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.

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Peony Farm Sessions- At a private peony farm in Gloucester County, NJ

Peony Farm Sessions- At a private peony farm in Gloucester County, NJ

Our award-winning exclusive peony sessions have been released. These are sold out every year. We are the only photographer permitted to shoot here since 2015. We will have it exclusively to ourselves. Peonies are one of my favorites to photograph. As you can see, many color options and many fields. This is our only weekend date availability until Late October and we only have two weekend dates left for the entirety of the 2023 year. After this next week, we have absolute no availability until mid-September (not even weeknights).

Peony Farm Sessions- At a private peony farm in Gloucester County, NJ

Shooting Star Photography LLC

Hey there, flower enthusiasts and photography lovers alike! As we welcome the blossoming season of 2024, Shooting Star Photography is absolutely thrilled to introduce our much-awaited Peony Styled Shoot Photography Sessions.


Step into a world where the delicate charm of peonies meets the artistry of photography as we unveil an exclusive opportunity to capture the sheer beauty and timeless elegance of these enchanting blooms. Our styled shoot sessions will present a captivating blend of nature’s allure and artistic finesse, promising to be an unforgettable experience for both photographers and their muses.


Stay tuned for this captivating opportunity as we share further details and booking information in the coming days. Get ready to immerse yourself in a realm of floral wonder and photography magic with our 2024 Peony Styled Shoot Photography Sessions. Let's capture beauty in full bloom!

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Our award-winning work and peony sessions will be held May 18th and May 21st for the 2023 calendar.

Our award-winning exclusive peony sessions have been released. These are sold out every year.  We are the only photographer permitted to shoot here since 2015. We will have it exclusively to ourselves.  Peonies are one of my favorites to photograph. As you can see, many color options and many fields. This is our only weekend date availability until Late October and we only have two weekend dates left for the entirety of the 2023 year. After this next week, we have absolute no availability until mid-September (not even weeknights).

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A small collage of some of our work over the years.

Peonies can be a beautiful addition to portrait sessions, adding color and texture to your photos. They come in a range of colors from crimson, magenta, pinks, peaches and whites.

Peonies are a popular flower for many reasons. Here are some of the reasons why peonies are great flowers:

  1. Beautiful Appearance: Peonies are known for their large, showy blooms with vibrant colors ranging from pure white to deep reds and pinks. The fluffy petals create a romantic and elegant look.

  2. Fragrance: Peonies have a sweet, pleasant fragrance that fills the air, making them an ideal choice for weddings, gardens, or any occasion where you want to add a touch of natural beauty.

  3. Longevity: Peonies have a long blooming period, usually from late spring to early summer, and they can last for a week or more in a vase. They are also a hardy perennial, meaning they will come back year after year with proper care.

  4. Versatility: Peonies can be used in a variety of ways, including as cut flowers, garden plants, or as a centerpiece. They also complement other flowers and foliage well in floral arrangements.

  5. Symbolism: In many cultures, peonies symbolize romance, prosperity, good fortune, and honor. In some cultures, they are also believed to bring good luck and happiness.

    Overall, peonies are a great flower because of their beauty, fragrance, longevity, versatility, and symbolic meaning. They make a great addition to any garden, bouquet, or special occasion.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee Giumetti

Shooting Star Photography

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BEFORE AND AFTER EDITING PROCESS - Southern New Jersey Photographer

Before and After Editing Process- behind the scenes.

As a photographer, it is crucial to show before and after edits of our work for several reasons. Firstly, it allows us to demonstrate our skills and expertise in post-processing techniques. By showcasing the original image alongside its edited version, we can highlight the artistic decisions made and the enhancements achieved. This helps potential clients understand the level of creativity and attention to detail we bring to our photography. Additionally, displaying before and after edits helps in managing expectations. Clients can get a realistic understanding of how editing can elevate and transform an image, ensuring they are satisfied with the final result. Ultimately, sharing before and after edits not only showcases our abilities but also builds trust and transparency with our audience.

Before and After Edit

At Shooting Star Photography LLC, witness the transformative power of editing in our before and after images. Our skilled editors enhance the raw beauty captured in each photograph, bringing out the best in every shot. See how subtle adjustments can make a world of difference, elevating ordinary snapshots into extraordinary works of art. Trust us to perfect your precious memories and turn them into timeless masterpieces.

