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.
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10 Fun Facts About South Jersey - From a Photographer
Top 10 facts about South Jersey.
Jersey is a special place to our residents. Come and visit for a spectacular location of a photoshoot. We have everything from “city like vibes”, to the beach and down home “country vibes.” Visit South Jersey today for your unique portrait experience with an amazing photographer.
I get a lot of clients who travel out of state. It can be like a mystery of the unknown to navigate South Jersey so I devised some little fun facts:
South Jersey (the better half of Jersey, haha), located on the Atlantic coast of the US, is an incredible vacation destination known for its stunning beaches, diverse culinary options, amusement parks, celebrity residents (hey, shooting star wink wink.. kidding) and historical landmarks. I made it my life’s mission to showcase South Jersey. Check out my blog here.. if you don’t believe me. I have explored every nook and cranny from the bayshore to the Atlantic!
From Cape May to Camden in between.. there’s always an awesome place for shooting locations. It’s why I love South Jersey and love being a family photographer.
2. South Jersey residents love spending their summer days on the beach and refer to their beach excursions as "going down the shore." Visitors should try the local ice cream Maple Shade custard, a treat from Moster Softee or deliciousness from Cabana water ice. Take note that the topping of rainbow-colored candies are called "jimmies" instead of sprinkles.
We love our soft custard and iconic Mister Softee. We also love doing photoshoots with them!
3. South Jersey has many diners that serve delicious food at any time of the day. Some are open 24 hours like the Westmont Family Restaurant. Many other great spots to try are Ponzio’s (a Cherry Hill tradition), Black Horse Diner, Vincentown and the Colonial Diner for locally sourced options.
There’s always a magical flower field to be discovered in South Jersey.
4. The Wildwood Boardwalk offers amusement park rides, concerts, and street food, making it a fun summer destination for people of all ages. Sea Isle has a promenade due to the boardwalk being washed away during a bad storm in the last century. Atlantic City, which is famously mentioned in Bruce Springsteen's song, is another must-visit destination in South Jersey. Angelo’s Fairmount is a must to eat at (and a hot spot of Frankie Valle’s). Let’s not forget Cape May, Ocean City, Stone Harbor with its upscale restaurants and of course the quiet little beach island of LBI.
A family session in Ocean City, New Jersey is always a delight!
5. Visitors should try our famous hoagies (not a sub or submarine) a type of sandwich unique to South Jersey. Italian hoagie it is.. unless, in Atlantic City, you may call it a sub from White House Subs. The only exception.
6. Don't let the stereotypes fool you; South Jersey is like a completely different state than North Jersey. We like different teams, call things by different names.. Acme is pronounced “ ackamee” and water is “wooder”. We have very different ways of life. In addition, South Jersey residents are known for their love of NFL team the Philadelphia Eagles and their ability to navigate the area's eccentric road features with ease.
7. History buffs- During the Revolutionary War, more battles were fought in New Jersey than any other state. There are many historical sites to visit. National Park, Hancock house, Indian King Tavern and the Gabreil Daveis Tavern are to make a few.
A maternity photoshoot at Batsto, NJ. (near the blueberry capital of the world).
8. We love our blueberries. Some of the most delicious little berries you will ever have in your life come from South Jersey. Named the official state fruit in 2004, blueberries were first cultivated in the town of Whitesbog, then later they spanned across many Pine Barrens towns, such as Hammonton, also known as the "Blueberry Capital of the World.” My kids eat these like they are going out of style!
9. We believe in a mythical creature that lurks in our forests. It is called, “The Jersey Devil.” It is a legendary creature said to inhabit the forests of the Pine Barrens in South Jersey. The creature is often described as a flying biped with hooves, but there are many variations and folklore about our beloved “monster.”
10. The Delaware Bay (west coast of South Jersey) is home to the largest population of spawning horseshoe crabs in the world. Every spring, usually starting in May, warming waters stir the crabs from the depths of the Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean to the sandy coastlines of New Jersey’s bay shore. Horseshoes PREDATE dinosaurs. You also may be alive today due to this wonderful species. Horseshoe crab blood contains a unique enzyme called limulus amebocyte lysate, or LAL. It causes the blood to coagulate when exposed to bacterial endotoxins, which can be deadly. Biomedical companies use this special enzyme to test medicines, vaccines, implants, and more for endotoxins. It’s how they ensure medical equipment is safe for people.
Photoshoot over the Delaware River which is the origination of the Delaware Bay!
Overall, South Jersey offers something for everyone, whether you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation, a wineries hike in the Pine Barrens or an exciting amusement park adventure. There’s always something to do in my home of South Jersey. Wink wink.. how about a photo session?
Happy Shooting, my friends!
Dee
Shooting Star Photography
South Jersey lover, resident and aficionado.
Family Photographer In South Jersey- Croft Farm Cherry Hill
Family Photographer In South Jersey- Croft Farm Cherry Hill
Family photography at Croft Farm in Cherry Hill, NJ never disappoints!
Family photography at Croft Farm in Cherry Hill, NJ never disappoints!
Shooting Star Photography LLC
Date: 03/20/2024
Thank you for considering Shooting Star Photography for your family photo shoot at Croft Farm in Cherry Hill, NJ. We are delighted at the opportunity to capture your cherished moments in the picturesque setting of the farm.
At Shooting Star Photography, we ensure a seamless and professional experience for our clients. Our skilled photographer will work with you to create beautiful and timeless family portraits that you can treasure for years to come.
