Fine Art Family Photography Stories & Resources
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.
Explore Portrait Experiences:
Family Photography in Millville NJ | in Cumberland County
Capture family love in Millville, NJ with captivating backdrops in Cumberland County. Book a session with Shooting Star Photography your NJ photographer.
Millville NJ | Cumberland County | A Captivating Backdrop for Your Family Photo Shoot
Cumberland County, located in the charming state of New Jersey, holds a treasure trove of captivating landscapes and diverse settings that make it an exceptional choice for your upcoming family photo shoot. From picturesque coastal areas to quaint rural backdrops, this county offers a plethora of options to ensure that your family portraits are infused with a distinct and enchanting charm. Here's why Cumberland County, NJ, is an awesome backdrop for your family photo shoot.
1. Coastal Beauty in Cumberland County
Millville and surrounding areas boast stunning coastal areas along the Delaware Bay, making it an ideal location for capturing timeless family memories with a flair of serenity. Whether you choose to pose against the backdrop of golden sand dunes or dance underneath the picturesque sunset, the invigorating beach atmosphere and tranquil waters offer an unparalleled setting for your family photography.
2. Rich History in Millville
For families inclined towards a nostalgic ambiance, Cumberland County's historical sites weave an enchanting tale. From the beautiful architecture of Bridgeton's downtown district to the historic buildings in Greenwich, this county is a treasure trove of picturesque locations. The fusion of timeless elegance and the deep-rooted history ingrained in these sites will surely add a touch of sophistication and character to your family portraits.
3. Rural Family Charm:
The county's rural landscapes present an idyllic milieu for capturing natural and candid family moments. From vast farmlands to enchanting orchards, Cumberland County offers a rustic charm that allows your family's love and connection to shine through effortlessly. Stroll through the blooming fields, play hide-and-seek amidst the rows of corn, or gather around the hay bales—these simple yet captivating backdrops will exude a genuine sense of joy and togetherness in your photographs.
4. Seasonal Beauty:
Depending on the time of year, Cumberland County showcases breathtaking seasonal beauty that can enhance the allure of your family portraits. In the spring, frolic amidst the colorful cherry blossom trees or explore the vibrant gardens bursting with tulips. In the fall, embrace the warm hues of the foliage and engage in delightful activities such as apple picking or pumpkin carving. The county's dynamic seasons ensure that each photo shoot captures the essence of the moment and reflects the unique charm of each season.
5. Community Spirit:
Cumberland County is home to a vibrant and diverse community, whose warmth and welcoming nature exude an irresistible positive energy. Whether you wish to incorporate the local culture, festivals, or events into your family photo shoot, the county's rich community spirit will infuse your portraits with a strong sense of belonging and unity.
Cumberland County, NJ, is a treasure trove of magnificent backdrops, seamlessly blending coastal beauty, rich history, rural charm, seasonal delights, and a strong community spirit. Its diversity and natural wonders serve as a perfect setting for your family to shine in front of the camera, creating memories that will be cherished for generations to come. So, embark on an adventure and let Cumberland County be the canvas for your family's story in the form of breathtaking photographs.
Goodbye Summer, Hello Fall in Millville, NJ!
Wow, can you believe summer is officially coming to an end? This Labor Day weekend brought a crisp change in the air, with temperatures dipping into the upper 60s—sweater weather already! As the seasons shift, we're gearing up for an exciting fall here in South Jersey, especially in beautiful Millville and the surrounding areas.
At Shooting Star Photography, we’re thrilled to work with families, children, and soon-to-be moms (maternity photography holds a special place in my heart). Fall is all about warm, earthy tones, natural light, and capturing the pure joy and innocence of the season. Below, you’ll find highlights from last year’s sessions, showcasing the magic we love to create.
Our calendar is already packed for the rest of the year, and we’re so grateful for all the support from Millville, South Jersey, and even Philadelphia! This year has been nothing short of incredible, and we can’t wait to finish it strong.
What’s New for Fall 2025?
Mini Sessions:
We’ve introduced four unique themes this year—Unicorn, Princess at a Castle, City Sessions, and Tree Farm sessions. These mini sessions were booked out quickly (thank you, everyone!).
Luxury Additions: We’re bringing in new high-end dresses, gorgeous maternity gowns, fresh locations, and even a snow machine to make this fall and winter extra magical.
Seasonal Vibes: We love those rich, warm fall tones and are embracing them for every session this season.
