Fine Art Family Photography Stories & Resources

little girl in a vintage dress hugging a pony in an orchard outside of Philadelphia for a sweet moment

A journal for families seeking timeless portraits across South Jersey, Philadelphia, and the surrounding region.

This journal shares fine-art family photography stories, session inspiration, and location guides for families throughout South Jersey and the greater Philadelphia area. Each post is designed to help parents plan meaningful portrait experiences while exploring the artistry behind Shooting Star Photography’s heirloom approach.

South Jersey Family Photographer | Salem County NJ

Capture the beauty of fall with Shooting Star Photography's Mini Sessions in South Jersey! Autumn colors and cozy vibes make for perfect family portraits.

Fall is here, and I couldn’t be more excited to announce that my Fall Mini Sessions are officially open! 🍂 This is easily one of my favorite times of the year. The air is crisp, the leaves are turning into those gorgeous golden hues, and everything feels just a little cozier. It’s the perfect season to capture some special moments.

Fall mini session at Daretown Lake Elmer in Salem County, NJ, with pink dresses and beautiful autumn colors, captured by a South Jersey portrait photographer.

Sibling family sessions are awesome. We took this at Daretown Lake in Elmer, NJ.

What to Expect

These sessions are ideal for families, couples, or anyone wanting to celebrate the season! I’ll be photographing at some beautiful outdoor locations in the area. Picture a backdrop of tall grasses, vibrant fall foliage, and soft, golden light. The vibe is relaxed, easygoing, and fun. I want this to be a stress-free experience for you—just show up, enjoy the moment, and I’ll take care of the rest.

Each session lasts about 15 minutes, which is just enough time to get a variety of shots without taking up too much of your day. Whether you’re planning to update your family portraits or just want to capture the beauty of fall, these mini sessions are a great option.

Girl in a pink dress twirling in the forest section at Daretown Lake Elmer during a fall mini session, captured by a South Jersey portrait photographer in Salem County.

Beautiful golden hour light in Salem County, NJ.

Beautiful girl twirling in the fall forest in South Jersey during a mini session, captured by a portrait photographer.

Little girl twirling and wearing dollcake couture!

Photographer capturing a baby posing for her portrait at Daretown Lake in Salem County, New Jersey.

Little baby wanting to go for a picnic at the lake!

Why Book a Fall Mini Session?

  • Quick and easy: These sessions are designed to fit seamlessly into your busy schedule. We’ll be in and out in no time, but I’ll still capture beautiful, meaningful photos you’ll love.

  • Perfect for holiday cards: Fall photos make for gorgeous holiday cards! It’s also a great opportunity to get ahead of the holiday rush and have photos ready for gifting.

  • Autumn vibes: There’s nothing quite like the colors and light that fall brings, and I’ve scouted out the perfect spots to make sure your photos are full of seasonal beauty.

What Should We Wear?

Fall is the perfect time to break out the layers! Think sweaters, scarves, boots, and cozy jackets. Neutrals like beige, gray, or cream work really well, and you can add a pop of color with mustard yellows, burnt oranges, or deep reds. If you’re unsure about outfits, feel free to reach out—I’m happy to help with suggestions that’ll make your photos shine.

How to Book

Spaces for these mini sessions are limited and tend to go quickly, so if you’re interested, be sure to book soon! 


Fall Mini Session Info


This is one of my favorite times of the year to capture special moments, and I would love to photograph you and your family. If you’ve been thinking about getting some new photos taken or just want to celebrate the beauty of fall, let’s make it happen. 🍁


I look forward to seeing you and creating something special together!

Learn more on our website!
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An Unforgettable Family Portrait Session in South Jersey with the 'G' Family

An Unforgettable Family Portrait Session in South Jersey with the 'G' Family

Life often moves at a dizzying pace, making it difficult for families to savor precious moments together. While we can't slow down time, we can capture these fleeting moments with family portraits. A recent session with the ‘G’ family in South Jersey was one such unforgettable experience. The guys hail from Woodstown, NJ and I have photographed them a bunch of times in the past. Each session, is generally more unique than the last!

