South Jersey Teen Portraits: More than Just Pictures

As a portrait photographer specializing in teen portraits, I understand the importance of capturing the unique personalities of each of my subjects. Every teenager has a different story to tell, and it's my job to showcase their individuality through photography. In this blog post, I will share my experience of photographing teens in South Jersey, and how I go beyond just taking pictures to create lasting memories that my clients can cherish for years to come.

Understanding the Unique Needs of Teen Portraits

Photographing teens requires a unique approach as they are in a transitional phase of their lives. They want to look their best, but also want to stay true to their personalities. At the same time, they want to be seen as independent individuals, but also want to belong to a group. As a portrait photographer, it's important to understand and respect these needs to capture the essence of each teenager.

My approach is to create a comfortable and relaxed environment that allows them to express themselves freely. Before the shoot, I take the time to get to know my clients, asking about their interests, hobbies, and goals. This not only helps to break the ice, but also gives me a better understanding of their personalities, which I can then use to guide the shoot.

I also encourage my clients to be themselves and to express their emotions freely. This often leads to candid and genuine shots that perfectly capture their personalities and moods. By creating a relaxed and fun environment, I can bring out the best in my clients, and create portraits that truly reflect who they are.

Another important aspect of photographing teens is incorporating personal elements into the shoot. Whether it's a favorite sports jersey or a beloved pet, these personal touches make the portraits unique and serve as a reminder of that particular time in their lives. I always encourage my clients to bring anything that's meaningful to them, and we work together to incorporate it into the shoot in a natural and organic way.

Overall, understanding the unique needs of teen portraits is crucial for creating portraits that truly capture their personalities and essence. By creating a comfortable and relaxed environment, incorporating personal elements, and encouraging genuine expression, I strive to create portraits that my clients will cherish for years to come.

How South Jersey Adds a Unique Charm to Teen Portraits

As a portrait photographer in South Jersey, I am constantly amazed by the diverse and beautiful locations that this area offers. From the sandy beaches to the lush woods, there is no shortage of options for stunning backdrops for teen portraits. The charm of South Jersey lies in its versatility and uniqueness. No two locations are alike, and this allows for endless possibilities when it comes to creating portraits that truly capture the essence of each teenager.

One of my favorite locations for teen portraits is the beach. The soft, golden light of the sunset, the gentle breeze, and the sound of the waves crashing on the shore create a romantic and dreamy atmosphere that is perfect for capturing the carefree spirit of teenagers. On the other hand, the rustic barns and fields of the countryside offer a more relaxed and laid-back vibe that reflects the simplicity and authenticity of rural life.

In the city, the towering buildings and bustling streets provide a dynamic and edgy backdrop that captures the excitement and energy of urban life. Meanwhile, the peaceful and serene parks and gardens offer a tranquil and peaceful setting that showcases the natural beauty of South Jersey.

Overall, South Jersey is a unique and beautiful place that offers endless possibilities for creating stunning teen portraits. As a portrait photographer, I am always excited to explore the different locations and to incorporate the natural beauty of the area into my portraits. With its diverse landscapes, South Jersey adds a unique charm to teen portraits that makes them truly unforgettable.

Establishing a Comfortable Connection with Your Subject

Establishing a comfortable connection with your subject is crucial in portrait photography. When it comes to teenagers, this is especially important as they may be nervous or self-conscious. As a portrait photographer, I make it a priority to get to know my clients before the shoot. I start by asking them about their interests, hobbies, and goals. This not only helps break the ice but also gives me a better understanding of their personalities, which I can then use to guide the shoot.

During the shoot, I create a relaxed and fun environment that allows my clients to be themselves. I encourage them to express their emotions freely and to let their personalities shine through. This often leads to candid and genuine shots that perfectly capture their essence.

Another important aspect of establishing a comfortable connection is communication. I make sure to explain the process to my clients, and to answer any questions they may have. This helps to alleviate any anxiety they may be feeling and ensures that everyone is on the same page.

In addition to getting to know my clients, I also make it a point to listen to their input. I value their opinions and ideas and work collaboratively with them to create portraits that truly reflect their personalities and style.

