New Jersey Photographer | First Holy Communion Photos

Finding Beauty in Tradition: First Holy Communion Photos in NJ

As a photographer, there are certain moments that leave a lasting impression, ones that go beyond capturing an image. They become memories, preserved forever. One such experience was a First Holy Communion photoshoot I recently had the privilege of photographing, set among the breathtaking Cherry Blossoms of South Jersey.

First Holy Communion Photographer in Southern New Jersey.

A Perfect Setting for Sacred Moments

Imagine this: a serene morning, with the soft hues of dawn gently caressing the delicate petals of the Cherry Blossoms. There’s a palpable sense of reverence in the air as families gather to celebrate this sacred milestone in their children's lives. The beauty of the blooms in full swing seemed to mirror the purity and joy of the occasion.

For those of you familiar with the significance of a child’s First Holy Communion, you know that it’s not just another event—it's a rite of passage. It’s a sacred moment where family, faith, and tradition come together. Capturing these precious moments against the serene backdrop of South Jersey’s iconic Cherry Blossoms added an ethereal touch to this special day.

Beautiful light among the cherry blossoms in Southern New Jersey.

The Power of Emotion in Photography

As a photographer, the true magic happens when I’m able to capture the emotions of a moment. It's not about getting the perfect pose, but rather about freezing those fleeting emotions—like the laughter, the loving embraces, the shy glances. These are the moments that carry the true essence of an experience, and they’re the ones that make a photograph timeless.

The little girl I photographed seemed to glow in her white dress, standing amongst the delicate petals. There was something so pure and enchanting about the scene—the light filtering through the blossoms, highlighting her innocence and joy. And it wasn’t just her; the family’s interactions, the hugs, the prayers, all spoke volumes about the significance of the day.

Cherishing the Fleeting Beauty of Life

The Cherry Blossoms themselves played a powerful role in this photoshoot. Their transient beauty is a reminder of how fleeting life is, urging us to cherish every moment, every bloom, with a sense of reverence and gratitude. As the session came to a close and the sun cast its golden glow over the blossoms, I couldn’t help but feel deeply grateful for this experience. Grateful to be part of this family’s memories, grateful for the beauty of nature, and grateful for the privilege of being the one to capture it all.

Little lady smiling in her Communion Finest!

A Lasting Memory

Photography, especially in moments as sacred as this one, goes beyond just taking pictures—it’s about creating memories that last a lifetime. As families come together to celebrate milestones like a First Holy Communion, it’s my job to ensure those moments are preserved for generations to come.

So here's to the beauty of Cherry Blossoms in full bloom, the sacred tradition of First Holy Communion, and the art of photography that lets us capture the essence of these milestones. Every click of the camera is a reminder to find beauty in the ordinary and cherish life's most precious moments.

Until next time, keep chasing the light!

Dee
Shooting Star Photography

New Pretties Arrived Today!

Great news! We've just received a new collection of dresses for our styled shoots, this time from Dollcake! The latest arrivals boast stunning designs and exquisite details that are sure to elevate the elegance and charm of our upcoming photo sessions. Stay tuned for a sneak peek at these gorgeous creations!

Pretty in blue. These are great for the beach.

Swooning over this dress!

Dollcake rocks!

Pretty as a princess.

Pretty in lavender.

Fall has been INSANITY.  It pretty much is for every photographer... but I have been exhausted and have been traveling all over the country the past month and throughout this current fall season..  it's about to get even nuttier around here, but I'm a rockstar and and I will rock out this season!!! It's okay, as of this past weekend, no more traveling for awhile! So.. this means I get to stay in good Ol' South Jersey for a bit... well, until late November.. but will be HOME!!!

Sessions excite me.. I truly do enjoy working with families and people! It's going to be a great fall foliage season! The leaves are already changing and the weather has been staying pretty mild!Anywho!   I received 4 new dresses in today... The first two, I will showcase.. They are from the lovely DOLLCAKE company located in Australia and I have collected probably about 20 or more of their dresses this past year. I love them..

The reason WHY... Well, they are very, very, durable from kiddo's abuse.  I mean they are kids.. they're suppose to have fun.. get messy right? It is a part of this job and it happens, but these make me swoon everytime a kid wears them!I had my daughter model this for me as it came in today.. So please see attached for in person video.. I apologize for the grain.. as I did take it on my iphone, but figured you may like to see it on a REAL LIFE person.. This is a size 4.. It should fit a size 2 1/2- up to about a 4.. possibly a size 5..

