Another Easter Mini Photography Studio!

Last weekend, we had spring Easter mini's at the studio in South Jersey.  We were suppose to celebrate this beautiful season by going outside, but the weather would not allow it! The ground was too mushy from the snow we received on Friday (I also did a wedding on Friday and am almost complete with the editing). I elected to do them indoors.  I had 4 families arrive throughout the day and this was my first session of the day.

I will add more when they get completed!  This session here, lasted about 20-25 minutes and were able to get a nice variety of captures within this time frame.  I truly believe that kids this age really can't go much longer and this is why mini sessions are the way to go sometimes.  

Easter sessions in full swing!

Come and buy my bunnies! They are gorgeous!

I'd buy bunnies from her!

This was one of my favs!

The most adorable smile!

Pretty as a princess!

Easter eggs, anyone?

More easter eggs?

Holding up her Easter Basket!

And that's all folks! See you next time!

Ages 1-3 can often times be difficult for parents as well.  Mini sessions allow the kids to get some cute photos without having temper tantrums!  You all know how this age goes!My Trick?  Well, I ask parents to sign a getting-to-know-you questionnaire prior to the session. It helps me to get to know the kids and parents with this. I also let the kids warm up a bit before I start shooting away.  I don't immediately go snapping away.

 Some kids get scared of this and of course a stranger clicking in their face is never a fun time! I'll usually do some "test shots" and I tell them this. I will also show the children the shot I took of them.  It seems to ease them into it for an enjoyable session all around, for both photographer and mom and dad!  It works!  I have yet to see it not!I tried out new lighting this time and I'm in love with the soft feeling of it! I will have to give it a whirl for the future. It's also very easy to set up!  

Thank you Gary Fong, photography pioneer, on this effective lighting suggestion! Seriously, Mr. Fong, you rock!  I really love the soft feel of this new lighting. It's not as harsh as before and I'm EXTREMELY picky when it comes to my photography because I expect and want nothing, but the best for myself and my clients!I'll post some more mini photos here soon! I also have a few weddings (yup, testing that avenue out!)  and a few family/single sessions that I need to get up here on the blog ASAP!  Plus, update the portfolio.  We truly have been busy!!!

We're attempting an extreme marketing campaign by offering very reasonable fees for sessions right now!  Since we are a new business, to South Jersey, we are really trying to get our name out there! Please look at our new pricing menu!  We are also going the route of a boutique experience, where we will consult with the client in regards to what they wish  out of their session.  

Also, by discussing our options, props, time of day, types of poses, etc. We also offering a beautiful high-end (yet keeping it affordable) product line.  I also have scouted locations all throughout South Jersey... From Camden County to Cape May County, we've got you covered!!! 

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee Giumetti  

Behind the Scenes with Shooting Star's Post Processing!

Before and After Post Processing Editing.

The secret is out of the bag South Jersey! Photographers aren't just great behind the camera these days, they are often magical wizards when it comes to the post-processing department (meaning editing your photographs)!  I'm spilling a little beans at what goes on in my editing process.I am a firm believer in getting my photographs correct in camera. In fact, that's what I always strive for.  

I never want to have to later rely on Lightroom or Photoshop to "fix" my issues or problems. I go into every shoot with direction.  I know how I want things to go, what poses we'll be doing, and if using props, utilizing them to their full potential (I'm not the biggest fan of props, fyi.)I am not bossy, but I know how to give great direction and how to pose people to show them in their best light.  I think some new photographers don't know how to take charge of the situation at times and that can be a new and difficult learning process, especially how to photograph toddlers. They can often-times be the most difficult. 

 I went a little off-track up there, but a lot of these editing programs can sometimes make photographers lazy because they always have that in the back of their minds... "Oh, well I can Photoshop that out."  That's all fine and dandy, but It takes up too much valuable time.  I don't know about you, but my time is highly valuable and I try to utilize it to the best of my ability.  I'm a multi-tasker and I'm fabulous at it!  If you get it right in camera, you will only have to do minimal editing. It makes you a better photographer overall. Good images make for the best and final products. Also, it makes you more aware of details and getting things right as you are doing the session.The point I'm trying to make is, there is a dividing line these days.  

Are we photographers or are we graphic artists?  I've even seen graphic artists turn to photography.  Some folks are both... Some photographers are shoot and burners where they upload and hand over the images to their clients. In a sense, they are like myself perfecting it right in camera and they don't want to spend time editing. I consider myself somewhat of both.  