Overall, establishing a comfortable connection with your subject is crucial in creating portraits that truly capture their essence. By creating a relaxed and fun environment, communicating effectively, and valuing their input, I strive to make the experience enjoyable and memorable for my clients.

Incorporating Personal Elements to Make Each Portrait Unique

Teen portraits are more than just pretty pictures. They are a reflection of who the teenagers are, their passions, interests, and personalities. That's why incorporating personal elements into the shoot is so important. It's a way to make each portrait unique and memorable.

Personal elements can be anything that has meaning to the teenager. It could be a favorite sports jersey, a musical instrument, a cherished pet, or even a piece of jewelry. These elements not only make the portraits unique, but also add a personal touch that makes them more meaningful. When a teenager looks at a portrait with a personal element, it immediately takes them back to that moment in time and all the emotions associated with it.

As a portrait photographer, I always encourage my clients to bring anything that's meaningful to them. We work together to incorporate it into the shoot in a natural and organic way. This can be as simple as wearing a favorite shirt or as elaborate as incorporating a beloved pet into the shoot. By doing this, we create portraits that are not only beautiful, but also meaningful and personal.

Incorporating personal elements also helps to tell a story. It gives the portraits context and helps to showcase the teenagers' interests and passions. It's a way to capture a moment in time that is unique to that teenager. When done right, these portraits can become cherished keepsakes that are passed down for generations to come.

Incorporating personal elements into teen portraits is a way to make them more than just pictures. It's a way to make them personal, meaningful, and unforgettable.

Capturing Natural Expressions and Emotions

Teenagers are known for their unpredictable moods and emotions, but as a photographer, I see this as an opportunity to capture real and authentic moments. Whether it's a genuine smile, a thoughtful expression, or a burst of laughter, these natural expressions and emotions tell a story and make the portraits come alive. That's why I always encourage my clients to be themselves, and to express their emotions freely during the shoot. By creating a comfortable and relaxed environment, I can bring out the best in my clients, and create portraits that truly reflect who they are.

One of my favorite techniques for capturing natural expressions is to ask my clients to engage in an activity that they enjoy. Whether it's playing an instrument, reading a book, or simply hanging out with friends, these activities help to put my clients at ease and create a natural flow of conversation and interaction. This often leads to candid and genuine shots that perfectly capture their personalities and moods.

Timing is also crucial when it comes to capturing natural expressions and emotions. As a portrait photographer, I always keep my camera ready and be prepared to snap a shot at any moment. You never know when a spontaneous moment may happen, and these can often be the most memorable and authentic shots.

Overall, capturing natural expressions and emotions is a key component of creating teen portraits that are personal and meaningful. By creating a relaxed and fun environment, engaging in activities, and being ready to capture spontaneous moments, I strive to create portraits that truly reflect who my clients are and showcase their unique personalities and moods.

The Importance of Timing and Light in Portrait Photography

When it comes to portrait photography, timing and light are crucial factors that can make or break a shot. In outdoor shoots, the golden hour - the hour before sunset - is the ideal time for capturing the most flattering light. The soft and warm glow of the golden hour creates a beautiful and natural look that adds a magical quality to the portraits. As a portrait photographer, I always try to schedule my shoots during this time to take advantage of the stunning light and create the most beautiful and memorable portraits.

Timing is also important when it comes to capturing candid moments. You never know when a spontaneous moment may happen, so it's important to be ready to capture these fleeting moments at any time. That's why I always keep my camera at the ready and be prepared to snap a shot at any moment. These candid shots can often be the most memorable and authentic, as they capture genuine expressions and emotions that tell a story.

In addition to timing, light is also a crucial factor in creating stunning portraits. The quality and direction of light can dramatically affect the mood and feel of the portraits. As a portrait photographer, I pay close attention to the direction and intensity of light, and use it to create different effects and moods in my portraits. By manipulating the light, I can create portraits that are soft and dreamy, or bold and dramatic.

Overall, timing and light are essential components of portrait photography that can greatly enhance the quality and impact of the portraits. By understanding the importance of timing and light, and knowing how to manipulate them to create different effects and moods, I strive to create portraits that are not only beautiful but also meaningful and personal.