Intro

Life often moves at a dizzying pace, making it difficult for families to savor precious moments together. While we can't slow down time, we can capture these fleeting moments with family portraits. A recent session with the ‘G’ family in South Jersey was one such unforgettable experience. The guys hail from Woodstown, NJ and I have photographed them a bunch of times in the past. Each session, is generally more unique than the last!

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Mom and her babies! I love the blues! Mom did great with the casual styling.

The Art of Casual Yet Fun Family Portraits

Crafting charming family portraits isn't always about extravagant outfits or rigid poses. The 'G' family wonderfully demonstrated this during their session on the illustrious Ben Franklin Bridge. Clad in everyday wear, their familial bond and mutual affection radiated in every click. The easy-going atmosphere allowed for their unique personalities to flourish, adding a delightful and genuine quality to each picture. From shared giggles to the warmth in their interactions, each moment painted a vivid picture of their beautiful family dynamic. Casual, yes, but brimming with the sheer joy of family togetherness - a key ingredient in capturing the true essence of a family portrait.

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The full family crew. Looking fantastic for their family portraits!

Making the Most of the Stunning South Jersey Scenery

The iconic Ben Franklin Bridge served as more than just a location for the ‘G’ family's portrait session. It became an integral character, its striking architecture enhancing the narrative of their family story. Amidst the hustle and bustle of South Jersey, the bridge stood as a symbol of solidity and strength - just like the bond of the ‘G’ family. The grandeur of the urban landscape set against their casual attire served as a captivating contrast, further accentuating their familial warmth and love. It was a match made in photographic heaven, with the vibrant, cityscape of South Jersey forming the perfect canvas to this family's beautifully painted portrait. The convenience of the location was an added bonus for the busy ‘G’ family, showing that stunning backdrops for family sessions could be closer than one thinks.

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I love this little girl and this is her smile. She’s a trip! It’s been a pleasure watching her grow!

Effortless Planning for Busy Parents

Coordinating a family photoshoot may seem like a tall order for parents already balancing a myriad of daily responsibilities. However, as the ‘G’ family found out, it doesn't have to be an uphill battle. It's all about identifying a suitable time and place that aligns with everyone's schedule. Their selection of the Ben Franklin Bridge was a stroke of genius; it wasn't just visually stunning but also conveniently situated. This level of convenience made the whole experience seamless and hassle-free, showing that a little bit of forethought goes a long way in arranging a successful family photoshoot. After all, the ultimate goal is to enjoy the process and create delightful memories, not add to your list of stressors. The 'G' family's experience is a testament to the fact that even busy parents can plan a family portrait session that's enjoyable, memorable, and above all, effortless.

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Dad and his kiddos!

Embracing the Fun and Laughter

Perhaps the most radiant moments from the 'G' family's portrait session were the instances of sheer amusement and shared laughter. The camera captured the spark of unfeigned joy as they basked in each other's company, sharing witty jokes and engaging in playful antics. These lively exchanges brought out their truest selves and resulted in some of the most precious snapshots of the day, illustrating their strong familial ties and infectious sense of humor. The laughter they shared was more than just an expression of joy, it was a symbol of their shared history, common memories, and the profound love that binds them together. The delight on their faces and the laughter that echoed through the air became the soundtrack of their portrait session, a melody that will resonate each time they revisit these photos. Every click of the camera not only froze their laughter in time but also encapsulated the essence of the 'G' family: fun, loving, and wonderfully unique.

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The blue hair really pops here! Love the city skyline in the back!

Creating Lasting Memories

The essence of a family portrait session lies far beyond just the clicks and flashes of the camera. It’s about etching those intimate bonds, shared giggles, and warmth of togetherness into an enduring memory. The 'G' family’s portrait session was brimming with such invaluable moments, painting a timeless tableau of love and connection.