My goal is getting it right artistically in camera and then I try to "enhance" and edit it in post processing. I feel that as photographers these days you have to put on two faces in a sense. You need to be up to date, improve and perfect your skills, and know at least the basic Photoshop functions.  Hopefully, you can later expand on those functions where it is second nature... but you at least need to know what everything is, and what they do, when it comes to your editing software.  It's expected nowadays.  

 If you do not stay on top of your game, in this ever-changing very saturated career field, you'll be dust in the wind.The photography field is one tough market and we need to be on top of our toes. This is why during downtime, that I partake in new editing classes.  I also will take standard photography camera classes to learn new techniques.  This is what I admire in when it comes to photography and why I've always had an interest in it. You could be a professional photographer for over 20 years and still not know everything there is to know.Photography is a challenge and I was born and bred for challenges. 

  I started professionally in October 2014.  I registered my LLC, purchased insurance, props, took classes, figured out my cost of doing business, painstakingly chose the best photo processing lab by printing samples of my work, and I purchased numerous books about different aspects on photography, and they are presently expanding and taking over my library. I've studied up on new gear and purchased this gear and have seen myself grow in such a short amount of time.  I love that! I see the end result of hard work. 

 I am still not where I want to be and NEVER will be.I will always strive to learn from each photo session and make the next one better.  

I'm 23 sessions in from when I started in October (and I keep booking) and from what I hear with the veterans, that have been in the game longer than myself,  I'm headed off to an excellent start.  However, I've been a serious hobbyist for many years and have years of experience. 

 Improving myself and challenging myself, is just who I am and I always strive for the best customer service, product and photographs!

Before.

After.

I figured I'd write this blog post to share a bit into my post-processing and what I can do.  I do firmly believe that you need to learn how to edit and edit well as part of being a photographer these days.  

 I was able to otherwise bring this almost dark and useless photo back to life!  I exposed for the sky which made the subject a bit dark. This is a common mistake. Some actually prefer to do this, others will expose for skin tones (and my current process this is what I do now), but when you do expose for skin tones, you can also commonly "blow out your sky." Also, the sun was shining behind them which made their faces darker. This was harsh mid-day sun. 

I shot directly into the sun. Now, I use a reflector and by using the reflector it would have made this a perfect photo in camera.. But I didn't use it here.  See learning process!!!However, I was able to use my editing skills to bring this photograph back to a viable, useable and fabulous photo! It turned out to be one of my favorites from this session!  It's also another great example of why you should shoot in RAW. If this was a JPEG, I'd probably just toss this photo and deem it as unusable. 

 Here's another before and after. I always shoot in RAW, so things look a little funny right out of camera. That's just what those RAW files do, but if you look... my focus and the overall composition is great in this shot.  However, with a RAW photo, you always have to make adjustments. 

Before.

After… the firefighter.

Hope you enjoyed seeing this and a what goes into my post-processing. Most photographers, are skilled at both taking photographs and are wizards in the editing department these days!  

The top photographers in the industry can sometimes edit up to 5-6 hours to produce just one image nowadays!  Editing is a skillset just in itself and it takes a lot of patience... trial and error!  We are practically magicians these days and it's expected!!! 

 Happy Shooting, my friends!   -Dee

A Brother and Sister Photo Shoot in South Jersey!

Aren't they the cutest?

This is the time to capture the love…. because as they get in high school… lol.

At Shooting Star Photography LLC, we understand the importance of capturing those lifelong bonds between siblings. If you're looking to freeze those cherished moments between a brother and sister, look no further than our photo shoots in beautiful South Jersey. From the sandy shores of Cape May to the rustic charm of the Pine Barrens, our expert photographers will expertly capture the unique dynamic between siblings in natural and candid moments. With our creative eye, attention to detail, and dedication to providing an unforgettable experience, we guarantee stunning photographs that will become treasured memories for years to come. Let us help you create timeless images that beautifully showcase the bond between a brother and sister. Contact us today to schedule your session in South Jersey!

These two came all the way from Burlington County for our special photo shoot, to one of my secret locations, in Gloucester County! I love all the scouted locations I have discovered throughout South Jersey! I'm playing catch-up with this blog here.  I was so busy this past fall, I had up to 3 photo shoots in a day, that I'm finally getting around to posting some of my work!

Corn fields, anyone?