Post-Processing: Enhancing the Mood and Feel of the Portraits

Post-processing is where the magic happens in portrait photography. It's where we take the raw images and transform them into beautiful works of art. As a portrait photographer, I use Lightroom and Photoshop to adjust the exposure, color balance, and contrast of the images. I also add creative filters and effects to enhance the mood and feel of the portraits.

One of my favorite techniques is to use selective color. This technique allows me to highlight certain colors in the image while desaturating others. For example, I might desaturate the background and keep the subject's clothing in color to draw attention to them. This creates a unique and artistic effect that adds depth and dimension to the portraits.

Another technique I love is adding texture. Textures can add a vintage or grungy feel to the portraits, depending on the effect I'm going for. I often use textures on the background to create a more interesting and dynamic backdrop for the subject.

When it comes to post-processing, it's important to remember that less is often more. I always strive for a natural and timeless look that showcases the beauty of the subject without being overly processed. I also make sure to keep the client's style and preferences in mind, as everyone has different tastes when it comes to editing.

Overall, post-processing is an essential part of portrait photography that allows us to enhance the mood and feel of the portraits. With the right techniques and a creative eye, we can transform raw images into stunning works of art that our clients will cherish for years to come.

Cherishing the Experience and the Outcome

As a portrait photographer, there's nothing more rewarding than seeing the smiles on my clients' faces when they see their final images. It's not just about the outcome, though; it's about the experience of creating those memories together. From the initial consultation to the final product, I strive to make the experience as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.

Throughout the process, I make sure to keep my clients' needs and preferences in mind. We work together to choose the perfect location, outfits, and props that showcase their personalities and interests. I also take the time to get to know my clients and make them feel comfortable in front of the camera. This helps them to relax and be themselves, which in turn leads to portraits that truly capture their essence.

During the shoot, I create a relaxed and fun environment that allows my clients to express themselves freely. I encourage them to be themselves and to let their personalities shine through. This often leads to candid and genuine shots that perfectly capture their emotions and moods. By the end of the shoot, my clients often leave feeling confident and empowered, with a new set of memories that they'll cherish for years to come.

When it comes to the final product, I work tirelessly to ensure that every detail is perfect. From the editing process to the selection of prints and products, I make sure that my clients are completely satisfied with the end result. Seeing their reactions when they receive their prints or digital images is truly the best part of my job.

In the end, it's not just about taking pretty pictures. It's about creating lasting memories that my clients will cherish for years to come. As a portrait photographer, I take this responsibility seriously, and I'm honored to be a part of each of my clients' unique stories.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Sandy Toes and Pastel Clothes: Our Family Mini Session in Jersey Shore | South Jersey Photographer

As a South Jersey girl born and bred, I've had the pleasure of witnessing all the natural beauty that the Jersey Shore has to offer. My latest delight was a family mini session we held in Atlantic City, NJ, where pastel clothes and sandy toes were the order of the day. The family’s energy, combined with the charm of the Jersey Shore, created a day filled with laughter and unforgettable moments.

The Joys of a Family Mini Session

Each family photo session brings a unique blend of personalities, creating a kaleidoscope of memorable moments. This was certainly true during our mini session at the Jersey Shore. The joy and anticipation were palpable as the family eagerly immersed themselves in the photo shoot, their spirits buoyant and full of life. Their interactions were vibrant and authentic, sparking with a distinctive energy that was a sheer delight to capture. From animated chats to shared chuckles, every moment told a beautiful story, a testament to their bond. This captivating family spirit, combined with the stunning beach backdrop, contributed to an enchanting and memorable day of photography.

Dressing up for the Beach: Pastels and Sunlight

Choosing pastel colors for this beach photoshoot was a masterstroke by the family. Pastel hues have a distinct way of reflecting the serene and warm aura of a beach setting, making them an ideal choice for beachside photography. These colors harmonized effortlessly with the oceanic background, their soothing tones elevating the aesthetic appeal of the scenery and infusing a dreamy essence into the images. The pastel clothing created a sense of visual unity between the family and their natural surroundings, enriching the overall beauty of the photographs. Each outfit was like a brushstroke on the sandy canvas of Atlantic City, adding a hint of whimsy and creating a delightful color palette that enhanced the family's vibrant personalities.

