Magical Unicorn Family Portrait Photographer in Delaware

Hi there, magical souls! I'm your whimsical guide and photographer in New Jersey, here to take you through an enchanting journey—a "mommy and me" styled unicorn photo session that will sprinkle your world with fairy dust! At Shooting Star Photography, we believe in capturing the precious moments you share with your little ones in the most dreamy way possible. So, saddle up on our unicorn, and let's gallop through the 20 steps to making your fairytale photo session come to life!

Dreaming Up Your Perfect Session

Alright, let's kick things off with a dash of imagination! Picture this: a world where soft pastels paint the sky, enchanting gardens sprawl at our feet, and a majestic unicorn awaits to join us. It's your turn to dream—what feelings do you want to capture in this magical realm? Is it the heartwarming bond, a spark of whimsy, or perhaps a touch of fantasy? Scribble down your dreams and share them with me. Together, we'll weave these dreams into the very fabric of your session, crafting an experience that's as magical as the tales we adore.

Choosing Your Magic Date

Once our fairy tale is envisioned, picking our magic date is next! I get it, life's busy—especially for you amazing parents juggling your wands and warrior shields daily. That's why we offer flexible scheduling to ensure our adventure doesn't add to the spell of chaos. Let's find a day where you can leave the hustle behind and step into a world of wonder with your little one, stress-free. Together, we'll make it a date that fits seamlessly into your epic saga.

Securing Your Spot with Shooting Star Photography

To ensure our magical journey together is officially on the books, reach out to us to secure your spot. A little bit of pixie dust (a simple booking deposit) guarantees that our unicorn is reserved just for you on your chosen day. We've made this process as effortless as possible because we believe nothing should stand in the way of your enchantment. So, let's lock in your date and start counting down to a day filled with laughter, love, and a touch of unicorn magic!

Planning Your Enchanted Outfits

Diving into your closet for our magical session is like opening a treasure chest—there are no wrong choices, only opportunities for enchantment! Imagine gowns that float like whispers on the wind and little crowns made of the finest forest finds. But remember, the real spell is comfort; we want you to dance with the unicorns, not wrestle with wardrobe mishaps. Let's pick outfits that let both of you shine in the ethereal light, embracing the whimsy and wonder of our journey together.

Location, Location, Magical Location

As a seasoned photographer in New Jersey, I've uncovered the most spellbinding spots, perfect for our unicorn-themed adventures. Imagine whimsical forests, shimmering lakes, and fields aglow with the golden hour's touch—these are just a few canvases for our storybook session. Together, we'll select a locale that not only breathes life into our magical tale but is also a breeze for you to reach. This ensures our session is nothing short of enchanting, leaving the real world behind the moment you step into our carefully chosen fairytale setting.

Meeting Your Unicorn

Before the sparkle of our photo shoot begins, you and your little dreamer will have a special moment to meet our star unicorn. This magical encounter is designed to sprinkle a bit of comfort and excitement into your hearts, making sure those genuine, joy-filled smiles come effortlessly when the camera starts clicking. It's a whimsical introduction that sets the stage for a photo session filled with laughter, love, and, of course, a little unicorn magic.

Personalizing Your Experience

Your fairy tale session is as unique as your family's story. Whether it’s weaving in a treasured family heirloom or featuring a favorite fairy tale book, we're all ears! Tell us your whimsical wishes or cherished memories you'd love to capture. This personal touch transforms your photo shoot into a magical narrative that's exclusively yours. Let’s collaborate to ensure every sparkle and smile reflects the genuine, magical bond you share.

Capturing the Magic in Delaware

When our photo shoot day arrives, it's our time to let the magic unfold naturally. I'll be there to gently guide you into sweet moments and capture those spontaneous bursts of joy and love. Forget about striking the perfect pose; it's the heartfelt giggles, the soft cuddles, and the playful twirls that we're truly after. These genuine, unscripted interactions are where the real enchantment lies, ready to be immortalized through my lens.

