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.

One Dress- Multiple Looks

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

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

Fairy sessions in a local park.

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

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

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Twirling on the streets of Philadelphia.

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

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Twirling in a meadow in Sewell, NJ.

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

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

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

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

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

Have a magical day, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

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Magical Christmas Family Sessions in Cape May, New Jersey

The Charming Small-Town Atmosphere

One of the top reasons why Cape May, NJ is a fantastic backdrop for Christmas family photography is its charming small-town atmosphere. Known for its historic Victorian architecture, the town transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday seasons. The streets are adorned with festive decorations, twinkling lights, and beautifully decorated storefronts, creating a magical ambiance for capturing memorable family moments. The picturesque streets lined with boutiques, cafes, and quaint shops provide endless opportunities for unique and enchanting photographs.

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Just in front of one of my favorite historic houses in Cape May, New Jersey.

I truly love working with all the amazing families that hire me year after year. From magical portraits, to custom family sessions on a private property, to studio sessions, we love working with families to create a rather unique experience for everyone that comes our way!

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Love this little guys bow tie and outfit! Mom dresses this kid to the nines!

Love capturing families every single Christmas!!

I truly love capturing the true essence and MAGIC for all my Philadelphia and South Jersey customers. It's all about a unique experience for all my families. I just want you to show up and smile and we take care of the rest!

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Posing in front of the Bed and Breakfast hot spots in Cape May, New Jersey.

Love being able to capture memories for my families of South Jersey!

Whether it is the Jersey shore for a beach session, a downtown photography shoot in Philadelphia, or a magical forest location in South Jersey, we have you covered. We have private locations as well as hundreds of public shooting locations that we can suggest for the best portrait experience for you and your family.

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Love the gas lamp look of Cape May, New Jersey.

Magic created on the sidewalks of Cape May, New Jersey

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Posing in front of all the cottages in Cape May, New Jersey.

Mr. Handsome Sauce at the Jersey shore. In front of the famous "cottages" in Cape May!

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On the beautiful streets of Cape May, New Jersey. Christmas is the best time at this beautiful shore resort in New Jersey.

The Charming Small-Town Atmosphere

One of the top reasons why Cape May, NJ is a fantastic backdrop for Christmas family photography is its charming small-town atmosphere. Known for its historic Victorian architecture, the town transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday seasons. The streets are adorned with festive decorations, twinkling lights, and beautifully decorated storefronts, creating a magical ambiance for capturing memorable family moments. The picturesque streets lined with boutiques, cafes, and quaint shops provide endless opportunities for unique and enchanting photographs.

Stunning Beach and Natural Landscapes

Cape May's unique location offers a delightful contrast between its charming small-town feel and its stunning beach and natural landscapes. This combination creates a diverse range of backdrops for Christmas family photography. Families can be photographed against the backdrop of sandy beaches, rolling dunes, and crashing ocean waves, capturing the essence of a seaside Christmas celebration. Additionally, the surrounding natural landscapes and Cape May Point State Park provide a beautiful setting with lush greenery, scenic trails, and wildlife, offering even more options for capturing unforgettable family moments.

Festive Events and Activities

During the holiday season, Cape May hosts a variety of festive events and activities, making it an ideal backdrop for Christmas family photography. The town offers holiday-themed trolley rides, where families can enjoy a cozy tour of Cape May's beautifully adorned streets. The annual Christmas Candlelight House Tours provide an opportunity to explore the town's historic homes, which are lavishly decorated for the holidays. Families can also attend tree lighting ceremonies, holiday parades, and Christmas concerts, immersing themselves in the festive spirit and creating memorable experiences that can be captured against the backdrop of the town's festive decorations.
In conclusion, Cape May, NJ is a great place for Christmas family photography for several reasons. Its charming small-town atmosphere, stunning beach and natural landscapes, and a wide range of festive events and activities all contribute to creating a magical backdrop for capturing cherished family moments during the holiday season.

I LOVE CAPE MAY!

There's nothing more magical then letting things just happen and being in the moment. That's what we try to do accomplish. Everyone with natural smiles.

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Cousins getting their Christmas portraits in Cape May, New Jersey!

Loved capturing these cuties. Parents are the owners of Scoopy's two ice cream!

We'd love to be considered for your next family portraits. Contact us today so that we can create something magical for you!

Until we meet again!

Happy Shooting!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography- South Jersey Photographer

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Unicorn sessions Shooting Star Photography Unicorn sessions Shooting Star Photography

Unicorn Sessions are MAGICAL in South Jersey

There's nothing sweeter than seeing a child's eyes all bright-eyed when they see the "Unicorn" for the first time. There's something sweet and magical about it. I love bringing these special unicorn sessions to the families of South Jersey. It's a craft I have tried to perfect over the years, as it's not always working with a live animal.