Each photograph is a beautiful bookmark in the 'G' family’s story, capturing a specific chapter of their lives. The images taken against the iconic backdrop of the Ben Franklin Bridge narrate a tale of shared experiences and familial affection that they can return to whenever they wish. The genuine smiles, the sparkle in their eyes, and the playful banter frozen in these portraits will serve as a beautiful keepsake of this special day.

As years roll by, these portraits will transport them back to this extraordinary day. They'll remember the jokes that triggered the hearty laughter, the shared glances that spoke volumes, and the sense of togetherness that made the day unique.

These pictures are more than just images; they're a family legacy to be cherished, revisited, and shared across generations. The 'G' family’s session not only captured a moment in time but also created a collection of memories that will live on, capturing the essence of their familial bond in its purest form. Through these portraits, they've gifted themselves a timeless journey back to this day, filled with echoes of laughter and warmth that will never fade.

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Last one of these two and you can see they were not into it! Hahaha!

Some Q&A About These Family Portraits

What unique qualities do urban settings offer for family portraits, and how did the photographer incorporate them into the images?

In this particular session with the 'G' Family, I ingeniously used the blue of the bridge as my unique backdrop, offering an edgy contrast to the tender family moments. The eclectic urban landscape not only amplified the colors in their outfits but also added depth to their images.

What advice would you give to families who are nervous or hesitant about scheduling their first professional portrait session?

if you're looking to capture those unforgettable family moments in an urban setting like we have in South Jersey (with downtown environments, which can be fun like Haddonfield or Mullica Hill), then don't let apprehension deter you. Partner with a skilled family photographer in NJ who can expertly incorporate cityscapes like the Ben Franklin Bridge into your family session to create truly distinctive portraits.

What made the ben franklin bridge a good location for the family session?

Essentially, the Ben Franklin Bridge offered a vibrant, colorful backdrop that enriched the aesthetics of the family session. I used this unique cityscape in South Jersey to creatively highlight the family's bonds while also producing distinct, urban-infused portraits.

How does South Jersey provide a diverse range of landscapes that are perfect backdrops for any family portrait?

In other words, South Jersey offers an array of contrasting landscapes, from rustic countryside to vibrant city scenes, which can serve as unique and dynamic backgrounds for any family session, capturing the essence of the family in the process. It's the combination of this visual variety and the expertise of a top photographer in NJ that can transform a simple portrait into a cherished family memento. And my clients are lucky because I have scouted and written vastly about hundreds of locations in South Jersey for that unique family photo shoot!

How South Jersey has great family backdrops for family portraits

South Jersey, with its impressive array of scenic options, has solidified its position as a remarkable setting for family portraits. It possesses a diverse landscape, boasting both architectural marvels and natural vistas that can cater to various aesthetic preferences. The Ben Franklin Bridge, for instance, stands as a testament to the area's architectural brilliance and urban appeal. But it's just one of the many stunning backdrops South Jersey has to offer. If an urban scene isn't what you're after, fear not. South Jersey is equally gifted with gorgeous natural landscapes, providing a myriad of picturesque settings for your family portraits. The 'G' family’s successful portrait session underlines how wonderfully South Jersey lends itself to family portraits. It's not only about the spectacular visuals; the convenience of these locations can also ease the planning process for busy families. Whether you prefer an urban vibe, a tranquil natural setting, or a mix of both, South Jersey is rich with possibilities. So, if you're contemplating the ideal location for your family portrait, take a leaf out of the 'G' family's book and consider the versatile, beautiful backdrop that South Jersey provides.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

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2025: Ultimate Wildwood Beach Family Photography

Capture the ultimate beach family photo session in Wildwood, NJ! From ferris wheels to sandy shores, 2025's summer magic created picture-perfect memories.

