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.

Mommy and Me Cherry Blossom Photo Shoot in Philadelphia

Mommy and Me Cherry Blossom Photo Shoot in Philadelphia

Jan 25

Let's face it, life as a parent is a whirlwind of endless to-dos. From school drop-offs to meal prepping, it feels like there's barely time to breathe. But amid the chaos, there are precious, fleeting moments with your children that you want to capture and treasure forever. That's where a quick, memorable family photo shoot comes in, creating an everlasting legacy for generations. Imagine the warm hues of cherry blossoms serving as the backdrop for capturing your little girl's chubby cheeks and blossoming personality. Yes, this all can be done in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia. Here's how.

Let's face it, life as a parent is a whirlwind of endless to-dos. From school drop-offs to meal prepping, it feels like there's barely time to breathe. But amid the chaos, there are precious, fleeting moments with your children that you want to capture and treasure forever. That's where a quick, memorable family photo shoot comes in, creating an everlasting legacy for generations. Imagine the warm hues of cherry blossoms serving as the backdrop for capturing your little girl's chubby cheeks and blossoming personality. Yes, this all can be done in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia. Here's how.

Embracing Spontaneity: The Secret to Natural Portraits

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Time to shake off the notion that an unforgettable family photo shoot demands meticulous preparation. Often, it's the unexpected moments that yield the most cherished images. Picture your toddler in her element, her infectious laughter, a surprise grimace, or a typical 'terrible twos' outburst – they are all authentic reflections of her distinctive character. Give her the freedom to investigate, romp, and just be her adorable self. Striving for the perfect pose can take a backseat. Remember, the images that truly encapsulate the essence of family are often those that capture the unvarnished, candid moments.

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Using Nature's Backdrop: The Cherry Blossoms of Fairmount Park

There's no denying the magnetizing allure of Fairmount Park's cherry blossoms. Their ethereal pink blossoms serve as an enchanting stage for your family's portraits. Imagine the intricate patterns they cast on the ground, their soft petals floating around, adding an element of whimsy to your photos. There's a magic in the air that’s hard to ignore and it works wonders for your portraits, making them seem like they've been plucked straight out of a fairy tale.

Fairmount Park's open spaces are not just about the cherry blossoms; they also provide plenty of room for your little ones to stretch their legs and be one with nature. Encourage your children to run, jump, and explore, and you'll get some dynamic shots filled with joy and laughter. Each candid shot becomes a beautiful narrative of your family's story, etched against the backdrop of vibrant cherry blossoms.

One of the best things about choosing nature as your backdrop is its affordability. You don’t need expensive props or studio rentals. Fairmount Park's cherry blossoms offer a stunning setting at no cost, making your family photo shoot both wallet-friendly and utterly unforgettable. And remember, the cherry blossoms don't stick around for long, so make sure you seize the moment and capture those cherished family portraits amidst these beautiful blooms.

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Working with Natural Light: Timing Your Shoot

Understanding and harnessing the power of natural light is crucial to achieving stunning portraits. The gentle rays of the sun peeking through the cherry blossoms offer a golden, ethereal glow that perfectly complements the picturesque surroundings of Fairmount Park. However, not all times of day offer the same lighting conditions.

To get that magical light, plan your family photo shoot during the 'golden hours' — those brief windows right after sunrise and just before sunset. During these times, the sun paints the world in soft hues, casting longer shadows that lend depth and dimension to your photos. It also creates a beautiful warm light that is truly flattering for portraits, casting your family in the best light, literally.

That said, it's also important to remember to stay adaptable. Cloudy days may seem gloomy, but they actually produce a unique, diffused light that evenly illuminates the scene, reducing harsh shadows and enhancing your family’s features. So, don’t be disheartened if the weather is not all sunshine and clear skies on your shoot day; instead, see it as an opportunity to create a different mood for your portraits.

