It's a Dog EAT Dog... Photography World

Playing in the snow in Salem County.

Photo edited to inspire Alice In Wonderland... As sometimes the photography field can look like!

Maternity sessions are awesome!

Breaking Into The Tough Business Of Photography

This is going out to any new photographer out there. The photography world is a dog eat dog, competitive field my friends. They will literally eat you up and spit you out alive and then double that! For anyone just getting into it, it's a whirlwind of information and a bizarre Alice In Wonderland experience.

I'll explain my reasoning. There are actually different levels one attains on this photographic journey. One is getting your new camera.  You get excited and start snapping away. Folks start to see your "snapping" and then want you to take pictures of them and their kids and then the ego slllllowly builds up and before you know it, you'll start to add special "effects@ with your new editing gear, buy some presets and actions.  You'll order business cards, open up a facebook page and website and voila you are a professional, but guess what you're so wrong!I understand we all start somewhere and yes, I am not perfect by any means (but at least my work is in focus and people don't look like Oompa Loompas, you know with orange over-saturated skin).

You need to learn your principals before you ever start to charge or call yourself a professional.With principals, I mean by your rule of thirds, composition, the exposure triangle, light and being able to read it. Plus, there are so many other factors and expenses that come into play.  Editing software, good quality lenses, registering your business, obtaining insurance, paying taxes, calibrating your monitor, SD Cards, filters, props, expodisc, learning how to edit and to do it properly...

All these items add up.  It soon becomes very overwhelming to a beginner.It's amazing that folks think they can take a picture and because they think they have great equipment and they are professionals, but have no clue about most of what I speak of above.Yes! We all start somewhere and I'm not knocking anyone down because they want to pursue their passion... But... If you don't know what I am talking about, when I listed all the items above... YOU SHOULD NOT BE IN BUSINESS. 

You should be gaining and learning these skills and at least understanding your basics as mentioned above.  When you learn them, yes... By all means open a business...But guess what? There are hundreds of others of professionals opening their doors every single day and you better have a plan... A business strategy and marketing plan (and guess what, you can't rely on facebook for your marketing anymore as they changed their algorithms when it pertains to businesses.)

You will soon find out that sometimes your work and what you produce doesn't matter and that 90% of this field requires a business plan to last. This is an extremely saturated field. What are you going to do to separate yourself? What's your plan? Because you sure do need one if you are going to last.

This is not an easy field and one must develop thick skin to keep going forward.You just really need to want this, if you decide this is the path for you. It requires getting your hands dirty with no acknowledgement sometimes or praise. It means hitting the pavement and sometimes knocking on doors to get your name out there.

Business cards and a website are just not going to cut it, in this field.You may get very busy and keep getting busy when you first start out, but eventually you end up hitting a road block.  From there and what you do from there, will determine your future success. 

There will be many times when you'll just want to throw in the towel and give up in these moments.What you need to do is sit down and develop a plan and strategy, follow it through and you just may have a chance as a successful photographer.  Getting started is not an easy feat and I wish you the most luck in your endeavor.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

What Do I Bring With Me To A Photo Shoot?

Happy at Daretown Lake, in Salem County. NJ.

Two cuties at Daretown.

One of our first studio sessions in 2015.

Brother and sister photo shoot in Gloucester County, NJ.

Wisteria sessions will be in full swing soon!

When preparing for a photo shoot with Shooting Star Photography in New Jersey, it's essential to bring a few key items to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience. Firstly, it's crucial to bring your best self and a positive attitude. This will reflect in the final photographs and create a pleasant atmosphere during the shoot. Additionally, don't forget to bring a selection of outfits that make you feel confident and comfortable.

Consider bringing options that suit the desired theme or style, allowing for variety in the shots. It's also important to bring any specific props or accessories that you'd like to incorporate into the photos. Props can add a personal touch and enhance the overall visual narrative.

Lastly, don't forget to bring any necessary touch-up items, such as makeup, hair products, or a small mirror. These will come in handy for quick touch-ups and ensuring you always look your best. By being well-prepared with these items, you'll set the stage for a memorable and successful photo shoot with Shooting Star Photography in New Jersey.