Sneak Peeks and Fairy Dust

While you're eagerly waiting for the full magical reveal, we’ll send you fluttering into excitement with a few sneak peeks of our enchanting time together. Think of it as a little fairy dust sprinkled in your inbox to give you a glimpse of the magic we captured. It’s just a taste of the wonder that’s to come, keeping the anticipation high and your heart fluttering with joy until the grand unveiling.

The Grand Reveal

And now, the moment that twinkles brighter than a constellation—our grand reveal! Imagine stepping into a space filled with the magical moments we captured, each photo a doorway back to our enchanting adventure. Your heart might skip a beat as you lay eyes on these memories, now immortalized. It’s here, amidst the joy and giggles frozen in time, that you’ll truly grasp the magic we’ve woven together. Get ready to relive the wonder and whisk yourself back to a realm where unicorns roam freely.

Selecting Your Favorites

Diving into our treasure chest of captured moments together, it's time for the enchanting task of selecting your favorites. Picture us, side by side, flipping through the magic of your day, each photo sparking memories and joy. I'm here to guide you, to help you spot those genuine glimmers of love and laughter that make your heart sing. This step is all about choosing the snapshots that tug at your heartstrings, ensuring the essence of your magical journey is captured just as you remember it.

Custom Products and Keepsakes

After our adventure together, it's time to bring the magic of our unicorn world into your home with custom products and keepsakes. From the sparkle in your eye captured on canvas to the joy of your little one's laughter bound in an heirloom album, we curate these treasures with all the love and enchantment of our session. It's about keeping the magic alive, letting it fill your spaces and hearts every day. Let’s turn these moments into tangible memories that dance through your life.

Designing Your Album

As we sit down to design your album, it's like we're casting a spell together, mixing and matching images to perfectly tell the story of our enchanting day. Flipping through the proofs, we'll choose layouts that complement the whimsy and warmth of each moment captured. From the cover that beckons a peek inside, to the magical scenes that unfold page by page, our collaboration brings your fairy tale to life, ensuring every glance brings a smile and a sprinkle of that day's magic.

Finalizing Your Order

With our magical day immortalized, it's time to dot the i's and cross the t's on your order. We'll breeze through the details together, making sure your cherished keepsakes are just as you've dreamed. This step is the wand wave that sets everything in motion, ensuring that soon, the enchantment of our day together will fill your home and hearts.

The Anticipation Builds

As we craft your enchanting keepsakes, think of it like a potion brewing - each detail being perfected with care. The thrill of what's to come dances through the air, a prelude to the joy that will soon fill your home. With every update we send, imagine a sprinkle of fairy dust, heightening the excitement for the magical reveal. It's a delightful waiting game where dreams become tangible treasures, soon to be in your hands.

Delivery Day

Oh, happy day! Your enchanting keepsakes have journeyed through the mystical lands and have finally arrived. Envision the excitement as you unwrap these treasures, each piece a portal back to our whimsical adventure. It's like the final chapter of our fairy tale unfolding right in your living room, ready to be cherished and relived. As you open the package, the magic of our day together bursts forth, ready to fill your home with joy and wonder.

Sharing the Magic

Now comes the enchanting moment of spreading the wonder far and wide. Imagine your home coming alive as you place each piece of our magical day on display, or the smiles that light up faces as you share our captured moments online. We're thrilled to see how you keep the magic alive in your world. Don't forget to tag us—your happiness in showcasing these memories is the spark that fuels our creative journey. Let the magic we created together inspire stories and dreams in every corner it touches.

Creating Lasting Memories

Each photograph we capture is a shimmering droplet of time, forever preserving the laughter, the hugs, and the magic shared between you and your little one. These aren't just pictures; they're your family's legacy, embossed with the joy and enchantment of your unique journey. As you flip through these images years from now, you'll be transported back, feeling every giggle and whisper of fairy dust as if no time has passed at all.

Planning Your Next Adventure

Oh, the joy doesn't have to stop here! Picture this: as seasons change or new milestones arise, we're here, ready with our camera and a sprinkle of creativity to embark on your next magical chapter. Be it celebrating a birthday, welcoming a new family member, or just because—our doors are always open for your return. Think of us as your family's personal storytellers, eagerly awaiting to capture your evolving fairy tale.

