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.

Magical Unicorn Family Portrait Photographer in Delaware

Experience a dreamy unicorn photo session in Delaware with Shooting Star Photography. Create magical 'mommy and me' memories in a fairytale setting!

Hi there, magical souls! I'm your whimsical guide and photographer in New Jersey, here to take you through an enchanting journey—a "mommy and me" styled unicorn photo session that will sprinkle your world with fairy dust! At Shooting Star Photography, we believe in capturing the precious moments you share with your little ones in the most dreamy way possible. So, saddle up on our unicorn, and let's gallop through the 20 steps to making your fairytale photo session come to life!

Mother and child with a unicorn in a magical Delaware photoshoot, capturing a whimsical family moment with a fairytale backdrop.

Dreaming Up Your Perfect Session

Alright, let's kick things off with a dash of imagination! Picture this: a world where soft pastels paint the sky, enchanting gardens sprawl at our feet, and a majestic unicorn awaits to join us. It's your turn to dream—what feelings do you want to capture in this magical realm? Is it the heartwarming bond, a spark of whimsy, or perhaps a touch of fantasy? Scribble down your dreams and share them with me. Together, we'll weave these dreams into the very fabric of your session, crafting an experience that's as magical as the tales we adore.

Choosing Your Magic Date

Once our fairy tale is envisioned, picking our magic date is next! I get it, life's busy—especially for you amazing parents juggling your wands and warrior shields daily. That's why we offer flexible scheduling to ensure our adventure doesn't add to the spell of chaos. Let's find a day where you can leave the hustle behind and step into a world of wonder with your little one, stress-free. Together, we'll make it a date that fits seamlessly into your epic saga.

Securing Your Spot with Shooting Star Photography

To ensure our magical journey together is officially on the books, reach out to us to secure your spot. A little bit of pixie dust (a simple booking deposit) guarantees that our unicorn is reserved just for you on your chosen day. We've made this process as effortless as possible because we believe nothing should stand in the way of your enchantment. So, let's lock in your date and start counting down to a day filled with laughter, love, and a touch of unicorn magic!

Planning Your Enchanted Outfits

Diving into your closet for our magical session is like opening a treasure chest—there are no wrong choices, only opportunities for enchantment! Imagine gowns that float like whispers on the wind and little crowns made of the finest forest finds. But remember, the real spell is comfort; we want you to dance with the unicorns, not wrestle with wardrobe mishaps. Let's pick outfits that let both of you shine in the ethereal light, embracing the whimsy and wonder of our journey together.

Little girl in a purple dress riding a unicorn in a magical Delaware photoshoot, capturing a fairytale moment with dreamy lighting and scenery.

Location, Location, Magical Location

As a seasoned photographer in New Jersey, I've uncovered the most spellbinding spots, perfect for our unicorn-themed adventures. Imagine whimsical forests, shimmering lakes, and fields aglow with the golden hour's touch—these are just a few canvases for our storybook session. Together, we'll select a locale that not only breathes life into our magical tale but is also a breeze for you to reach. This ensures our session is nothing short of enchanting, leaving the real world behind the moment you step into our carefully chosen fairytale setting.

Meeting Your Unicorn

Before the sparkle of our photo shoot begins, you and your little dreamer will have a special moment to meet our star unicorn. This magical encounter is designed to sprinkle a bit of comfort and excitement into your hearts, making sure those genuine, joy-filled smiles come effortlessly when the camera starts clicking. It's a whimsical introduction that sets the stage for a photo session filled with laughter, love, and, of course, a little unicorn magic.

Personalizing Your Experience

Your fairy tale session is as unique as your family's story. Whether it’s weaving in a treasured family heirloom or featuring a favorite fairy tale book, we're all ears! Tell us your whimsical wishes or cherished memories you'd love to capture. This personal touch transforms your photo shoot into a magical narrative that's exclusively yours. Let’s collaborate to ensure every sparkle and smile reflects the genuine, magical bond you share.

Capturing the Magic in Delaware

When our photo shoot day arrives, it's our time to let the magic unfold naturally. I'll be there to gently guide you into sweet moments and capture those spontaneous bursts of joy and love. Forget about striking the perfect pose; it's the heartfelt giggles, the soft cuddles, and the playful twirls that we're truly after. These genuine, unscripted interactions are where the real enchantment lies, ready to be immortalized through my lens.

