The Pop Shop in Collingswood- Photo Shoot!

Want to step back in time?

There’s nothing more special then taking the kids to the Pop Shop in Collingswood, New Jersey. It’s basically become a rite of passage, for all the kiddos in the South Jersey area, to at least try once! For myself, in having children, it’s about making memories. I love taking my kids out to eat, on a nice day and offering them a treat. It’s a great low-cost alternative to going out and it does make it a fun children’s atmosphere.

From their famous humongous as a pizza pie pancakes, to grilled cheese and tomato soup, to their soda fountain/ice cream selection. Nothing disappoints on the menu! The kids are in for a true classic treat! 

A must to get is a milkshake and their breakfast for an indulging brunch!

When I had the opportunity to shoot here, I was floored and very excited!!! Their countertop is a vintage 50’s style, that originally, was shipped in, from the Midwest. They wanted it to look like a period in time and they did not disappoint in this venture. The Pop Shop’s interior, thoughtfully decorated in bright colors and truly showcasing the 50’s vibe with classic portraits, showing an era as some would say, the true essence of Americana. 

Family soda pop sessions can be fun for several reasons:

1. Nostalgia: Soda pop has a nostalgic feel to it, reminding many people of happy memories from childhood. It can be a fun way to connect with the past and create new memories with family members.

2. Variety of flavors: Soda pop comes in a wide range of flavors, allowing family members to experiment with different tastes and combinations. This can be a fun way to bond over shared experiences and tastes.

3. Creative expression: Soda pop sessions can provide a creative outlet for family members, allowing them to experiment with different mixtures and presentation styles. This can encourage a sense of playfulness and experimentation, leading to fun and interesting results.

4. Shared experience: Sharing a soda pop session can create a sense of togetherness and shared experience. It can be a fun way to spend time together, connecting over a shared love of a particular beverage.

Overall, family soda pop sessions can be a fun and unique way to spend time together, creating memories and connections over a shared love of soda pop.

At the counter at the Pop Shop in Collingswood. A family retro step back in time!

VIntage Pop Shop Session in Collingswood, New Jersey! At the vintage 1950's counter!

If you aren’t from the area, it’s a great little spot to take the kids and explore all that Collingswood has to offer.  Stroll through the town to the many parks, the speedline and incredible restaurants (Il Fiore, my favorite:)

Enjoying a milkshake with brother and sister. Capturing moments!

The Pop Shop in Collingswood, NJ is always a delight. WE love photo sessions here!

"juke box heroes" Love what the Pop Shop in Collingswood is all about!

Two cuties and making memories with milkshakes!

We definitely made some memories this day. We got to drink some milkshakes and have some fun! The owners were kind enough to let us to come in to shoot.

It's time to make memories, South Jersey! Let 2021 be the year to enjoy and treasure. Moments in time. The childhood years are important. I would be honored to capture these moments for you!

Thank you for stopping by:)

Dee Giumetti

Owner of Shooting Star Photography

South Jersey Photographer

A Maternity Session at Greenwich Lake, New Jersey

South Jersey Maternity Photographer going strong!

Everyone knows I go a bit over the top with everything! I like fancy, crazy and whimsical things and I don't half-ass anything. I give 110% to everything I do. My work is my blood. I love photography with a passion and enjoy learning new things about this art every single day. This is one expensive "hobby" to get into.. Gear, education, the works... However, I find it rewarding. I find it keeps my on my toes all the time. One day is always different from the next and is why it has held my interest for so long and why I turned this love into a business. I truly do, live, eat and breathe photography. I am always doing something whether it's shooting, marketing, taking a class, from morning to the wee hours of the night (and this is suppose to be a part time business).

 I'm getting somewhere I promise here... Last year, was my first full calendar year in business. Many ups and downs and twists and turns.  It's been a interesting business journey to say the least. The bad outweighs the good and would say very minimal bad occurred or happened and even that I take as a learning lesson to keep improving and doing and giving better.  

This 2017 year, is going to be probably my most exciting year.  New locations, new dresses and just a different way of doing business.. and it excites me, as it should excite you. Below, is my very dramatic "best of maternity" in 2016.

Maternity Photography Session at Greenwich Lake

Dancing in the sunshine with mom and dad for their maternity session at East Greenwich Lake in Gloucester County, NJ.

Greenwich Lake in Gloucester County NJ served as the idyllic backdrop for a recent maternity photography session captured by Shooting Star Photography LLC. The session was infused with joy, laughter, and radiant sunlight as the two little ladies, along with their mom and dad, danced amidst the picturesque scenery.

The atmosphere was filled with a palpable sense of excitement as the expectant mom and dad arrived at the stunning Greenwich Lake. Nestled amidst nature's beauty, the lake provided an enchanting setting for this joyful occasion.

Sisters looking all vintage for mom’s maternity shoot!

