10 Hidden South Jersey Spots for Stunning Photography Sessions

Everyone wants a unique photoshoot, am I right? I am never one to go with the crowd, that is why my images stand out. Google photographers and most all look the same. However, there is one place I love soooo much and that is my home of South Jersey!

A young girl stands in a vast, open field in Salem County, New Jersey, with the warm glow of the golden hour sunlight surrounding her. The tall grass gently sways in the breeze as she smiles, embracing the peaceful beauty of nature.

It is a treasure trove of hidden gems for photography enthusiasts seeking secluded spots to capture beautiful moments. Whether you're a professional photographer or just love taking pictures, these ten fairly cool spots offer a unique blend of nature, tranquility, and historic charm. Join us as we delve into the untouched beauty of South Jersey's secluded locations, perfect for capturing timeless memories.

1. Oldman’s Creek Preserve:

Nestled in the heart of South Jersey, Oldman’s Creek Preserve provides a picturesque backdrop for photography sessions. The great trails and serene atmosphere make it an ideal spot for capturing the beauty of nature. Share your personal experiences, especially if you've had the pleasure of photographing a wedding renewal session amid its breathtaking surroundings.

Taken at Oldman’s Creek Preserve! This was a beautiful session and we got to see some horses! They have since added on 30 additional acres to this site. Two years ago! Definitely worth exploring!

Scenic Overlooks and Photo Opportunities: Oldman's Creek Preserve is dotted with scenic overlooks that offer breathtaking views of the landscape. Whether it's capturing the sunlight filtering through the tree canopy or framing a shot of Oldman's Creek winding its way through the preserve, these vantage points provide countless opportunities for photographers to create stunning compositions.

A joyful child smiles brightly at Oldman's Creek Preserve in Salem County, New Jersey. The landscape and peaceful creek provide a serene backdrop, capturing a perfect moment of happiness and natural beauty.

2. Tall Pines in Sewell:

A hidden gem that truly comes alive at night. Tall Pines, in Sewell, will virtually be your own oasis at sunset for those family sessions! The sun filters and glides through the beautiful tree lines for that beautiful warm glow that every photographer on this earth wants.

Two princesses in the meadow at Tall Pines State Park.

There are snakes here and I have seen them just about for every session (usually, on the trees) so this is why I will caution. However, if you stay on the paths. You’ll be fine! However, it is a gorgeous little oasis. An old golf course left to nature, now transformed into a great place of nature and hiking paths!

Three sisters stand close together in a golden field at Tall Pines State Park in Sewell, NJ, during sunset. The warm glow of the setting sun casts a beautiful light over the scene, highlighting the bond between the sisters as they smile and enjoy the peaceful moment.

3. Old Pine Farm Deptford:

Explore the diverse landscapes of Old Pine Farm Deptford, which boasts a cute meadow, a peaceful lake, and enchanting hiking trails. It is a very off-the-beaten location for Deptford, but there is some true charm of this location, making it a perfect escape for those looking to capture the essence of nature. The meadow here is my favorite. If you are looking for gorgeous brown tones. Or a nice setting with good light!

A maternity session in the snow at Old Pine Farm in Deptford, NJ.

Taken in the meadow at Old Pine Farm in Deptford. For First Holy Communion Portraits.

A joyful little girl in a bright red dress smiles happily as she stands at Old Pine Farm in Deptford, NJ.

4. Westville Wildlife Preserve:

Virtually unknown, Wildlife Westville Preserve offers a secluded haven for photographers. There is a hidden meadow and walking trails, leading to breathtaking views of the Delaware River. It is a fabulous spot to watch the sunset, go fishing, or to have a gorgeous day exploring the preserve. MANY MANY DEER here. The kids love it. No one really knows about this place! There are lookout views and some interesting facts/tidbits along the trails about the history of the location and also tidbits on some of the nature you may spot here!

