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.

South Jersey Photographer | Wildflower Mini Sessions

Discover the magic of wildflower photography sessions in Gloucester County, NJ. Styled mini sessions on a private farm capture your family’s timeless moments.

When you think of magical moments frozen in time, there’s nothing quite like a wildflower photography session to capture the beauty of nature and the joy of life. At Shooting Star Photography, our Magical Wildflower Mini Sessions are more than just photos—they're an experience designed to create cherished memories for you and your family. Here's everything you need to know about these special sessions held on a private farm in Gloucester County, New Jersey.

Wildflower session in New Jersey featuring a girl in a pink dress, joyfully picking flowers in a beautiful field.

The Setting: A Private Slice of Paradise

Nestled in the heart of Gloucester County, our private farm offers a serene and enchanting backdrop for your photos. Imagine vibrant blooms swaying in the breeze, golden sunlight streaming through the trees, and the soft hum of nature surrounding you. The wildflower fields provide the perfect canvas for timeless portraits, creating a dreamy and ethereal aesthetic.

This exclusive location means no crowds, no distractions—just you, your loved ones, and the natural beauty of the outdoors.

A girl in an Anna Triant dress twirling gracefully in a wildflower field in Gloucester County, NJ.

What Makes Wildflower Sessions Unique?

Wildflower sessions combine the magic of seasonal blooms with the artistry of fine portraiture. Here’s why they’re so special:

  1. Seasonal Charm: These sessions are only available for a short window, making them truly one-of-a-kind. Each photo reflects the fleeting beauty of nature in its prime.

  2. Tailored to You: From wardrobe styling to posing, each session is customized to suit your family’s personality and style.

  3. Natural Lighting: Golden hour light (the hour before sunset) adds a soft, romantic glow to every shot, creating dreamy, natural tones.

A little girl picking flowers in the wildflower field in South Jersey, wearing a blue and purple Bentley and Lace dress.

What to Wear

One of the most common questions clients ask is, “What should we wear?” Here are our top tips for dressing your best for wildflower sessions:

  • Choose Earthy or Neutral Tones: Soft pastels, creams, and muted colors complement the natural setting.

  • Avoid Busy Patterns: Solid colors and simple textures let the flowers and your family shine without distractions.

  • Flowy and Romantic Styles: Maxi dresses, lace details, and airy fabrics add a whimsical touch.

  • Accessorize Thoughtfully: Floral crowns, straw hats, and delicate jewelry can enhance the magic without overwhelming your look.

If you’re unsure, we’re happy to help with styling advice or recommendations!

A girl picking wildflowers at sunset in our private flower location in South Jersey.

The Experience

Your wildflower session is designed to feel effortless and enjoyable from start to finish:

  1. Arrival: Upon arriving at our private farm, you’ll be greeted with a warm welcome and guided to the wildflower field.

  2. Guided Posing: Whether you’re camera-shy or a natural in front of the lens, I’ll guide you through poses that feel authentic and relaxed.

  3. Candid Moments: Beyond the posed shots, I’ll capture those in-between moments—children laughing, a loving glance, or a spontaneous hug.

  4. Fast and Fun: Mini sessions last approximately 20 minutes, perfect for capturing a variety of shots while keeping the experience stress-free for little ones.

Sunset portrait of a girl in a white flower field posing for the camera in South Jersey, NJ portraits.

Why Choose Shooting Star Photography?

With over a decade of experience in fine art photography, I take pride in creating images that are not only beautiful but meaningful. Each photo is hand-edited to perfection, ensuring you receive a gallery of stunning, timeless portraits. My goal is to make you feel comfortable, confident, and connected during your session.

Book Your Magical Wildflower Mini Session Today!

Availability is limited for these exclusive mini sessions held on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from April to November. Don’t miss your chance to capture the fleeting beauty of wildflower season in New Jersey.

Contact us today to secure your spot and let us create unforgettable memories together!

Our 2025 Wildflower Pricing Will Include:

Base Mini Session

Only on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays only. No exceptions.

Price: $299
Includes:

  • 20-minute session

  • 5 hand-edited images

  • Our wildflower location

  • Option to purchase additional images

  • must bring own clothing and will not have access to client closet

Styling Add-On

Price: +$45

Includes:

  • Access to your curated wardrobe (dresses, hairpieces, props)

  • Styling consultation (either virtual or in-person)

  • Assistance with fitting and selecting outfits on session day

  • Let us handle the wardrobe and styling, so you can enjoy a stress-free, couture-inspired photoshoot.

Total Client Cost Examples

  1. Basic Mini Session: $299

  2. With Styling Add-On: $334

    Contact Us Below If You Would Like To Book Your 2025 Wildflower Session

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The Beauty of Fall with Mini Sessions in South Jersey

Capture the beauty of fall with Magical Wildflower Mini Sessions in South Jersey. Family portraits amidst wildflowers in Gloucester County, NJ. Book today!