As the warm rays of the sun cascaded through the trees, Shooting Star Photography LLC seized the opportunity to capture the essence of this beautiful family. The delightful moments began with playful interactions between the two energetic little ladies and their doting parents. The children's laughter echoed across the serene lake, creating an atmosphere of pure happiness.

Kisses for mom. I love these!!!

As the session progressed, the expectant mom and dad took center stage. Their love and anticipation radiated from their every movement as they gracefully danced to the rhythm of their own journey. The golden hour light danced upon their faces, accentuating their joyous expressions and highlighting the connection shared between them.

Shooting Star Photography LLC, renowned for their expertise in capturing authentic and heartfelt moments, ensured that this maternity session was a delightful experience for the entire family. With their skilled guidance and expertise, they effortlessly transformed ordinary moments into extraordinary memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.

The combination of the picturesque location, the glowing sunlight, and the palpable love between the family members resulted in a collection of remarkable images. Each photograph encapsulated the anticipation, love, and joy that filled the air that day at Greenwich Lake.

Have to give my soon to be baby brother some love!

With a keen eye for detail and an unwavering commitment to capturing genuine emotions, Shooting Star Photography LLC succeeded in creating a maternity session that truly captured the essence of this beautiful family's journey towards welcoming a new member to their loving unit.

At Shooting Star Photography LLC, our goal is to create timeless photographs that transcend the boundaries of time and evoke cherished memories. This maternity session at Greenwich Lake stands as a testament to our commitment to excellence, craftsmanship, and an unwavering passion for capturing life's most precious moments.

A Day With Meg Bitton- Behind the Scenes Workshop

Meg Bitton, with her extensive experience and unique artistic vision held a workshop in the winter to elevate her students and their journey into this business. It is a tough business to navigate. However, if looking to expand on knowledge or just getting into the photography business, I do recommend having a portrait session with her.

I am providing some of the inspiration from Meg Bitton’s in-person workshop.

Styling is very important to set the mood for your images.

This was Meg’s sweater used to make beautiful images. Meaning you just need great light and a great subject! Notice the backlighting.

Sweet angel.

Capturing the light.

Every photographer has a dream photographer that they look up to and want to meet one day. Usually, this person is one with years of experience and has taken the world by storm.  One with a reputation to teach and make their students better than they were before. That one photographer for me was Meg Bitton.  Ever since I got into photography and her work mesmerized me through the screen, I instantly fell in love with her soft and elegant style. It truly spoke to me.  I looked at her work and said... I MUST learn from her one day.Last year, was tremendous growing pains for me. I worked hard to where I am today. I took class after class and my work keeps improving with every session that I complete.

 I saw Meg had a simple and affordable Winter's Light workshop and I jumped at the chance to finally learn from her!Funny enough the day of her workshop, my SUV was having issues and warning lights came on. I was not going to miss this class so I called my mom, who thankfully resides in the next town over, and explained to her what happened and she graciously let me borrow her vehicle for the day.I took the semi-short journey of about 2 hour and 2o minute drive up to her North Jersey location and arrived early. I did not want to miss a minute.

As I saw other photographers pull up, I saw that they too were nervous to meet one of their photography idols, as I was. Within the first few minutes I felt at ease, although I could cut the room with a knife because I could sense the nervousness oozing out from each and everyone of us and what in the hay we were going to expect as this day moved forward.

 A lot of folks have put Meg on a pedestal, but Meg showed us she is human and one of the girls, like all of us. She wore her sunglasses and just kicked back on her plush sectional in her cozy workshop. We each got to discuss why we were there.  Meg has been a photographer all her life.  I respect that about her. She's gone through the ups and downs of this business and now presently dealing with the new digital age. She has perfected her craft. However, she never stops learning. We all should never stop learning.When we were finished with our talk, we ventured out to the nearby woods and this is when I fell in love with Anna Triant's dresses and Meg herself.  

The way she takes over with just her camera and her subject. Right then and there, I was inspired. Right then and there, things clicked for me. Right then and there... I thought to myself.... this is what I needed to see. She helped show folks how to find good light and was very interactive throughout the entire aspect of shooting. I got to speak with the moms of the models as Meg uses them often in her work. I saw the pride they had for their daughters and with having another day with Meg. I complimented how well these girls were at what they do and told them how happy they must be.

Everyone I spoke to was down to earth and so open. Even the girls I went to the workshop with. In fact, I've become friends with one of the girls from the workshop and we've gotten together since!We headed back to her studio and this is where we could ask any questions about the day and we sat in awe as she uploaded her pictures and showed us how she would edit them.  

After, we sat around and discussed business matters and finalized our day of questions so we could return home.When I left that day, I had a high. I sang and blasted the radio up in the car for my semi-long journey home and couldn't wait until I could put into use what Meg taught me. Meg taught me these things... To be me, that my style is good!!! And to keep going with it!To stylize my sessions and that clothing/wardrobe plays a vital role in photography.