The Golden Sands of Atlantic City

A jewel in the crown of the Jersey Shore, Atlantic City presents the perfect blend of urban vibrancy and natural allure. The expansive golden sands provide an idyllic backdrop for family beach photography, offering a subtle neutrality that allows for a beautiful interplay of colors and attire. As dusk approaches, a mesmerizing spectacle unfolds. The sunset casts a golden sheen over the sandy terrain, creating a magical ambiance and a visually rich texture for our photographs. The myriad of footprints etched in the sand, each a small memento of a day filled with joy and laughter, added an extra layer of charm to the scene. The natural beauty of Atlantic City's beaches, thus, played a key role in bringing out the brilliance of the family's pastel outfits and their radiant personalities, making this photo session a truly unforgettable one.

The Fun and Laughter: Cherished Memories

Amid the pastel hues and sandy beaches, the heartwarming sound of the family’s laughter filled the air. This wasn't just a photoshoot - it was a day filled with lighthearted fun. They built sandcastles, reminiscent of childhood play and innocence, and danced in the gentle Atlantic waves, all while creating cherished memories. The atmosphere was exuberant, each giggle and grin captured in the vibrant images. The genuine candid moments reflected the true spirit of a family outing, filled with warmth, joy, and love. Every photograph is more than just an image, it's a timeless souvenir of their delightful day at the Jersey Shore.

Capturing the Jersey Shore Spirit

Immersing in the captivating spirit of the Jersey Shore, we embarked on a journey of capturing the essence of this unique landscape, characterized by a soothing blend of bustling city vibes and serene natural beauty. The family’s pastel outfits, reflecting the hues of the setting sun, seamlessly fused with the golden sands beneath their toes, embodying the quintessential Jersey Shore charm. Every photograph we clicked emerged as a vibrant tapestry of colors, emotions, and elements that echoed the spirit of this coastal paradise. This experience was not merely about creating visual memories; it was about narrating a compelling story of love, joy, and togetherness against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Jersey Shore. From the soft pastels mirroring the coastal vibes to the infectious laughter resonating with the Shore's vivacity, each element stitched together a tale that is as enchanting as the Jersey Shore itself.

Book your 2024 Mini Session Today! They are going quick!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Your Photographer in South Jersey

Sisters' Fine Art Photography Adventure: Inside our NJ Studio

Intro

Welcome to our Haddon Township, NJ studio, where we recently had the pleasure of capturing the bond between two sisters through the art of photography. As fine art photographers, we strive to create meaningful and timeless images that evoke emotion and tell a story. And what better way to do that than with two sisters, who share a unique and special connection? Join us as we take you inside our studio and share the magical experience of capturing the love and beauty between these two sisters through our lens.

Initial Interaction: Building a Comfortable Environment

As soon as the sisters stepped through the doors of our Haddon Township studio, we aimed to ensure that they felt more like honored guests than mere clients. It is our belief that the foundation of remarkable fine art lies in the bedrock of comfort and self-assuredness. With this in mind, we made it our mission to establish an atmosphere that was as welcoming as it was inspiring.

We started off with lighthearted banter, sharing anecdotes, and letting laughter fill the air, all the while subtly breaking down any initial apprehensions. The dialogue then shifted towards understanding their preferences for the upcoming photo shoot. The discussion was not just about their preferred styles or color palettes; it was about creating a shared vision of what their unique experience could be.

This initial conversation was more than just a fun, relaxed meet-and-greet. It was a crucial step in the creative process, setting the tone for the session and paving the way for their unique fine art photography adventure. By building a bridge of understanding and camaraderie, we were not only helping the sisters to be themselves, but we were also setting the stage for an exceptional sister photo shoot that would soon follow in our South Jersey studio.

The Creation of the Sisters' Unique Look

The task at hand was now to transform the sisters into the vision we had discussed. A critical element to fine art photography, their overall appearance, was not simply about the clothes they wore or the style of their hair. Instead, it was about allowing their personalities and tastes to take center stage and using them as guideposts to craft a look that was not only visually appealing but also uniquely their own.