As summer gently fades and the golden hues of autumn begin to paint the landscape, there's no better time to capture the enchanting beauty of nature. At Shooting Star Photography, we’re thrilled to announce our Magical Wildflower Mini Sessions, a special offering available exclusively on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays throughout September. Held on a private farm in Gloucester County, New Jersey, these sessions are designed to encapsulate the serene and dreamlike essence of wildflowers in bloom, creating unforgettable memories for you and your loved ones.

A Celebration of Natural Beauty

Imagine walking through a field where the sun dips low in the sky, casting a warm, golden glow across a sea of vibrant wildflowers. The air is filled with the soft hum of nature, and the world seems to slow down just enough for you to fully immerse yourself in the moment. This is the experience we aim to create with our wildflower sessions.

Each session is a celebration of the fleeting beauty that September brings. The wildflowers, in their full glory, create a stunning backdrop that complements every shot. The delicate petals and rich colors of the flowers add an ethereal quality to the photos, making each image not just a picture but a piece of art.

A girl standing in a wildflower field, looking out at the sunset, captured during a dreamy golden hour portrait session by a NJ photographer.

The Perfect Setting: Gloucester County's Hidden Gem

Nestled in the heart of Gloucester County, New Jersey, our private farm is the perfect location for these special sessions. Far from the hustle and bustle of daily life, this secluded spot offers an idyllic setting where nature takes center stage. The farm is a well-kept secret, known only to those who truly appreciate the beauty of the outdoors, making it the ideal place to create intimate and personal portraits.

Our sessions are timed to capture the magic hour – that precious time just before sunset when the light is soft, warm, and golden. This not only enhances the natural beauty of the wildflowers but also ensures that every photograph has that perfect, dreamy glow.

A toddler and his puppy captured in beautiful golden light during a heartwarming portrait session in Gloucester County, New Jersey, by a NJ portrait photographer.

What to Expect from Your Wildflower Session

At Shooting Star Photography, we believe that every session should be as unique as the individuals we photograph. With over ten years of professional experience, having trained with some of the finest artists in the world, I’ve honed my skills in creating fine art portraits that tell a story. Here’s what you can expect when you book a wildflower session with us:

Personalized Experience: Before the session, we'll have a consultation to discuss your vision, wardrobe choices, and any special requests you might have. Whether you’re looking for a family portrait, a couple's session, or a solo shoot, we’ll tailor the experience to meet your needs.

A girl in a wildflower field in Woodstown, NJ, captured during a dreamy and magical portrait session by a NJ photographer.

Styling and Wardrobe: To complement the natural beauty of the wildflowers, we suggest wearing soft, neutral tones or flowing dresses that add a touch of whimsy to your photos. We also have a selection of vintage and couture wardrobe options available if you want to add a bit of flair to your session.

Guidance and Comfort: I understand that not everyone feels comfortable in front of the camera. That's why I take the time to guide you through poses and expressions that feel natural and authentic. My goal is to make you feel at ease so that your true self shines through in every photograph.

High-Quality, Hand-Edited Images: After your session, I personally hand-edit each photograph, ensuring that the final images are not only beautiful but also reflect the highest quality standards. This meticulous attention to detail is what sets my work apart and why my clients return year after year.

Experience the magic of childhood through enchanting wildflower photography. Young girls are captured in dreamy, golden-hour settings, surrounded by lush wildflowers, creating timeless fine art portraits in New Jersey.

The Importance of Capturing Fleeting Moments

One of the most remarkable aspects of wildflowers is their ephemeral nature. They bloom brightly and beautifully but only for a short period. This fleeting quality makes them a perfect metaphor for life’s precious moments – moments that deserve to be captured and cherished forever.

Whether you’re marking a milestone, celebrating a special occasion, or simply wanting to create beautiful memories with your loved ones, our wildflower mini sessions offer the perfect opportunity. These sessions are more than just a photoshoot; they’re an experience that allows you to connect with nature, with your loved ones, and with yourself.

magical wildflower pastel portrait

Beautiful portrait of little girl in the wildflowers in NJ.

Why Choose Shooting Star Photography?

With over a decade of experience in the photography industry, I’ve had the privilege of working with countless clients, capturing moments of joy, love, and connection. My approach to photography is both artistic and down-to-earth. I believe that the best photographs are the ones that tell a story – your story.

Here’s what sets Shooting Star Photography apart:

Expertise in Fine Art Photography: My background in fine art photography means that I approach each session with an artistic eye. I’m not just capturing images; I’m creating art that you’ll be proud to display in your home.

Award-Winning Beach Photography: My portfolio includes award-winning beach photography, and I bring the same level of dedication and creativity to every session, whether it’s on the shore or in a field of wildflowers.