A brother and sister stand together in a beautiful meadow in Westville, NJ, with an upright piano placed in the field. The natural landscape, with its tall grasses and open space, creates a whimsical backdrop for this unique and joyful moment.

Another image taken here. Lots of great areas to explore in Westville! This is a cool site. Just sometimes hiking involved.

5. Dod Ponds:

Despite restrictions on entering the ruins, Dod Ponds remain a haven for photographers seeking exploration and great lighting. It is a very popular fishing spot, yet a secluded off-the-mill location in NJ, providing a serene escape into nature. There are many ponds to explore and roads in here. It has become quite popular with locals.

Taken in the fall at the DOD Ponds. A young girl enjoys the vibrant fall colors at the DOD Ponds in NJ. Surrounded by golden leaves and crisp autumn air.

6. Salem, Oakwood Beach on the Delaware Bay:

For those craving a unique beach vibe without venturing to the Jersey Shore, Salem Delaware Bay offers the perfect solution. There is also a rustic preserve that use to be an old golf course (near the parking lot for the beach), this location creates a rustic look combined with those lovely beach vibes (mentioned above), making it an excellent choice for photographers seeking diverse scenery.

A young girl joyfully runs along the shore at Salem Oakwood Beach in New Jersey, with the warm glow of the sunset casting beautiful colors across the sky. The peaceful beach and vibrant sunset create a magical atmosphere for her carefree moment.

A little boy stands on the beach in Salem, NJ, holding a glowing lantern in the soft twilight.

7. Daretown Lake:

Transport yourself back in time to Daretown Lake, in Elmer, where a historic sawmill, a touch of forest, and a serene lake await. There’s a great country vibe here. As well as a lot of different backdrops that can be used in a small area! From country roads to the pretty blue historic sawmill, lots to explore! Not many of these places are left in New Jersey and I believe one of the last saw mills in our area!

Mom and dad in front of the mill at Daretown Lake in Elmer. Kissy kissy kissy lol.

The country vibes are strong here! A family enjoys a photo session by the serene waters of Daretown Lake in Elmer, NJ.

Country Vibe and Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Daretown Lake exudes a country vibe that makes it particularly appealing for families, but enough nature for the kids to explore!

A young girl joyfully rides a rocking horse near Elmer Lake, NJ, with the serene lake and natural surroundings providing a peaceful backdrop.

8. Elephant Swamp Trail:

Explore the wonders of Elephant Swamp Trail, weaving through nature's wonders. The trail is a beautiful nature escape. Going through meadows, forests, and creeks! Perhaps, you will find the Elephant that once escaped the circus on this path (as its namesake implies) they never found her! However, always great light. Always a great session no matter the season here!

Taken on the Elephant Swamp trail! It is gorgeous! Go take a hike here! Sooo ornery!

A mother and her young daughter share a beautiful moment together in Elk Township, NJ.

9. Woodstown, NJ Tree Path at Marlton Park:

This is a magical and enchanting Woodstown Tree Path in Marlton Park! My husband planted these in his Boy Scout days and it makes a most magical spot for a photo shoot anytime of year. It especially shines in the Winter adding to its greenery as everything else is dead! It’s a cute little section, but I found it magical! I have done many a Christmas session here over the years and I love the texture and greenery it provides!

The greens are beautiful at Marlton Park in Woodstown in the Winter. For a most magical session! This is my little bugger.

10. Boundary Creek Moorestown:

Our last stop is at Boundary Creek in Moorestown, a serene location offering a perfect blend of nature and tranquility. With boardwalks, restroom facilities, a little meadow, great light at sunset and lookout areas for wildlife, it makes a great place to visit and to have your family photo shoot!

A cutie patootie photo shoot at Boundary Creek in Moorestown, NJ. Brother twirling his sister.

The exploration of Boundary Creek Moorestown Park by emphasizing is a fantastic background for capturing timeless moments. Whether it's a family picnic, a quiet stroll along the creek, or the enchanting play of light and shadow in the early morning, this park encapsulates the essence of South Jersey's natural beauty.