In the unpredictable game of natural light photography, flexibility is key. Keep your plans open-ended and be prepared to work with what the day offers. After all, some of the most unforgettable moments aren't planned, they just happen.

Just as the cherry blossoms bloom in their own time, your family's unique light shines brightest when you're not strictly adhering to a schedule but instead going with the flow, allowing for those spontaneous moments of joy and laughter to be captured in all their radiant glory. That's the real beauty of a family photo shoot — it's not just about the final pictures, it's about the shared experience, the memories made, and the love captured in each shot.

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Getting Professional Help: The Benefits of a Custom Portrait Session

In the sea of do-it-yourself projects, one might question the necessity of hiring a professional photographer for a family photo shoot. But here's the thing – professional photographers come equipped not just with high-quality gear, but with an experienced eye that is skilled at seeing and capturing those fleeting moments you might miss. They have an inherent understanding of how light works at different times of the day, and how best to use it to accentuate your family's features and the backdrop.

A professional photographer also knows all about angles. They know how to position your family to get the best composition and the most flattering shots. A seemingly casual shot of your daughter dancing among the cherry blossoms? They'll make it look like a page out of a storybook. A tender moment between mom and child? They'll freeze it in time, making it a cherished memory you can hold onto forever.

But perhaps the biggest perk of getting professional help is the stress-free experience. They can guide you through the entire process, keeping it enjoyable for everyone involved. This can be especially beneficial for parents of toddlers – as they handle the shoot, you can focus on interacting with your child and soaking up the moment.

Even better, many photographers offer custom portrait sessions. These sessions allow for a personalized experience that takes into account the unique dynamics and personalities of your family. They’ll engage with your family, encouraging your little ones to open up and be themselves. This level of customization results in portraits that truly reflect your family's spirit.

In the end, while the prospect of a DIY family photo shoot might be tempting, the benefits of hiring a professional are undeniably worth considering. They bring a level of expertise and artistic vision that can transform a simple photo shoot in Fairmount Park's cherry blossoms into a magical experience – an experience that will result in stunning family portraits you'll treasure forever.

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Celebrating the Legacy: Treasuring Your Family Portraits

After your photo session has wrapped up, the joy of the experience doesn't stop there. You are now the proud owner of a collection of unique, custom family portraits that not only capture the beauty of the cherry blossoms in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia, but more importantly, freeze in time the sweet essence of your family in this particular moment.

These portraits are more than just images. They are time capsules, preserving the innocence, joy, and unabashed spirit of your little ones at this very age. Every smile, every playful expression, each mischievous look captured, they're all testament to your child's evolving personality.

What you do with these portraits next can really enrich their value. Display them in your living room, where they can invite compliments from guests and bring a smile to your face every day. Use them to create custom greeting cards or calendars for the upcoming year, allowing you to share the beauty of these moments with your extended family and friends. These portraits can also be used to create unique and thoughtful gifts for grandparents or other close relatives.

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How Do We Capture Such Unique Cherry Blossom Portraits?


Incorporate Perspective: We encourage our clients to interact with the blossoms. Whether it's standing among the blooms, reaching out to touch a blossom, or admiring the trees from a distance, capturing these interactions can convey a sense of intimacy and connection.


We Focus on Details: Use a wide aperture to create a dreamy, blurred background while keeping the blossoms sharp and in focus.

We Embrace Creativity: We experiment with angles, compositions, and poses to create visually compelling portraits. I love encouraging natural movements and authentic emotions to capture genuine moments of connection amidst the delicate beauty of the cherry blossoms.

After our session, you can also consider creating an album or a photo book. This can serve as a beautiful keepsake for your children to look back on when they are older. It's a way to visually narrate the tale of their childhood, a story they would appreciate more and more as they grow.

These portraits are your family's legacy, reminders of a special time spent together among the cherry blossoms. They are proof of your family's love, joy, and togetherness, etched in high resolution. By displaying and sharing these portraits, you keep these memories alive, reminding you and your family of the bond you share.

