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:
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
The Art of Photographing a Subject in a Red Dress
Capturing Elegance: The Art of Photographing a Subject in a Red Dress in the forests of New Jersey
New Jersey Portrait Sessions! A red dress is the ultimate luxury in wearing in the forest. The perfect pairing of red among the lush greenery.
Capturing Elegance: The Art of Photographing a Subject in a Red Dress in the forests of New Jersey
New Jersey Portrait Sessions! A red dress is the ultimate luxury in wearing in the forest. The perfect pairing of red among the lush greenery. In the world of photography, each frame tells a unique story, and choosing the right subject can elevate a photograph from mere imagery to a captivating narrative. One such timeless element that has graced countless frames is the classic red dress. In this blog post, we delve into the art and nuances of photographing a subject adorned in this bold and striking color. Red is one of my favorite colors to work with and can work with just about every single season.
The Power of Red
Red can be striking and fun to play with. Red isn’t a generally go to color for us photographers to shoot, but I love it. I feel it works beautifully in the forest. Among the lush background greens. It pops in the city (as shadows are generally blue and has a nice contrast) and it definitely strikes attention!
Red is more than just a color; it's a symbol of passion, strength, and vibrancy. When draped in a red dress, a subject commands attention, and the photographer is tasked with harnessing the energy that this color exudes. The play of light and shadow on the rich, vivid hue can create a visual symphony that captivates the viewer. Red photographs beautifully in the city, the forest, in a home… heck even a junk yard red would be pretty amazing in!
Setting the Scene
The red dress just pops here. It is among a simple background. Greens, yellows (mostly primary colors) then the red kind of sings!
Selecting the right backdrop is crucial when photographing someone in a red dress. A neutral background can accentuate the boldness of the color, while a natural setting can add a touch of romance. Consider the story you want to convey – whether it's a cityscape for a modern feel or a serene landscape for a timeless touch. Red is always in! I even put red on my red head! See below.
Lighting Magic
Lighting can be pivotal. This was taken in my backyard around sunset. I opted to have some backlight here and you can actually see the dust in the air. It gives her a “glow” or highlighting effect.
Lighting is the photographer's paintbrush, and when working with a red dress, it becomes even more crucial. Experiment with natural light, using the golden hour to enhance the warmth of the red. Alternatively, play with artificial lighting to create dramatic shadows that add depth and dimension to the photograph. Light rocks!
Composition and Posing
The red pops here and definitely is Christmas card worthy.
The composition is the backbone of any great photograph. Experiment with different angles to find the one that best complements the red dress – perhaps a close-up to focus on details or a full-length shot to showcase the elegance of the entire ensemble. I will always guide my subject with subtle posing suggestions to evoke emotions that resonate with the color red and we’ll have a blast!
Editing for Impact
Reds against a background of blues can really shine.
Post-processing is the final brushstroke in crafting the perfect image. Enhance the richness of the red dress, fine-tune the contrast, and ensure the overall composition aligns with the mood you want to convey. Strive for a balance that accentuates the subject's beauty while preserving the authenticity of the moment. My post editing process truly shines!
Conclusion
Photographing a subject in a red dress is a delightful dance between the photographer, the subject, and the vibrant color itself. It's about capturing not just an image but a story – one that celebrates the boldness, passion, and elegance embodied by the classic red dress. As you embark on your photographic journey, let the color guide you, and watch as each frame unfolds a narrative that transcends time. So.. let’s go out and shoot you in some beautiful red dresses!
Happy Shooting, my friends!
Dee
Shooting Star Photography
Reflecting on Loss and Cherishing Life's Moments- as a photographer
Reflecting on Loss and Cherishing Life's Moments
These last few months have been eye-opening to me. My friend tragically passed away in July. I miss her greatly, and there isn't a day that goes by that I don't think about her. Anytime someone passes that you are close with, there's a ripple/wave effect. It helps you to reflect and look around and see what you have. It makes you try to cherish each moment even a little more. Being on this earth at any second is no guarantee, and it is up to us to make the best of it.
Creating magic with my friend Ashley, was something magical. Look at the memories we made together!