I take being a photographer rather seriously. I know the folks of South Jersey pay good money to have their photographs taken of their family and that these will be treasured forever. I am ALWAYS prepared ALWAYS. For every location that I have scouted in South Jersey, I know where the sun sets and the best places at these scouted locations that will accentuate and highlight my client's best features. I implement an architecture and nature plan.

I want to use a building as a backdrop as an element and I also like to include nature... that way there's a nice mix and variety of different styles and poses in the same shoot. I also like water, trees, grasses, flowers... I like to include it all.When it comes to you, the client, just bring yourself! Seriously. I have everything covered!Sometimes my sessions look like two or three different sessions all rolled into one. Which makes it rather nice! Best of all, my clients are ecstatic when they see the variety they get upon receiving their images.

Most of my clients have ordered canvases for their homes and I take great pride in seeing that they value me as a professional.So... what do I bring with me to my shoot? Practically everything. I am always PREPARED, preparation is key. My camera batteries are charged, I make sure my SD cards are ready to go and empty (meaning deleted), I bring with me the lenses I want to use... and I ALWAYS have a backup camera on hand. ALWAYS.Prior to my sessions, I have things planned out to what I want to do. I also collaborate with my clients in any ideas they would like to incorporate or do within their session.

I provide a nice detailed questionnaire that enables myself to get to know you... Your style, what poses or pictures you want, and any specifics. I am always early for my sessions. I come from a business background. I worked for a Fortune 500 company and my job was working with VP's and CEO's of other Fortune 500 companies. I am a professional, first and foremost. Early is on time and that is always my motto.

However, I also like to get there early to setup my settings and how the light is shining that particular day, that way I am fully prepared for your when you arrive.I also always have a clean blanket on hand, in case you do not wish to sit on the ground, or it has happened to rain the night before, you don't want to get all wet!In the event that kids are involved, I have a method to keep them engaged while I'm taking their photographs.

Working with children takes patience, but it also needs to be fun for them to gain their interest and I do my best to do that! At the end of every shoot, I usually have a little something for them for their "good behavior."I also like to take 5 minutes to warm up to children, show them what I'll be doing. Physically show them. I sometimes will let them take a photo just so they can see for themselves what will be happening. Again, it's preparation...

In this case, preparing the kids for what is in store for them the next 45min to an hour. I don't like going over an hour. Most kids are done within the first 30 minutes so I try to make it as quick and painless for them.As I said, I am a professional first and foremost and I come from a business background.

However, I also have a very energetic personality and this personality MADE me successful when I worked directly with these CEO's and VP's. These are companies we all have heard of and make billions of dollars a profit a year.I sold hundreds of thousands of dollars of product to these corporations. I always delivered and had my ducks in a row before any rollout. I established long-lasting relationships with these clients even after the sale.

I remember having to work with a client to develop trust, for over a year, before they even purchased anything. However, it was that dedication and perseverance that they admired and I made a client for life after that. They were my client until I left that company. I also believe that client ended up not working with the company I left, because I was no longer there and they wanted to work with me and only me.

Honesty and hard work pays off, respecting your customers and clients and providing a valuable service will make you successful in any career. This is what I apply to life in general and I am a woman of my word. ALWAYS.In working with myself, you will know I am always prepared, on time and I will make your experience fun and memorable. I will put you at ease and make you laugh.

The more relaxed you are, the better quality of the photos you will have. There is nothing like seeing photos where folks are uncomfortable. After every session I have ever had, folks say it was the most fun they ever had when working with a photographer. I have a way of directing folks in a way that isn't too bossy and I always have a plan to get to the direction that you (the client) and I want it to go.Hope this information helps for you to get to know me better and how we do things here!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Boys Will Be Boys in South Jersey

Tough guys! Yes, this is a real road too! Another one of my great scouting locations!

Hey, we're just hanging out here....

One of my favorites from the session!

I love this shot! I wanted to do one semi artistic photo of these boys!

The hats were so cute!

You have to have a good black and white photo too!

Youngest boy!

Middle boy!