In shaping their appearance for the painterly portraits, we knew we wanted to strike a balance between classic elegance and the sisters' distinct sense of whimsy. Their fashion preferences, combined with our artistic direction, helped us to weave together a visual narrative that was reflective of their personalities.

Our efforts resulted in an aesthetic that was vintage-inspired, drawing from timeless elements of style but infused with a playful and lighthearted spirit. From the soft, flowing gowns they wore to the carefully selected accessories that completed their outfits, every detail was designed to showcase their sisterly bond and individuality.

When it came to hair and makeup, our goal was to enhance their natural beauty while also contributing to the overall theme of the photo shoot. Subtle, yet expressive, the makeup highlighted their facial features, while their hairstyles added an additional layer of character to their look.

The transformation was nothing short of breathtaking. The final look we achieved was so stunning that it seemed as if they had walked straight out of a beautiful, classic painting and into our South Jersey studio. The anticipation was palpable as we moved onto the next phase of the shoot, knowing that their unique appearance was going to play a significant role in the success of their fine art portraits.

The Setting: A Key Element in Fine Art Photography

In the world of fine art photography, the setting isn't just a backdrop; it's the stage where our subjects dance, a canvas where their stories unfold. Located in the heart of South Jersey, our Haddon Township studio became that magical canvas for the sisters' photo shoot.

To set the stage, we meticulously crafted an ambiance that was as whimsical and enchanting as the sisters themselves. Striking a harmonious balance between natural and studio lighting, we cast a warm, inviting glow that kissed their faces just right, setting the tone for a classic, yet whimsical photo session.

But the setting was more than just about light and location. Every object in the studio was purposefully chosen and placed, not just to fill the space, but to contribute to the sisters' story we were about to narrate through their portraits. From the vintage furniture to the smallest prop, every element was selected to seamlessly blend with their unique look, helping us to further capture the essence of their personalities.

Crafting this setting was like setting the stage for a play. We were preparing a space where the sisters could comfortably interact, a place where their playful spirit and sisterly bond could come alive, a space where their fine art adventure could truly begin.

As we looked around the studio, we knew we had created the perfect setting. The stage was set. The canvas was ready. All that remained was to bring the sisters into this beautifully crafted stage and let the magic of fine art photography unfold.

The Capture: The Essence of the Artistic Process

And then came the magic moment, the heart and soul of the sisters' fine art photography experience - the capture. This was not merely about operating the camera. It was about capturing an intimate bond between the sisters, the subtleties of their expressions, and the nuances of their interactions. We made a conscious effort to let their natural dynamics play out, to make the photo shoot less of a staged performance and more of an authentic interaction. As we guided them through the shoot, their genuine smiles, their spontaneous giggles, and the affectionate exchanges made each image radiate with life and artistry.

Each snap of the shutter was a frame freezing their unique relationship as sisters - a playful jest, a shared secret, a knowing glance. The emotion-filled moments were skillfully captured, transforming fleeting instances into timeless visual stories. Each image was like a brushstroke in a painting, contributing to the overall masterpiece that was their fine art photography session.

This wasn't about creating picture-perfect portraits; it was about catching the spirit of the sisters' bond, the mirth in their laughter, the warmth in their eyes, and the sheer joy of their shared experience. As the camera clicked away, it felt as if we were peeking into their world, witnessing the unique bond that only they shared. And with every click, we knew we were crafting a piece of art that would encapsulate this cherished sisterhood for years to come.

In essence, the capture was a pivotal moment in the sisters' fine art photography adventure. It was where the planning, preparation, and anticipation converged into a series of spontaneous, authentic, and beautifully captured moments. Each photograph was more than an image; it was a testament to their unique bond, a snippet of their shared adventure, and a tangible piece of fine art.

The Final Product: The Artwork that Tells Their Story

Upon the conclusion of the session, our focus shifted to carefully handpicking the images that beautifully encapsulated the sisters' unique bond, and the fun-filled adventure they had in our studio. This was a meticulous process, as each image had to convey not only the sisters' personalities but also the essence of their shared adventure.