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Before and After Editing Process- behind the scenes.

As a photographer, it is crucial to show before and after edits of our work for several reasons. Firstly, it allows us to demonstrate our skills and expertise in post-processing techniques. By showcasing the original image alongside its edited version, we can highlight the artistic decisions made and the enhancements achieved. This helps potential clients understand the level of creativity and attention to detail we bring to our photography. Additionally, displaying before and after edits helps in managing expectations. Clients can get a realistic understanding of how editing can elevate and transform an image, ensuring they are satisfied with the final result. Ultimately, sharing before and after edits not only showcases our abilities but also builds trust and transparency with our audience.

Every year, we generally use my friend's peony field in Gloucester County, NJ. Most folks ask... what is a peony?  A peony flower resembles huge rose flowers... They bloom for maybe two weeks tops and they are extremely fragrant. Peak time is generally at height around Memorial Day weekend. There's a few farms in the area. Our Outer Coastal plan in New Jersey allows great growing conditions of plants and vegetables and is why it is called the Garden State. However, this past year with the weird warmup we had in the winter.. Bloom times were heavily affected. We had to cancel our annual peony farm sessions this year.

A lot of bloom times were affected. Peach crops were apparently going to also be affected another year in a row. It was a strange spring. I hope that 2018's spring will be much different.I wanted to show a little bit of what we do behind the scenes on the editing process. We don't just take a photo and hand it over to you. We lovingly go over every single image to make it truly shine. This is why we take the time we do, to have them back to you. I am at home working most nights until 3 am to 4 am in the morning. 

Our schedule is very busy and this part time business, has turned into almost a 24/7 operation.I have trained under some of the best of the industry to give my clients the very best. I believe in education and that is key at all times to continue to grow, learn and provide the best for customers. I am constantly learning new things. In regards to the peony sessions, I rarely show my before and afters... but wanted to show you what things look out of camera and what your final product may be. Some of our specialty sessions, like our unicorn sessions.. tend to be even more work. I don't believe in changing children's faces or features. I have seen this done many times in our industry. Everything, tends to get "cooked to death" as I like to say or completely Photoshopped to death.

My goal is just enhancement. EVERYTHING is edited by hand. Peony field. Southern New Jersey. Before and after editing process.Top left is out of camera. It was actually overcast and raining during this session. Full image is the final edited product in which my clients received. I would say not my BEST WORK. However, it still goes to show the in depth process of what we do.I want my clients to look back on their photos (years from now) and see art and beauty, but see their children and themselves as they truly are. I don't like to lose skin texture or affect features.

This is why we take the time we do to make sure each and every photograph that you choose in the editing process.. looks like a superstar, but not overly processed.  We also stylized this shoot. The color white and vintage ALWAYS looks beautiful virtually anywhere. It reflects timelessness. Most likely, you won't look back at this image in 5 years and say it is out of style or clothing choices.. what was I thinking? This image was taken two years ago and still just as beautiful today! 

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

NJ Portrait Photographer

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Upcoming Peony Field Sessions!!

Capture Timeless Beauty with a Peony Photo Shoot

Are you looking for a unique and enchanting experience for your next photoshoot? Look no further than a peony photo shoot to add a touch of elegance and beauty to your collection. As professional photographers at Shooting Star Photography LLC, we believe that capturing the essence of nature alongside human subjects can create truly breathtaking images. That's why we highly recommend incorporating peonies into your next photo session. Here's why a peony photo shoot is a must:

1. Symbolism and Significance

Peonies have long been regarded as a symbol of love, prosperity, and good fortune. In many cultures, these exquisite flowers represent beauty, grace, and even romance. Including peonies in your photo shoot can add a touch of symbolism and depth to your images, allowing you to tell a story through the visuals. Imagine the stunning visuals of a bride surrounded by delicate peonies, symbolizing love and happiness for her new journey.

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Love the colors of this gorgeous peony field in South Jersey!

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Peony season is here!

Ever since I started my photography business (last year),I have looked forward to doing this... THIS YEAR!!!  I am all giddy inside and it was the one event I've looked forward to the most!!The peonies session will be held at a dear friend's house in Gloucester County and she is permitting me to use her gorgeous field and backyard of peonies for limited edition sessions!! Most folks ask me...