Cornfields make for an incredibly cool and unique photography backdrop. The dense rows of tall, vibrant cornstalks create a mesmerizing visual effect, adding depth and texture to any shot. The golden hue of the corn against the clear blue sky provides a striking contrast, while the gentle breeze swaying through the leaves adds a touch of movement and life. Whether capturing a whimsical portrait or a rural landscape, cornfields bring a sense of warmth and rustic charm to any image. With their picturesque appeal and natural beauty, cornfields offer photographers an endless array of creative possibilities for capturing captivating moments.

This is slow season in the industry.  I have many backdrops and props for studio shooting, for this winter season, however, nothing ever tops an outdoor shoot, ever! These two were such a true delight to work with! I had them smiling and enjoying the scenery.  I am very happy with the results and mom was too!

Cuteness overloaded.

All the beautiful smiles.

Classic autumn in South Jersey!

This particular site has wonderful leading lines, great shade coverage for mid-afternoon shooting.. Cornfields, rustic fences, a meadow and a stream!  If you were to add a barn, this would be the ultimate location. I picked this particular location because it was autumn and the beautiful colors on the trees were starting to show. Mom wanted fall pictures and that's what I wanted to deliver!

I always give the kids a lollipop when we are finished are shooting and I managed to get a cute little shot of these two in the process!

This was near the stream in our session!

There is nothing more special than witnessing this beautiful bond these two have. There is true love here. Can't you see it? I definitely adore working with children! These two were just lovely.

Here's a few of my favorite photographs from our brother/sister photo session. Hope you enjoy and that it puts a smile to your face!  Like it does for me, every single time!

Kids! Kids! Kids!  I absolutely adore working with kids!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

-Dee

A Family Shoot in Salem County!

Salem County, New Jersey: Unveiling the Charms of a Photo Shoot Paradise
Salem County, nestled in the heart of New Jersey, casts a magical spell on photographers with its remarkable beauty and charm. This hidden gem offers a myriad of stunning locations, making it an awe-inspiring destination for an unforgettable photo shoot. Let us dive into the reasons why Salem County is truly awesome for capturing mesmerizing moments through the lens.

1. Historic Wonders: Steeped in history, Salem County provides a captivating backdrop for any photo shoot. Home to countless historic sites, such as the Old Salem Courthouse and the Hancock House, photographers can artfully weave tales of the past into their compositions. The timeless architecture and preserved landmarks reflect the county's rich heritage and create a sense of nostalgia.

2. Natural Splendor: Salem County boasts an abundance of natural beauty, with its picturesque landscapes and breathtaking scenery. From expansive farmlands and sprawling vineyards to lush forests and winding rivers, the county offers a diverse range of environments for photographers to explore. Whether capturing the vibrant colors of autumn or the delicate blooms of spring, nature lovers will find endless inspiration in Salem County's seasonal transformations.

3. Charming Small Towns: The county's small towns exude an irresistible charm that enchants both photographers and subjects alike. Quaint streets lined with colonial-era homes, cozy cafes, and boutique shops create an inviting atmosphere for capturing candid moments. It is in these towns, such as Salem and Alloway, where the true essence of community and local culture shine through, providing photographers with an authentic backdrop for their work.

4. Riverside Magic: The Delaware River, which gracefully meanders along Salem County's edge, breathes a touch of enchantment into every photograph. The river's tranquil waters, dotted with sailboats and offering breathtaking sunsets, present an idyllic setting for both landscape and portrait photography. The sun-kissed riverbanks and picturesque bridges provide additional opportunities for photographers to frame their subjects against a backdrop of serene beauty.
5. Festivals and Events: Salem County's vibrant social calendar adds an extra layer of excitement and inspiration for photographers. From the iconic Food Truck Festival to the festive Halloween and Christmas celebrations, the county comes alive with energy and color, perfect for capturing joyful moments and candid expressions. These lively events not only provide a dynamic atmosphere for photography but also showcase the community's spirit and pride.

6. Easy Accessibility: Despite its tranquil and off-the-beaten-path ambiance, Salem County remains conveniently accessible. Situated within a short drive from major East Coast cities such as Philadelphia and Wilmington, its close proximity ensures that photographers and clients can easily reach the county without the hassle of long travel. The county's well-connected road network and various modes of transportation make it a hassle-free destination for a photo shoot.

In conclusion, Salem County, New Jersey, holds a special allure for photographers seeking a location that blends history, natural beauty, small-town charm, and riverside magic. With its rich tapestry of stunning visuals and diverse environments, this hidden gem promises a myriad of awe-inspiring backdrops for any photo shoot. So venture into Salem County and watch your creativity come to life as you capture extraordinary moments through your lens.