In the end, these portraits serve as a celebration of your family's unique story, a story that continues to unfold and evolve with each passing day. Every time you glance at these images, you'll be reminded of that beautiful day under the cherry blossoms - a day filled with laughter, exploration, and a whole lot of love.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

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South Jersey Teen Portraits: More than Just Pictures

South Jersey Teen Portraits: More than Just Pictures

As a portrait photographer specializing in teen portraits, I understand the importance of capturing the unique personalities of each of my subjects. Every teenager has a different story to tell, and it's my job to showcase their individuality through photography. In this blog post, I will share my experience of photographing teens in South Jersey, and how I go beyond just taking pictures to create lasting memories that my clients can cherish for years to come.

As a portrait photographer specializing in teen portraits, I understand the importance of capturing the unique personalities of each of my subjects. Every teenager has a different story to tell, and it's my job to showcase their individuality through photography. In this blog post, I will share my experience of photographing teens in South Jersey, and how I go beyond just taking pictures to create lasting memories that my clients can cherish for years to come.

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Understanding the Unique Needs of Teen Portraits

Photographing teens requires a unique approach as they are in a transitional phase of their lives. They want to look their best, but also want to stay true to their personalities. At the same time, they want to be seen as independent individuals, but also want to belong to a group. As a portrait photographer, it's important to understand and respect these needs to capture the essence of each teenager.

My approach is to create a comfortable and relaxed environment that allows them to express themselves freely. Before the shoot, I take the time to get to know my clients, asking about their interests, hobbies, and goals. This not only helps to break the ice, but also gives me a better understanding of their personalities, which I can then use to guide the shoot.

I also encourage my clients to be themselves and to express their emotions freely. This often leads to candid and genuine shots that perfectly capture their personalities and moods. By creating a relaxed and fun environment, I can bring out the best in my clients, and create portraits that truly reflect who they are.

Another important aspect of photographing teens is incorporating personal elements into the shoot. Whether it's a favorite sports jersey or a beloved pet, these personal touches make the portraits unique and serve as a reminder of that particular time in their lives. I always encourage my clients to bring anything that's meaningful to them, and we work together to incorporate it into the shoot in a natural and organic way.

Overall, understanding the unique needs of teen portraits is crucial for creating portraits that truly capture their personalities and essence. By creating a comfortable and relaxed environment, incorporating personal elements, and encouraging genuine expression, I strive to create portraits that my clients will cherish for years to come.

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How South Jersey Adds a Unique Charm to Teen Portraits

As a portrait photographer in South Jersey, I am constantly amazed by the diverse and beautiful locations that this area offers. From the sandy beaches to the lush woods, there is no shortage of options for stunning backdrops for teen portraits. The charm of South Jersey lies in its versatility and uniqueness. No two locations are alike, and this allows for endless possibilities when it comes to creating portraits that truly capture the essence of each teenager.

One of my favorite locations for teen portraits is the beach. The soft, golden light of the sunset, the gentle breeze, and the sound of the waves crashing on the shore create a romantic and dreamy atmosphere that is perfect for capturing the carefree spirit of teenagers. On the other hand, the rustic barns and fields of the countryside offer a more relaxed and laid-back vibe that reflects the simplicity and authenticity of rural life.

In the city, the towering buildings and bustling streets provide a dynamic and edgy backdrop that captures the excitement and energy of urban life. Meanwhile, the peaceful and serene parks and gardens offer a tranquil and peaceful setting that showcases the natural beauty of South Jersey.

Overall, South Jersey is a unique and beautiful place that offers endless possibilities for creating stunning teen portraits. As a portrait photographer, I am always excited to explore the different locations and to incorporate the natural beauty of the area into my portraits. With its diverse landscapes, South Jersey adds a unique charm to teen portraits that makes them truly unforgettable.