Dollcake is a bit tricky with their sizing from time to time.. but it does allow a bit of stretch and the straps can be configured tight or lose with a ton of leeway. WARNING.. You will hear bribery for lollipops.. in this video.. be forewarned![wpvideo ULkAaqS5] Second Dress.. is this lavender long number.. Also, another gorgeous one.. This I purchased in a size 5. This should fit a bigger 3 year old up to possibly a size 6... A

gain, lots of leeway and can make adjustments!  Here's another live view of the dress.. However, not taken with professional equipment so please don't kill me!More bribery.. and she's "all done. I'm very excited for this year! If I had more time... I would be blogging more sessions and getting them up here, but my goal has been to get them out the door for my clients!  However, I am doing sessions in Delaware and Pennsylvania this end of year and am excited! I love new locations and spots! Hey, I love South Jersey, but it's nice to switch things up from time to time, right?

For those who are signed up to see me this season, I look forward to working with you!!! More goodies coming in too!

Have a great night and happy shooting! Dee

First Holy Communion Session With An Epic Longwood Gardens shoot!!!

As we all know, April and May were pretty wet months... here in South Jersey. I have had to do a ton of rescheduling due to our wonderful Mother Nature.  I knew that the time of our session, it would be rather rainy out, so I suggested we do Longwood Gardens in the Conservatory for a photo session.. and boy was I happy we made that decision because these photographs came out PHENOMENAL.I find it truly inspiring what we have here in our Delaware Valley.  We have so many vast options and locations to choose from... from mountains to lavender fields to the Jersey shore. It's a joyous wonder how beautiful our backyard is!!!!

First holy communion photo shoot at Longwood Gardens!

Enjoying the conservatory at Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, PA.

Longwood Gardens: A Captivating Wonderland for Photo Shoots

Introduction
Longwood Gardens, located in southeastern Pennsylvania, is a mesmerizing destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty with stunning man-made landscapes. For photographers seeking an unforgettable photo shoot location, Longwood Gardens offers an abundance of breathtaking backdrops. Here's why Longwood Gardens is unquestionably an awesome place for a photo shoot.

1. Diverse and Vibrant Gardens
Longwood Gardens boasts a diverse collection of meticulously cultivated gardens designed to captivate the senses. From vibrant flower beds and perfectly pruned topiaries to tranquil water features and enchanting woodland trails, the gardens offer an endless array of picturesque settings for photo shoots. Whether it's the iconic Italian Water Garden's elegant fountains or the dazzling Orchid House, Longwood Gardens provides a plethora of options to suit every photographer's vision.

2. All-Season Appeal
One of the remarkable aspects of Longwood Gardens is its year-round allure. In every season, the gardens offer a magical landscape that provides unique opportunities for captivating photographs. In spring, vibrant blooms blanket the gardens, making it an ideal time for capturing nature's renewal. Summer brings lush greenery and outdoor concerts, creating a lively ambiance. Fall transforms the gardens into a kaleidoscope of rich autumnal hues, while winter showcases the splendor of dazzling holiday lights illuminating the gardens' enchanting paths.

Sweet kisses for making communion!

3. Versatile Indoor Spaces
Longwood Gardens isn't limited to its exceptional outdoor beauty alone. The conservatory and indoor spaces offer equally magnificent opportunities for capturing stunning photographs. The four-acre indoor conservatory, home to an extraordinary collection of plants, serves as a haven for exotic flora enthusiasts. The Main Fountain Garden's grand architecture and ethereal water displays create a majestic setting for photo shoots regardless of the weather conditions. These indoor spaces provide versatility and artistic inspiration, ensuring that a photo shoot at Longwood Gardens can be successful rain or shine.

4. Endless Scenic Possibilities
Photographers thrive in environments that present an abundance of possibilities, and Longwood Gardens certainly delivers. The vastness of the gardens lends itself to endless exploration, allowing photographers to discover hidden nooks and expansive vistas. Whether your aim is capturing delicate details up close or bringing depth to your compositions with vast landscapes, Longwood Gardens provides the perfect canvas.

We included the whole crew in this lady’s first holy communion session at Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square.

5. Professional Support
Longwood Gardens understands the needs of photographers and provides valuable support to ensure their success. The photography policy at Longwood Gardens permits both amateur and professional photographers to share the beauty of their images. They encourage photographers to inquire about advanced access hours, workshops, and special events tailored to their needs. The expertise and guidance provided by the Longwood Gardens staff can elevate any photo shoot to new heights.

Last beautiful photo of the day!