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beautiful magical unicorn capture in the forest of South Jersey.

I know 2020 has been tough for every one. It's been definitely an eye-opener for many photographers in our area. We've all had to scramble to make sure we are providing a safe working environment for our employees and our patrons. As we move ahead, we have put in special safety measures in place as to keep to social distancing, but still providing the same quality that you typically expect.

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Magic captured in a child's heart. Unicorn sessions in South Jersey.

We have one more date available for these unicorn sessions and we hope to see you out in September 2020.. If interested, please contact us at shootingstarsouthjersey@gmail.com and we can make your magical experience happen!

P.S. We provide the unicorn and also dresses for your enchanted experience. All you need to do is show up and smile! Hope to see you soon!

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Sunflower Sessions in New Jersey- A Blooming Radiance

Sunflower Sessions in New Jersey- A Blooming Radiance

Sunflowers in Southern New Jersey

At Shooting Star Photography LLC, we recently had the pleasure of organizing a delightful vintage kids photo shoot amidst the breathtaking sunflower fields of New Jersey. As the warm sun gently cascaded through the golden petals, an enchanting scene unfolded before our eyes. The vintage-inspired outfits perfectly complemented the vibrant hues of the sunflowers, creating a whimsical atmosphere. Laughter filled the air as the children gleefully explored the vast sea of flowers, their smiling faces a snapshot of pure joy. We were able to capture precious moments of wonder and innocence that will forever be cherished by their families. This magical experience amidst the sunflowers of New Jersey was a reminder of the beauty that childhood brings and the timeless appeal of vintage photography.

Sunflowers in Southern New Jersey

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At Shooting Star Photography LLC, we recently had the pleasure of organizing a delightful vintage kids photo shoot amidst the breathtaking sunflower fields of New Jersey. As the warm sun gently cascaded through the golden petals, an enchanting scene unfolded before our eyes. The vintage-inspired outfits perfectly complemented the vibrant hues of the sunflowers, creating a whimsical atmosphere. Laughter filled the air as the children gleefully explored the vast sea of flowers, their smiling faces a snapshot of pure joy. We were able to capture precious moments of wonder and innocence that will forever be cherished by their families. This magical experience amidst the sunflowers of New Jersey was a reminder of the beauty that childhood brings and the timeless appeal of vintage photography.

In the sun-kissed fields of South Jersey, where vibrant petals stretch towards the heavens, a captivating story unfolds—a sunflower photo session that celebrates the sheer beauty and enchantment of nature's golden blooms. Against a backdrop of dazzling yellow hues, a tale of joy, serenity, and mesmerizing splendor is captured through the lens. Join us as we immerse ourselves in the radiant world of a sunflower photo session in South Jersey, where nature's artistry intertwines with human creativity to create an unforgettable visual experience.

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Sisters being silly in the sunflowers of South Jersey.

A Tapestry of Sunflowers:

South Jersey's sunflower fields create a mesmerizing spectacle, spreading over vast landscapes like a golden quilt. Bathed in the warm sunlight, these radiant flowers evoke a sense of awe and wonder, drawing visitors from far and wide. Nestled amidst this blooming tapestry, a photo session unfolds, with the intention of capturing the ephemeral beauty and the emotions it evokes.

Nature's Golden Symphony:

As the sun casts its golden rays over the sunflower field, the air becomes infused with a sweet, earthy scent, and a gentle rustling of leaves provides a harmonious soundtrack. Each sunflower stands tall and proud, their magnificent heads turned towards the sun, as if seeking its nurturing embrace. Against this natural orchestra, the photographers and subjects find themselves immersed in a captivating symphony of color and light.

Unveiling Beauty:

In this sunflower paradise, a group of individuals steps into the frame, poised to embrace the magic that unfolds around them. Friends, families, or couples find themselves surrounded by a sea of sunflowers, their vibrant petals serving as a canvas for shared memories and emotions. Laughter and joy ripple through the air as they bask in the whimsical beauty that nature has bestowed upon them.

Expressions of Delight:

The sunflower field becomes a stage where human emotions intertwine with the brilliance of nature. Smiles light up faces as sunflower crowns are delicately placed atop heads, symbolizing the whimsy and delight experienced amidst the blossoms. Children skip and play, their tiny hands reaching out to touch the velvety petals. Couples embrace, their love mirrored by the sunflowers' graceful dance. Every interaction, every expression, is captured, freezing moments of joy, love, and wonder into eternal memories.

