutu Dress on top of stairs of the Art Museum!

Let’s kick things off with the iconic Philadelphia Museum of Art. The grand staircase and famous "Rocky Steps" have become synonymous with the city’s history, as seen in the popular Rocky films. As a Philadelphia family photographer, I’ve had the opportunity to photograph First Holy Communion sessions here, and let me tell you, it’s an incredible spot for any shoot. Pro tip: If you plan on shooting here, bring your patience—it’s busy, but with a little editing magic, the views are unforgettable!

2. Magic Gardens - Colorful Mosaic Masterpiece

Girls smiling at Magic Gardens in Philly.

Head over to Philadelphia's Magic Gardens on South Street for a whimsical backdrop. This vibrant outdoor art installation by Isaiah Zagar features intricate mosaics that make for vibrant and visually striking photos. When I did a shoot with two sisters here, we were so amazed by the artwork that we almost forgot we were there for the photos! Don't forget to visit Marrakesh, a Moroccan restaurant nearby for an unforgettable meal after the shoot.

3. Fairmount Park - A Serene Escape

Little girl twirling in Cherry Blossoms in Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park.

Looking for a peaceful oasis in the city? Fairmount Park is one of the largest urban parks in the country, offering serene landscapes, gardens, and waterfronts perfect for family portraits. The cherry blossoms in spring are particularly breathtaking, making it one of my favorite spots for Philadelphia family photos.

4. Eastern State Penitentiary - For the Bold and Dramatic

Engagement Session at Eastern State Penitentiary.

If you want a dramatic and edgy vibe for your photo session, look no further than Eastern State Penitentiary. This former prison’s crumbling walls and haunting architecture make it an intriguing setting for photos with an eerie ambiance. I’ve done an engagement session here that turned out stunning with the haunting backdrop.

5. Under the “EL” at N. Front Street - Graffiti Heaven

Teen in green under the “El” in Philly. \

If you’re looking for something artsy and vibrant, the area around 1611 N. Front Street offers colorful graffiti walls, string lights, and funky coffee shops. It reminds me of Brooklyn’s Bushwick neighborhood, full of youthful energy and artistic charm. It’s a Philadelphia photographer’s dream—definitely one of the coolest hidden gems!

6. Rittenhouse & Addison Streets - The Heart of Luxury

Boy smiling in his suit in Rittenhouse Square Philadelphia.

For a classic Philly experience, stroll through Rittenhouse and Addison Streets, iconic neighborhoods with beautiful luxury row homes. The charm of these streets is endless, and the magical lights on Addison Street add a warm glow perfect for family photos.

7. Christmas at Miracle on 13th Street - A South Philly Tradition

When the holiday season rolls around, don’t miss Miracle on 13th Street in South Philly. This cheerful neighborhood transforms into a winter wonderland with festive displays each year. It’s one of my absolute favorite places to shoot during the holidays. Be sure to check it out for a truly magical experience!

Girl with her lollipop in South Philly.

8. East Passyunk Avenue - Food, Fun, and Fashion

Girl looking rad at Pat’s Steaks.

East Passyunk Avenue is one of Philadelphia’s best-kept secrets when it comes to dining and shopping. From the famous Pat’s and Geno’s for a cheesesteak to upscale restaurants like South Philly Barbacoa, this area is perfect for capturing the eclectic energy of Philly. Plus, it’s home to some great photo opportunities, especially at night!

9. Philadelphia City Hall - Iconic Architecture

Philadelphia’s City Hall is an architectural marvel, boasting the largest municipal building in the U.S. The stunning neoclassical design and towering statue of John Wanamaker are perfect for elegant photo shoots. It’s one of my favorite places to shoot family portraits on Broad Street.

Broad Street Family Portraits in Philadelphia.

10. Cira Green - A Hidden Rooftop Oasis

Cira Green is one of the most unique spots in Philadelphia, offering skyline views from a rooftop garden atop a parking garage. It's a cool urban garden that provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. Whether you're planning a sunset shoot or enjoying a beer garden, it's a must-visit for any Philadelphia photographer.

Boy at Cira Green in Philadelphia for First Holy Communion Portraits.

Bonus: Light Installation on North Broad Street

Finally, a hidden gem that I don’t see mentioned often is the North Pole Light Installation on North Broad Street. This dazzling display of LED lights is perfect for evening photo shoots and adds a magical vibe to any portrait session. If you’re visiting for a concert at The Met, this should definitely be on your list!

My kids on the North Broad Side with the cool light installation in the background in Philadelphia.