Sneak Peeks and Fairy Dust

While you're eagerly waiting for the full magical reveal, we’ll send you fluttering into excitement with a few sneak peeks of our enchanting time together. Think of it as a little fairy dust sprinkled in your inbox to give you a glimpse of the magic we captured. It’s just a taste of the wonder that’s to come, keeping the anticipation high and your heart fluttering with joy until the grand unveiling.

The Grand Reveal

And now, the moment that twinkles brighter than a constellation—our grand reveal! Imagine stepping into a space filled with the magical moments we captured, each photo a doorway back to our enchanting adventure. Your heart might skip a beat as you lay eyes on these memories, now immortalized. It’s here, amidst the joy and giggles frozen in time, that you’ll truly grasp the magic we’ve woven together. Get ready to relive the wonder and whisk yourself back to a realm where unicorns roam freely.

Selecting Your Favorites

Diving into our treasure chest of captured moments together, it's time for the enchanting task of selecting your favorites. Picture us, side by side, flipping through the magic of your day, each photo sparking memories and joy. I'm here to guide you, to help you spot those genuine glimmers of love and laughter that make your heart sing. This step is all about choosing the snapshots that tug at your heartstrings, ensuring the essence of your magical journey is captured just as you remember it.

Little girl standing beside a unicorn in a magical Delaware portrait session, creating a whimsical and fairytale-inspired moment.

Custom Products and Keepsakes

After our adventure together, it's time to bring the magic of our unicorn world into your home with custom products and keepsakes. From the sparkle in your eye captured on canvas to the joy of your little one's laughter bound in an heirloom album, we curate these treasures with all the love and enchantment of our session. It's about keeping the magic alive, letting it fill your spaces and hearts every day. Let’s turn these moments into tangible memories that dance through your life.

Designing Your Album

As we sit down to design your album, it's like we're casting a spell together, mixing and matching images to perfectly tell the story of our enchanting day. Flipping through the proofs, we'll choose layouts that complement the whimsy and warmth of each moment captured. From the cover that beckons a peek inside, to the magical scenes that unfold page by page, our collaboration brings your fairy tale to life, ensuring every glance brings a smile and a sprinkle of that day's magic.

Finalizing Your Order

With our magical day immortalized, it's time to dot the i's and cross the t's on your order. We'll breeze through the details together, making sure your cherished keepsakes are just as you've dreamed. This step is the wand wave that sets everything in motion, ensuring that soon, the enchantment of our day together will fill your home and hearts.

The Anticipation Builds

As we craft your enchanting keepsakes, think of it like a potion brewing - each detail being perfected with care. The thrill of what's to come dances through the air, a prelude to the joy that will soon fill your home. With every update we send, imagine a sprinkle of fairy dust, heightening the excitement for the magical reveal. It's a delightful waiting game where dreams become tangible treasures, soon to be in your hands.

Close-up of a little girl with a unicorn in a magical Delaware photoshoot, capturing a dreamy and fairytale-inspired moment

Delivery Day

Oh, happy day! Your enchanting keepsakes have journeyed through the mystical lands and have finally arrived. Envision the excitement as you unwrap these treasures, each piece a portal back to our whimsical adventure. It's like the final chapter of our fairy tale unfolding right in your living room, ready to be cherished and relived. As you open the package, the magic of our day together bursts forth, ready to fill your home with joy and wonder.

Sharing the Magic

Now comes the enchanting moment of spreading the wonder far and wide. Imagine your home coming alive as you place each piece of our magical day on display, or the smiles that light up faces as you share our captured moments online. We're thrilled to see how you keep the magic alive in your world. Don't forget to tag us—your happiness in showcasing these memories is the spark that fuels our creative journey. Let the magic we created together inspire stories and dreams in every corner it touches.

Creating Lasting Memories

Each photograph we capture is a shimmering droplet of time, forever preserving the laughter, the hugs, and the magic shared between you and your little one. These aren't just pictures; they're your family's legacy, embossed with the joy and enchantment of your unique journey. As you flip through these images years from now, you'll be transported back, feeling every giggle and whisper of fairy dust as if no time has passed at all.

Mother and daughter in matching purple gowns sharing a heartfelt moment in a magical Delaware photoshoot.

Planning Your Next Adventure

Oh, the joy doesn't have to stop here! Picture this: as seasons change or new milestones arise, we're here, ready with our camera and a sprinkle of creativity to embark on your next magical chapter. Be it celebrating a birthday, welcoming a new family member, or just because—our doors are always open for your return. Think of us as your family's personal storytellers, eagerly awaiting to capture your evolving fairy tale.