Sisters in a field of vibrant cornflowers during a dreamy wildflower session in New Jersey, captured by a NJ portrait photographer.

Client-Centered Approach: My clients are at the heart of everything I do. From the initial consultation to the final delivery of your images, I’m committed to providing a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Exclusive Locations: Our private farm in Gloucester County is a hidden gem that provides a serene and picturesque backdrop for your photos. This exclusive location ensures that your session is as unique as the photographs we create.

Beautiful wildflower session at golden hour in South Jersey

Ahhhhmazing. Love Golden Hour Sessions :)

Booking Your Session

Due to the popularity of our wildflower sessions and the limited time frame in which these beautiful blooms are at their peak, spots are filling up quickly. We’re offering these sessions only on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays throughout September, so it’s important to book your session as soon as possible to secure your preferred date.

To book your session, simply visit

Wildflower Mini Session Dates

Final Thoughts

What to Expect:

  • A serene, private farm setting

  • Sessions available on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays

  • Hand-edited photos that bring out the natural beauty of the momentThere’s something truly magical about wildflowers in bloom – their vibrant colors, delicate petals, and the way they dance in the breeze. These September mini sessions are an invitation to step into that magic and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re looking for a solo portrait, a family session, or a couple's shoot, our wildflower sessions offer the perfect setting to capture your story in a way that is both beautiful and meaningful.

At Shooting Star Photography, we don’t just take pictures; we create lasting impressions. We look forward to welcoming you to our magical wildflower sessions and capturing the moments that matter most to you.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Check out our Portfolio for more images!
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Do You Know What Natural Light Photography Really Means?

Natural Light Photography. Ruh Roh!  I'm about to open up a can of worms here! I may even make some folks a bit upset who say this is their profession locally in South Jersey... But here we go...Have you ever heard someone mention that they do all natural light photography?  Sometimes they use the word "organic" oooh and ahhhh... Since organic is the cool thing these days... But did you ever wonder what the hay this actually means?  Well... Here we go!

south jersey photographer, new jersey photographer, baby photographer, newborn photographer south jersey, salem county photographer, mullica hill photographer, collingswood photographer

In studio session with a little baby girl.

https://www.shootingstarsouthjerseyphotographer.com/southjerseyphotographer/2015/02/02/little-gal-at-the-studio

Fill flash used here to separate kid from background and was getting dappled light on his face.

https://www.shootingstarsouthjerseyphotographer.com/southjerseyphotographer/2015/02/02/little-gal-at-the-studio

I also had to use fill flash here. The sun was casting hard shadows on their faces. This was a 1pm photo session, here in Salem County.

Ruh Roh!  I'm about to open up a can of worms here! I may even make some folks a bit upset who say this is their profession locally in South Jersey... But here we go...Have you ever heard someone mention that they do all natural light photography?  Sometimes they use the word "organic" oooh and ahhhh... Since organic is the cool thing these days... But did you ever wonder what the hay this actually means?  Well... Here we go!

When someone says they are a natural light photography that is explicitly what they mean... They know only natural light and how to photograph in it.  And.... Yes!  Natural light is the best type of light you want in most situations!  It caresses, it emphasizes,  hey, it is just beautiful... BUT... And I'm sure you were expecting a BUT at some point. There are limitations to where you can go in this natural light photography genre.Okay, I'll explain...

What does a natural light photographer do on a cloudy day?  Outdoors, cloudy days are the best days you can ask for, but let's say... What happens when you have an indoor photo shoot that day? Do you call it off?What I'm trying to say is... When folks say they are natural light.. They are LIMITED in their photographic skills.  For myself, being a photographer is knowing how to adapt to any situation... Whether sunshine or lack of any light. It's knowing how to use natural light, artificial light and shooting in very low light situations. 

I respect natural light photographers in how they market themselves, but they are also limiting themselves on educating themselves about other aspects in this crazy profession of photography.Here's the dilemma I have with natural light photography (and yes, I use it as much as I can), but in South Jersey, we only get limited days that are sunny or partly sunny.  Our yearly average, we get 94 sunny days and 111 partly sunny days (these days are most ideal when photographing). Here's the kicker.  This leaves you with only 205 days to utilize what the weather is giving you.  There is an average of 365 days/year. Which means you are seriously limiting yourself and your business, if you are strictly a natural light photographer.

There are such things as "bouncing light", fill flash, using strobes or continuous lighting, ice lights and many other products on the market. Photography is definitely an art. Folks who have been in the business for over 20 years are still learning. That's the depth photography surmounts.I just think photography just isn't a cut and dry business.

If all you use is natural light, so be it!  Just try to be the best you can be in it. However, I think in the natural light arena itself (especially in New Jersey since our sun is lacking), you are severely limiting your overall potential as a photographer. There are just so many other arenas of photography to learn and you are just hurting yourself, if this is all you shoot in!

Well... happy shooting, my friends!

Dee

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