Conclusion: Explore Philadelphia with Shooting Star Photography

There’s no shortage of unique photo shoot locations in Philadelphia, each offering its own charm and beauty. As a Philadelphia photographer, I’ve been lucky to capture memories in some of these spots and would love to help you document your special moments, whether you're a local or a visitor.

Ready to explore Philly and create unforgettable memories? Contact me to book your family portrait session, engagement shoot, or children’s portraits in Philadelphia!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

We offer an amazing client closet if coming in for your vacation in Philadelphia and want a special photoshoot!

Check out some more Philly Photography Sessions!

Broad Street- Philly Photographer fun!

Classic hair flip outside the Merriam Theater in Philadelphia.

But let's be real, being a photographer isn't always as glamorous as it seems. I mean, have you ever tried carrying around a heavy camera bag all day? Or dealing with clients who insist on doing those cheesy poses from Pinterest?

And let's not forget about the weather in the Philly area. One minute it's sunny and beautiful, the next minute it's pouring rain and your hair is a mess. But hey, that's just part of the job, right?

A little walk around Broad Street In Philly is always fun!

Speaking of clients, I've had some interesting ones in my time. Like the couple who wanted to recreate the lift from Dirty Dancing. I mean, sure, why not? Or the family who brought their pet llama to the shoot. Talk about a unique prop!

Fun on Broad Street in Philly

But you know what's really funny? The faces people make when they're trying to look natural in front of the camera. I mean, who stands like that in real life? And don't even get me started on the awkward hand placements.

Beautiful capture and a cold day in Philadelphia, but she shined!!

Bokeh lights in the city!

But at the end of the day, it's all worth it when you capture that perfect shot. The one where the light hits just right and the colors are vibrant. That's when you know you've truly captured a moment in time.

So if you're looking for a photographer who's not afraid to get a little silly and have some fun, then I'm your gal. Just don't ask me to carry your llama around, okay?

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Beach Family Photographer at the New Jersey Shore. South Jersey beach photographer!

Once upon a time, on the beautiful beaches of the Jersey Shore, there was a photography company called Shooting Star Photography. They were the best photographers in the area, especially when it came to capturing the essence of beach life. Their specialty was taking family, maternity, and children's portraits that truly captured the beauty of the beach and the joy of being together as a family.

Having fun. A family enjoying the beach at the Jersey Shore!

Shooting Star Photography is known for their attention to detail and their ability to make every customer feel special. They have a knack for finding the perfect location for each photoshoot, whether it is in Ocean City, Sea Isle, Wildwood, or Cape May. They knew all the best spots and were able to capture the essence of each beach in their photos.

The photographers at Shooting Star Photography love what they do, and it shows in their work. They enjoy making magic for their customers and making each photoshoot an awesome experience. They encourage their clients to take a dip in the ocean, play in the sand, and laugh together as a family. They believe that capturing these fleeting moments in time is the most important part of their job.

Best beach photographers in Ocean City, New Jersey. Little girls photo shoot.

One day, a family from out of town came to Shooting Star Photography for a beach photoshoot. The family was nervous and unsure of what to expect, but the photographer quickly put them at ease. They took them to a secluded spot on the beach, away from the crowds, and began to work their magic.

Brother and sister enjoying the warm sands in Wildwood, New Jersey. Love those Wildwood Days! And have to love that bow tie!

As the family played in the sand and splashed in the water, the photographer captured every moment. They took photos of the parents holding hands, of the children running and laughing, and of the whole family huddled together in a group hug. The family was having so much fun that they didn't even realize the photoshoot was over.

Having fun and jumping for joy at the Jersey Shore.

When the photos were ready, the family was amazed. The pictures were beautiful and captured the essence of their family perfectly. They couldn't believe how much fun they had during the shoot, and they were grateful to Shooting Star Photography for making it such an awesome experience.

Beautiful family capture at Steel Pier!

Family beach session at the Jersey shore. Yes, the background is real. We add a little magic! We were the first to offer this session and I know teach it to photographers across the US.

From that day on, the family made Shooting Star Photography their go-to photographer for all their beach photography sessions. They knew that they could trust them to capture their most precious memories and make every moment special. And so, Shooting Star Photography continued to make magic for families all along the Jersey Shore, capturing their joy and creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

One Dress- Multiple Looks

I can't tell you how many times am asked if this dress (not this one in particular) can be used in this particular setting. The answer is YES. If you have the right photographer, they can help stylize each and every session to capture what you want to do!

