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:
Peony Sessions in South Jersey
A wildflower session is always a gorgeous backdrop for your family portraits in South Jersey.
Every single year, this is one of my favorite flower places to photograph at. It doesn't feel like it is located in South Jersey, but another world. It feels almost European and ethereal. Acres and acres of beauties in the most beautiful peony colors that you can imagine. All this, is right here in South Jersey. These are a wonderful background for any any family portrait or children’s portraits. It is such a gorgeous setting!
We’ve photographed so many families in our peony fields, year after year!
Some of the many captures and sessions that I have enjoyed. Aren't the peonies beautiful?
Sometimes, I can't believe what we have in our backyard. If only we would take the time to smell the roses (peonies in this case), right? Many years ago, I published two books on South Jersey. I also use to write for The Patch (Deirdre Howell), as well as ran South Jersey Explorer. It was a sheer honor to be invited out by the community. I had many pillars of the community ask me to come out and take a look at what we have in our backyard. It was within that discover, I came across this gorgeous flower farm.
Sitting pretty among the peonies!
beauty among the pastel peonies.
Within this timeframe, I met exploring friends and now have become lifelong buds, who also had the same passion and desire for showcasing our beauty in New Jersey. One of my good friends, runs Historic and Abandoned Homes in South Jersey (has thousands of followers) and it's a great group. Go check it out on facebook and join!
Another gorgeous shot of this little lady! In the peony fields.
I LOVE this girl. It was through her mom, I found a love for photography and we even took a workshop together. Isn't that cool. Mom is very talented.
I truly love South Jersey and it greatly shows in the pride of my work. Whether you live in Camden, Gloucester, Salem, Cumberland, Burlington, Atlantic, Cape May (or even Ocean County and Monmouth) I have you covered on gorgeous locations.
I will be offering 2022 peony sessions. We have not been able to offer them the past two years, due to Covid. However, we are resurrecting them. We hope that you can join us in one of the most jaw-dropping locations in our backyard and to capture those beautiful memories of you and your family.
Picking peonies.
Picking powdered peonies. Client is wearing Anna Triant.
The link to book our 2022 Peony Sessions can be found here.
https://shootingstarphotographyllc.bigcartel.com/product/2022peonies
LOVE seeing my client's work displayed in their homes!
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I truly love seeing my South Jersey and Philadelphia area clients... my "art work" displayed in their homes. It honestly makes me want to print out more of my own family's, as it's something I don't particularly do myself and I know it's something my own kids like to see displayed in my own household. So when I see others do it, print out my work, it truly makes me smile from ear to ear.
There's nothing more awesome and gives you a sense of pride to see your work displayed and for my clients to WANT to put up in the walls of their home.
Here's a beautiful family that I have worked with over the years. I LOVE them so much. It's an honor EVERY TIME I GET TO PHOTOGRAPH THEM. The connection and love they have for one another is absolutely wonderful.
As you can see, it's an honor to work with this beautiful family! I get to see them next week! Very excited to see them again!
If you would like to book a session with us, we have a few spots left for our 2020 year! We would love to see you! Once again, we will be in our studio in Maple Shade, New Jersey... effective November 1st! Stop on in and say hi!!!!
Until our next adventure and happy shooting!
Dee
Shooting Star Photography
South Jersey's most awesome family photographer
Unicorn Sessions in South Jersey!
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Little two year old and her unicorn.
Golly Gee... I truly love unicorn sessions. There's something magical about kids and being with something so majestic! I LOVE creating the magic and capturing the magic of this interaction and also making ART!!! Unicorns are just so much fun... and every little girl tends to go through this "magical" stage and just love rainbows!
Twirling and having fun with her unicorn!
Lovely lady in the forest. With a unicorn!
Why do people love sessions with unicorns?
People often have portraits with a unicorn for a variety of reasons, including:
Symbolism and Mythology: Unicorns have long been associated with symbolism and mythology. They are often depicted as majestic, mythical creatures representing purity, grace, beauty, and magic. Including a unicorn in a portrait can evoke a sense of enchantment and fantasy, adding a touch of whimsy and mystique to the image.