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Establishing a Comfortable Connection with Your Subject

Establishing a comfortable connection with your subject is crucial in portrait photography. When it comes to teenagers, this is especially important as they may be nervous or self-conscious. As a portrait photographer, I make it a priority to get to know my clients before the shoot. I start by asking them about their interests, hobbies, and goals. This not only helps break the ice but also gives me a better understanding of their personalities, which I can then use to guide the shoot.

During the shoot, I create a relaxed and fun environment that allows my clients to be themselves. I encourage them to express their emotions freely and to let their personalities shine through. This often leads to candid and genuine shots that perfectly capture their essence.

Another important aspect of establishing a comfortable connection is communication. I make sure to explain the process to my clients, and to answer any questions they may have. This helps to alleviate any anxiety they may be feeling and ensures that everyone is on the same page.

In addition to getting to know my clients, I also make it a point to listen to their input. I value their opinions and ideas and work collaboratively with them to create portraits that truly reflect their personalities and style.

Overall, establishing a comfortable connection with your subject is crucial in creating portraits that truly capture their essence. By creating a relaxed and fun environment, communicating effectively, and valuing their input, I strive to make the experience enjoyable and memorable for my clients.

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Incorporating Personal Elements to Make Each Portrait Unique

Teen portraits are more than just pretty pictures. They are a reflection of who the teenagers are, their passions, interests, and personalities. That's why incorporating personal elements into the shoot is so important. It's a way to make each portrait unique and memorable.

Personal elements can be anything that has meaning to the teenager. It could be a favorite sports jersey, a musical instrument, a cherished pet, or even a piece of jewelry. These elements not only make the portraits unique, but also add a personal touch that makes them more meaningful. When a teenager looks at a portrait with a personal element, it immediately takes them back to that moment in time and all the emotions associated with it.

As a portrait photographer, I always encourage my clients to bring anything that's meaningful to them. We work together to incorporate it into the shoot in a natural and organic way. This can be as simple as wearing a favorite shirt or as elaborate as incorporating a beloved pet into the shoot. By doing this, we create portraits that are not only beautiful, but also meaningful and personal.

Incorporating personal elements also helps to tell a story. It gives the portraits context and helps to showcase the teenagers' interests and passions. It's a way to capture a moment in time that is unique to that teenager. When done right, these portraits can become cherished keepsakes that are passed down for generations to come.

Incorporating personal elements into teen portraits is a way to make them more than just pictures. It's a way to make them personal, meaningful, and unforgettable.

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Capturing Natural Expressions and Emotions

Teenagers are known for their unpredictable moods and emotions, but as a photographer, I see this as an opportunity to capture real and authentic moments. Whether it's a genuine smile, a thoughtful expression, or a burst of laughter, these natural expressions and emotions tell a story and make the portraits come alive. That's why I always encourage my clients to be themselves, and to express their emotions freely during the shoot. By creating a comfortable and relaxed environment, I can bring out the best in my clients, and create portraits that truly reflect who they are.

One of my favorite techniques for capturing natural expressions is to ask my clients to engage in an activity that they enjoy. Whether it's playing an instrument, reading a book, or simply hanging out with friends, these activities help to put my clients at ease and create a natural flow of conversation and interaction. This often leads to candid and genuine shots that perfectly capture their personalities and moods.

Timing is also crucial when it comes to capturing natural expressions and emotions. As a portrait photographer, I always keep my camera ready and be prepared to snap a shot at any moment. You never know when a spontaneous moment may happen, and these can often be the most memorable and authentic shots.

Overall, capturing natural expressions and emotions is a key component of creating teen portraits that are personal and meaningful. By creating a relaxed and fun environment, engaging in activities, and being ready to capture spontaneous moments, I strive to create portraits that truly reflect who my clients are and showcase their unique personalities and moods.