The classic stink-eye for a kid in my Woodstown, New Jersey backyard.

She's warming up!

Oh wait! I'm starting to get an ALMOST smile!

First family capture.. she's like okay.. maybe I'll do this?

Give me a smooch mom!

A smile!

Cute family shot. She’s giving me the stink faces again.. Baby not feeling it either.. kicked her shoe off. Classic family shot at this stage in life!

Mom and little one! We love Hackett Rd. in Salem County!

Dad and big sister!

She won’t smile… but she’ll sure play with mom and dad!

With mom and dad.

Dad and mom.

Back in the fall, it was then, that I started out with this photography business.  I went from hobbyist to professional and started my journey.  This family here was one of the first's I ever did. I have learned so much since this time.  However, every session is a learning session for me as I continue to grow as an artist.  Working with families takes a bit of skill.  It's knowing where to place your subjects that can make or break it.  When you add the kids, it can open up a lot more worms.  Being a kid photographer, one must learn patience, but one must also know how to talk to them to get them the direction you want the session to go.A little warming up beforehand can help a ton!  Get to know your little clients.  Tell them what you will be doing and who you are.  Get on their level and just talk.  You can also show them your equipment.  Take a cute snapshot and show them the photo that you just took right on the spot!I also go over with my clients a little prep work beforehand to help ensure we get a good session.  Kids and patience do not mix so as a photographer you need to be quick.  After a half hour, the kids get bored.  Make it a game!

These are just a few captures from our session.  It still ensued and we had some other beautiful shots in a cornfield and a few other poses that I did not post. However, I wanted to show the progression on how I was able to warm up the little one and by the end of our shoot... she was A NATURAL!

I also tell the kids that if we have a good session that they can pick out some lollipops at the end.  I also put a good ol' fashioned pez dispenser on my hot shoe.  I tell them to look at Mr. Frankenstein or Thomas the Train, hey whatever I'm feeling that day and that if I get a nice shot that they can help themselves to Mr. Pez. It works like a charm! Any photographer will tell you, kids are tough especially the age 1-2 age. They just want to explore, it's in our nature.  As professionals, we need to learn how to make it work!With this session, I think it turned out well.  Mom wanted a bit more artsy and some street shots and that's what she got! 

I know a ton of these places all throughout South Jersey.  It doesn't matter what county in SJ.  However, Salem County has some pretty incredible scenery and I like to throw Salem County in there sometimes because it truly offers the best shooting locations.This particular location (street) goes back a few centuries, history-wise.  The location is included in my book of Salem County that I published.  It truly is a spectacular scene in the spring and fall months. Spring due to the beautiful and fresh greenery of the leaves and well, you know how fall is! 

Tree-lined pathways are becoming more and more hard to come by, due to telephone wires interceding or old trees dying.  This is a nice scene with very mature trees. A rarity in South Jersey.. well, imagery like this anyway.. Plus, there is really no traffic that you have to concern yourself with here!  When it comes to photographing kids or anyone in that matter... 

ALWAYS safety first!!!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Why I Chose Not To Have A Fancy Smancy Website... Like Every Photographer Out There

Practice, practice, practice!

I wonder what he’s looking at and thinking about…

I know I don't have a fancy website and most photographer's do, but I do provide my customers with beautiful memories to be cherished for a lifetime. My photography is a bit more artistic, but these look incredible on canvas! That's honestly all that matters and what it comes down to.  Well, that and of course your customer's overall experience. I aim for the best costumer service around!My website isn't as fancy smancy...as the other photographer's here, in the South Jersey area...  because...I'm just different...

But... My #1 reason...Ease Of Use

A lot of photography sites take sometimes it seems years to just load a page! Then you have to sit and wait, while it is loading to see more images or pages.  These types of sites really bother me and I immediately just exit out of them.  Most other folks, will do the same.  If your website takes time to load, you need to reevaluate it and make it more easily accessible.A ton of these crazy photography websites,  are also not mobile enabled or will work with a tablet due to flash programs and loading of such photographs.  Flash is starting to see its way out the door, but I still see websites that still utilize this functionality.Basically, Make sure your website can be accessed with all devices!

As of May 2013, 63% of adult cell phone owners use their phones to go online.  42% own a tablet, but this research was done back in 2013, I'm certain this number has risen since then. You are missing out on opportunities, if your website is not customized properly!

I wanted this website to be easy and simple to navigate. You can easily scroll through it to find what you need to.Well... Hope you enjoyed my blabblin'

Happy Shooting, my friends!

-Dee