As life picks up with back-to-school routines and holiday preparations, we know how busy things can get. That’s why we’re here to make your photography experience stress-free, fun, and memorable.
Thank You, Millville and Beyond!
To all our amazing clients from Millville, South Jersey, and Philadelphia, thank you for trusting us to capture your precious memories. We’re excited to wow you with more breathtaking sessions this fall and winter.
If you’re planning for next year, keep an eye out—we’ll be announcing our new calendar soon. For now, enjoy the crisp air, pumpkin spice everything, and the beauty of fall in South Jersey!
Shooting Star Photography- Loving every single minute!
Fall Sessions have arrived.... 2022!
Can you believe this year, is almost over?
My goal is to provide my clients with the greatest experience, for the greatest people in your life!
i understand how frustrating it is to wrangle up the family together, to get ready, to get your portraits done. the joys, anxiety and challenges of preparing for a shoot. however, i also know how important these special moments are to you to capture and I do my upmost best to capture these memories for you.
Couples and engagement shoot! This was shot in downtown Mullica Hill.
At shooting star photography, located in southern new jersey, we will take charge of the photo session. we know what it takes, we want your photographs to be unique and your images to have a truly personal feel.
This is why we continue to do what we do and sell out, year after year.
Maternity Capture in Williamstown, New Jersey!
Whether wanting a photo session in Philadelphia, Delaware, or the suburbs of Southern New Jersey, we have you covered on gorgeous and expansive locations to suit your needs.
We, not only want you to have gorgeous images, but we want to create everlasting memories. Providing you with the best service out there.
Family beach session at the Jersey shore. Yes, the background is real. We add a little magic! We were the first to offer this session and I know teach it to photographers across the US.
After you submit your contact form, i will then call (or email) based on your preference, so we can discuss and plan out your own custom portrait experience. We will cover everything from location, dates, vision for the shoot, clothing etc. This might sound overwhelming but don't worry as i'll be here to guide you through the process. I got you!
A magical kiss, with a magical unicorn!
Whether it be a family session, a children's session, maternity or engagement...
Let us capture your joy! Let's make some art!
With love and happy shooting, my friends!
Dee Giumetti
Owner
Shooting Star Photography
When the kiddos want chicken nuggets, you give them nuggets... The Golden Nugget Tavern... that is!
There’s something about tradition, local watering holes and about a place that captures the local flavor of real people. I truly believe, The Golden Nugget Tavern captures this essence. You walk into this place and it is a friendly, no frills, down to earth atmosphere. You’ll see families, old, young, small kiddos, teens, blue collar, among white collar individuals. It is the true flavor of South Jersey.
It’s not a cookie cutter boujee establishment. Unlike, a lot of new restaurants or even pubs and you see these new guys trying to keep up with the trends. Often times, these new restaurants are missing character or a comfort/familiarity/ambiance. Nope, this is a place that transports you back in time.
Three kiddos having fun in the meadow in Winslow.
This place is right around the corner from the GOLDEN NUGGET. Get your family session and then head over to, "The Nugget" after!
From the old collectibles in the glass display cabinets, to the 2010 Kenny Chesney concert advertisement on the wall, down to the animals, most likely hunted from around South Jersey and proudly displayed around the bar. It’s an atmosphere that actually makes you feel at ease, there’s a true comfort and I truly feel it captures the feel of South Jersey.
All smiles during her photo session!
Cutie smiles. Love my families!
Hugs with the family!
Absolutely beautiful location.
Not only do they have shuffleboard (and I haven’t seen sawdust shavings at an establishment in a long time) as most don’t keep up with maintenance usually. To the pool table, that was actively being played by a father and son (maybe 10 years old and beating his dad), it’s an establishment that you could get use to.
Often times greeted by staff, as you enter, like it is Cheers. You sit down and immediately are handed a menu and asking for what you would like to drink. Anything on the menu, does not disappoint. In fact, their buffalo chicken salad is a star, as well as their Golden Nugget bites (need to get wet, with your choice of sauce). You will not leave this place hungry. Nor disappointed.
Ring around the Rosie fun!
Ring around the rosie fun! This was the real sky that night. It was awesome!
You’ll most likely leave with happy faces, from you and your kids and full bellies, wanting to come back again and again.
We haven’t tried the outdoor bar/dining area yet because it has been hot the few times we’ve gone this year. We prefer air conditioning in 90 plus degree weather. Hehe. However, the outdoor area looks very nice. As well as numerous and maintained horse shoe pits, all over the place and most have tournaments often.