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The Importance of Timing and Light in Portrait Photography

When it comes to portrait photography, timing and light are crucial factors that can make or break a shot. In outdoor shoots, the golden hour - the hour before sunset - is the ideal time for capturing the most flattering light. The soft and warm glow of the golden hour creates a beautiful and natural look that adds a magical quality to the portraits. As a portrait photographer, I always try to schedule my shoots during this time to take advantage of the stunning light and create the most beautiful and memorable portraits.

Timing is also important when it comes to capturing candid moments. You never know when a spontaneous moment may happen, so it's important to be ready to capture these fleeting moments at any time. That's why I always keep my camera at the ready and be prepared to snap a shot at any moment. These candid shots can often be the most memorable and authentic, as they capture genuine expressions and emotions that tell a story.

In addition to timing, light is also a crucial factor in creating stunning portraits. The quality and direction of light can dramatically affect the mood and feel of the portraits. As a portrait photographer, I pay close attention to the direction and intensity of light, and use it to create different effects and moods in my portraits. By manipulating the light, I can create portraits that are soft and dreamy, or bold and dramatic.

Overall, timing and light are essential components of portrait photography that can greatly enhance the quality and impact of the portraits. By understanding the importance of timing and light, and knowing how to manipulate them to create different effects and moods, I strive to create portraits that are not only beautiful but also meaningful and personal.

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Post-Processing: Enhancing the Mood and Feel of the Portraits

Post-processing is where the magic happens in portrait photography. It's where we take the raw images and transform them into beautiful works of art. As a portrait photographer, I use Lightroom and Photoshop to adjust the exposure, color balance, and contrast of the images. I also add creative filters and effects to enhance the mood and feel of the portraits.

One of my favorite techniques is to use selective color. This technique allows me to highlight certain colors in the image while desaturating others. For example, I might desaturate the background and keep the subject's clothing in color to draw attention to them. This creates a unique and artistic effect that adds depth and dimension to the portraits.

Another technique I love is adding texture. Textures can add a vintage or grungy feel to the portraits, depending on the effect I'm going for. I often use textures on the background to create a more interesting and dynamic backdrop for the subject.

When it comes to post-processing, it's important to remember that less is often more. I always strive for a natural and timeless look that showcases the beauty of the subject without being overly processed. I also make sure to keep the client's style and preferences in mind, as everyone has different tastes when it comes to editing.

Overall, post-processing is an essential part of portrait photography that allows us to enhance the mood and feel of the portraits. With the right techniques and a creative eye, we can transform raw images into stunning works of art that our clients will cherish for years to come.

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Cherishing the Experience and the Outcome

As a portrait photographer, there's nothing more rewarding than seeing the smiles on my clients' faces when they see their final images. It's not just about the outcome, though; it's about the experience of creating those memories together. From the initial consultation to the final product, I strive to make the experience as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.

Throughout the process, I make sure to keep my clients' needs and preferences in mind. We work together to choose the perfect location, outfits, and props that showcase their personalities and interests. I also take the time to get to know my clients and make them feel comfortable in front of the camera. This helps them to relax and be themselves, which in turn leads to portraits that truly capture their essence.

During the shoot, I create a relaxed and fun environment that allows my clients to express themselves freely. I encourage them to be themselves and to let their personalities shine through. This often leads to candid and genuine shots that perfectly capture their emotions and moods. By the end of the shoot, my clients often leave feeling confident and empowered, with a new set of memories that they'll cherish for years to come.

When it comes to the final product, I work tirelessly to ensure that every detail is perfect. From the editing process to the selection of prints and products, I make sure that my clients are completely satisfied with the end result. Seeing their reactions when they receive their prints or digital images is truly the best part of my job.

In the end, it's not just about taking pretty pictures. It's about creating lasting memories that my clients will cherish for years to come. As a portrait photographer, I take this responsibility seriously, and I'm honored to be a part of each of my clients' unique stories.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

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10 Hidden South Jersey Spots for Stunning Photography Sessions

Discover South Jersey’s hidden photography gems! Explore serene nature, historic charm, and perfect spots for capturing timeless memories.

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!