Staying Connected with Shooting Star Photography

Don't be a stranger after our magical journey together! Dive into our social media galaxy and hit follow for a sprinkle of joy in your daily scroll. Sign up for our newsletter, where we share not just photography tips but also peeks into our latest enchanting adventures. By joining the Shooting Star Photography family, you're not just staying updated; you're keeping the magic alive and well in your heart and home. Let’s keep weaving wonderful stories together!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Check Out More Of Our Delaware Magic!







Read More
photographer in atlantic city nj Shooting Star Photography photographer in atlantic city nj Shooting Star Photography

Atlantic City Photographer | Captures Mommy and Me Beach Session

Atlantic City, NJ Photographer

Jan 19

Intro

The Uniqueness of Mommy and Me Beach Session

This mom and daughter wanted to capture something new together. Mom just got out of a divorce and wanted to start capturing new memories together as mom and daughter. Her wish was to create positivity in a time where it is so very challenging going through such a difficult process. Mom wanted to capture this special time with her and her child and to record new memories together.

Intro

The Uniqueness of Mommy and Me Beach Session

This mom and daughter wanted to capture something new together. Mom just got out of a divorce and wanted to start capturing new memories together as mom and daughter. Her wish was to create positivity in a time where it is so very challenging going through such a difficult process. Mom wanted to capture this special time with her and her child and to record new memories together.

A 'Mommy and Me' beach session is a remarkable experience that goes beyond merely clicking pictures. It's a magical journey into the heart of the beautiful bond shared by a mother and her child, chronicled through the lens of a camera. These sessions are designed to be as natural as possible, encouraging mothers and their little ones to simply enjoy the sun, sand, and each other’s company. As the golden hues of the setting sun wash over the beach, every giggle, twirl, and shared look between mother and child becomes a perfect photo opportunity. The beach serves as an idyllic, serene setting, adding a dimension of tranquillity and ageless appeal to these cherished mementos. The raw emotions, authentic smiles, and the love that shines through each image is what makes these sessions truly one-of-a-kind.

atlantic city photographer, portrait photographer, fine art photographer nj, family photographers in south jersey, photographers in south jersey,



Choosing Atlantic City as the Perfect Backdrop

beach session, photographers in atlantic city nj, photographers at the jersey shore, nj portrait photographer, photographers in south jersey,

Mommy and Me sessions are special!

Celebrating a new chapter together as family.

Atlantic City, a gem on New Jersey’s coastline, sets an enchanting stage for these unique 'Mommy and Me' beach sessions. Its vast sandy beaches lend themselves as the perfect canvas for creating priceless memories. As families frolic in the open space, the city’s iconic boardwalk and magnificent sunset hues serve as a captivating backdrop, infusing each photograph with a sense of warmth and joy.

The beauty of Atlantic City lies not just in its physical appeal but in its spirited vibe. The city’s playful energy effortlessly complements the fun, love, and kinship inherent in these sessions, translating into photographs that are not just visually stunning, but emotionally poignant as well.

The diversity of the city's beach locales adds another layer of visual intrigue. The golden sand meeting the sapphire waters of the Atlantic Ocean offers a striking contrast, thereby enhancing the aesthetic appeal of each photograph. This plethora of scenic spots enables the families to select a setting that best reflects their personality and style, adding a personal touch to these timeless keepsakes.

With its idyllic setting, dynamic character, and gorgeous landscapes, Atlantic City is indeed an ideal location for these intimate 'Mommy and Me' beach sessions. Every frame encapsulates the essence of the city, while beautifully mirroring the profound connection between a mother and her child.

The Excitement of the Beach Session

mommy and me session, nj portrait photographer, jersey shore, photographers in atlantic city, photographers in south jersey,

All smiles on the beach

Title: A Mother's Love: Moments with Mom
The bond between a mother and daughter is a beautiful tapestry woven with love, compassion, and understanding.

photographers in south jersey, jersey shore, photographers in atlantic city, photographers in new jersey, family photographers in nj,

The moment their toes touch the warm, sandy beach, the thrill begins. From the giggling children as they dash toward the beckoning ocean waves to the loving glances exchanged between mother and child, the beach session is charged with an atmosphere of pure joy and anticipation. This open-air playground offers an ideal setting for families to relax, explore, and engage with each other, fostering an environment ripe for spontaneous and genuine interactions. These unscripted moments of delight and discovery are the heart and soul of the 'Mommy and Me' beach sessions, which are captured beautifully by the camera. The beach, with its endless sky, rhythmic waves, and radiant sunshine, sets the stage for a family adventure full of laughter, fun, and memorable moments to be immortalized in film.

