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

What a crazy 2015!

Reflecting on the End of 2015: A Photography Adventure

As we bid farewell to 2015, it's the perfect time to reflect on the exhilarating photography journey we've embarked on throughout the year. From capturing breathtaking landscapes to freezing moments of pure joy in stunning portraits, our lenses have been witness to countless precious memories and remarkable scenes.
The year 2015 has taken us to new heights and allowed us to push the boundaries of creativity in our photography. We've braved the elements to immortalize the raw beauty of nature, and we've celebrated the genuine emotions and connections that bring our subjects to life. Our dedication to the craft has been unwavering, and the results have been nothing short of extraordinary.

Our photography adventure in 2015 has not just been about capturing images; it's been about freezing moments in time that encapsulate the essence of life itself. Each click of the shutter has been a testament to our passion for storytelling through photography, and we've embraced every opportunity to craft compelling visual narratives.
As we revel in the memories of the photography adventures that defined 2015, let's raise our cameras high and toast to the countless moments we've immortalized, the lessons we've learned, and the unbounded creativity that has fueled our passion. Here's to the end of 2015, a year that has been nothing short of a thrilling, inspiring, and unforgettable photography adventure.

2015 Season in Review of Clients! This fall was incredible!

beautiful ballerina

February of 2015, is when Shooting Star Photography officially opened its doors, here in South Jersey.  It has been an absolutely incredible year of personal growth as well as business growth. I would have never imagined that it would have taken off the way it has.  I've worked HARD.  VERY HARD.  I finished the year with 212 sessions... and even with a wedding on New Year's Eve.  This was suppose to be a part time business. Something to keep me busy and do something I love.  I worked way to much... So I have decided going forward a few things.  A few changes for 2016.

This means not taking on as many sessions as I did this past year. I owe it to myself to have a life and to spend time with my family. I've been married to this computer and going to and planning sessions. It has consumed my life and I want to live it. I want to spend time with my kids and see them grow. They are only 4 and 1 and I feel like I have missed so much this past year. Unfortunately, time you cannot get back!

Our Goal Going Forward List Of Changes

 I am going to work less.

My goal going forward is that I am only going to take on 8 sessions MAX per month and my next few months are already filling up fast.  Having less sessions means less time away, a quicker turnaround time and pure happiness in my part. I won't be married to my computer editing every night or staying up until 3am. I'm exhausted.

2.  I am only going to do what I LOVE to do.

I'll explain. Of course, I have the motto that the customer is always right and I do pride myself in customer service and for providing beautiful images for my clients.  However, if there is something that doesn't fit with what I do.. or what represents my portfolio. I won't do it. This means cake smashes.  I honestly don't like to do them. They get messy.  Cake ends up all over the place. It ruins props, my clothing, everything essentially and it's not something I enjoy doing.

My vision from the beginning was to offer stylized sessions and this is what I am doing going forward. I've invested in some VERY EXPENSIVE handmade high-end gowns. Example:  Anna Triant Couture as one of the vendors I am using. My motto has always been subject and environment.   I like myself, my subject and my environment... That's it.  I'm not a big prop person, nor ever was.  I am all about my subject and that's the vision, I am going to go forward with. I'm not into banners, I'm not into cheesy props so if this is something you want. Unfortunately, I am not the right person for you.

I've learned to say NO this past year.  I don't just take any customer on and it's been that way from the get go. Most of my customers and (I love them dearly.)  Have returned time and time again. As I mentioned above, I haven't even been in business for a calendar year yet and I've had customers come back 4 times already. That right there should show you something.  Customer service and providing an incredible experience is truly what we pride ourselves on. 

3.  Focusing on a Specialty

I will be focusing on a specialty. This means no weddings and no events, no newborns, no cake smashes.  I am specializing in maternity photography, children's photography, family photography and engagement.  This is it. This is what I love to do. As I continue to go forward, I might end up narrowing it down even more. 

 4.  Happy Me= Happy Clients

This is true. This past summer I was busy and then I went right into the fall season never really able to catch-up.  I took too many customers on and I essentially burned out.  I'm truly exhausted. I was even having to turn people away because I knew my workload would be too much.  I'm not going to kill myself and have specific cutoff's for certain dates. For example, to ensure Christmas delivery, I will have a cutoff no later than October 10th. I am going to set clear exceptions.. ( I already have, but even more in detail). 

5.  The Experience

Going forward, I don't want folks to walk away with only beautiful images. I want them to enjoy their entire experience. I have hired an assistant to help things run more smoothly.  It's nice to have that help when you are out and about with your clients. I want my clients to be happy and I want them to feel absolutely beautiful. From initial contact, to location, to the final product. It's about the experience for me.

6.  New Market AreaWe will be marketing to the Philadelphia metro area, Chester and Delaware Counties, the state of Delaware, Bucks County, the Mainline and even to Princeton and surrounding areas.Basically, these are my top 6 things/changes for this calendar year. I haven't gone crazy with the pricing. Nor even increased pricing.

Conclusion and New Year

My one hour standard package is still at $270.  I would consider myself still affordable to my clients with what I have to offer. I hope everyone has an incredible 2016.  I am very excited. We will be having sessions in Peony fields, among the cherry blossoms, lavender, gladiolas, sunflowers and daylilies.... even a tree farm.. We have secured some pretty awesome locations, here in South Jersey and couldn't be more excited.  

We can't wait to move forward and to meet new people!!!

Happy Shooting, my friends!!! Let's make 2016 awesome!!!  

It's really going to be a blast!!! 

-Dee   

Let’s Welcome Shooting Star Photography’s New Assistant!

Having An Assistant Has Been A BLESSING!