The way you are dressed, can MAKE or BREAK your photographs because of this, this is why the change this year of my business in stylizing for girls and will be stylizing for boys, men and women going forward. I was already stylizing my maternity sessions.To find light-  Honestly, I was good at finding it before and with the locations I utilize, but Meg really makes you pay attention to it...  She showed us the way... and how to get the BEST out of our images!The next day after the workshop, I had a session.  From that session, I published TWO photographs. I owe that to Meg as I've tried for the last year to get published with Inspire and could never get published. From then and there, business has taken off and more images have been published.She made me realize that I deserve the best, I deserve to respect myself and do what I love to do and to not take every client on that waves money at me..

To only take on what I want to take on and it's okay to go with only your vision and your gut and to follow your passion. To be honest, by the time of Meg's workshop. I was burned out from the fall. I worked non-stop from August to November with only 2 days off. I had sessions every day except those two days. I was exhausted and was starting to hate photography.  She sparked that again in me.

This year, has been many changes, but for the good. I value myself and I have worked hard to get to the skill level that I've always wanted to be at. I'm always learning. Every single day, I learn something new and that will never stop. However, I have grown by leaps and bounds in one year's time in which it takes other photographers 5 or more years to achieve.I guess this is my public thank you to Meg herself for letting me find myself. I don't want to be Meg, I do have my own style, but I am inspired by her and her work. I look forward to learning from more greats this year.

 I just finished a webinar with Katie Andelman, a weekend workshop with SallyKate and Lemmonmade Photography is coming up this April, a workshop with the great Elena Shimilova this September and again, I will get to see Meg Bitton with Sandra Bianco this year.  I loved what Meg has taught me and I feel forever blessed.  I signed up for a monthly editing webinar for a year with her, after the workshop to keep myself fresh from all that I have been taught by her! I have a feeling this is going to be one helluva year in growth and learning. And also a great year for my business.

Happy Shooting, my friends!!! 

Best,Dee 

P.S.  If you have any doubt in doing a Meg Bitton workshop... just do it. Hopefully, it will spark something within yourself too!  I now look at everything differently, from my subjects, to giving better direction and how to get the very best out of them with the locations I use!!Thank you, Meg!!! See you in September!!!         

A Birthday Session in Moorestown, New Jersey

A Magical Birthday Photo Shoot in Moorestown, New Jersey

Birthdays are meant to be celebrated, and what better way to capture the magic of childhood than with a stunning birthday photo shoot? Recently, I had the joy of photographing an adorable third birthday session in the charming town of Moorestown, New Jersey. The golden light, the picturesque landscape, and, of course, the sweetest little birthday girl made this session one to remember!

All smiles with this beautiful little lady!

The Perfect Location with the Best Light

As a photographer, I am incredibly picky about where I shoot. Location is everything, but light? Light is EVERYTHING! I seek out dreamy, golden light and stunning landscapes to create timeless portraits. Moorestown, NJ, provided the perfect backdrop with its rustic charm, open fields, and serene atmosphere. From country-barn inspired settings to urban vibes, I always make sure my clients get the absolute best locations for their sessions.

Magic again! Having fun at her third birthday photo shoot!

She’s definitely got a personality!

Why South Jersey Is a Dream for Photography

South Jersey is filled with hidden gems for photo shoots, and I’ve spent years exploring every county to find the most picturesque spots. Whether it's Gloucester County, Camden County, or beyond, I know where to find those magical, light-filled locations that make photos truly special. In fact, I’ve even written books on the best photography locations in Southern Jersey! That’s how passionate I am about finding THE perfect spot for every session.

Look at this little lady and the beautiful light at Boundary Creek in Moorestown, NJ!

I really do love the lighting at Boundary Creek in Moorestown at sunset!

Making magic in Moorestown with her wand on the bridge! Little fairy girl!

We had to add the fairy wings and a little magic!

Making Birthday Sessions Fun & Stress-Free

Photo shoots should be fun, not stressful! That’s why I create a relaxed, playful environment where kids can just be themselves. Whether it’s twirling in a princess dress, running through a field, or laughing with their parents, I aim to capture those real, joyful moments. This third birthday session in Moorestown was filled with giggles, sweet moments, and, of course, cake!

Book Your Child’s Birthday Photo Shoot!

If you're looking for a birthday photographer in South Jersey, I’d love to create a magical session for your little one! From Moorestown to Philadelphia, Bucks County, and beyond, I specialize in capturing childhood milestones in a way that feels timeless and full of joy. Let’s make memories together!

📍 Serving Moorestown, NJ, South Jersey, and the Greater Philadelphia Area
📸 Visit www.shootingstarsouthjersey.com to book your session!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

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