2025: Ultimate Wildwood Beach Family Photo Session

Wildwood, NJ. Sun, sand, boardwalk fries, and... the occasional seagull stealing said fries. It was the perfect setting for a family portrait session! With a golden sunset and a Ferris wheel backdrop, we captured* (*aka wrangled) some truly unforgettable moments.

Girl twirling on the beach in Wildwood, NJ, wearing a rainbow-colored outfit with a roller coaster in the background.

A young girl joyfully twirls on the sandy beach in Wildwood, New Jersey, wearing a vibrant rainbow-colored outfit. Behind her, a towering roller coaster from the Wildwood boardwalk adds a fun and dynamic backdrop, capturing the essence of a magical summer day.

Props & Backdrops: More Than Just Sand Forget the standard "stand here and smile." Wildwood gives us endless options—roller coasters, piers, the Atlantic doing its thing. One minute, we’re twirling on the boardwalk; the next, we’re sinking into the sand like we underestimated quicksand.

Two sisters hugging and smiling in the golden sunlight on the beach in Wildwood, NJ.

Two sisters embrace on the sandy shores of Wildwood, New Jersey, their faces lit up with joyful smiles as the golden sunlight bathes them in a warm glow. The perfect moment of sibling love captured against a beautiful beach backdrop.

Dressing for Success (and Sand in Your Shoes) Coordinated outfits? Check. Barefoot for the aesthetic? Double check. Bribing the kids with post-session ice cream? A time-honored tradition.

The Magic of Natural Light Golden hour in Wildwood is basically nature’s free filter. The sun gave everyone a flawless glow—except Dad, who forgot sunscreen and left looking "well done." Shadows, highlights, and that salty sea air turned this session into pure magic.

Girl smiling and twirling in the sunlight on Wildwood Beach, wearing colorful rainbow clothes with a roller coaster in the background.

A young girl twirls joyfully on the sandy shores of Wildwood Beach, her rainbow-colored outfit catching the sunlight as she smiles. Behind her, a roller coaster adds a fun, vibrant backdrop to this playful summer moment.

Candid Chaos & Family Fun The best moments? The kids laughing hysterically when the waves hit their ankles. Parents trying to wrangle them for "just one more shot." Genuine smiles, messy hair, and the perfect amount of beachy chaos.

Final Portrait: A Family Masterpiece With the ocean behind them and the last bits of daylight casting a warm glow, this family nailed their picture-perfect moment—complete with sandy feet and happy hearts. And yes, ice cream was earned.

Mom posing with her two daughters on Wildwood Beach, smiling together in the sunlight.

A mother poses lovingly with her two daughters on the sandy shores of Wildwood Beach. The trio smiles warmly in the golden sunlight, capturing a beautiful family moment by the ocean.

Want your own Wildwood beach portraits? Let’s make it happen—seagulls and all!

Why you SHOULD work with me…

Two girls smiling at each other with twinkling roller coaster lights behind them in Wildwood.

Two girls share a joyful moment, smiling at each other against the backdrop of twinkling roller coaster lights in Wildwood. The amusement park glow adds a magical touch to their connection.

I Help with Everything (Because You Have Enough on Your Plate!)

Worried about outfits? I got you. Unsure what time of day is best? I’ll guide you. Stressed about making your kids behave? Don’t be! I’ll roll with it, making sure we get beautiful images and keep the experience stress-free. We also have a client closet that is AHHH-MAZING.

Check out more of our beach sessions at the Jersey Shore
Smiling girl in a rainbow dress with beachy hair, standing on a Wildwood beach at sunset.

A joyful young girl in a vibrant rainbow dress with beachy, windswept hair, standing on the sandy beach in Wildwood, New Jersey. The sun sets behind her, casting a warm glow on her smiling face as she enjoys a magical moment by the sea.

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Why You Should Book Now

Every summer, Wildwood’s beaches fill with families making memories. If you want dreamy, beachy, joyful family portraits, let’s make it happen!

Smiling girls with a Ferris wheel in the background at Morey’s Pier in Wildwood.