Reflecting on Loss and Cherishing Life's Moments
These last few months have been eye-opening to me. My friend tragically passed away in July. I miss her greatly, and there isn't a day that goes by that I don't think about her. Anytime someone passes that you are close with, there's a ripple/wave effect. It helps you to reflect and look around and see what you have. It makes you try to cherish each moment even a little more. Being on this earth at any second is no guarantee, and it is up to us to make the best of it.
Good ol’ Drifter and this beautiful little lady. All smiles with her “pet” unicorn in the magical forest.
The Impact of Loss
Life can beat you down. Especially when losing someone, you will never get over the loss. Time doesn't necessarily heal all wounds, but it's also time that you know you need to be blessed to have. It's that hug you want to hold on tighter and not let go.
There's also regret when someone passes. I regret not thanking her more. I regret not getting her glammed up and doing a fancy photo shoot with her and her unicorn. I regret not doing professional photos of her daughter and her together (I have a few of them separately).
A Blessed Calling
All smiles for this darling little lady. Love the florals and the softness of the scenery for some beautiful magic.
I love what I do, and I am blessed to be able to do this job. It's the memories I love making for all my families. For the babies, the kiddos, teens, moms-to-be, grandparents, and even getting the cousins and grandkids together. This is about making memories for entire families' lives. Isn't that incredible?
This little lady was all in with her unicorn for the day. She wanted to take him home.
The Ripple Effect of Loss
When my friend passed away, it was as though the world had dimmed a little. Her laughter, her smile, her warm presence—it was all gone in an instant. Her absence created a void in my life that can never be filled. But amidst the grief, I realized something profound. Her passing sent ripples through my life, awakening me to the fragility of existence and the importance of cherishing every moment.
The truth is, life is unpredictable. We often take our time on this earth for granted, assuming that there will always be another day to express our love and gratitude. But my friend's departure shattered that illusion. It reminded me that each moment is a gift, and we must embrace it with open arms.
We always need to get those cheesy smiles in too!
Embracing Life's Imperfections
Life isn't always sunshine and rainbows. It can be challenging, painful, and unfair. Losing someone you care deeply about is a wound that never truly heals. Time may dull the ache, but the scars remain as a reminder of what once was. Yet, it's precisely these scars that teach us the value of the time we have left.
As I navigate the waves of grief, I hold onto the memories of my friend tightly. I cherish the moments we shared, the laughter we enjoyed, and the love we exchanged. I'm reminded of the hugs we shared and how I wish I could have held onto them just a little longer.
Walking her pet unicorn.
Regrets and Lessons
Regret is a bitter companion in the wake of loss. I regret not expressing my appreciation to my friend more often. I wish I had taken the time to create beautiful memories, like that fancy photoshoot with her and her unicorn. I regret not capturing more precious moments with her and her daughter together.
But through these regrets, I've learned a valuable lesson. Life is a delicate tapestry of moments, and we have the power to shape it into something beautiful. It's a reminder that we should never wait to express our love and gratitude to those we care about. Tomorrow is never guaranteed.
Creating Lasting Memories
All smiles again. Pink is a great color on her!
In the midst of sorrow, I find solace in my work. I am fortunate to have a job that allows me to create memories for families. From capturing the innocence of babies to freezing the exuberance of teens, from documenting the glow of expectant mothers to bringing generations together for photos, it's a privilege to be part of these moments.
This work is about more than just photographs. It's about freezing time, encapsulating emotions, and preserving memories that will last a lifetime. It's about crafting a legacy that future generations can treasure.
Conclusion: Embracing Life's Beauty
In the face of loss, I've learned to appreciate life's beauty even more. My friend's passing taught me that every moment is precious, every hug should be held a little tighter, and every expression of love should be shared without hesitation. We may never completely heal from the wounds of loss, but we can find strength in the memories we create and the love we share.
Life is a gift, and it's up to us to make the most of it. Let us not wait for tragedy to remind us of this truth. Instead, let us celebrate life's imperfections, cherish our loved ones, and continue to create beautiful memories that will live on long after we're gone.
Until then… Happy Shooting, my friends!
Dee Giumetti