Staying Connected with Shooting Star Photography

Don't be a stranger after our magical journey together! Dive into our social media galaxy and hit follow for a sprinkle of joy in your daily scroll. Sign up for our newsletter, where we share not just photography tips but also peeks into our latest enchanting adventures. By joining the Shooting Star Photography family, you're not just staying updated; you're keeping the magic alive and well in your heart and home. Let’s keep weaving wonderful stories together!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

The Art of Photographing a Subject in a Red Dress

Capturing Elegance: The Art of Photographing a Subject in a Red Dress in the forests of New Jersey

New Jersey Portrait Sessions! A red dress is the ultimate luxury in wearing in the forest. The perfect pairing of red among the lush greenery. In the world of photography, each frame tells a unique story, and choosing the right subject can elevate a photograph from mere imagery to a captivating narrative. One such timeless element that has graced countless frames is the classic red dress. In this blog post, we delve into the art and nuances of photographing a subject adorned in this bold and striking color. Red is one of my favorite colors to work with and can work with just about every single season.

The Power of Red

Red can be striking and fun to play with. Red isn’t a generally go to color for us photographers to shoot, but I love it. I feel it works beautifully in the forest. Among the lush background greens. It pops in the city (as shadows are generally blue and has a nice contrast) and it definitely strikes attention!

Red is more than just a color; it's a symbol of passion, strength, and vibrancy. When draped in a red dress, a subject commands attention, and the photographer is tasked with harnessing the energy that this color exudes. The play of light and shadow on the rich, vivid hue can create a visual symphony that captivates the viewer. Red photographs beautifully in the city, the forest, in a home… heck even a junk yard red would be pretty amazing in!

Setting the Scene

The red dress just pops here. It is among a simple background. Greens, yellows (mostly primary colors) then the red kind of sings!

Selecting the right backdrop is crucial when photographing someone in a red dress. A neutral background can accentuate the boldness of the color, while a natural setting can add a touch of romance. Consider the story you want to convey – whether it's a cityscape for a modern feel or a serene landscape for a timeless touch. Red is always in! I even put red on my red head! See below.

Lighting Magic

Lighting can be pivotal. This was taken in my backyard around sunset. I opted to have some backlight here and you can actually see the dust in the air. It gives her a “glow” or highlighting effect.

Lighting is the photographer's paintbrush, and when working with a red dress, it becomes even more crucial. Experiment with natural light, using the golden hour to enhance the warmth of the red. Alternatively, play with artificial lighting to create dramatic shadows that add depth and dimension to the photograph. Light rocks!

Composition and Posing

The red pops here and definitely is Christmas card worthy.

The composition is the backbone of any great photograph. Experiment with different angles to find the one that best complements the red dress – perhaps a close-up to focus on details or a full-length shot to showcase the elegance of the entire ensemble. I will always guide my subject with subtle posing suggestions to evoke emotions that resonate with the color red and we’ll have a blast!

Editing for Impact

Reds against a background of blues can really shine.

Post-processing is the final brushstroke in crafting the perfect image. Enhance the richness of the red dress, fine-tune the contrast, and ensure the overall composition aligns with the mood you want to convey. Strive for a balance that accentuates the subject's beauty while preserving the authenticity of the moment. My post editing process truly shines!

Conclusion

Photographing a subject in a red dress is a delightful dance between the photographer, the subject, and the vibrant color itself. It's about capturing not just an image but a story – one that celebrates the boldness, passion, and elegance embodied by the classic red dress. As you embark on your photographic journey, let the color guide you, and watch as each frame unfolds a narrative that transcends time. So.. let’s go out and shoot you in some beautiful red dresses!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Unicorn Sessions-Photography is EASY. Not.

Unicorn magical sessions in south Jersey

Unicorn photography is a unique and specialized skill that requires a keen eye, creativity, and technical expertise. Capturing the enchanting essence of these mythical creatures demands the ability to harness and enhance their mystique through the lens. Unicorn photography requires a deep understanding of lighting, composition, and perspective to bring out the ethereal beauty in each shot. The responsibility lies in the photographer's hands to emphasize the magical qualities of the unicorn while capturing their grace and allure. To possess the skill of unicorn photography is to possess the power to transport viewers into a world where dreams come alive, igniting a sense of wonder and awe that only these majestic creatures can awaken.

