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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Another Gorgeous Maternity Session- Daretown Lake- A Salem County Oasis

Daretown Lake: Salem County's Breathtaking Photography Backdrop

Salem County, nestled in the heart of New Jersey, is renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty. Within this picturesque region lies Daretown Lake, a hidden gem that photographers can't help but fall in love with. With its unique blend of tranquility and stunning scenery, Daretown Lake offers the perfect backdrop for any photography project.

Serene Waters and Reflections

Daretown Lake boasts a crystal-clear surface that mirrors the surrounding landscape like a flawless looking glass. As the calm waters gently ripple and dance under the golden sunlight, photographers have the perfect canvas to capture captivating reflections. Whether you're an aspiring landscape photographer or a seasoned professional, the mirror-like surface of the lake offers endless opportunities to evoke a sense of tranquility and symmetry in your shots.

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beautiful mama facebook

Daretown Lake: Salem County's Breathtaking Photography Backdrop

Salem County, nestled in the heart of New Jersey, is renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty. Within this picturesque region lies Daretown Lake, a hidden gem that photographers can't help but fall in love with. With its unique blend of tranquility and stunning scenery, Daretown Lake offers the perfect backdrop for any photography project.

Serene Waters and Reflections

Daretown Lake boasts a crystal-clear surface that mirrors the surrounding landscape like a flawless looking glass. As the calm waters gently ripple and dance under the golden sunlight, photographers have the perfect canvas to capture captivating reflections. Whether you're an aspiring landscape photographer or a seasoned professional, the mirror-like surface of the lake offers endless opportunities to evoke a sense of tranquility and symmetry in your shots.

An Oasis of Biodiversity

Beyond its captivating reflections, Daretown Lake is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The lush greenery that envelopes the lake is home to a diverse array of plants and animals. Photography enthusiasts can expect breathtaking encounters with native birds, such as herons and ducks, as well as vibrant flowers that add pops of color to the frame. Daretown Lake provides an excellent opportunity to document the harmonious coexistence between man and nature.

The Changing Seasons

One of the greatest advantages of Daretown Lake is its ability to transform with the seasons. From the vibrant blooms and lush greens of spring to the fiery foliage of autumn, every season brings its own unique charm. As a photographer, you'll find yourself drawn back time and time again, capturing the ever-changing colors and moods that each season bestows upon Daretown Lake. Whether you're looking to photograph a carpet of wildflowers or capture the striking contrast of ice against the lake's surface, the opportunities are truly endless.

Year-Round Appeal

As photographers, we crave versatility in our backdrops, and Daretown Lake delivers just that. Beyond its seasonal splendor, the lake offers a range of diverse features to complement your vision. The surrounding woodlands, towering trees, and winding trails provide a wealth of compositional elements to work with, whether you're aiming for sweeping panoramic shots or intimate close-ups. Furthermore, the varying times of day and weather conditions produce a kaleidoscope of moods, ensuring that no two photographs will ever be the same.

Accessibility and Convenience

Daretown Lake is not only visually stunning but also conveniently accessible for photographers of all kinds. Situated within Salem County, it's easily reached from nearby towns and cities. With ample parking options available, you can effortlessly transport your gear to your desired vantage point. Whether you're a professional photographer planning a shoot or a hobbyist looking to capture the beauty of nature, the accessibility of Daretown Lake ensures that you can easily make the most of your photography excursion.
So, whether you're seeking a serene waterscape, a vibrant nature scene, or a versatile backdrop for your artistic vision, Daretown Lake in Salem County has it all. Its picturesque landscapes and ever-changing elements make it an ideal location for photographers looking to capture the essence of nature's beauty. Embrace the opportunity to be inspired by the stunning Daretown Lake and allow your photography to shine against its iconic backdrop.

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Perfect pastel perfection on the bank of Daretown Lake.

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Dancing on the street with love for each other.

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All the love shared together. In creating their beautiful baby boy!

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Daretown Lake is a gorgeous backdrop for any type of photos!

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All smiles!

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Hello... daretown lake…

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Yes, I love maternity photography... it is my favorite thing in photography in the whole wide world! I get giddy when people contact me for it. Honestly!  I jump up and down in anticipation because I LOVE to do them! Would you like me to shoot it from the roof tops? Because I will! I have worked hard to PERFECT them.  

Okay, I'll never be perfect  at them because I want to learn constantly and am obsessed with anything photography that I can get my hands on!So when this couple contacted me I jumped for joy! I have to say, I love when clients really take my advice! Whether it be location or even what to wear! This couple nailed it.. They were wonderful!  I believe 10 high resolution digitals came with their selection in what they wanted and I couldn't just give them 10, I think I ended up giving about 20-25!