Personal Expression and Fantasy: Some individuals are drawn to unicorns because they resonate with their personal interests and fantasies. Unicorns are frequently associated with childhood nostalgia and dreams. Including a unicorn in a portrait allows people to express their imagination, embrace their inner child, and create a unique and whimsical image that reflects their personality or desired aesthetic.
Individuality and Creativity: Incorporating a unicorn into a portrait can be a way for people to stand out and create a distinctive image. Unicorns are less conventional subjects compared to traditional portraits, making them a symbol of individuality and creativity. It allows individuals to showcase their unique style and taste while creating an eye-catching and memorable portrait.
Symbol of Magic and Dreams: Unicorns are often seen as symbols of magic and dreams. Including a unicorn in a portrait can evoke a sense of wonder, fantasy, and escapism. It allows individuals to portray a sense of limitless possibility and imagination, capturing a moment where reality and fantasy intertwine.
Cultural and Popularity Factors: Unicorns have gained significant popularity in recent years, becoming a trend in popular culture, fashion, and design. They are often associated with positivity, joy, and empowerment. Including a unicorn in a portrait may be influenced by current trends or a desire to align with popular cultural symbols.
It's important to note that the reasons for including a unicorn in a portrait can vary from person to person. Some may be drawn to the symbolism, while others simply find unicorns aesthetically pleasing or enjoyable to incorporate into their visual narratives. Ultimately, the choice to have a portrait with a unicorn is a personal one, driven by individual preferences, emotions, and creative expression.Last Fall, we got to capture a beautiful unicorn session in the forest in Williamstown, New Jersey!!! I love unicorn sessions!
With each unicorn session, we bring about 60 dresses to choose from, including headpieces. From all sorts of designers! From Anna Triant, Adrianna Ostrowski, to Dollcake... the list is numerous. WE love seeing the magic transform and for each little girl to feel like a true princess!
The Fall in South Jersey a Magical Unicorn Session.
Beautiful capture of a little princess with her unicorn in the south jersey orchard!!! She is in LOVE with her unicorn. Wearing one of my fav designers... Dollcake! Cannot wait to try out sessions like this in Moorestown, New Jersey! I have awesome location options all over Burlington County!
Our next unicorn session will run on Saturday, November 14th! I will post details soon!! Hope you can come out for this magical experience. Our studio in Maple Shade, New Jersey will be opening on November 1st. It will be a busy month for us at Shooting Star Photography, but we cannot wait!!! It's truly going to be a blast going into 2021. We hope that you can come out! We would love to see you and work with you!
Until we meet again and Happy Shooting!
Dee
Shooting Star Photography
South Jersey Family photographer serving Woodstown, Mullica Hill, Swedesboro, Hammonton, Moorestown, Maple Shade, Delran, Washington Township, Cherry Hill, Ocean City, Sea Isle, Avalon, Deptford, West Deptford, Cape May etc. etc etc. Give us a call, we'd love to chat!
Sunflower Sessions in South Jersey
A New Jersey sunflower photo shoot can be special for several reasons:
1. Vibrant Beauty: Sunflowers are known for their striking, vibrant yellow petals and large, captivating blooms. Their bright and cheerful appearance adds a burst of color to photographs, creating a visually stunning backdrop that can instantly uplift the mood of the image.
A beauty in the sunflower fields in South Jersey.
Sunflower Sessions in South Jersey
I absolutely love sunflower sessions! They bring me pure joy to each and every single family I work with. There's something very special and becoming of those beautiful yellow, orange and red beauties. It wouldn't be called the Garden State, if we didn't grow them!
You normally can find a range of farms anywhere from North Jersey to South Jersey this time of year. As I am preparing my Maple Shade, New Jersey, studio, I will also be servicing my usual Salem and Gloucester counties in my area. It will be a very busy year! However, I am greatly looking forward as to what is to come!