As my newer clients, within the last few weeks, have probably noticed or may have personally met.. There is a new face among the Shooting Star South Jersey Photographer... and this person would be good ol' mom!!!! She has been my wisdom, my strength, my helper and sidekick this past month and without her, I honestly could not have gotten through all the chaos! I still have a ton of albums to edit, but it's been rather difficult to knock out a lot of it since I have been going practically straight through these past 60 days!When I tell folks that I'm busy, I really am busy! I have the calendar filled up for the remaining of the year with a small break for a workshop and then I am planning ahead for 2016.

Some of the little cuties we have photographed this fall! This one at Boundary Creek in Moorestown!

Another cutie in Gloucester County, NJ.

 I can't wait to have some time off and that should be this Monday. I have no sessions Monday and will be digging in deep to my customer's albums that need to be completed.Without mom, I probably would have collapsed.  I am exhausted and this fall season took a lot out of me, but I've also grown and learned from this experience. As I move forward to 2016, I am bringing mom along for the ride. You will see her face around and out with me to sessions.

Having an Assistant is the BEST!

I've realized having an assistant is really a blessing to have. Especially, with working with smaller children and it's great to have those extra set of hands near and dear. It's also a big lifesaver because I'm not having to carry a ton of equipment and props with me around. She's also a personal "security guard" in a sense so that no one tries to steal my gear and I feel much safer going out to some of these crazy locations that I have customers meet me at. Haha!If you can afford someone as an assistant to have at your side... DO IT. You won't be sorry.

Stay Tuned for 2016!

I can't express how great it has been to spend time with her, to also have someone that I trust 100% completely and always has my back.On another note, we've upgraded our computer system to help things run smoothly along and should have faster turnaround times because of it.I guess that's about it! I'm exhausted. I had a session earlier today and have spent my time editing tonight! I have two more sessions tomorrow and then looking forward to a day off!And mom... if you are reading this... I LOVE YOU!

Thank you so much for your help in this crazy season. I'm just glad it is almost over!!!

Until we meet again South Jersey...and Happy Shooting!  Is it Christmas yet? Haha! Trust me, I may joke, but I actually LOVE what I do!!!

Hope to speak with you soon!

Dee-Dee

Reflecting on an Incredible Year of Photography

Reflecting on an Incredible Year of Photography

Holy moly, what a year it's been! It has truly been an incredible photography journey for Shooting Star Photography LLC. From capturing beautiful family moments to the pure innocence of newborn babies, our lens has seen it all here in the heart of New Jersey.

The joy of freezing those timeless moments for families to cherish forever, the heartwarming smiles, and the genuine emotions captured through our lenses have made this year utterly unforgettable. Every session has been a unique adventure, showcasing the love, connection, and joy that families share.

We've had the honor of witnessing the special bond between parents and their newborns, preserving their earliest moments in stunning photographs. There's something truly magical about capturing the purity and innocence of these precious little ones, and it's an experience that continues to fill our hearts with joy.
As we look back on this fantastic journey, we're reminded of the countless priceless memories we've been trusted to preserve. The trust placed in our hands to capture these fleeting moments is a responsibility we hold dear, and we're incredibly grateful for the opportunity to do what we love.

As we turn the page to a new year, we carry with us the lessons learned, the memories made, and the excitement to continue this incredible journey. Thank you to all the families and little ones who have allowed us to be a part of their story. Here's to more beautiful moments and unforgettable experiences in the year to come!

It has been an INSANE last month! I have worked every single day except for today (which was rained out) and another day that I took off this month. I have to say that I am truly grateful for all of it, as it has been an absolute BLAST capturing the fall foliage in our stunning South Jersey backyard!!!  Oh and I'm very exhausted, but as I like to say... "I'll sleep when I'm dead."A few new things and changes! We are reevaluating our pricing list for next year. We will be attending a few workshops within the next few weeks and feel our work is worth a bit of an increase!  Sorry, guys! It is a business after all!  I know bah humbug, right?

A second thing is that I've been enjoying capturing families and couples more and more! Practically every single day I am out and about capturing memories for families and the kids seem to have a blast by the end of the session! This means a lot!I'm still sending out my thank you cards, but a little bit behind as well as a little behind on the editing, but I am working hard! Trust me!I've also hired an assistant to come out on my shoots since I've been so busy! I really have to say that it has totally been worth it, having that extra set of hands. Plus, it's great security. I can leave my gear bag with my assistant, my assistant can help me get folks in order with the shoot... and also, it's a big ice breaker...

As my assistant is my mom!  Yep, good ol' mom. I do pay her to be with me by my side, but her assistance has helped me two-fold and I am forever grateful for that!Also, another good news. We will be having our Christmas mini sessions on November 28th. There is already a wait list for this, so it will go out fast. I'm receiving emails daily. This will be it for the rest of the year as I need a little break and want to study up, take workshops and rest up for what I have planned to do next year!

Second, I was recently among my peers among some of the best photographers in the world. I am a bit flabbergasted and shocked to be honest with you, but my peers really seem to love the little girl with the leaves.  This has been a request with every photo session since that day. It's actually a lot of fun to do! I see throwing snowflakes in the near future!  

Here's the link if you wanted to check it out for yourself!https://www.facebook.com/Shootingstarsouthjersey/posts/562487303916058I have two maternity sessions lined up for this week and weekend and it's my favorite thing to capture so I'm very excited about that.  

All in all it's been a great year and I feel really blessed to wake up every single day and do something I love to do. That is something special right there!Well... I guess I'll see you around South Jersey! I'm heading off to go edit! I have been traveling from Atlantic County to Burlington County and everything in between lately.

However, I wouldn't change it for the world!

Happy Shooting, my friends!-Dee