Conclusion
Longwood Gardens is undeniably an awe-inspiring place for a photo shoot. Its stunning gardens, versatile indoor spaces, year-round appeal, endless scenic possibilities, and professional support make it an irresistibly attractive choice for photographers. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a budding enthusiast, Longwood Gardens promises an unforgettable experience, resulting in breathtaking photographs that capture the magic of this extraordinary destination.

Seriously! IF cuteness could kill, eh?  IF you are looking for a cool location on a rainy day... THIS is the place for you in the Delaware Valley. Heck, even a sunny day it would be beautiful!!! Thanks for being a big support South Jersey!  I love you! You rock!!! I am excited for upcoming beach mini sessions and a field of gladiolas!!! Stay Tuned! IT will be epic!!! Thanks for riding along! I love capturing families, maternity and basic portrait sessions!!!  I am DYING to do a maternity session here!!! DYING!!! Please contact me if interested!!! We would utilize both indoor facilities and outdoors! Did you know they have a meadow of wildflowers? Gah!!!  Also, found this gorgeous meadow of wildflowers in Medford, NJ of all places! Can't wait to share my locations with all of you and show more future sessions!!! Wahoo!!! 

Happy Shooting my friends!!! 

Dee

Upcoming Beach Mini!

Jersey Shore Beach Photographers

Whew it's really been busy here in the Milky Way (get it? Shooting Star Photography?)!!! But as promised, here is my limited beach session offering for this summer!!!!  Grab the family, hop in your car, and come on down to the Jersey shore!I'm very excited and happy to announce that I will be offering a limited and discounted one day Jersey shore beach mini session! I only offer special rates maybe 2-3 times a year so this day will sell out quickly!  This beautiful scouted location is in the Sea Isle City area and location will be revealed when you book!

beach promotion for Sea Isle, NJ.

 Enjoy the gorgeous South Jersey sunset, while enjoying your session with yours truly!!!!  It will be a special and fabulous day! This will be around peak time at the Jersey shore!!! We will be starting at 4pm all the way up to around 7:30.  Please bring comfortable shoes and dress for the environment!  We will provide a blanket and additional seating!Come on out and enjoy the best of South Jersey!  I'm known for my beautiful locations throughout our gorgeous state and I never disappoint!  You will love this spot!!  Get those needed  family photos done... or some maternity photos!  Enjoy watching the sunset and feel the cool breezes coming off the Atlantic Ocean!  Hear and surrender to the waves crashing ashore!  And best of all... you'll be at the gorgeous Jersey shore at the height of summer!Contact us today! This will book fast!  As they always do!  All my mini's always sell out!!!!

Happy Shooting, my friends! 

Best,

Dee

A Tisket, A Tasket... A Strawberry Baby In A Basket

Baby wearing a strawberry hat and in a strawberry basket.

Such a little cutie!

She wants nothing to do with this.

I got a leaf mom.

She wants out…

Now… she definitely wants out.

Photographing Babies

We've been having some very odd spring weather... Well I guess "normal weather" in what we see this time of year in South Jersey. Some days it gets hot out and up to 60+ degrees and then other days call for snow.I took advantage of the warmer weather the other day and I found a "strawberry" growing in our garden at Shooting Star!  The baby girl I worked with is 11 months old and we put a strawberry cap on her with a green diaper cover... put her in an adorable basket and magic happened!  She was such a doll to work with!The Shooting Star garden grounds are starting to come alive! 

Snowdrops are blooming, crocuses and daffodils are just about to bloom.  It's a beautiful site! In fact, we are hosting a weather here tomorrow... and yes, the weather is calling for snow... This will get interesting, but I think it will be a blast!  I love naked babies!  I know a lot of kids and young adults don't appreciate seeing themselves naked when they're older, but I think it captures the innocence and sweetness of them! Plus, I just adore babies!  I have two of my own and they'll always be my little babies in my eyes, no matter how old they get!

I have my first wedding shoot this weekend and will most-likely be in the snow and then Easter mini's this Sunday!  It is looking to be a very busy weekend!  I have also just ordered a bunch of new props for this upcoming Spring/Summer and will probably be offering outdoor mini's at one of my beautiful scouted locations next month!  I am so excited for what this year is going to bring!

I am also excited about our garden! We planted over 1,000 new perennials last year and I can't wait to utilize it for photo sessions!  I love that I can offer my clients that privacy... rather than going to a park and to be disturbed!!! However, my scouted locations also offer that privacy as well!   Give us a call!  We would love to welcome you to our garden and create lasting memories for you!

Happy Shooting, my friends! -Dee