Love this Anna Triant Dress and the brunette beauty truly shines. We took this at Weymouth Furnace in Atlantic County.

Fairy sessions in a local park.

Fairy Magical Sessions. I always love adding a little magic to our images.

Winter fairy. We actually created this "snow" effect in post to make it more magical.

Twirling on the streets of Philadelphia.

Same dress (which is made by Anna Triant) by the way. Different location in Philadelphia. It's also the same girl as above.

Twirling in a meadow in Sewell, NJ.

Taken in a local park in Sewell, New Jersey. Same dress as all other examples.

Having fun in the cornfields in Alloway, Salem County, NJ.

Photoshoot in Alloway, Salem County, New Jersey. From country gal to city girl.. styles can be versatile.

As you can see, just one dress, can be used in a variety of locations and situations. That's what we are here for and to create beautiful images for our customers.

If looking to book the most magical Philly photographer around, we are here for you!

Have a magical day, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Chasing Silver in the Sun: A Sisters Photoshoot in Wilmington DE

Intro

There's something magical about a beautiful day in the gardens, filled with laughter, love, and the shimmer of silver. On a particularly gorgeous day, two sisters decided to transform their shared moments into tangible memories within the captivating environs of Wilmington, DE. The dazzling smiles, the shared giggles, and their adoration for all things silver gave birth to a fascinating tale under the sun.

A Glimpse of Mary Coffin Gardens

Tucked away in the bustling city of Wilmington, Delaware, lies a hushed paradise - the Mary Coffin Gardens. Often overlooked, this gem boasts a rich tapestry of emerald greenery, a riot of blossoming flowers, and tranquil nooks ideal for moments of reflection. This splendid sanctuary offers an exquisite canvas for compelling photography. Picture cobblestone trails snaking their way through the flourishing gardens, sunlight dappled through the canopy of leaves, creating a visual symphony for any photoshoot. It is within this verdant oasis that the narrative of our sisters began to take shape.

Sisterhood Defined Through a Photoshoot

The lens of a camera has the power to capture more than just pictures; it can encapsulate emotions, relationships, and moments that are fleeting yet impactful. The sisters' photoshoot was a beautiful depiction of their bond - an intricate web of shared experiences, whispered confidences, playful banter, and unwavering affection. As they frolicked and chased each other amidst the garden's lush greenery, their shared laughter resonated, creating a symphony of joy and companionship that was captured in every photograph. Each snapshot was more than just a beautiful picture; it was a cherished fragment of their shared existence, echoing their camaraderie, their shared past, and their aspirations.

Embracing the Silver Trend in Fashion

Fashion is not just about the clothes we wear, but the stories we tell through them. The sisters’ mutual affinity for silver was brilliantly showcased in their photoshoot. Their accessories glinted in the sunlight, adding a touch of glamour and glitz to their appearance. Silver tones extended beyond their jewelry, embracing their wardrobes as well. Their outfits, in varying shades of silver, gave off a chic and trendy vibe.

What made the silver trend even more enchanting was the setting. Amid the lush greenery of the Mary Coffin Gardens, the sisters’ silver attire shone like stars on a clear night. The vibrant colors of the surrounding flora served as a dramatic contrast to the metallic hues, further amplifying their radiance. The sunlight dancing off their silver ensembles created a mesmerizing spectacle - a sight that could capture any eye and captivate any heart.

More than just an aesthetic choice, the silver trend worn by the sisters was a reflection of their personalities. It revealed their modern outlook towards fashion, their shared love for all things bright and shiny, and their ability to stand out. Their striking attire combined with their vivacious energy made every photo sparkle with life and style. A trend that might seem like a simple color choice became a symbol of their togetherness and their shared style statement. The silver trend, as adorned by the sisters, was thus not just a color, but a captivating tale of fashion, sisterhood, and shared memories.

Capturing Perfect Moments

The essence of photography lies in the magic of seizing those fleeting instances that may seem ordinary yet are truly extraordinary. Each photograph of the sisters was a canvas portraying these ephemeral but precious moments, etched permanently into their shared chronicles. Through the photographer's lens, the infectious joy, profound love, and unbreakable bond between the sisters were masterfully encapsulated.

The photoshoot was less about staged poses and more about catching them in their natural, unfiltered state. Their movements were spontaneous, their laughter genuine, their smiles unrehearsed. It was all about capturing them in the middle of a joyous sprint, or a shared giggle, or a quiet, loving glance. It was about framing them in their true essence, reveling in each other's company, and simply basking in the moment.