I had to give them all of them! That's how great this session went! They nailed it!Anywho! I love shooting a few hours before sunset... shortly before the Golden Hour timeframe and then going into it!

I'm OBSESSED with light and love highlights... I know a lot of photographers who don't like highlights or won't work with sunlight like I do... but I think that highlights truly add life to a photograph!!! I know locations when it comes to certain lighting situations and this place generally works in all conditions!!! If it is a sunny day, you have plenty of shaded areas to work with so the sun isn't hitting you directly for those harsh shadows! These two met me at one of my favorite spots in South Jersey! The light here is honestly perfect any time of day!I

LOVE Salem County! LOVE LOVE LOVE.  It is one of the most beautiful counties in South Jersey and why I decided to move here!And yes, I did get the bump!Seriously! This maternity session was to die for! We got so many photos that I could probably edit all 200 of them! The light and mom and dad, just everything was perfection!!!I've been using this location since I started and it has never failed me yet! Some of my best sessions have come out of here!Mom and dad, I wish you nothing, but the best in your future together with your new adorable little baby boy!!!! I hope you send me a picture of him!!! I'm sure he will be beautiful just like the both of you, as you are inside and out!!! Congratulations!!!!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

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Maternity Session in South Jersey!

Maternity Session in South Jersey!

Beautiful Maternity Session in Cherry Hill, NJ.

Hi South Jersey!

We had an awesome time a few weeks ago!

We had a full day event of Cherry blossoms in one of my scouted locations! This was a maternity session I shot during this mini session! And boy did mom rock it out! I am trying to get more things up here on this blog, but business has been busy.. which is a great thing!! I love spring and I love cherry blossoms.

Beautiful Maternity Session in Cherry Hill, NJ.

Hi South Jersey!

We had an awesome time a few weeks ago!

We had a full day event of Cherry blossoms in one of my scouted locations! This was a maternity session I shot during this mini session! And boy did mom rock it out!  I am trying to get more things up here on this blog, but business has been busy.. which is a great thing!!   I love spring and I love cherry blossoms.

I came upon this site a few years ago while working in the area and just had to do a photo session here.  This was a sold out mini session that I offered!  There are miles and miles of these beautiful trees lining the street.  It's absolutely to die for! Folks come from all around to photograph these lovely trees.  They are the same trees they use in Washington D.C.

Here are some photographs from that maternity session!  I hope that you will enjoy!  I cannot wait to do this again next year at the same beautiful location!  Mom was lucky to have these done in time as she went into labor just a few days later!   My favorites were these!!  Not bad for only 30 minutes of shooting time, eh?!

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A beauty among the beautiful blossoms in NJ.

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Kisses to the belly bump among the cherry blossoms in South Jersey.

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Relaxing and smiling for their new bundle of joy among the cherry blossoms in NJ.

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Mama to be at her maternity shoot with her husband. Love her heels!

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Strike a maternity pose in New Jersey.

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Mama to be looks beautiful for her maternity session in Cherry Hill, NJ.

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New Jersey maternity photo session in the cherry blossoms.

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Beautiful mama maternity session with her husband in Cherry Hill, NJ.

I've got a ton of maternity shoots in the pipeline and one more that I have to add and get up on here! It was just as lovely as this session here!  I have so many things I want to try and the creative juices are just coming alive lately!!   Can't wait to show them!!!   I am also going to be photographing the little bambina that arrived shortly! I guarantee this baby is gorgeous... Well, look at mom and dad!! Holy moly!  

Capture the beauty of motherhood amidst the delicate charm of cherry blossoms in Cherry Hill, NJ! We are thrilled to offer you the perfect backdrop for your maternity photo shoot, where you can embrace the serenity and love that awaits your growing family. The blooming cherry trees in all their splendor will create a dreamy and captivating setting for your treasured memories. Let Shooting Star Photography LLC accompany you on this joyous journey and freeze this moment in time with our expertly crafted images. We can't wait to capture your radiant glow and the anticipation of the new addition that's about to bloom in your life. Get ready to cherish these pictures forever!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

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TOP 10 THINGS ON WHAT NOT TO WEAR/DO FOR YOUR SESSION

TOP 10 THINGS ON WHAT NOT TO WEAR/DO FOR YOUR SESSION

I may be opening up a can of worms here, maybe not, but I can't express how important it is to discuss what you will be wearing prior to your photo session with your photographer. I want to explain why this is so important.