And can't forget the oldest!

What great brothers!

Another artistic look!

A boys' photo session with all brothers is a truly special and heartwarming experience. Capturing the bond and camaraderie between siblings is priceless. As the boys play and interact with each other, their genuine laughter and genuine expressions shine through, creating timeless portraits that will be cherished for years to come. These sessions celebrate the unique connection between brothers, showcasing their individual personalities while highlighting the unbreakable bond they share. Whether it's the mischief in their eyes or their mischievous smiles, a boys' photo session with all brothers captures the essence of brotherhood in the most beautiful and authentic way.

What does it mean to be a boy? Oh, boy.  I love boys.  I have one of my own.    There's always a certain kind of magical element watching your child grow and to see the testosterone starting and play its role in their ongoing physical and emotional development. Boyhood is a time where you explore, play, wander on adventures, and develop such an unexplained curiosity for the world around you.I think what is even more special with these boys, is that they are brothers. You see their "brotherhood" in which is defined as this (when you look it up in the dictionary)... A friendship that cannot be compared to any other, built out of sincerity and love, will always have each others backs. You see this in these images.  The love and mutual respect, they as brothers, have for one another.  Which is why I absolutely loved this session! You see the bond that they have screaming out loud and clear, in these images.

These were some of my favorites from our session!  We had a ton of poses that were not included in this medley that I've shown here!

I think in total we got about eighty different poses and photos from this shoot.  It was pretty insane!Most of all, these boys had fun, mom was happy, and I got to capture these moments that will be treasured forever. This is what makes me love my job, to see and capture love like this because that's what this is... Love between siblings. This is real love and it shows! My specialty (as I like to say due to my crazy often-unexplored travels across South Jersey and two published books under my belt) I choose interesting locations for a photo shoot.  In my pursuits, I am a big fan of leading lines (which is why you see many road captures with my clients).

These leading lines create an interesting atmosphere and background, but also emphasize my subject, which create intriguing captures. I'm blessed to be able to show these magical places all over New Jersey with my clients.I offer something genuinely unique when it comes to great locations in South Jersey.   Most of the local photographers use Fort Mott, National Park, Smithville, or Batsto (I see these places used time and time again.) Yes, they are great locations and nice to use once in awhile, but these locations have been well-played out!  It is time for something fresh and new!  Are you ready, South Jersey?

Hope to shoot you soon! Get it?

Dee

Keep Taking Photographs Of Your Kids... You'll be a pro or semi-pro... in no time!

My baby, Gigi!

Eat that hat! Yum yum yum yum.

My son in the pumpkin patch at our home.

There is nothing more freer than taking photos of your own children!  I paid over $150 just for photos, no print release... Nada... for when my daughter was born.  Btw, the photographer for my son never came around at the hospital like they were suppose to... And that saddens me. His whole large 11 pounds and all!

Yup, he was that big when he was born. I adore being able to take photographs of my kids professionally.  I use them for many subjects and practice, but it's also very cool that I can take quality level photographs of all my kid's milestones.  I truly feel free in that sense. I know I would have racked up thousands of dollars in photos thus far, if I did not do my studying when it pertained to taking photos of my kids. I always loved photography, even from when I was a little girl.

My mind works in mysterious ways with textures, lighting and just how I see this world.  In fact, my very popular sister blog to this site... Well, I show South Jersey, how I see it...Its beauty and all.  I've been so lucky in this endeavor because I know all the best shooting locations from Burlington County to Cape May County!

I'm a bit nuts when it comes to photos. I like high quality.  I have invested in a ton of equipment in such a short time frame because of it, but now I feel like it is paying off.  I see the work for when I first started and then I see now and it has only been a few months.  I see a huge improvement. It's just in my nature to be the biggest and best. I aim to be in the top my field in regards to photography one day.  It is just me and how I'm wired.

I learn a little more everyday and in hopes to improve. Anywho, I'm getting off subject!  I'm telling you moms and dads out there to try and make the effort of learning photography and taking better photographs of your kids. Learn how to shoot in manual mode (you will thank me). Read your camera manual over and over again until it sticks in that noggin of yours! Trust me, you do not need a fancy camera! That is all bull in this industry. 