Capturing Candid and Spontaneous Moments

nj beach portraits, portrait photographer in nj, portrait photographer in philadelphia, photographers in south jersey,

There's a unique beauty in capturing the unscripted, candid moments during these beach sessions. It's not about perfectly posed images with rehearsed smiles; it's about encapsulating the genuine, in-the-moment interactions between a mother and her child. Every shared giggle, unexpected hug, and spontaneous twirl becomes a precious memory immortalized in a photograph. Even the occasional teary eyes or tantrums are part of this magical journey, authentically representing the rollercoaster ride that is motherhood. Each photograph becomes a heartfelt narrative, an intimate peek into the powerful bond shared between a mother and her child. These raw, spontaneous moments are the heart of the 'Mommy and Me' beach sessions, forming an indelible part of their cherished beach adventure.

photographers in south jersey, new jersey portrait photographer, photographers in atlantic city, best photographers in nj,

The Significance of Professional Photography

Investing in a professional photographer for these 'Mommy and Me' beach sessions is an integral aspect of this magical journey. With a keen eye for detail, a seasoned photographer can capture the subtleties of each intimate moment between a mother and her child, transforming them into lasting keepsakes. Using the beach's natural beauty, the warm sunlight, and the city's vivacious energy, they create photos that tell a story beyond what meets the eye. It's not just about taking pictures; it's about crafting a narrative that resonates with the subjects and those who view the photos.

The true genius of a professional lies in their ability to make their subjects feel comfortable and natural, allowing for authentic expressions to shine through. They excel at catching the genuine laughter, the loving glances, and even the playful tantrums that paint a true picture of the beautiful bond between a mother and her child.

These beach sessions, therefore, go beyond being a mere service. They are an invaluable investment, a means of treasuring and reliving these precious moments for years to come. A professional photographer's expertise ensures that each captured moment reflects the love, joy, and beautiful complexity of motherhood. Hence, the significance of professional photography in these 'Mommy and Me' beach sessions is undeniably profound and impactful.

photographers in south jersey, new jersey photographers, photographers in new jersey, portrait photographer in nj,  photographers in atlantic city,

The Endearing Results of the Atlantic City Session

Every Atlantic City 'Mommy and Me' beach session culminates in a collection of captivating, heartfelt photographs. They are more than mere images – they are emotions, memories, and special moments frozen in time. Each picture reflects a bond that's beautifully complex and filled with love – a bond between a mother and her child. The radiant smiles, the crinkles around the eyes that signify joy, the backdrop of Atlantic City's dynamic charm, all converge to create a treasure trove of keepsakes. The laughter, the shared glances, the playful banter, every bit of the joyous atmosphere is skillfully encapsulated in these photographs. These unique mementos, brimming with authentic emotions and picturesque backdrops, hold a special place in the hearts of the families. The tangible reminders of the shared happiness and the profound connection not only preserve these precious moments but also enable families to relive them for years to come. Thus, the end results of these beach sessions are truly endearing, manifesting the magic of motherhood, the charm of childhood, and the beauty of Atlantic City in a series of unforgettable snapshots.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Read More
photographers in South... Shooting Star Photography photographers in South... Shooting Star Photography

Uptown Funk- A Graffiti Photo Shoot in Philadelphia.

Shooting Portraits Against a Graffiti Background: PlusesShooting portraits against a graffiti background can add an edgy and urban feel to your photographs. Here are a few reasons why this type of setting can be a great choice:1. Unique and Vibrant Backdrop: Graffiti art is known for its bold colors, intricate details, and unique designs. Incorporating this backdrop into your portraits instantly gives them a distinctive and eye-catching feel. The vibrant graffiti can add depth and interest to your images, making them stand out among more traditional portrait settings.

For this urban photo shoot in Philadelphia, we will be exploring the vibrant city streets adorned with striking graffiti walls. Philadelphia's graffiti scene offers a compelling backdrop for capturing unique and edgy images.


We will utilize the captivating colors and intricate designs of the graffiti walls to enhance the visual appeal of the photos. The juxtaposition of the urban artwork against the cityscape will add an element of creativity and urban flair to the images.


Our goal is to showcase the raw beauty of street art and the dynamic energy of Philadelphia. By incorporating the graffiti walls into the photos, we aim to create a visually stimulating and captivating series of images that truly reflect the essence of the city.