A sunflower photo shoot can be special for several reasons:
Vibrant Beauty: Sunflowers are known for their striking, vibrant yellow petals and large, captivating blooms. Their bright and cheerful appearance adds a burst of color to photographs, creating a visually stunning backdrop that can instantly uplift the mood of the image.
Symbolism: Sunflowers often symbolize happiness, positivity, and a sunny disposition. Incorporating sunflowers into a photo shoot can evoke feelings of joy, warmth, and optimism. They can serve as a powerful visual representation of these emotions, making the photos more meaningful and uplifting.
Natural and Organic Setting: Sunflower fields provide a natural and organic setting for a photo shoot. Being surrounded by rows of tall sunflowers creates a picturesque and serene environment. The combination of nature's beauty and the human presence in the photographs can create a harmonious and captivating composition.
Seasonal and Timeliness: Sunflowers are typically in bloom during the summer and early fall seasons. Planning a sunflower photo shoot during this time allows you to capture the beauty of the fleeting season and the essence of the particular time of year. It can be a way to commemorate the summer or embrace the transition to fall.
Versatile Themes: Sunflowers can be incorporated into various themes and styles of photography. Whether it's a casual and playful shoot, a romantic couple session, a family portrait, or even a maternity shoot, sunflowers can add a unique and eye-catching element to the composition. Their versatility allows for creative exploration and expression.
Connection to Nature: Sunflower fields offer a connection to nature and the outdoors. They provide an opportunity to escape the urban environment and immerse oneself in the beauty of the natural world. This connection can enhance the overall experience of the photo shoot and create a sense of tranquility and harmony.
When planning a sunflower photo shoot, consider visiting sunflower farms or fields known for their blooming sunflowers. Coordinate the timing of the shoot to coincide with the peak bloom of the sunflowers. Experiment with different angles, poses, and compositions to make the most of the sunflowers' beauty. Whether it's capturing close-up shots of individual sunflowers or incorporating them as a backdrop for larger compositions, the presence of sunflowers can transform ordinary photographs into something truly special.
Sunflower sessions held in Salem County, New Jersey. Near Mannington, New Jersey.
I am offering these last minute sunflower sessions. I had to offer these last minute due to our schedule and what we could allow. However, we are actually running AHEAD of schedule this year. Also, the sunflowers are now in peak bloom in the South Jersey area.
Momma and her little girl in sunflowers in Vineland New Jersey. We work with a lot of growers in the area and always are aware of blooms in the South Jersey area.
Momma and her little girl in sunflowers in Vineland New Jersey. We work with a lot of growers in the area and always are aware of blooms in the South Jersey area.
Dresses by Little Dreamers tutus. Photo session taken in a Sunflower field in Mantua, New Jersey Gloucester County. All these dresses will be on display in our maple shade new jersey photography studio!
Dresses by Little Dreamers tutus. Photo session taken in a Sunflower field in Mantua, New Jersey Gloucester County.
We can provide dresses, if needed for these sessions. Just let us know. We're happy to provide the best experience for all our customers!!! Every session is unique and will be held at golden hour to fit our editing aesthetic.
Another beautiful dress by Little Dreamers Tutus. Love the pink sky added for some extra pop. It is all about the light!!
Another beautiful dress by Little Dreamers Tutus. Love the pink sky added for some extra pop. It is all about the light!!
I hope to see you out Monday or Wednesday next week!
Info can be found here! https://shootingstarphotographyllc.bigcartel.com/product/last-minute-sunflower-sessions-september-28th-and-september-30th
Brother and sister looking out at the sunset in gorgeous South Jersey! Don't you just love fall ya'll? maple shade new jersey, photographers in south jersey, south jersey family photographers, sunflowers in moorestown new jersey
Brother and sister looking out at the sunset in gorgeous South Jersey! Don't you just love fall ya'll?
Until we meet again South Jersey... Happy Shooting!
With love XOXOXO,
Dee