Photography is simple everyone can do it.

I am going to explain to you in rich and lavish detail.. It is not. In fact, it's been one of my hardest jobs of my life. It's time to get a little personal and about business here! :)

First off, I got into photography while running a travel blog many moons ago. I worked in corporate America previously. You can google me if you want, you'll see me pop up in a few news articles and probably see the books have written. Bleh bleh bleh.. right? I am boring you. Hold on!

I LOVED taking photos. Didn't know much about light and would just snap this, that, and the air. It honestly didn't matter. I didn't edit them either. I just loved it. For me, it was the thrill of exploring that particular place or landscape and taking a picture as a token that I've been there.

Well... out plops my son and then my daughter. At this point, I decided to flip tables, change things up a bit and to photograph them. These important moments because they change SO FAST were important for me to capture. So like many photographers, I got into portrait photography because of them.

This little lady enjoed being photographed with her puppy the unicorn.

Again... easy peasy, right? Hold your horses, will ya?

I started taking photos and learning my camera settings. Learning about light. Lots of trial and error. Friends saw these photographs and wanted their pictures done. Now, at this time... I thought I was dabomb.com. I wasn't. I was terrible. I'm now doing some of my friend's photographs and thinking hmmm.. this is easy maybe I should start a business....

And I did. Decided to incorporate my business in February of 2015. At this time, I STILL thought I was awesome. 

There were no clients. It was crickets. I'm like oh $45 is too expensive... let me lower them to $35 and give a ton of images. I continued to blog and at this point is when things got busy for me. I was taking workshops and learning online. I was building my lens collection. My work was starting to get noticed.

Then things got super busy. So by end of fall season.. I am practically ripping my hair out. $100 sessions (yep, raised them from those whopping $35 sessions) and I am spending 2 hours on one photograph editing. A total waste of time and resources. Time away from my own kiddos she family. It was awful. At this time, I continued to book like crazy and am virtually winging it and going day by day.

So tax time comes around... and this was my ah ha moment. Seeing how much money owed and realizing I wasn't charging enough to even make minimum wage and that I technically wasted so much of my time for PENNIES. I was seriously working for PENNIES and this was the second year. The numbers don't lie.

The first year, was even worse I was basically paying myself to work. I put the family virtually in debt because always wanted the latest and greatest shiniest things. You eventually realize you don't need those things.

We always need to get a nice pet in too. With our beautiful unicorns.

So come 2017... those few years have learned and learned well. I had to make a decision to either start making a profit... or I need to quit.

What I am trying to say is this. There are so many folks that end up burned out in this business. They have no real plan. They love what they do, but they often lack on the business side. They have no business plan m or marketing set in motion. They lack motivation because it can be a frustrating and very confusing start.

Now, one thing with myself. I am a go getter. I always had a plan. My plan wasn't enough when I started.I was super busy and was afraid to raise my pricing to where I should be priced at with my talent and worth.

I made it a point to offer a full session experience this year. Offering high end custom made gowns for my company.

We also tackled on limited series sessions. Such as unicorns, mermaids and princess castle sessions. Because I was so busy.... I ended up hiring my mom to come onboard full time to be my assistant. I love working with my mom. Not many daughters can say this and I'm sure would love the opportunity to work with your own mom.

I noticed office work starting slugging behind. When that happens, customer service starts to slip... so have had to hire an office manager to keep things running smoothly, so that we can provide our customers with the service they expect and honestly the best. We don't like offering anything less than the best...asWe are completely full service.

So... for now and going forward we have a concrete plan. I have a team at my disposal to insure I give my clients the best and they are your team, too. We have your back.

This is not an easy job, I work 24/7 at every waking hour to make my business better. No one told me going into this, that I would spend most of my time on the business end and not shooting/editing. A huge misconception most photographers have getting into this.

What I am saying is if you want a well-organized and run photography business. That will WOW you from beginning to end in the Philly area.. you've found it. We're right here. We're not going anywhere. We've only just started!