Two smiling girls stand together in front of the iconic Ferris wheel at Morey’s Pier in Wildwood, New Jersey. The vibrant colors of the Ferris wheel light up the background as they enjoy a fun day at the amusement park.

I Deliver More Than Just Photos—I Give You Memories

At the end of the day, it’s not just about pictures. It’s about capturing the fleeting magic of childhood, the love of family, and the beauty of a moment that will never happen exactly the same way again.

Dee
Shooting Star Photography
Serving Philadelphia, Mainline, Northern Delaware, and all of Southern New Jersey.

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Check Out More Jersey Shore Beach Photography/ Magic Below!

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Sandy Toes and Pastel Clothes: Our Family Mini Session in Jersey Shore | South Jersey Photographer

Sandy Toes and Pastel Clothes: Our Family Mini Session in Jersey Shore | South Jersey Photographer

As a South Jersey girl born and bred, I've had the pleasure of witnessing all the natural beauty that the Jersey Shore has to offer. My latest delight was a family mini session we held in Atlantic City, NJ, where pastel clothes and sandy toes were the order of the day. The family’s energy, combined with the charm of the Jersey Shore, created a day filled with laughter and unforgettable moments.

As a South Jersey girl born and bred, I've had the pleasure of witnessing all the natural beauty that the Jersey Shore has to offer. My latest delight was a family mini session we held in Atlantic City, NJ, where pastel clothes and sandy toes were the order of the day. The family’s energy, combined with the charm of the Jersey Shore, created a day filled with laughter and unforgettable moments.

The Joys of a Family Mini Session

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Each family photo session brings a unique blend of personalities, creating a kaleidoscope of memorable moments. This was certainly true during our mini session at the Jersey Shore. The joy and anticipation were palpable as the family eagerly immersed themselves in the photo shoot, their spirits buoyant and full of life. Their interactions were vibrant and authentic, sparking with a distinctive energy that was a sheer delight to capture. From animated chats to shared chuckles, every moment told a beautiful story, a testament to their bond. This captivating family spirit, combined with the stunning beach backdrop, contributed to an enchanting and memorable day of photography.

Dressing up for the Beach: Pastels and Sunlight

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Choosing pastel colors for this beach photoshoot was a masterstroke by the family. Pastel hues have a distinct way of reflecting the serene and warm aura of a beach setting, making them an ideal choice for beachside photography. These colors harmonized effortlessly with the oceanic background, their soothing tones elevating the aesthetic appeal of the scenery and infusing a dreamy essence into the images. The pastel clothing created a sense of visual unity between the family and their natural surroundings, enriching the overall beauty of the photographs. Each outfit was like a brushstroke on the sandy canvas of Atlantic City, adding a hint of whimsy and creating a delightful color palette that enhanced the family's vibrant personalities.

The Golden Sands of Atlantic City

A jewel in the crown of the Jersey Shore, Atlantic City presents the perfect blend of urban vibrancy and natural allure. The expansive golden sands provide an idyllic backdrop for family beach photography, offering a subtle neutrality that allows for a beautiful interplay of colors and attire. As dusk approaches, a mesmerizing spectacle unfolds. The sunset casts a golden sheen over the sandy terrain, creating a magical ambiance and a visually rich texture for our photographs. The myriad of footprints etched in the sand, each a small memento of a day filled with joy and laughter, added an extra layer of charm to the scene. The natural beauty of Atlantic City's beaches, thus, played a key role in bringing out the brilliance of the family's pastel outfits and their radiant personalities, making this photo session a truly unforgettable one.

The Fun and Laughter: Cherished Memories

Amid the pastel hues and sandy beaches, the heartwarming sound of the family’s laughter filled the air. This wasn't just a photoshoot - it was a day filled with lighthearted fun. They built sandcastles, reminiscent of childhood play and innocence, and danced in the gentle Atlantic waves, all while creating cherished memories. The atmosphere was exuberant, each giggle and grin captured in the vibrant images. The genuine candid moments reflected the true spirit of a family outing, filled with warmth, joy, and love. Every photograph is more than just an image, it's a timeless souvenir of their delightful day at the Jersey Shore.