It’s also great for young families that don’t want to walk too far or for pregnant mamas who need the restroom every 5 min! Yep, they have BATHROOMS HERE.

Winter session at Boundary Creek in Moorestown, NJ. A little girl in a blue dress smiles joyfully for the camera. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the park, her bright smile lights up the scene, creating a moment of pure happiness.

South Jersey's fairly cool and secluded spots provide a canvas for photographers to weave their magic. Whether you're seeking historic charm, natural beauty, or tranquility, these ten locations offer a diverse range of settings for capturing stunning photographs for your photo shoots. Explore the unexplored, and let your creativity thrive in the hidden gems of South Jersey.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Check out some more unique spots below!

Excited for 2017 Fall Sessions! Daretown Lake, NJ

Fall Family Portrait Session at Daretown Lake, Salem County, New Jersey

At Shooting Star Photography LLC, we capture the beauty of family moments against the picturesque backdrop of Daretown Lake in Salem County, New Jersey. Our neutral approach ensures that every emotion and expression shines through naturally.

With the golden hues of fall foliage surrounding the serene waters of Daretown Lake, your family portrait session will be a timeless masterpiece that you can cherish for years to come. Our experienced photographers know how to capture the essence of your family bond in a relaxed setting, allowing your personalities to illuminate the frame.

Let Shooting Star Photography LLC preserve your family's joy, laughter, and love during this enchanting fall season at Daretown Lake in Salem County, New Jersey. Book your session with us today and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Family photo at Daretown Lake, in Elmer.

cutie patootie.

Pretty lady in front of the Daretown lake mill.

Daddy with his kiddos.

Now, we got a smile!

Hello red head!

The classic sibling shot. Loved this Daretown Lake Session!

Capture the essence of family togetherness amidst the enchanting backdrop of Daretown Lake in New Jersey during a quick fall photo session. As the vibrant foliage paints the surroundings in warm hues, immerse yourself in a moment of pure joy with your loved ones. Let the crisp breeze of autumn gently tousle your hair as you embrace each other, creating heartfelt memories that will stay with you forever. Within the tranquil ambiance of Daretown Lake, our professional photographers at Shooting Star Photography LLC will skillfully frame your family, freezing the unbreakable bond and connection that defines you.

Through our lens, we will capture the laughter, the shared adventures, and the unconditional love that radiates from within, ensuring that your family fall photo session becomes a cherished heirloom, capturing a fleeting moment in time. Choose Shooting Star Photography LLC for an unforgettable experience amidst the natural beauty of Daretown Lake, NJ.

EEEEEK! This weather is getting cooler and cooler and it has been extremely gorgeous outside! I am so excited for upcoming fall photos in the South Jersey, Philadelphia and Delaware Areas. "They" aka forecasters for fall foliage predictions are expecting things to change a little earlier this year! Last year, fall extended in the first week of November! I recall the leaves not changing until the end of October! This year, they are expecting things to change and peak around mid October in our area.I guess we will see how things go! However, I am already starting to see some leaves changing colors around where I live in Woodstown, NJ (I travel all over) and am seeing among my travels to sessions all across the Delaware Valley, some foliage already starting to show! It's kind of strange.. It's still technically summer!

A little secret..  I MAY open up a few more sessions. I am trying to get caught up with the final galleries from the summer first and then will determine if I am able to open up a few more spots. Right now, we are booked full for the year (since I want to have photos completed for folks this year, in a timely fashion.) Here's a few images from a fall family mini session from last year!! I believe first family to choose images with our new policy! We upload the good, the bad, the ugly from our session...

EVERY image taken and then post them online for you to pick your selection and which images you would like edited. Can't wait to see what this year brings!!! I've already started working with families and hopefully, will post soon! :) I'm adding a few more great locations to the mix in the whole Delaware Valley/Philly area for folks who travel long distances to see me! I'm excited! We got to work at a great location in Pennsylvania the other day and it has so much to offer!     Fyi, new dresses and gowns are coming in daily and am very excited what 2018 is going to bring our way! Stay tuned.. You may see a fall session or two pop up and grab it while you can!!!  