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A Journey of Discovery:

As the photo session progresses, visitors wander through the sunflower field, exploring its hidden corners, and discovering unexpected wonders. Amongst the towering sunflowers, butterflies flutter by, delicate and enchanting, while bees diligently collect pollen, contributing to the circle of life. The interplay between humans and nature creates a sense of connectedness, reminding all of the beauty and harmony that exist when we immerse ourselves in the natural world.

Conclusion:

In the sunflower fields of South Jersey, a symphony of color, light, and human emotion weaves an unforgettable tale. Through a sunflower photo session, the transient beauty of nature is captured, preserving moments of joy, wonder, and connection. This extraordinary experience invites us to appreciate the magic that exists within a sunflower's petals and the transformative power of immersing ourselves in the natural world. In South Jersey's sunflower fields, a visual masterpiece is born, celebrating the radiant splendor of nature and the boundless joy it brings to those who are fortunate enough to witness it

It's no wonder that New Jersey is the epicenter of greatness. With an abundance of farmland and delicious produce that we share with the world, that we are the BEST on the east coast as far as tasty produce goes. Well.. we definitely can put the "garden" in the garden state, too.

One thing we also rock at are sunflowers. From July 4th to early October, you can generally see these beauties all over this precious land. These beautiful sunny and yellow golden babies are a sight to see and always bring a smile to one's faces. It's no wonder they are a beloved flower. They can typically last up to 3-4 weeks in the right conditions.

One thing I like to offer my customers are sunflower sessions every year. I am quite obsessed with flower sessions and like to incorporate a lot of them into my session offerings. I typically do flower photos all year round!

Here is a session I did recently, of a family I truly love. I see these guys a few times a year. It's always a pleasure to photograph!!

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Sunsets and Sunflowers are the spice of life!

Vintage kids sessions in the sunflower fields of South Jersey. We love doing these every single July and have relationships with many farmers in the New Jersey area for sunflower sessions. 

Vintage Sunflower Photography Sessions: Capturing Timeless Beauty

Step into a world filled with timeless beauty and ethereal charm with our vintage sunflower sessions. At Shooting Star Photography, we believe that every photoshoot should tell a unique story. And what better way to capture the magic than amidst a field of vibrant sunflowers?


Sunflowers, with their golden petals and towering stems, have long been associated with happiness, love, and positive energy. They exude a sense of nostalgia and invoke memories of carefree summers and simpler times. With our vintage sunflower sessions, we aim to transport you back to an era of elegance and grace.


We meticulously curate the backdrop utilizing at least four local sites in south jersey that have sunflowers for your session, selecting the most picturesque sunflower fields and weaving in vintage elements to create an enchanting atmosphere. Picture yourself wrapped in vintage lace, standing amidst waves of sunflowers, their petals dancing gently in the breeze. The warm hues of the sunflowers combined with soft, natural lighting result in photographs that are simply breathtaking.

It is not just images, but emotions and stories. With their unique blend of creativity and technical expertise, they ensure that every image taken during a vintage sunflower session is a work of art. From spontaneous laughter to stolen glances, their keen eye will capture the authenticity of your connection, preserving those precious moments forever.


What makes vintage sunflower sessions truly special is the wonderful feeling it evokes in everyone involved. It is a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in a dream-like world. Whether it’s a romantic couple session, a fun-filled family shoot, or a stunning solo portrait, our vintage sunflower sessions offer an unforgettable experience for all.


So, unleash your inner free spirit, let the sunflowers guide your journey, and allow us to document the beauty and joy that unfolds. Celebrate the beauty of life and love with our vintage sunflower sessions—a truly magical way to create cherished memories that will stand the test of time.

I love working with children. As a mom, I know how important it is to capture these precious moments in your little's lives. They grow so quickly. That's why it's important to get in the moment photographs. We don't want cheesy smiles, we want to invoke real emotion. We want the families we work with to have fun during their sessions and for the kiddos to enjoy it as well.  

There's nothing like letting children "play" while getting their portraits done. It tells a story. Their story of who they are. It tells the family's story and how they interact as a family. Sunflowers are one of my most favorite sessions and I think it's evident in the images we create. 

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Kiddos having fun in the sunflower fields. It’s always a fun time!

Love how vintage you can make sunflowers!

As you can see, all you need is beautiful light, a great setting (like these lovely sunnies) and beautiful subjects and this is what you can create! I truly love whites a blues as wardrobe options for sunflowers. These color choices, the subject generally pops.

Happy Shooting my friends! Enjoy the sunflowers this year! I have enjoyed all the families that have come my way!!

-Dee

Shooting Star Photography

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