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Capturing the Jersey Shore Spirit

Immersing in the captivating spirit of the Jersey Shore, we embarked on a journey of capturing the essence of this unique landscape, characterized by a soothing blend of bustling city vibes and serene natural beauty. The family’s pastel outfits, reflecting the hues of the setting sun, seamlessly fused with the golden sands beneath their toes, embodying the quintessential Jersey Shore charm. Every photograph we clicked emerged as a vibrant tapestry of colors, emotions, and elements that echoed the spirit of this coastal paradise. This experience was not merely about creating visual memories; it was about narrating a compelling story of love, joy, and togetherness against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Jersey Shore. From the soft pastels mirroring the coastal vibes to the infectious laughter resonating with the Shore's vivacity, each element stitched together a tale that is as enchanting as the Jersey Shore itself.

Book your 2024 Mini Session Today! They are going quick!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Your Photographer in South Jersey

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New Jersey- Fall Photo Shoot! Family Rocks!

New Jersey- Fall Photo Shoot! Family Rocks!

Family Fall Sessions in South Jersey

Capture Your Cherished Moments - Family Fall Sessions in Williamstown, NJ

Family Fall Sessions in South Jersey

Capture Your Cherished Moments - Family Fall Sessions in Williamstown, NJ

Shooting Star Photography LLC is excited to announce our exclusive Family Fall Sessions in beautiful Williamstown, NJ. As the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold, seize this opportunity to capture your cherished moments in a picturesque autumn setting.

Meet the “D” Family! It was a beautiful cool and comfortable 68 degrees this fabulous fall day. The leaves were starting to put on a show, sun filtering through the yellows adding to more of that warmth glow and the family arriving on good spirits! 

Would you believe this little girl wanted nothing to do with photographs a year ago? Look at her today. It’s like a different kid. She’s posing, smiling and having fun! I love seeing this family. I love how they interact with each other and it is clear there’s a lot of love in this home. She and her brother crack me up!

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Family Sessions in the fall are always the best! South Jersey is the best place for all the fall foliage. We had a great year of color, this year!

Immortalize Your Family Bonds

Fall is a season of warmth, love, and togetherness. There's no better time to update your family photo album and create lasting memories. Our skilled photographers will artfully capture the unique essence of your family, preserving these precious moments for generations to come.

Embrace the Beauty of Williamstown

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Nestled in the heart of New Jersey, Williamstown offers a breathtaking backdrop for your family portraits. The stunning landscapes, rustic fields, and enchanting woodlands provide the perfect setting for a dreamy fall photoshoot. Let us guide you through the serene venues that we have hand-selected, ensuring that your family's personality shines through every photograph.

Sessions Tailored to You

At Shooting Star Photography LLC, we believe that every family is exceptional and deserves a personalized experience. Our expert team will work closely with you to understand your vision, preferences, and unique dynamics. Whether you are seeking timeless formal portraits or candid shots that capture the laughter and joy, our photographers will adapt their skills to your wishes.

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Safety is Our Priority

In these challenging times, we understand the importance of safety. Rest assured that we are dedicated to upholding strict health measures and guidelines. We will prioritize the well-being of your family and our staff throughout the entirety of the session, ensuring a worry-free experience.

Book Your Session Today

Don't let this opportunity pass you by! Our Family Fall Sessions in Williamstown, NJ will be available from September to November. Spaces are limited, so be sure to reserve your session early to secure a spot. Contact us through our website or give us a call to schedule your appointment and discuss any questions or unique requests you may have.
This fall, let Shooting Star Photography LLC capture the vibrant colors of your family's love. Trust us to provide you with stunning photographs that will become priceless treasures, radiating warmth and happiness for years to come.

Thank you for stopping by!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

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