My Photography Session Prep Sheet and Style Guide

The Importance of Prepping for Your Photo Shoot

Prepping for your photo shoot is crucial for ensuring that you achieve the best results and have a smooth, stress-free session. Here are several reasons why prepping is essential:

1. Clarity of Vision

Prepping helps you clarify your vision for the photo shoot. It allows you to define the style, mood, and overall look you want to achieve, which guides all other aspects of the shoot.

2. Logistics and Coordination

Proper preparation ensures that all logistical details are taken care of, such as securing the location, obtaining permits if needed, arranging for hair and makeup, and coordinating with the photography team.

3. Time Management

Prepping helps in managing time effectively. When all the elements are well-planned, it minimizes downtime during the shoot, making the most of the available time and maximizing productivity.

4. Comfort and Confidence

Being well-prepared helps everyone involved in the shoot feel more comfortable and confident. Whether it's the model, the photographer, or the entire crew, knowing that everything is organized helps reduce stress and fosters a more relaxed, creative atmosphere.

5. Equipment Readiness

Preparing includes ensuring that all equipment is in working order, charged, and packed. This minimizes the risk of technical issues disrupting the shoot and allows for seamless transitions between different shots.

6. Creative Direction

A well-prepped shoot allows for more focus on the creative direction. With logistics and technical details taken care of, there's more mental and emotional space to explore and experiment with different poses, angles, and expressions, resulting in more dynamic and compelling photographs.

Yep, things are changing around here. I am a picky photographer. I have to be. This is my livelihood and honestly, I want folks to get the very best out of their session when working with me!  It's good to be picky! I am a bit of a snob when it comes to light too. I love light and I have strict standards to when I like to shoot outdoors to give the very best and to put you in the best light... NO PUN INTENDED.Here's my general guide... Yes, it's long... but you want the best in the Philadelphia and New Jersey region, right? 

Shooting Star Photography Styled Session Prep Sheet

Since I am offering stylized sessions, this is a great list of information on prepping you with your photo shoot with Shooting Star Photography.

Maternity Preparation

I bring about 3 gowns for you to choose from.  Please no flip flops as they do not photograph well. Closed toe shoes, boots, going barefoot, or neutral colored sandals are preferred and photograph the best.I will also bring some headpieces to choose from.  Please wear your hair to your liking. I prefer hair down either straight or curly.

Undergarments

Please bring nude boy shorts or underwear.  Preferably a nude strapless bra or nude bra in general.  I do not provide these items due to hygienic purposes.

Makeup

Please keep makeup as simple as possible. Dark/heavy makeup do not mix well for outdoor portraits as you will be moving around and will probably sweat a little.Please 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 please plan your outfit accordingly.  Towards the end, we will ask you to change and do some formal shots with the father and then the formals of yourself. We will have an assistant on hand to help you with whatever you need.

Children's Prep Sheet

At this time, I only have dresses and gowns for girls ages 1-14. We do have a few boy's items. Please inquire.We pull about 3 items for a half hour shoot and about 5-7 items for an hour shoot. We currently do not provide a current list of dresses in our inventory. We do like to freshly cycle them so that we aren't photographing the same dress all the time.Please arrive 15 minutes early so that we may dress you in a wardrobe prior to the start of your session.Make sure child is wearing neutral undergarments. Is clean. Trust me, I know how kids can be. I have two myself. Also, check for any boogers.  I know it's gross yes, but editing out boogers is no fun either.Please bring a few pairs of dress shoes as we do not provide this for our clients. Preferably, white, silver, gold, black or neutrals as they can go with anything.Makeup, I do not recommended makeup on 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 arrangement of headpieces to choose from.

I will not liquify ribs, alter ears, eyes, give nose jobs or slim a child. Under NO CIRCUMSTANCE WHATSOEVER. I want your child to have a fun experience and feel like a princess.  They will be treated as one!Please bring some 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 ands off of wrists.  We will also 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!As above, no heavy makeup.

Keep it light and fresh. Bring some snacks and drinks for the kids and please make sure they are well-rested prior to their session.You can always shoot me a text or email, if undecided in a wardrobe selection. We are here to help!Wardrobe selection,  as well as light, are the two most important roles in your photographs.  Believe it or not, location plays the third role, not first. Please trust me on locations that I provide.