A fall photo session shoot! In South Jersey!
Forest fun!
This is an establishment that has been a part of the South Jersey landscape for decades. It’s not to be missed. It really should be on everyone’s bucket list to just try out once, if ever in the area. I think you’ll enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, lively patrons (I love hearing people laugh and just having a good time) we saw a lot of young and old families gathering while here, good food, cold drinks and great staff. If wanting to see what South Jersey is about, this is the place.
If ever wanting a great restaurant recommendation for after your fun shoot with us! We got you covered!
Have a magical day, my friends!
Dee
Shooting Star Photography
One Dress- Multiple Looks
I can't tell you how many times am asked if this dress (not this one in particular) can be used in this particular setting. The answer is YES. If you have the right photographer, they can help stylize each and every session to capture what you want to do!
Love this Anna Triant Dress and the brunette beauty truly shines. We took this at Weymouth Furnace in Atlantic County.
Fairy sessions in a local park.
Fairy Magical Sessions. I always love adding a little magic to our images.
Winter fairy. We actually created this "snow" effect in post to make it more magical.
Twirling on the streets of Philadelphia.
Same dress (which is made by Anna Triant) by the way. Different location in Philadelphia. It's also the same girl as above.
Twirling in a meadow in Sewell, NJ.
Taken in a local park in Sewell, New Jersey. Same dress as all other examples.
Having fun in the cornfields in Alloway, Salem County, NJ.
Photoshoot in Alloway, Salem County, New Jersey. From country gal to city girl.. styles can be versatile.
As you can see, just one dress, can be used in a variety of locations and situations. That's what we are here for and to create beautiful images for our customers.
If looking to book the most magical Philly photographer around, we are here for you!
Have a magical day, my friends!
Dee
Shooting Star Photography
Capturing the Magic of First Holy Communion Sessions in Philly
First holy communion sessions in South Jersey and Philly. There’s no better time to celebrate your child’s First Holy Communion than at an elegant castle backdrop.
Taking pictures of this beautiful little girl has been awesome! We loved capturing her First Holy Communion Session!
Communion season is in full swing here in Philly, and we couldn't be more excited to capture the magic of this special time. First Holy Communion is a significant milestone in a child's spiritual journey, and we believe it's essential to capture these precious moments with your loved ones.
We've had a great communion year so far, with many different styles and settings for our photo sessions. From traditional all-white outfits to non-traditional Michael Kors suits, we've captured them all. We've used a variety of settings, from flower fields and blooming trees to gardens and even more urban backdrops, to create the perfect atmosphere for each individual shoot.
It's our job to help make your communion session special and memorable. We love what we do, and we're dedicated to capturing these once-in-a-lifetime moments with your children. The right of passage that comes with first holy communion is something that should be cherished and remembered forever.
One of our favorite locations this season has been the Versailles look alike estate, which was modeled after the French palace. The stunning gardens and intricate architecture make for a perfect setting to capture the magic of your little princess's communion day. Can you imagine your child in a beautiful ball gown, posing in front of this gorgeous backdrop? We'll be shooting at this location all through the summer, and we can't wait to capture more magical moments.
If you're interested in booking a Princess at Versailles session, please let us know. We would be delighted to help you create lasting memories of this special time.
In conclusion, first holy communion is a significant moment in your child's spiritual journey, and we believe that capturing it with a professional photography session is a beautiful way to commemorate the occasion. With so many styles and settings available, we can help you create a unique and memorable session that will be treasured for years to come. Let's work together to capture the magic of your child's first holy communion.
First holy communion session in South Jersey and Philly! We’ve photographed everywhere.
Her first holy communion session rocked! She was a princess!
We have flower fields, blooming trees, gardens and even more urban settings for all that you want to capture for this special time. Here’s a look at what we have been working on this season. Isn’t this location gorgeous? WE LOVE IT! Can you imagine a princess in a ballgown? We will be shooting here all through the summer!
Close up of the South Jersey beauty.
The water garden is to die for! Italian water gardens rock!
First Holy Communion in front of "the castle".
My favorite in this whole series!
Love this elegant look! “Picking” tulips!
If you would like to book your Princess at Versailles session (that’s what this estate was modeled after), please let us know!
Have a magical day, my friends!
Dee Giumetti
Owner of Shooting Star