With the selection made, we moved onto the editing process. Each chosen image was treated as a distinct piece of art, warranting individual attention. We enhanced colors, adjusted light, and focused on details to transform the raw images into visual narratives, all while ensuring the whimsical, fun, and classic elements of our studio were preserved.

The culmination of this process was the final artwork - an array of fine art portraits that beautifully narrated the story of the sisters' adventure. Each portrait was a chapter of their shared journey, a snapshot of their unique bond, and a tangible memento of the magical moments they had in our South Jersey studio.

To say that these final pieces were just photographs would be an understatement. They were, in reality, bespoke works of fine art, embodying the fun, the whimsy, and the timeless elegance of the sisters' photo shoot.

The sisters' reactions to their final artworks were the icing on the cake, a gratifying affirmation of the success of their fine art photography adventure. Their expressions of wonder and joy as they beheld their portraits, seeing their shared bond and individual personalities beautifully immortalized, was a testament to the power of fine art photography. Their adventure had been successfully translated into a set of unforgettable memories, now forever encapsulated in their very own fine art portraits.

So, here we had the final product - an artistic narrative of the sisters' fine art photography adventure. A narrative that didn't just tell their story, but did so with a finesse that mirrored the whimsy, fun, and classic elegance of their journey. And that, in essence, is the power and beauty of fine art photography.

Sisters’ Experience: Reactions to Their Fine Art Portraits

The climactic point of the entire fine art photography adventure was, without a doubt, the moment the sisters viewed their completed portraits. Their reactions spoke volumes about the success of their journey. Their eyes sparkled, mirroring the vibrant colors of their portraits, as they were presented with their own beautiful, encapsulated memories.

Every detail, from the subtle expressions of affection to the playful jests caught in time, was met with shared smiles and fond recollections. They marveled at how authentically their individual personalities and special bond had been portrayed. Each image was more than just a photo - it was a page from their shared story, a beautiful chapter from their adventure, and now, a tangible keepsake of their fine art experience.

The joy and amazement etched on their faces as they took in the fine art that was their journey was our greatest reward. We reveled in their satisfaction, knowing that we had transformed their fun-filled, whimsical, and elegant adventure into a set of artistic portraits. We were able to transform a fleeting moment into a timeless piece of fine art, and that was an accomplishment that brought immense gratification.

In conclusion, their reactions to their fine art portraits were a testament to their successful adventure in our Haddon Township studio. It was a deeply fulfilling moment that underscored the beauty and power of fine art photography – an art form that is capable of capturing not just images, but emotions, stories, and bonds. In every sense, this was the perfect conclusion to the sisters' whimsical, fun, and classic fine art photography adventure.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Winter/Christmas Special at Shooting Star Photography

My little girl smiling away at her Christmas Portrait!

Christmas time is here. It’s not about giving gifts, but for being with those important and remembrance of who Christmas was named for. It’s a birth. I look at it every year as a rebirth, as the new year starts to arrive on the horizon. 

Why is celebrating Christmas with family important?

Christmas is traditionally a time for families to come together and celebrate, and there are several reasons why celebrating Christmas with family is important. Here are a few:

1. Tradition and Culture: For many people, Christmas is an important cultural and religious holiday. Celebrating with family is often seen as a way to honor these traditions and keep them alive for future generations.

2. Bonding and Connection: The holidays provide an opportunity for families to spend quality time together and strengthen their bonds. In the busy and fast-paced world we live in, it can be difficult to find time to connect with loved ones. Christmas offers a chance to slow down and focus on the people who matter most.

3. Memories and Nostalgia: Many people have fond memories of Christmas celebrations with their family from childhood. Recreating those experiences can bring a sense of comfort and joy, and help to create new memories for future generations.

4. Support and Encouragement: The holiday season can be a difficult time for some people, and having the support and encouragement of family members can make a big difference. Celebrating with loved ones can provide a sense of belonging and security during a time that can otherwise feel stressful or lonely.

Christmas sessions in south jersey. We love these two little ladies!

