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.

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A Maternity & Family Session on Broad Street | Philadelphia Portrait Story

A fun, stress-free maternity and family session on Broad Street in Philadelphia, featuring couture gowns, real moments, and timeless portraits.

One Glowing Mama, Two Tiny Divas & A Whole Lot of Fun

If there’s one thing pregnancy and Philadelphia have in common, it’s this: by the end of the day, you’re probably going to waddle — and you’re absolutely going to earn it.

This mama-to-be wasn’t just glowing. She was serving full goddess energy in a dramatic red maternity gown, confidently cradling her baby bump while her two little girls twirled around Broad Street like they were auditioning for a Broadway debut. (Spoiler: they nailed it.)

Mother and daughters laughing together during a Philly maternity photoshoot

As a family photographer based in New Jersey, I love when clients hop over the bridge for a Philadelphia session. Why? Because nothing says effortlessly iconic like couture gowns, two tiny sidekicks, and the entire city politely pretending you’re not posing in the middle of a busy sidewalk.

Dresses? We’ve Got You. Stress? We Don’t.

One of the biggest perks of booking a maternity or family session with Shooting Star Photography is not having to spiral into a full-blown What am I wearing?! crisis.

Close-up of mom in a red maternity gown, gently hugging her baby bump in Philadelphia

My client closet is stocked with stunning maternity gowns — including this jaw-dropping red dress that moved perfectly in the city breeze, giving our mama undeniable main-character energy. The girls were styled too, because let’s be honest: if kids don’t feel fancy, the session negotiations get… complicated.

Two Tiny Queens, One Supermom

Photographing kids is a bit like extreme sports. One minute they’re laughing, the next they’re staging a dramatic protest over absolutely nothing. But that’s the magic of family sessions — we lean into the chaos instead of fighting it.

Philadelphia family photographer captures two girls during a maternity session

These two little girls had no trouble stealing the spotlight, which led to the perfect mix of heart-melting moments and laugh-out-loud candids. (And yes, snacks remain the most powerful currency in photography.)

New Jersey photographer captures sisters posing in a Philadelphia maternity shoot

Why Philadelphia? Because It’s Iconic.

Even though I’m based in New Jersey, Philadelphia feels like a second home for sessions. The city offers a rare mix of bold architecture, quiet pockets, and just enough unpredictability to keep things interesting. One moment we’re creating dramatic, editorial portraits — the next we’re dodging a rogue pigeon.

Mom posing with her oldest daughter during a maternity session in Philadelphia, PA

That balance is what makes Philly maternity and family sessions so special: timeless, a little wild, and completely unforgettable.

Maternity portrait of mom in a red dress, holding her belly while admiring the Philadelphia cityscape

If you’re looking for a Philadelphia family photographer who keeps sessions relaxed, fun, and genuinely enjoyable, this city delivers every single time.

Want a City Session Without the Stress? Let’s Do This.

Maternity and family portraits should feel easy — not stiff, not awkward, and definitely not boring. Whether you’re dreaming of a city-chic Philadelphia session or a quieter countryside experience in New Jersey, I’m here to make it effortless (and fun).

New Jersey family photographer captures tender moment of mom holding her youngest daughter in a red gown

You can explore more maternity sessions and gowns from my client closet in the Maternity Portfolio, or reach out to start planning something that feels completely you.

Pregnant mom looking out at the Philadelphia skyline during a maternity photoshoot

No stress. No forced poses. Just beautiful images and real moments you’ll actually love.

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

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