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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Our Magical Sessions!

Did you know unicorns are not found in Greek mythology? They are actually in accounts of their natural history! For Greek writers, they were convinced that unicorns were real. Not only were unicorns written about in Greece (Mesopotamia), they were also written in texts in the ancient text myths of India and China.  The first mention of unicorns are written in 2700BC!! Unicorns are described as a creature of great power and wisdom. It's no wonder why adults and children love them!There is nothing more spectacular and fulfilling then to make a child smile! A pure, genuine, happy smile. No fakery, just kids being themselves. It's every artist's dream to achieve that in their work. It's what I strive for in EVERY SINGLE SESSION. I want the best for my clients, every single time. When I get inquiries from parents that are looking for birthday photos with the classic cheesy smiles, it's just not in line with the work we do. We turn folks away. It's about managing expectations. We don't want you to waste a cent on something that is not us and something we cannot deliver. Life is too busy to waste! magical unicorn sessions, new jersey magical photography sessions, philadelphia family photographer, delaware county pa photographer, photographers in south jersey, unicorn photography sessionsunicorn photography sessions, magical unicorn sessions, photographers in south jersey, photographers jersey shore, photographers philadelphia, children's photographer haddonfield New JerseyI want to talk about out our magical unicorn sessions. We love them. It's not just a photo shoot to us, it's an experience for all who are involved. We bring two racks of dresses, headpieces and of course, the showstopper... the unicorn! You have a ton of princess dresses to choose from. We bring a changing tent so that you can have your privacy and get ready. All you need to do is show up! Everything is on location.Safety is huge for us. We have extra insurance because we are working with a live animal. We also contract with an experienced professional/handler who is also insured. The ponies we work with are experienced. Most are twenty plus years old and their behavior is pretty predictable at this stage in their life. The ponies we use, are use to being around children. A lot of them do pony parties and riding lessons. It's important that safety comes first in every single unicorn session we do. It's why we have an age limit for these types of sessions. Our goal is to not only provide you with beautiful imagery, but we want your children to feel safe and to have a magical experience! We really love creating these sessions for our customers. We have one date left this year. It is a rescheduled date. If interested, please email us, or fill out our contact form! We'd love to work with you! Happy Shooting, my friends! DeeShooting Star PhotographyNew Jersey Photographer          

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South Jersey-Fall Family Sessions are in full swing!

South Jersey-Fall Family Sessions are in full swing!

We've been very busy over here in South Jersey land. The weather has been absolutely beautiful this past week. We're getting that yummy fall light that every single photographer dies for. The kind of light you want to reach out and eat because it's so delicious!!! And the kind of light that makes you look gorgeous!!! We're sold out for the year! What a blessing, right? It's been a great year with our clients. I have loved every moment of it! We did originally keep this weekend open in the event of Halloween and also for potentionally peak foliage. It turns out, that it is looking like peak foliage this weekend. Hopefully, if the weather holds out!!! Every year around Halloween, it seems like we get a little rain as cooler weather starts to fly in. However, some years we get very lucky with gorgeous weather through November! Let's cross our fingers for this year! If you would like to book this special day we reserved aside, we would LOVE to work with you! The place we chose has beautiful light and a variety of different scenery. If we don't get a frost, there are wildflowers!!! We'll also provide dresses, hairpieces and make you and your family shine. We love making our clients feel like a million bucks!!! It's our job to capture your love and realness! If you are interested in booking a session, all info is provided here! All you need to do is show up and smile!!! Or let us even make you laugh to get that gorgeous smile!! My job is to make you and your family feel important and to capture unique moments for you to plaster all over your walls! https://shootingstarphotographyllc.bigcartel.com/product/2018-fall-sessionsWe would love to see you!!! Any questions, feel free to reach out!!! Happy Shooting my friends! DeeShooting Star PhotographySouthern New Jersey, Philadelphia and Delaware photographer  photographers in south jersey, south jersey photography, family photographer in new jersey, haddonfield new jersey photographer, moorestown photographer, millville photographer

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Ferris-Go-Wheel Dreaming

First off, my love is beach photography and city/urban shooting. All photographers have something they love to shoot and both these environments are my jam.I really just love capturing these environments. I find it easier to bring in the colors I want to showcase compositionally. I love pastels and I truly think this color scheme thrives in a beach or city environment.One thing about the city, is it offers a Mecca of great architecture and scenery. I love the hustle and bustle and no color casts on faces generally as buildings act as natural reflectors.Beach the same thing. I generally choose locations with soft even light as beach light can bounce off waves and the sand and most photographers can't do beach photography well. They most often struggle with overblown highlights. My goal is no hot spots on your face and to capture you in the most beautiful light :) I see it all the time... and it's my biggest pet peeve in this industry.So... if you want the BEST out of me...and to highlight yourself in the best light... do a beach or urban session! It makes your skin truly yummy and you really do shine!!I typically have my spots I love shooting at the Jersey Shore. One of them, is this spot below. I find it truly magical and I'm sure you do, too. I love the colors and the light:)Hope to see you next year for your beach session!Happy Shooting, my friends!Ocean city nj photographer, family photographer Avalon New Jersey, LBI photographer, photographer in cape May New Jersey, jersey shore photographers

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Fall Has Arrived in Philly!

Fall in the Northeast: Capturing Timeless Family Photos

When the vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold begin to paint the landscape, and a gentle crispness fills the air, it signals the arrival of fall in the Northeast. This season, with its enchanting beauty and cozy charm, sets the perfect backdrop for capturing timeless family photos. As a photographer, I relish the opportunity to document these precious moments, where families come together to celebrate their love and create lasting memories amidst the captivating beauty of autumn.

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Fall photos never disappoint. Check out this gorgeous dress!

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More fall beauties.

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A fall family session at the Jersey shore.

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Daddy and baby fall family shoot.

Fall in the Northeast: Capturing Timeless Family Photos

When the vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold begin to paint the landscape, and a gentle crispness fills the air, it signals the arrival of fall in the Northeast. This season, with its enchanting beauty and cozy charm, sets the perfect backdrop for capturing timeless family photos. As a photographer, I relish the opportunity to document these precious moments, where families come together to celebrate their love and create lasting memories amidst the captivating beauty of autumn.

In the Northeast, fall is a season of transformation. The lush green foliage transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of warm colors, creating a picturesque canvas that evokes a sense of wonder and tranquility. It is a time when nature itself becomes a collaborator, infusing its magic into each frame, enhancing the bond and connection that families share.

The cool, crisp air awakens a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of jumping into piles of rustling leaves, sipping hot apple cider, and enjoying the company of loved ones. Against this backdrop, I strive to capture the genuine emotions and candid moments that unfold. The laughter of children as they play in the fallen leaves, the tender embraces between parents, and the joy that radiates from each family member — these are the snapshots that will forever hold the essence of this special season.

The location choices for fall family photos in the Northeast are seemingly endless. From serene forests adorned with a tapestry of colors to apple orchards with rows of trees bearing the fruits of the season, each setting offers its own unique charm. Whether it's a cozy pumpkin patch, a quaint covered bridge, or a rustic farmstead, the location becomes an integral part of the narrative, providing depth and context to the family's story.

As a photographer, my role extends beyond capturing images. I strive to create an environment where families can relax, be themselves, and savor the precious moments they spend together. I encourage laughter, playfulness, and spontaneous interactions, allowing their personalities to shine through. The goal is to capture the essence of their relationships, the love and connection that bind them, and the joy that emanates from being in each other's presence.

In the Northeast, fall is a season that embraces traditions. Families often incorporate cherished rituals into their photo sessions, adding a personal touch that makes each image even more meaningful. From wearing cozy sweaters and scarves to enjoying homemade apple pies, these traditions not only enhance the visual appeal of the photos but also become a reflection of the family's unique story and heritage.

The resulting images become more than just photographs. They become treasured mementos, encapsulating a moment in time when the family unit was captured in its purest form. These images serve as a tangible reminder of the love, warmth, and joy that fill their lives, evoking a sense of nostalgia and gratitude for the blessings they share.

As fall transitions into winter and the leaves eventually fade away, the memories preserved in these photographs endure. They become a legacy that future generations can look back upon, a visual testament to the bonds that hold families together. They evoke emotions, trigger stories, and bring loved ones closer, even across the passage of time.

Fall in the Northeast offers a tapestry of colors and emotions that ignite the senses and stir the soul. It is a season that beckons families to come together, to celebrate their connections, and to create lasting memories. And as a photographer, it is a privilege to be entrusted with the task of capturing these precious moments, allowing families to forever cherish the beauty of fall and the love that binds them

However, I'm very excited for this upcoming fall season. I think it's going to be a great one! It's been a very blessed year and fortunate to have such fantastic clients. Excited to work this fall of 2018, so let's make it happen. There are some lovely locations out there, that I cannot wait to photograph... And thank you for allowing me to capture you and your families!Enjoy this obligatory fall post. I went a little crazy here, but can't wait for fall in Philadelphia!

This leaf dress will fit sizes 3-5! Clients are welcome to wear!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee Giumetti

South Jersey Photographer

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Unicorn Photo Session in New Jersey

 Hi magical Garden State that I love.... New Jersey!!! I truly love Unicorns!  I love the magic they provide for these little girls and boys! The setting is important too. There's nothing cooler than a magical forest session!!! I always imagine little fairies and leprechauns walking around with these types of settings. I would say my style is a more "dreamy" type of editing and style. I love making an image look like a princess painting. I love princesses and princes. I love capturing children at this age. That's why in these types of unicorn sessions I like to add a touch of magic. IF you notice in each photo, you'll see some magic lightning bugs or "fairies." I am always wanting to add a magical touch for every single client that comes through the door for these types of sessions. I would say unicorns are one of my favorites! If you would like to book a magical unicorn session, we have only two openings left for our September date! I am afraid that after this, it will be our last offering of the year. In fact, we are sold out of all sessions for the remainder of 2018 the year. We are currently only accepting bookings for 2019! September is my absolute favorite time of year! The weather is still warm. It's even my favorite time at the Jersey shore! Would love for you to come out to this special shoot!!!If interested in booking a unicorn photo shoot in Southern New Jersey, please feel free to reach out! We include everything from headpieces to dresses...even Snowy "the unicorn."  We'd truly love to capture this for your child and make it a truly fun experience!!!   unicorn photo session, photographers ocean city new jersey, photographers in cape may new jersey, photographers in philadelphia, unicorn photo shoot   unicorn photo session, photographers ocean city new jersey, photographers in cape may new jersey, photographers in philadelphia, unicorn photo shoot  unicorn photo session, photographers ocean city new jersey, photographers in cape may new jersey, photographers in philadelphia, unicorn photo shoot

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