It is seriously the person who is behind it! I have a drive to learn and I always have.  I'm so happy to capture the milestones of childhood with my kids in a professional way. I urge folks out there to put down their camera phones and pick up a semi-decent camera to capture these moments!  You don't need to spend a lot of money, you just have to have a desire to learn.

Happy Shooting, my friends! -Dee

This South Jersey Gal Loves Working With People!

To be a successful photographer in South Jersey, it's actually more personality than the technical stuff. Us South Jerseyans are all about personality! Truly! 

Some say, being successful is the 80/20 rule. 80% technical and 20% your understanding of settings, lenses, cameras, depth of field, and studying light. I am always a student by learning, studying, and taking classes!  Knowledge is power and it also helps to keep me on my toes. I make it a point to learn something new and practice daily! 

It's a wonderful thing because all of this 20% can all be learned (the technical aspect)... If you don't have the personality, business savvy, or don't like to work with people, portrait photography is probably not going to work out for you!

Love this casual shot of the family!

What I'm getting at is that...

You can't just develop a personality overnight!  A lot of your personality traits are genetics playing a role or just your general upbringing. Some folks are introverts, but have a great artistic eye. That's fine... completely fine, but it truly is harder for them to talk to or relate to others.. aka their clients. 

What I'm trying to say is that you need a personality to shine as a photographer.  You need strong communication skills.  You also have to keep folks energized and engaged! And of course keep your skills sharp! 

 We've all heard of those photographers that are known to be jerks and have egos the size of Mt. Everest. Trust me, I see it every day in this field! Actually, I have never seen bigger egos than in this profession. The high and mighty types. I truly can't stand people like that. Also, it isn't good for business because they often forget about good old customer service and putting the customer first. Of course, there are some customers that can't always be pleased, but it's your job to try your hardest. 

You need to remember, that you can easily be replaced, by hundreds of others gunning for the same job, in this highly saturated market. Listen to your client and deliver what they ask, not what you think is appropriate. It's an ability to learn and listen to your client that is going to keep you in business. 

These egocentric photographers may put out amazing work, but while clients go back through their albums, they'll always remember the experience as an ugly one. Ouch! The mean and rude photographer that we had!  

We've also probably heard of photographers that work with a lack of direction, in their session, and this does affect the final product! However, no photographer is a magician either. We do try to be though!  The good ones do! 

Being a successful photographer is about having a bubbly personality, but also being able to connect with your 1 year old clients as well as your 100 year old clients.  You need to have focus, direction, and confidence! Yet, really enjoy working with people! It's a business. Treat people with respect, get to know them, and you'll go far. 

Prior to my sessions, I like to ask questions. I actually have a "Getting To Know You Questionnaire."  I like learning everyone's names, ages and especially with the little ones, I like to learn what their favorite movie is or favorite toy. It makes it easier to connect with the kids during their session. You get more genuine laughs and smiles... Plus, it puts them more at ease. 

You may find this hard to believe, but most people do not like getting their pictures taken (I am definitely one of them.) If I can make things run smoothly and help to relax my customers... Perhaps, make them laugh a little and make this a fun experience... Then... I have done my job! 

I am all about the entire experience before, during, and after. However, if my clients are happy and relaxed during a photo session, then the end result/product of your photographs are going to turn out wonderful!

See even babies, you need to learn to connect with. This little princess is only 6 weeks old!

It is my job to have a general vision in how I want to capture my families, couples or children. It is a joining of two sides with the photographer and client, to truly make your photos magical.  

As your South Jersey photographer, it's my job to make my customers look their best, feel their best, and be able to capture these moments.  These will last forever and possibly saved for generations. 

 From the beginning, if you decide to work with me... We'll develop a plan and discuss the style you are wanting to go after.  Whether it be candid, posed, artistic... You name it. If you wish me to plan it all out, that's fine too!I'm here to provide a service, enjoyable experience, and beautiful photographs! 

I hope you found this post useful!

 Happy Shooting, my friends!-Dee