Capture Timeless Beauty with a Peony Photo Shoot

Are you looking for a unique and enchanting experience for your next photoshoot? Look no further than a peony photo shoot to add a touch of elegance and beauty to your collection. As professional photographers at Shooting Star Photography LLC, we believe that capturing the essence of nature alongside human subjects can create truly breathtaking images. That's why we highly recommend incorporating peonies into your next photo session. Here's why a peony photo shoot is a must:

1. Symbolism and Significance

Peonies have long been regarded as a symbol of love, prosperity, and good fortune. In many cultures, these exquisite flowers represent beauty, grace, and even romance. Including peonies in your photo shoot can add a touch of symbolism and depth to your images, allowing you to tell a story through the visuals. Imagine the stunning visuals of a bride surrounded by delicate peonies, symbolizing love and happiness for her new journey.

2. Natural Beauty and Versatility

Peonies are renowned for their striking beauty and variety of colors. From soft pastels to vibrant hues, these flowers offer a wide range of options to complement any desired aesthetic. Whether you're aiming for a dreamy and ethereal look or a bold and vibrant style, peonies can effortlessly enhance the natural beauty of your subject. Their soft petals, intricate layers, and lush foliage make them a perfect prop or backdrop for various photography concepts.

3. Timeless Appeal

Peonies possess an elegance that transcends trends and time. These flowers have been cherished for centuries, making them a timeless choice for any photoshoot. By incorporating peonies into your images, you're not only capturing a moment but creating an everlasting connection to the past. This timeless quality can lend a sense of class and sophistication to your photographs, making them stand out from the crowd.

4. Enhance Emotions

Peonies have the ability to evoke strong emotions, making them an ideal element in portrait photography. Their soft texture and alluring fragrance can create an atmosphere of tenderness, joy, and serenity. Whether you're aiming to capture the innocence and purity of a newborn, the beauty and grace of a bride, or the love and intimacy of a couple, peonies can enhance the emotional impact of your photos.

5. Variety of Settings

Peonies are versatile and can be incorporated into a variety of settings and themes. Whether you want an outdoor photoshoot in a blooming peony garden, an intimate indoor session with a peony bouquet, or a creative editorial shoot with peony props, the options are endless. With the right composition and styling, peonies can create a captivating atmosphere and elevate the visual storytelling of your images.
Capture the beauty of nature and create stunning, memorable photographs by including peonies in your next photo shoot. At Shooting Star Photography LLC, we have the experience and expertise to help bring your vision to life. Let us help you create mesmerizing images that will stand the test of time. Contact us today to discuss your peony photo shoot and start planning an unforgettable experience.

What is a peony? I have never heard of it! Picture gigantic fluffy salmon, white, blush, yellow, lavender and crimson colored enormous flowers. They bloom, here in New Jersey, towards mid to late May onto early June season. These are flowers primarily native to Asia, but can be found in sections all over Europe.  I grow them as well.

These plants are known to live for over 100 years which is rare for a flowering plant. When they bloom, they let of a gorgeous scent and are usually a staple in the late spring vase. There are not many peony fields in New Jersey so this is my pleasure to offer this beauty to my clients!The location in where I will be holding these sessions faces west, so I will be able to capture beautiful memories at sunset.

I am also stylizing these special sessions this year and can't wait to capture girls and boys running through the flowering fields with their families!!! Honestly, I wish it was spring already!  If interested, these sessions will be held on Saturday May 28th and Sunday May 29th. From around 4 to sunset and will conclude every half hour. Location will be given about a week prior to your session, for those who have booked.  Saturday's date is almost booked full.  I opened Sunday due to wanting to offer some flexibility on dates.

This should be prime blooming time for these magical beauties!!! The price is $225 and will include 5 digital files. You can purchase more files, if you wish! I will also have my assistant and gowns on hand for girls and offer various sizes from age 1 to about age 14, including one-of-kind hair pieces!  I will also be doing maternity sessions at this time! Gowns will be included! This will be a once in a lifetime gorgeous event and I hope that you are able come out!! It will be an incredible experience!!  Please contact me ASAP, if you want to get in on this magical event! 

Happy Shooting, my friends! 

Dee  

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