It’s a day of reflection and being with those who are dear and to think about why we are put on this earth. Are we here to do good? Have I lived the best version of myself for the past year? Most often, that is a no. I make mistakes and am an imperfect being. I try to always do better. I try to treat others with respect and love. I really do think we do try as humans, but negativity can get the best out of us. That’s why it’s important to learn positive ways of thinking or to try to live a healthy lifestyle, which will often times create positive thinking. 

Twirling among the trees in South Jersey for Christmas photos.

Sisters in their vintage Christmas dresses.

As far as Christmas photography sessions go, or any session I do in the Philadelphia and South Jersey area. I always try to show up and do my best. It doesn’t matter what is going on in life. I could be having the greatest day of my life or the worst day, but I will always bring it. I pick locations that are suitable for every client’s taste and I truly try to give 100% and perfection with every session I walk into. Not only on the scene, but as far as images go, I want you to have the best images for years to come, to look back on. The best of memories and look at those images and say.. “Wow, THAT WAS A GOOD AND HAPPY DAY” in my life. That was a day my family laughed and smiled and we were together. 

A South Jersey Christmas.

As far as locations go, this holiday location is gorgeous. Lots of greenery for this time of year and the light is perfection at any time of day. It’s a spot in Gloucester County that is symbolic to me. My husband planted these trees in Boy Scouts.  I am able to do mini sessions here at any time of day. I won’t do bad lighting. It’s not for me. Thats why am picky on the locations I choose. Again, it’s about the best for clients. 

My little lady in her vintage dress. Her daddy planted these trees in Boy Scouts!

In summary, celebrating Christmas with family is important for honoring traditions and culture, strengthening bonds and connections, creating new memories, and providing support and encouragement during a potentially challenging time of year.Let’s treasure this time of year. Let’s make those happy Christmas or Holiday memories. Treasure those who are near and dear to your heart. We only have one life. Let’s make the best of it. 

Happy Holidays!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography 

PS. I love being able to look over at my family portraits on the wall. It brings a smile to my face. My children love it too. I had these last year and they were a huge hit.

The Spunk of A Three Year Old- The Joys of a South Jersey Mom

Oh the joys of motherhood, right? We absolutely love that two to four year old age. This is the age where they challenge you and test your strongest wits.

Having a 3-year-old is a whirlwind of joy, energy, and constant discovery. Life with a toddler is a nonstop adventure filled with laughter, tantrums, and adorable antics. They have an insatiable curiosity, eagerly exploring their surroundings and asking endless questions.

From the moment they wake up until they reluctantly drift off to sleep, their energy is boundless, keeping everyone around them on their toes. Patience is tested as they assert their independence, often insisting on doing things their way. Yet, amidst the chaos, there are countless precious moments of pure bliss and wonderment. Seeing the world through their eyes is a gift, as they marvel at the simplest things and approach every experience with awe. With their infectious laughter and unconditional love, a 3-year-old brings immeasurable joy and reminds us of the beauty in life's simple pleasures.

So we move onto what it is like as a photographer capturing this three year old… fantastical stage.

My three year old is giving me the spunk!

studio work with brother and sisters photographers in south jersey.

New location shooting in South Jersey family photographer in south jersey.

My precious little.

Dancing in Salem County, NJ

Sleeping babies southern new jersey photographer.

Snow Princess wearing Anna Triant Couture.

I figured I’d write about my current journey of this monster… I mean princess. The emotional roller coaster at this stage is rather funny. My daughter could be crying one minute to laughter the next. This stage never ceases to amaze me.

Oh... how I love the spunk of a three year old! Since I am mostly an outdoor photographer and it's been BRUTALLY cold outside, this is the time to play around and try new things. I still have sessions even in this brutal cold, but we do have a bit more down time!  have to admit... I am loving this down time.

This year, I have made it a goal to photograph my kids more. 2017, I was so busy that I couldn't see straight and will never work that way again. I love to work hard, but no sleep and being up to 4am every night editing, isn't the kind of life or existence I wish to have. So this year, things will be different.I've cut back on sessions I wish to schedule and am going to be cutting back with mini sessions.

I wish to be more present in my kids' lives. This is my goal and is what is going to happen this year. I wish to also take more photographs of my kids so that I can remember these moments. It's what got me into photography.