What you wear is one of the most IMPORTANT aspects to your session.

TOP 10 THINGS ON WHAT NOT TO WEAR/DO FOR YOUR SESSION

I may be opening up a can of worms here, maybe not, but I can't express how important it is to discuss what you will be wearing prior to your photo session with your photographer.  I want to explain why this is so important.What you wear is one of the most IMPORTANT aspects to your session.  What you wear is a huge aspect to what the overall composition will look like in regards to your final product.  People pay good money for their memories and certain things you wear can affect your session and your end product.Here are a few suggestions on... 

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Check out the beautiful baby bump!

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Momma to be maternity session in the cherry blossoms in Cherry Hill, NJ.

TOP 10 THINGS ON WHAT NOT TO WEAR/DO For your session

1.  No Flip Flops

I don't know what it is, but they just do not photograph well or look well in regards to a session.  Unless, it is a beach session, I see no need for them. I see a lot of maternity sessions ruined by flip flops with these beautiful fabric flowing gowns.  It does not look pretty! I see photographers trying to cover these flip flops up in editing with this flowing fabric because of this. Flip flops are great for the beach and great for hanging out with friends, but they honestly don't photograph well or look well on camera. 

2.  Consider where you will be getting your photographs done... and your location

Are you going to be getting photographed in a garden?  Well, don't wear green! There's a ton of green all around and well, you'll blend in like Waldo.  You want to wear something that will be complimentary to your surroundings.  Obviously, if you are being photographed in front of a red barn, you aren't going to be wearing red or a similar color.  You'll be lost!  You'll want to wear complimentary colors to your environment.  

With a garden scene, you'll want to wear light or natural clothing to blend in with the environment. Pastels also work well against greens. Obviously white or black clothing can be complimentary to almost any location.  However, if going for a vintage feel or more modern, consider what you will be wearing for that session and the look you are wanting to go for.

3.  Please, please, please... Do not show up with graphic tees with heavy wording on them.. It does not photograph well. 

4.  No sweat pants.

It's sad that I even have to mention that... but no one looks great photographed in sweatpants.  I couldn't even imagine beautiful Beyonce being photographed in them.  Just please don't!

5.  No Ripped or stained clothing.

Are these images you want to remember and see for the rest of your life? You want to show that pizza stain that you couldn't get out from a few weeks ago and decided to wear again.. go ahead!  I think folks don't get that the camera sees everything.  It sees things that the human eye can't see. Yes, if you think that stain is unnoticeable try again. It will be magnified by a hundred times on camera!

6. Wear clothes that fit.  

Please... I beg of you.If you are a size 10, but trying to fit into your much tighter size 8, it is not going to look pretty.  It will just magnify your back fat and any bulges, rolls you may have.  Take into consideration your bra, so that your bra line is not showing. These simple things go overlooked and people wonder why they look like a stuffed sausage or even bigger than they really are because they are not wearing the proper clothing.

7.  Heavy makeup.

 Heavy makeup does not photograph well.  You can still wear makeup, but try to make yourself look more natural and don't cake it on.

8.  Be cautious of wearing hairbands on wrists.

I've seen many of my photographer counterparts have to Photoshop it out.  It doesn't look pretty in the end result.

9.  Be Well-Groomed 

IF you do decide on wearing flip-flops (please don't), but if you do... make sure your feet are well-manicured. Make sure your nails are trimmed as well as  goatees/beards. Make sure you have no hair roots. If not taken care of, they are even more magnified on camera.

10.  No chewing gum, smoking (yep, folks do that).

Make sure you're bathed and the kids are bathed. You don't want dried snot on camera. It looks hideous. Mismatched socks.. hairy legs (especially women).  Just make sure you are well-groomed for your camera debut!  AND yes, unfortunately all these things happen! If you are spending your hard-earned money on having yourself photographed, please don't do the above.  Everything comes up like a microscrope when you are being photographed.

Talk to your photographer! They will help you decide on what is appropriate for your session.  We know what photographs well and doesn't, due to our experience in the field.  Trust us! Don't be shy with discussing it! We want to make this the best streamlined process ever. You can dress casually if this is the look you are going for, but remember pick your attire in good taste!  

If you search the net, you can find great color schemes and outfits to wear.  Especially, for a family session or a particular theme. If you want the best for your session, please don't do the above!  Obviously, you are the paying customer and can wear what you want.  However, there are some things that you should be aware of to make your photographs more beautiful! 

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee  

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