Please feel free to reach out to us for more information or to schedule your photo shoot. We look forward to providing you with exceptional service and stunning photographs during your visit to Croft Farm in Cherry Hill, NM.
Warm regards,
Shooting Star Photography LLC
All smiles at Croft Farm in Cherry Hill.
Love throwing leaves at the kids. It always brings in smiles!
As the year comes to an end, I look back in wonderment. How the heck did I get through this past year? I did 553 sessions. This does includes minis, but that is a huge number and lots of families in which I served this past year. I've had the pleasure in working with families all over the place. From Virginia to Connecticut, folks traveled to do sessions with us. I honestly feel honored.As the year winds to an end, I look back and feel grateful. I feel grateful that you chose us to capture your beloved memories. You allowed us to come into your lives and to capture some fleeting childhood moments. For this, I thank you!I look back upon this year. Small changes will be made going forward. I finally see the light at the end of the tunnel in this roller coaster photography journey. I've finally gotten a hold of WHERE I wish to go as a photographer.
2018 A New Journey
Kids running and playing. Taking care of little sister!
This year, I have some BIG plans in the works. I am going to be doing new things that you haven't seen in this industry. I am going to push myself further as an artist. Change things up. I am not going to fear new things.
EVERYONE GENERALLY HAS GOALS FOR THE NEW YEAR
Kisses for my sister!
Yes, it is true. People have goals as they approach the New Year. My goals are nothing short of anything new. I am very excited for new locations, new clients, my tried and true clients and everyone in between.
What are your goals for this upcoming year? Your dreams? Your desires? It's time to make this happen.
Love this little cutie with the pink boots! All photos taken at Croft Farm in Cherry Hill, NJ.
Top 3 Reasons to Have a Photo Shoot at Croft Farm in Cherry Hill, NJ
If you're looking for a picturesque location for your next photo shoot, look no further than Croft Farm in Cherry Hill, NJ. Nestled in a serene and natural setting, this venue offers a multitude of stunning backdrops that will enhance your photographs. Here are the top three reasons why Croft Farm is the perfect spot for your next photo shoot:
1. Natural Beauty and Versatility
Croft Farm is renowned for its natural beauty, making it an ideal location for capturing stunning photographs. The farm features some open fields, walking trails, charming old barn area, and a tranquil pond, allowing you to choose a backdrop that complements your desired style. Whether you're looking for a rustic, whimsical, or elegant setting, Croft Farm can cater to all your photography needs.
In addition to its natural beauty, Croft Farm offers a versatile range of shooting locations within its premises. You can explore various settings, including the beautifully landscaped gardens, picturesque trails, or even incorporate the historic farm buildings into your shots. With such diverse options, your photos will have a unique and captivating touch.
2. Privacy and Serenity
One of the standout advantages of Croft Farm is its seclusion and privacy. Away from the bustling city, this venue offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere, providing the perfect environment to capture intimate and genuine moments. The tranquility of the farm allows you and your subjects to relax, enabling the photographer to capture authentic emotions and create truly memorable images.
Furthermore, Croft Farm is a lesser-known gem, meaning you're unlikely to encounter crowded scenes or interruptions during your photo session. You'll have the freedom to explore the grounds without any distractions, giving you ample opportunities to create magical and undisturbed photographs.
3. Convenient Location and Amenities
Situated in Cherry Hill, NJ, Croft Farm offers a convenient location for your photo shoot. Its proximity to major roads and highways, including Route 70 and Interstate 295, allows for easy access, making it a hassle-free location for clients and photographers alike.
Additionally, the property offers convenient amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. You'll find ample parking spaces, clean restroom facilities, and well-maintained walking paths throughout the venue. These amenities, coupled with the farm's ease of navigation, create the perfect conditions for a smooth and seamless photo shoot.
Capture Cherished Moments at Croft Farm in Cherry Hill
Croft Farm in Cherry Hill is an idyllic location for families to create lasting memories during a mini session. Nestled amidst picturesque landscapes, this enchanting venue offers the perfect backdrop for capturing the love and joy shared by families. Its sprawling green fields, vibrant flower gardens, and rustic barns provide a charming setting that effortlessly complements the beauty of family dynamics. Whether it's a game of tag, a tender embrace, or a spontaneous burst of laughter, Croft Farm captures these cherished moments with its natural beauty.
The tranquil atmosphere and the scenic surroundings instill a sense of calmness, allowing families to relax, connect, and simply be themselves, resulting in authentic, heartfelt photographs. A mini session at Croft Farm in Cherry Hill ensures that families not only receive stunning images but also create memories that will be cherished for generations to come.
In conclusion, Croft Farm in Cherry Hill, NJ offers a myriad of reasons why it should be your next photo shoot destination. Its natural beauty, versatility, privacy, and convenient location make it a truly desirable location for capturing unforgettable images. Whether you're planning a family portrait session, engagement shoot, or a creative fashion shoot, Croft Farm will undoubtedly provide the perfect backdrop for your photography needs.
My ultimate goal is to make this the best year on record. Hold on to your seats because it's about to get bumpy. Bumpy is a GREAT thing as an artist. It's what keeps you on your toes. I am ready to tippy toe like a hippopotamus ballerina. I hope everyone enjoyed their Christmas in the Philly area and are enjoying time with their friends and family. I look forward to working with you next year!
Happy Shooting!
Dee
Shooting Star Photography located in Southern New Jersey
Follow our journey around the Philadelphia Area.