Young girl in a field in Salem County, NJ, enjoying the golden sunlight.

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.

Husband gently kissing wife during wedding renewal portraits.

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.

Smiling child at Oldman's Creek Preserve in Salem County, NJ.

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 girls dressed as princesses at Tall Pines State Park in Sewell, NJ.

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 together in the field at Tall Pines in Sewell at sunset.

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!

Maternity session in the snow at Old Pine Farm in Deptford, NJ."

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

Little girl in the meadow at Old Pine Farm in Deptford, NJ.

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

Girl in red smiling at Old Pine Farm in Deptford, NJ.

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!

Brother and sister with a piano in the field at the meadow in Westville, NJ.

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.

Boy on tricycle at the Westville Wildlife Site, NJ.

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.

Girl in the fall at the DOD Ponds, NJ.

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.

Girl running on the beach at sunset at Salem Oakwood Beach, NJ.

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.

Little boy holding a lantern on the beach in Salem, NJ.

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!

Couple kissing at Daretown Lake in Elmer, NJ.

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

Family photo shoot at Daretown Lake, NJ.

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!

Girl on rocking horse at Elmer Lake, NJ.

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!

Girl smiling for the camera at Elephant Swamp in Elk Township, NJ.

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

Mom and her little girl at Elk Township, NJ.

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!

Brother twirling his sister at Boundary Creek in Moorestown, NJ.

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!

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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.

Little girl in blue smiling for the camera at Boundary Creek Park in Moorestown, NJ.

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!

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Wisteria Sessions in South Jersey! 2021

Spring is coming around the corner before you know it! Follow me into a magical world of one of my favorite flowers on this plant...these wisteria beauties, that comes to life on a private cottage farm. This cottage reminds me of something you would genuinely see in the United Kingdom with wisteria running wild. The fragrance alone is out of this world.

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2021's magical wisteria cottage is now launched. We LOVE this private oasis that we can offer to our clients!

We will be the only ones here.. You will get to choose which images you would like edited. Session will be held in the evening around sunset. We hope to have them at full bloom for your pleasure! WE cannot wait to do this for 2021, as last year we were shut down due to Covid. NOTHING is going to stop us this year!

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The magical window draping with the fragrance of wisteria!

We always aim to happy happy clients at the end of every photography session. We want you to become family, here at Shooting Star. It's what we love to do. Offer beautiful portraits for our customers.

Thank you for allowing me to be a part of capturing your family's lives in this day and age. It has been a pleasure to see you grow!

If you would like more information about these gorgeous sessions, please feel free to follow this link!

https://shootingstarphotographyllc.bigcartel.com/product/wisteria-cottage-series-300

As always, we are here to answer any questions or concerns you may have.

Thanks again!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

South Jersey's premiere family photographer

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Fall is HERE! Time to book your Session!

Ahhh today is the first day of fall in South Jersey! The crisp fall air is already happening. The changes of the colors to the trees are slowly showing! It's a wonderful time and season to be living in the Northeast. It's where we truly shine! It's when it becomes truly magical!

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Fall Family photo session in Philly! I LOVE and ADORE ALL MY FAMILIES and can't wait until our upcoming session here!

Fall is the time I see most of my families! I love capturing moments with loved ones. It's what life is all about and what is most important. FAMILY. I love capturing snuggles and joy. These are moments to always remember and to hold dear. Creating a time capsule of a treasured time and moment is what I do best and I am so thankful I see a lot fo returning families year after year. I am so thankful to be in business for over 6 years and see the families I have worked with grow and blossom.

NOW is the time to book your fall family session as I only have a very limited amount of dates left! Let me create something memorable and magical for you! I LOVE what I do and I am grateful for every customer and client who comes my way. You become family and family is most important! Become part of OUR FAMILY. We will ALWAYS take great care of you!!!!

Until we meet again!!! Happy Shooting and have a beautiful day~!

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Follow our journey around the Philadelphia Area.