For me, it's about going back to my roots and getting to showcase some of the moments with my children that I can NEVER get back.   These are some moments the past few months, I have been able to capture of my little girl. I definitely think I have truly captured her go with the flow personality. She's got a lot of spunk and she's funny.. It's what I love about her. She's not afraid to be herself. You'll catch her putting on a dance at restaurants and feeling the music. With folks laughing and enjoying her spunk, as I do and treasure.

She's everything I could have ever asked for in regards to having a daughter. Just like my little boy is everything I could have asked for. I truly feel blessed to have these two in my life and feel privileged that I am their mom. They're amazing little creatures. I hope you enjoy these images, as I do. 

I feel I have been able to capture her and her essence. Her personality shows through here. This is what I try and capture with every one of my clients. I really don't want a perfect photograph. I want to capture these kids for who they truly are. For this child.. it's spunk and joy and it's what these images mean to me. 

Here are some tips for yourself in capturing your three year old!

Playing in the tulips in Salem County, NJ.

Tips for Photographing Three-Year-Olds

Photographing three-year-olds can be a delightful and challenging experience. These little ones are full of curiosity, boundless energy, and spontaneous emotions, making it challenging to capture the perfect shot. However, with a few tips and tricks, you can create memorable photographs that beautifully showcase the essence of their age and personality. Here are some valuable suggestions to help you make the most of your photography session with three-year-olds:

1. Be Patient and Flexible

One of the most crucial aspects of photographing three-year-olds is being patient and flexible. Children at this age have ever-changing moods and limited attention spans. Be prepared to adapt to their rhythm and follow their lead. Allow breaks, playtime, or even a quick snack if needed. This flexibility will help create a relaxed and enjoyable environment, resulting in more authentic and candid photographs.

2. Establish a Connection

Building a connection and establishing rapport with the child is essential for a successful photography session. Spend some time chatting with them, learning their interests, and understanding their personality. Engage in playful conversations, jokes, or games to create a sense of trust and comfort. When they feel at ease with you, they are more likely to express themselves authentically, resulting in more natural and spontaneous photographs.

3. Choose the Right Location

Selecting an appropriate location is crucial for three-year-old photography. Opt for familiar and comfortable settings such as their home, a local park, or a place they enjoy visiting. These environments will help them feel relaxed and encourage their natural behavior, leading to more genuine and captivating photographs.

4. Capture Candid Moments

Three-year-olds are known for their charming and unpredictable behavior. Instead of forcing them into specific poses, try to capture candid moments. Encourage them to play, explore, or engage in their favorite activities. Candid shots often reflect their genuine expressions and emotions, resulting in precious and heartwarming photographs.

5. Get Down to Their Level

To truly capture the world from a child's perspective, get down on their eye level. This approach allows you to photograph them from a unique angle and create a more intimate connection with the frame. By adopting their eye level, you can bring out the innocence and wonder of their world, enhancing the overall impact of your photographs.

6. Use Props and Toys

Incorporating props and toys can add a touch of creativity and playfulness to your photographs. Allow the child to bring their favorite toys or props to the session. Not only do props help to create a sense of familiarity and comfort, but they also provide an opportunity for the child to engage in a fun and interactive way. Utilize these elements to tell a story or capture the child's interests and imagination.

7. Involve Parents or Siblings

Including parents or siblings in the photography session can create a sense of unity and affection. The presence of loved ones often elicits genuine emotions and expressions from the child. Encourage interactions and natural connections between family members, capturing those heartwarming and precious moments.

8. Timing is Key

Choose the optimal time for the session, considering the child's routine and energy levels. Avoid scheduling the session when they are tired, hungry, or during their usual naptime. Opt for a time when the child is well-rested, fed, and in a playful mood. Planning the session around their schedule will increase the chances of a successful and enjoyable experience.

Remember, photographing three-year-olds is about capturing their unique essence and personality and they sure all have personalities, right? Embrace their energy, spontaneity, and sense of wonder throughout the session. By being patient, flexible, and creating a connection, you can produce beautiful and cherished photographs that freeze these precious moments in time.

Happy shooting, friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

the baby whisperer of three year olds