FYI, You will probably think I am showing up like a bum to your session. I normally wear tights, boots and either a blouse or sweater. You will see me mostly rolling around in  the dirt (yes, I am very dirty after each session) or you will be seeing me trampling through mud. I take this job very seriously for my clients! My assistant is usually in much more presentable attire. Please don't judge me.

Now Time For The Fun!

All 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. No exceptions. I am very strict when I shoot because I like to provide my clients with the best!I do not double book days.  I only do one session per day, which is why it is very important to pay your retainer and lock in the date you want. As dates book up quickly, even weekdays.

In the case of inclement weather, we will reschedule and if we are unable to reschedule, you will receive your retainer back.I hope

I have provided you with a great list going forward! I am a bit picky, but this is why people choose me. These are memories you will have forever and attention to every detail is very important to me!Please feel free to reach out with any other questions!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

My absolute FAVORITE time of the year... Spring!

Spring has arrived, South Jersey!

 Isn't it just wonderful?! This was a very very cold winter!  It at times felt like it was not going to leave, but it did... and now everything is blooming away! For April, the weather has been rather blissful! Yes, we've had some rain, but the majority of days have been filled with sunshine!!  Throughout this text here, I am showcasing some photos I took recently in the Shooting Star Garden!

I hope you like and as always, it is an offering on a photo location to my clients!   I've been sooooo busy! I think I have a total of 16-17 sessions (I'd have to look in my planner) scheduled until June right now. I'd say for a new business to the area, that's a great start!  Every single day, I am working hard to improve myself and just get better. I hope to be a "shooting star" in 10 years and known worldwide.  Yup, that's my goal... and if you truly knew me, you'd know that this will happen, hahaha!  Anything I put my mind to, I have accomplished tenfold so I'm adding photography to medley.  I am looking to grow this business to one of the bests in the area!

If I'm not working or doing sessions, I'm investing my time in education,, spending time with my kids and well, spending time with my kids! They're also excellent models when I want to try something new!  Of course, as a mom I take pride in them too. Well, duh!   

Dogwood lovin Spring in South Jersey!

Weeping cherry blossom in background for spring photo shoot.

Garden baby and all smiles.

Boy having fun near the stream in Salem County, NJ.

Little boy having fun.

Little boy on a bench posing for a photograph.

Little girl in on the moss in the spring garden.

Checking out her boots and enjoying the garden.

Daffodils in Salem County, NJ. Coming to life.

Bleeding hearts blooming.

Weeping Cherry Blossom.

The grounds here at Shooting Star have been nothing but superb this spring.  Right now, the weeping cherry and magnolias are blooming, tulips, hellebore, grape hyacinths, standard hyacinths are blooming.  The daffodils are still in bloom.  We have hundreds of them EVERYWHERE.  All the perennials are rising to the surface... It's definitely spring!I actually saw a hummingbird trying to feed off of our cherry the other day! It was a great start to the season!! The Kwanzan cherries have popped open some blooms and should be fully alert in a day or two.  I love it! If I had to choose between my garden or photography, it would destroy me. Both are my absolute favorite hobbies.

 I could never decide between the two!These last few weeks, I've been taking the kids out to play in the garden and to try some new tricks on them!  They've also "helped" me a little to prepare it for this spring by cleaning out all the flower beds and weeds!  I am so blessed to have these gorgeous grounds.  It is a true oasis and right here in South Jersey!  Sometimes, I need to pinch myself because it is just so magical!  I love strolling through the grounds and walking down the terraces to the stream.  I find it to be my garden of Eden and I am so very blessed to be able to offer it to my customers for their photo sessions.  

My customers LOVE it!  It's truly a splendid and unique offering that most photographers don't have.   So if you ever want to have a beautiful private session... look no further! I can offer that too you... including a stream!  Our hundreds and hundreds of lilies are starting to break through too! Ohhhh, I cannot wait! I time everything so there is always something in bloom from early spring all the way through fall! It's incredible! 

Happy Shooting, my friends! 

Dee