These sisters were not just posing for the camera, they were living their story and creating a narrative that the lens was privileged to capture. Each snap clicked at the right moment brought out their shared camaraderie, their playful banter, and their genuine affection for each other. It was about freezing those shared glances, those belly laughs, and those tender moments of sisterly love into timeless keepsakes.

Photography, after all, is not just about capturing faces; it's about capturing feelings, relationships, and those priceless instants that tell a compelling story. The artistry lies in preserving those perfect moments that, in retrospect, become an unforgettable part of the sisters' shared journey. The photoshoot in the enchanting Mary Coffin Gardens was less about the photographs taken and more about the precious moments caught in each frame, crafting an unforgettable narrative of sisterhood and love.

A Beautiful Day to Remember

As the sun started to dip below the horizon, casting a serene glow over the Mary Coffin Gardens, the sisters stood side by side, their hands intertwined. Their hearts were brimming with a trove of treasured memories made throughout the day. From the glint of their silver attire sparkling under the sun to their echoing laughter that blended harmoniously with the garden's serene soundscape, every moment was etched in their hearts. The day was more than just a photoshoot - it was an enriching journey seeped in shared joy, camaraderie, and the unspoken language of sisterhood. It was a celebration of their mutual love for fashion, especially their fondness for the enigmatic charm of silver. Each giggle shared, each playful chase, each quiet, affectionate glance was a testament to their beautiful bond. The day was all about cherishing the beauty of the present, living each moment to its fullest, and creating beautiful memories in the process. As they looked back at the day, their hearts swelled with contentment. Their photoshoot in the serene, idyllic setting of the Mary Coffin Gardens wasn't just an event on their calendar. Instead, it was an unforgettable chapter in their shared journey, a vivid memory they would revisit time and again. Each snapshot taken, each moment shared under the sun was a cherished memory, a beautiful memento of their sisterly bond. As they left the gardens, their minds were filled with the day's experiences - a day of joy, shared fashion statements, and the magic of sisterhood, forever etched in their hearts. It was, indeed, a beautiful day - a day that would always shimmer in their memories like their cherished silver.

Welcome to this magical garden series for 2019! We have obtained a permit to shoot at the Mary Coffin Gardens in Wilmington, Delaware. If you haven't heard of this place, you need to check it out. Mary Coffin was the main designer at Winterthur Gardens and you see this carried over to this estate. She also worked on some gardens at Longwood.

Join me for a day of whimsy at this magical place. I have two spots left and this is our last offering of the year at this special limited series rate.

We will provide dresses and headpieces and we will have fun in the gardens.

If you would like to book this magical garden experience, please see the link above for more information. We would love to see you here!

There is one thing I am obsessed with. I always have been. From a young age to now an adult. It's one thing that has always brought me joy. It's flowers. Anything relating to flowers, I'm quite obsessed.

I obtained a Master Gardening Certification back in 2005. I love being able to identify bloom times of perennials and now am teaching my children how to identify these plants, just by their leaves. I have had gardens all my life.

From vegetable gardening with my father, to creating my own little magical "french courtyard" when I became an adult and lived in Havertown, PA. I took down an old dilapidated brick garage. Chiseled and sanded off the mortar of each and every brick. Used the brick to create walls around the property fence line and then even created brick flower beds. I had every variety of plant you could imagine, as my little courtyard garden was like a secret garden. Jasmine filled the air. Every Sunday night, we would light up a ton of candles. Listening to Frank Sinatra Sundays on the radio.

When I moved back to New Jersey, we bought a little house. All 1100 square feet. It was a blank canvas, so I got to work! Creating Rose of Sharon hedges for privacy on our little stone patio and boxwood and lilies.. everything lilies.. from easter lilies, to daylilies, to asiatic and oriental varieties and lots and lots of lavender. I had a small space, but made sure I made it my little heaven.

Our family was expanding and so it was time to move from our tiny house and we settled in Woodstown. We saw the house in the winter all snow on the ground, but I new the garden would be extraordinary in the spring. It was pretty much the reason I wanted my house. The garden use to be on state garden tours. It's terraced leading down to a stream. This is now my new paradise that I call home and you could never ask me to leave. I love it.

As you can see, I have surrounded myself with flowers all my life. I couldn't be happier. This is the joy I also like to share with every client that comes through the door.

This is why this magic garden series is special to me. It brings me back to my original garden... encapsulated within stone. It reminds me of my travels to England and France and the beautiful gardens that you seem to find anywhere you look. It brings me back to a time of garden leisure and sophistication. It's one of my favorite places this year to shoot at.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography