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! I 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          

Follow Friday!

Today, is follow Friday! Yay! I love new and emerging artists and enjoy the folks I have learned to love and admire over time. I love seeing artists grow. No matter where they may be on their journey!In this collage, you'll find these talented ladies. I have supported and loved all of them from their start. If you get a moment, find them on social media and prepare to fall in love.I am so fortunate to have talented "coworkers" in my life who help to support me and grow.Check them out! :)Happy Shooting, my friends!Dee

From top to bottom: Shana Carter Photography, Top Right: Claudia, from Lola Sam, Bitton Left: Mary Flores (a new and emerging artist) Bottom Right: Sirin Walls who took a year off of clients to just shoot for herself.

Storytelling Through Photography- Personal Family Photography

You are storytelling in this work-Family Photographer in South Jersey

You have one story and then something happens and it changes you.. your perspective and I believe this is where I am now. My perspective has changed recently.

This is the stage where you start to have an understanding and become a master of some sort of training of your eye.Now, finally telling my story, my eye and the story of the subjects that I am capturing... THE STORY through the photographs we create.

I urge anyone in photography to be involved in groups when you start out a bit. What I mean by groups, is Facebook groups catered to professionals/amateurs. Use this valuable info in these groups to hone the technical basics.

Train your eye... but am suggesting to stop there. Take a Damien's class. This will get you started in Photoshop and learning your way around. Watch YouTube videos. You'll find there are 5 ways to do something in Photoshop to get the same result, but learn interesting methods to get yourself there.

Find photographers to follow and love

Then list 5 photographers of completely different styles.Maybe one does family who is up close and personal on their photographs, one does couture, one has mastered lighting (which this is the realm I'm wanting to learn more of myself), one is photo journalistic and maybe one does weddings, but they kill it.. they are consistent and kill it across the board. This is who you need to follow.

These are the folks you can be inspired by.

I finally consider myself an artist. It took me two years to say this.

I think this past year (year 2 in business) has been an eye opener for me. I started out this 2017 year going in the direction I thought I wanted to get into, but I see so many others doing the same things these days and... it's just time to just do me. I don't need fancy dresses or a fancy wardrobe to attain a great image. I feel I have a well understanding of light to get an image I seek out to achieve.

southern new jersey family photographer

Try new things and push yourself

 I feel the need to push myself out of my own barrier now. I want to be on my toes and feel like I lost that a bit this year. I lost the will to challenge myself. Don't get me wrong... I did... challenge myself, but I need to delve even farther and deeper.

I got BORED. Boredom kills spontaneity and anything organic that can arise from and work will become monotonous. I took too much on this last year with clients, not allowing time for my creative self to learn and flourish.

Well, times are a changing and now going forward, will be making that time and taking less client work on.I will be doing more projects to feed my creative soul and I cannot wait. It's full steam ahead. I'm not looking back and am excited to see what lies ahead.

southern new jersey family photographer taking photos of my little girl.

One thing of advice I can give to folks starting out in this business ... never stop being you, DO NOT undercharge/undervalue yourself, never stop learning.... and most importantly.... you're going to learn to say no a lot. It's hard to say no... because starting out, you are so eager to build your business, or to get any business at all. You're hungry to just shoot.

It's okay to say NO.

I said no to clients a lot...this last year I'd have requests for events, parties, weddings, cake smashes... but my heart was just never into them. Even though I did do these ^ because wanted to test the waters and see if I would like them. I know now that I don't like them.. because I at least tried them. So don't be afraid to get your feet wet. Once getting your feet wet, decide on where you wish to go and what you LOVE and take it from there. This is where you'll find your mojo, in the heat of battle trying new things.

But most importantly don't be afraid to say no and if it's a session you don't wish and you dislike, that's okay. It's okay to say no, if your heart is not into it.No one is holding a gun to your head. Always trust your gut. I promise you this, once you start doing what you love, the world soon becomes your oyster. You start attracting the clients you always wanted and dreamed of because that passion shines through in your work and then the magic starts to unfold. It has unfolded for me and my passion for what I do remains strong.

I value myself, my clients and the work I put out there in the universe. I want always my best forward and out there. 

If you read this far^ I give you a standing ovation.  Kudos and bravo to you. I need to log off. More editing to do :) but seriously read what I wrote above, if you are feeling a little lost as a photographer this winter season. 

Top 20 Facebook Photography Groups You Should Join

Top 20 Must-Join Facebook Photography Groups

Are you looking to elevate your photography skills and connect with fellow enthusiasts? Joining Facebook photography groups can be an excellent way to learn, share, and gain inspiration. Here's a curated list of top 20 Facebook photography groups that you should consider joining to up your game:

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned photographer, these Facebook groups offer valuable opportunities to learn, connect, and grow as a photography enthusiast. Join the ones that align with your interests and unleash your creativity!

Beautiful light at Lake Audrey, New Jersey.

Set me free at Weymouth Furnace.

Joining Facebook groups as a budding photographer is a fantastic way to enhance your skills, knowledge, and network in the photography community. These groups provide a unique platform to connect with like-minded individuals who share the same passion and interest in photography. By joining these groups, you gain access to a wealth of valuable information, tips, and tricks shared by experienced photographers. Additionally, it opens up opportunities to collaborate, participate in photo challenges, and receive constructive feedback on your work. The diverse range of perspectives and expertise within these groups can inspire creativity and push your boundaries as a photographer. It's a supportive community where you can seek advice, share your struggles, and celebrate your successes. Ultimately, being a part of Facebook photography groups enables you to grow as a photographer and foster relationships that can positively impact your career.

My Top 20 Photog Facebook Groups

And if you are a photographer... You must join join!

Every single day, there are new photographers popping up. I admire them. They're bright-eyed and bushy tailed and eager to learn (or should be). They are excited and have a ton of passion. If one is already naturally creative, they can apply that to their new role and journey.It's crazy because I don't look down on these new togs. I know that if they are going to make it, they're going to have to dedicate so much time building their business and developing their craft. It is HARD and it's HARD to get on your feet initially.

HARD to get your name out there and book appointments. Plus, you want to learn and soak up EVERYTHING you can get your hands on!!! Trust me, I get it. I do great with folks in South Jersey. I book a lot of sessions and some I have to refer out and qualify to see if I'll be the best fit for the customers. If I didn't refer these folks out and qualify them, I'd have too much of a workload on my plate and would be stressed to the gills.However, I am starting out in a sense by launching myself into new markets like Delaware and Philadelphia.

These markets I am now going after and trying to get my name out and am now laying the footwork to get in there like I've done here in South Jersey.I try and keep my life in balance, but unfortunately my workload sometimes gets the best of me. New tog, It's going to be tough, but you can do it! Your first year will have you on a roller coaster.Anyway, I tend to ramble a lot. However, I wanted to devise a good list for the newer photographer starting out of some great Facebook groups that I think will be truly beneficial to you as you stomp through the mud of your journey.So here it goes... My ultimate Facebook group resource!

HERE ARE THE TOP 20 FACEBOOK GROUPS YOU SHOULD JOIN!

1. The Law Tog

Created by a fellow photographer and lawyer, it's a wonderful resource for any legal questions you may have. She's also got this rocking contract she sells in her shop. I had it reviewed by a local lawyer and it passed with flying colors.Now sometimes some of the questions are train wrecks, but it definitely teaches you about the business behind the scenes.https://www.facebook.com/groups/lawtog/

2. Photography Props Group

If you're starting out, you're going to need props. A ton of them. Especially,  if you are going into newborn photography or studio work.. Personally, I am not a big fan of props, but that is why I choose not to do this type of photography!  If you are looking for a particular item (this is a fab group for newborn photographers), it's a great mix of vendors and photographers. Ask for what you are looking for and you shall receive!https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebestphotographypropsgroup/There's also a $25 and under group.https://www.facebook.com/groups/props25orless/

3. SEO for the Professional Photographer

If you are starting out, you're going to need a website and with that comes maintaining your site. Requiring you to learn all the fun about SEO aka search engine optimization and how to get your website to rank high and on the first page or 2nd with your target keywords.https://www.facebook.com/groups/photoSEO/

4. Photographer's Alliance

For basic questions, this is a great professional group of photographers. They cover a more wide range of subjects, but I've never seen drama in this group like I have seen in others, so that's a huge plus.https://www.facebook.com/groups/thephotographersalliance/

5. The Modern Tog

A neat Facebook group of almost 25,000 photographers where you can ask business or general marketing advice.https://www.facebook.com/groups/443890265645600/

6. Photography Tutorials

You're going to need to learn about new techniques and programs like Lightroom, ACR and Photoshop.https://www.facebook.com/groups/photographyturtorialsandlessons/ I'll actually post a blog in the future of some great photography editing sites and places to learn how to edit, but for now it's Facebook groups:)

7. WHICH Group

This is a group where you can ask unbiased questions on the workshop you've been eyeing to see if it's worth going or not. Also, on any editing webinars, etc.https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhichPhotographyTraining/

8.  Pretty Dresses for RESALE 

Meg Bitton has a dress group. Where she sells dresses in batches every so often of the high end gowns she photographs.https://www.facebook.com/groups/758524920889156/

9. Marketing For Photographers

I don't think so need to explain that much... But you guessed it... Marketing questions and tips for all you lovely photographers.https://www.facebook.com/groups/SEOandMarketingforPhotogs/

10. Leah Maria Couture

American made dresses/gowns/props for us budding photographershttps://www.facebook.com/groups/leahmariacouture/

11. Photographer's Playgroup

This one can be a lot of fun as an image is posted and other photographers will edit it. It's always interesting to see what folks can come up with on the same image.https://www.facebook.com/groups/290006404345013/

12. Photographer's Support

Great place to whine and get some support on certain business related matters.https://www.facebook.com/groups/92010142808498813. Other cool dress groups for Dollcake, Tutu Du Monde, Joyfolie, etc.https://www.facebook.com/groups/219607941559563/https://www.facebook.com/groups/1477732232459191/

14. Photographer Resources

This is one of my favorites. There's a ton of freebies in here and great learning resources!https://www.facebook.com/groups/407934876014273/

15. Learning OCF aka Off camera flash

Excellent Facebook group if you are wishing to learn off camera flash. A lot of great and free resources in here.https://www.facebook.com/groups/speedlightfundamentals/

16. Photoshop and Lightroom Group

With over 100,000 members prepare to swoon over some work in here!https://www.facebook.com/groups/pshopandlightroom/

17. Pure Newborn, Maternity and Beyond

Great group. One of 3 group I'm regularly in. This was started by Alicia D'Amico. You'll learn a lot in here!https://www.facebook.com/groups/PureEmotionsPhotogs/

18. Newborn Photography 101

The funny thing is, it isn't all about newborns. It's everything! It use to be my favorite group and is still in the top 3!https://www.facebook.com/groups/1560656694148621/

19. Meg Bitton's Group

The talent in here alone, will either make you swoon or want to go cry in a closet because you will think you really really suck and may never want to pick up a camera againhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/mwofmatnbchildphotography/

20. The South Jersey Speakeasy Group

https://www.facebook.com/groups/SJSpeakeasy/Last, but not least. If there are any local photographers in the South Jersey, Delaware or Philadelphia areas, this is a great group and resource for you!I hope you enjoy this list! I am apart of so many groups, but these are the ones I'm most privy too and believe have helped me along in this wonderful journey of photography!Maybe I'll see you around in these favorite groups of mine?  Or in Delaware my new territory... or the Mainline in Philadelphia!!!Woo hoo!!!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

It's a Busy Busy Season! Engagements and Babies!

It’s been busy over here. LOTS of babies and engagement sessions going on! You’ll see below on an epic engagement session that we recently had in Mullica HIll! Plus, everything fall is going on right now!

Shooting Star LLC Update

So far this year, Shooting Star Photography LLC has been overwhelmed with the joy and excitement of capturing precious moments for growing families and newly engaged couples. Our team has been busy creating beautiful and timeless photographs to commemorate these special occasions.
Our clients have welcomed us into their lives as they eagerly anticipate the arrival of their little ones or begin their journey into married life. The magic of capturing the innocence of a newborn or the love between two people committing to a lifetime together has been truly heartwarming for us.
As we continue to focus on preserving these lasting memories, we are grateful for the opportunity to be a part of such significant milestones in the lives of our clients. We look forward to the many more stories we will help tell through our photography in the coming months.

Kissy Kissy at this engagement shoot!

Babies and Engagement Sessions- Oh MY!

It's been a busy busy month and season, South Jersey... that's for sure... and a lot of sleepless nights (I have bags under my eyes to prove it)! The good news is, I wake up every single awesome day happy and grateful to go to work and to do what I love every single day... and that is being a photographer!  I LOVE capturing moments for people and making their personalities show on camera! I know it's Monday and we all get a case of the Monday's from time to time, but take a deep breath, soak it all in, and be thankful you've been given THIS DAY! Now go and conquer it!^^^^ That is my genuine motto and how I see the day every day!

Magical Fall Sessions!

I had a proud moment recently! I wanted to create the photo above (the little girl with the leaves) for the longest time and I had a client that was totally game for it!  Real leaves were used here and not an overlay (I always do my best to capture EVERYTHING in camera).

 She had so much fun this little gal that she kept saying cheese and smiling her entire session! I wanted to eat her up!Since this is a blog and I like to write about my photography journey, I've recently taken up some more classes (I know I know, I talk about it a lot, but this is how I am able to grow and grow so quickly!). I have 4 upcoming maternity sessions within the next few weeks and am very very excited for this! Capturing motherhood is my favorite thing to do in this business. I think it's genuinely beautiful!  I haven't had a maternity session in about 2 months and dying to get back into it!

I have a ton of family sessions in the mix in these next few weeks!Right now, the leaves have started changing! I'm able to capture that beautiful foliage that everyone wants. The weather is starting to turn. The air is getting crisper!  Ah, I love it!  I have now hired an assistant to help with my sessions and it has been a true blessing to have someone else there help me lug all my stuff around and to get smiles from the little adorable monkeys I work with daily.A few things that will be happening next year!  

We are launching into the Delaware and Philadelphia markets, taking more workshops (yup, already signed up for a few), we are going to start to offer pre-consultations.  This way we can sit down and discuss what you envision your session to be, right down to the clothing. Some sessions we can even stylize for you. Offer hair and makeup and the whole nine!

Products and Pampering!

This 2016 will be the year of the pampering!We are also going to be offering unique product lines that only photographers have access to in this industry. Custom pallet wall art, acrylic boxes (they are awesome and look 3-D) and other unique products. Also, will be offering custom videos along with music as well as a personalized ordering session, this way you can see all the products that we will be offering!

A new change...We are only going to be doing sessions around golden hour or an hour and a half before sunset... or at sunrise. I want the best possible outcome for your photographs and this time of day is guaranteed to give you this!

 Now, I know this time isn't always ideal. If it is a cloudy day or we have enough shade... then we can work with it!It's been an amazing 2015, thus far... but I'm even more excited to see what 2016 will bring! I want to grow and to keep giving my customers the best that I am able to offer in the area! I want every session to be customized to my customers needs!

Happy Shooting my friends! I hope you have an amazing day! Go out and conquer it!

Best,

Dee