We look forward to capturing the essence of Philadelphia's graffiti art scene and creating a collection of photos that are both visually striking and artistically compelling.

philadelphia photo shoot, broad street philadelphia, best philadelphia photographer, south jersey photographer, photographer in south jersey, haddon township nj, audubon, collingswood, best photographer in haddonfield, mullica hill, woodstown, NJ

Graffiti portraits can add that extra pop and vibrancy to your subjects.

Today's photo story is this beautiful portrait and young lady! My plan this year, is to post one photo per day on this blog and tell the story behind it! This was taken in Bushwick, Brooklyn. It's a very funky street lined with colorful artist murals.  And.. Yep, I do travel. You'll often times find me all over the place! I love different and unique locations.As you noticed in my photography, I love color and I like taking some risks. I am also very picky about hand placement.

graffiti photo shoot, philadelphia, graffiti, family photography, unique portrait photographer, new jersey, photographer, south jersey, mullica hill, haddonfield,

His clothing fits perfectly with this image.

Shooting Portraits Against a Graffiti Background: Pluses


Shooting portraits against a graffiti background can add an edgy and urban feel to your photographs. Here are a few reasons why this type of setting can be a great choice:


1. Unique and Vibrant Backdrop: Graffiti art is known for its bold colors, intricate details, and unique designs. Incorporating this backdrop into your portraits instantly gives them a distinctive and eye-catching feel. The vibrant graffiti can add depth and interest to your images, making them stand out among more traditional portrait settings.


2. Reflects Personality and Style: Graffiti backgrounds often exude a sense of individuality and self-expression. By choosing this backdrop, you can capture the essence of your subject's personality and style. Whether the graffiti represents a message, a cultural reference, or simply an artistic expression, it can provide a visual representation of who the subject is.


3. Adds Context and Story: Graffiti is deeply intertwined with its surroundings. Shooting portraits against a graffiti background can provide a sense of location and context. It can be used to tell a story or convey a specific message. Whether you're in a busy city alley or an abandoned industrial area, the graffiti backdrop can enhance the narrative of the photograph and create visual interest.
4. Versatility and Diversity: Graffiti backgrounds come in various styles and themes, allowing you to cater to a wide range of client preferences. From vibrant, abstract artwork to more muted and realistic portrayals, you can find graffiti that matches your subject's aesthetic. This versatility allows for endless possibilities in terms of creative compositions and mood.


5. Engaging and Modern Look: In today's visual landscape, incorporating urban aesthetics into portrait photography is becoming increasingly popular. The combination of graffiti backdrops with beautifully captured subjects offers a contemporary and engaging visual experience. Clients looking for a modern and fresh look in their portraits will appreciate the edginess that graffiti backgrounds bring to the final images.


While shooting portraits against a graffiti background can create stunning results, it's important to consider the location's accessibility, lighting conditions, and whether obtaining permission is required. Additionally, collaborating with your subjects to ensure their wardrobe and overall styling align with the graffiti backdrop can help create a cohesive and visually appealing outcome.
In conclusion, shooting portraits against a graffiti background has numerous advantages. From an eye-catching and vibrant backdrop to reflecting the subject's personality and style, the graffiti setting adds context, uniqueness, and an urban touch to your photographs. By leveraging the versatile and engaging nature of graffiti, portrait photographers can create striking and memorable images that capture the essence of their subjects.

graffiti photo shoot, philadelphia, graffiti, family photography, unique portrait photographer, new jersey, photographer, south jersey, mullica hill, haddonfield,

Epic Graffiti Photo shoot!

I MUST ALWAYS see the hands and it's a big pet peeve of mine. I don't like missing hands in photos and am very particular in how they are placed. So, I love the hand placement here. I love how she is telling a story. She isn't just looking at me and the camera. It actually looks like a little girl, possibly waiting for her friends to arrive and go skateboarding.

This shoot was hosted with Lemmonmade Photography and Mila Wells Photography and many other photographers came out for this playdate! Clothing was provided by Neon Kisses and I truly love the urban vibe and colors as it's a big component of my work! I also love city shoots. The hustle and bustle. The sounds, the colors. Also, I find city light much softer light. As the concrete and light blocking of buildings creates a softer effect and is beautiful on the skin.This was such a fun day! Worth the traffic to get here! Of course we had to dine at a neat restaurant after our fun time!

Contact me today! If you would like a fun urban shoot! I have many scouted locations in Philadelphia and even South Jersey and Northern Delaware!!!   

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Read More

Follow our journey around the Philadelphia Area.