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

NJ portrait photographer

This South Jersey Gal Loves Working With People!

To be a successful photographer in South Jersey, it's actually more personality than the technical stuff. Us South Jerseyans are all about personality! Truly! 

Some say, being successful is the 80/20 rule. 80% technical and 20% your understanding of settings, lenses, cameras, depth of field, and studying light. I am always a student by learning, studying, and taking classes!  Knowledge is power and it also helps to keep me on my toes. I make it a point to learn something new and practice daily! 

It's a wonderful thing because all of this 20% can all be learned (the technical aspect)... If you don't have the personality, business savvy, or don't like to work with people, portrait photography is probably not going to work out for you!

Love this casual shot of the family!

What I'm getting at is that...

You can't just develop a personality overnight!  A lot of your personality traits are genetics playing a role or just your general upbringing. Some folks are introverts, but have a great artistic eye. That's fine... completely fine, but it truly is harder for them to talk to or relate to others.. aka their clients. 

What I'm trying to say is that you need a personality to shine as a photographer.  You need strong communication skills.  You also have to keep folks energized and engaged! And of course keep your skills sharp! 

 We've all heard of those photographers that are known to be jerks and have egos the size of Mt. Everest. Trust me, I see it every day in this field! Actually, I have never seen bigger egos than in this profession. The high and mighty types. I truly can't stand people like that. Also, it isn't good for business because they often forget about good old customer service and putting the customer first. Of course, there are some customers that can't always be pleased, but it's your job to try your hardest. 

You need to remember, that you can easily be replaced, by hundreds of others gunning for the same job, in this highly saturated market. Listen to your client and deliver what they ask, not what you think is appropriate. It's an ability to learn and listen to your client that is going to keep you in business. 

These egocentric photographers may put out amazing work, but while clients go back through their albums, they'll always remember the experience as an ugly one. Ouch! The mean and rude photographer that we had!  

We've also probably heard of photographers that work with a lack of direction, in their session, and this does affect the final product! However, no photographer is a magician either. We do try to be though!  The good ones do! 

Being a successful photographer is about having a bubbly personality, but also being able to connect with your 1 year old clients as well as your 100 year old clients.  You need to have focus, direction, and confidence! Yet, really enjoy working with people! It's a business. Treat people with respect, get to know them, and you'll go far. 

Prior to my sessions, I like to ask questions. I actually have a "Getting To Know You Questionnaire."  I like learning everyone's names, ages and especially with the little ones, I like to learn what their favorite movie is or favorite toy. It makes it easier to connect with the kids during their session. You get more genuine laughs and smiles... Plus, it puts them more at ease. 

You may find this hard to believe, but most people do not like getting their pictures taken (I am definitely one of them.) If I can make things run smoothly and help to relax my customers... Perhaps, make them laugh a little and make this a fun experience... Then... I have done my job! 

I am all about the entire experience before, during, and after. However, if my clients are happy and relaxed during a photo session, then the end result/product of your photographs are going to turn out wonderful!

See even babies, you need to learn to connect with. This little princess is only 6 weeks old!

It is my job to have a general vision in how I want to capture my families, couples or children. It is a joining of two sides with the photographer and client, to truly make your photos magical.  

As your South Jersey photographer, it's my job to make my customers look their best, feel their best, and be able to capture these moments.  These will last forever and possibly saved for generations. 

 From the beginning, if you decide to work with me... We'll develop a plan and discuss the style you are wanting to go after.  Whether it be candid, posed, artistic... You name it. If you wish me to plan it all out, that's fine too!I'm here to provide a service, enjoyable experience, and beautiful photographs! 

I hope you found this post useful!

 Happy Shooting, my friends!-Dee