Fine Art Family Photography Stories & Resources
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.
Explore Portrait Experiences:
Vintage Sessions- Southern New Jersey Photographer
A vintage photo session is always a wonderful way to capture your children. These portraits will be classic and timeless for years to come!
As memories fade and time whizzes by, there is something truly magical about capturing the essence of childhood through a vintage photo shoot. The allure of dressing your child in beautifully styled vintage outfits and photographing them in timeless settings creates an experience that is priceless and forever cherished.
The Timeless Charm of a Vintage Photo Shoot for Your Child
As memories fade and time whizzes by, there is something truly magical about capturing the essence of childhood through a vintage photo shoot. The allure of dressing your child in beautifully styled vintage outfits and photographing them in timeless settings creates an experience that is priceless and forever cherished.
A Glimpse into the Past
A vintage photo shoot allows us to transcend time and relive the elegance and charm of bygone eras. Just as a well-preserved family heirloom retains its allure and sentimental value, vintage-themed portraits capture the spirit of a bygone era, giving us a glimpse into history.
Imagine the delight of your child as they explore a world of lace, suspenders, and bonnets, embracing the elegance of a time long past. These photographs become a testament to their innocence, capturing moments that will forever remain etched in the fabric of their lives.
Standout from the Ordinary
In a world filled with digital snapshots and fleeting moments, a vintage photo shoot offers a breath of fresh air. It allows you to escape the norm and create something unique, turning your child's portraits into stunning pieces of art.
By selecting vintage props, clothing, and locations, you transport your child into a different era—a realm where time stands still. Whether it’s capturing them on a classic vintage bike or against a backdrop of rustic scenery, these photos will evoke a sense of nostalgia that simple smartphone snapshots cannot replicate.
Cherishing the Passage of Time
Childhood is a fleeting chapter in the story of life. It passes by in the blink of an eye, leaving behind only echoes of laughter and traces of joy. A vintage photo shoot encapsulates the essence of these precious moments, allowing you to freeze time and savor the innocence and wonder of childhood.
As the years go by and your child grows, these photographs will become priceless treasures. Whenever you stumble upon them, you will be transported back to a simpler time, a time filled with innocence, curiosity, and endless possibilities.
Creating Lasting Memories
A vintage photo shoot is not just about creating stunning portraits; it is an experience that you and your child will treasure forever. The process of dressing up, selecting the perfect outfits, and immersing yourselves in a different era becomes a memory in itself. Collaborating with a professional photographer to capture the beauty of your child's imagination and innocence allows you to create a bond that both of you will cherish for years to come.
Finally, as these vintage photographs become part of your family's legacy, they transcend the boundaries of time and become a lasting testament to the love and joy that your child brings into your life.
In a world that moves at lightning speed, investing in a vintage photo shoot for your child allows you to pause, reflect, and capture a piece of their childhood that will forever remain timeless and priceless.
Vintage photo shoots are always the best and a wonderful and classic way to capture your children.
LOVE this Woodstown ladies!
Vintage is life! Taken in Woodstown, NJ.
As I progress throughout the years (and hopefully, my skills are improving) as I'll never be satisfied. I have a thirst for knowledge and I take courses all throughout the year in how to better my photography.One thing I am truly adoring as of late, is vintage sessions. There is something timeless and magical about capturing something simple. Don't get me wrong, I do love the fancy dresses, but there's something about just staying with something simple. Simple and sweet. Neutral clothing, simple setting with beautiful light.. and then watch the magic happen.
One thing with me is that I am a light lover. You'll see my lighting in every photo I edit or do.. Light is key. If you have crappy light, this can make or break your images. I am extremely OCD about my light, but it's one reason why folks hire me. It's literally all in the little details. One thing folks don't know is that I actually have a ton of vintage wear for my clients to use. I have locations all over South Jersey to use and can incorporate such simple clothing into these environments.
My goal by next year, is to offer simple farm sessions. Where kids can photograph with animals. There's nothing like the interaction of a child with an animal. Seeing their joy on their faces!!
I have a workshop with Sujata, from But Natural Photography, out of England next month. I cannot wait to learn from her as she works with animals continuously. If you haven't seen her work, you need to give her a google. Her work is incredible! This will give me the push and confidence moving forward with the kind of work I wish to do! If you would like to book a vintage photo session, please feel free to reach out! We service Philadelphia, some parts of Delaware, surrounding counties of Philly (like Chester, Montgomery, Delaware and Bucks, and of course all of South Jersey. )I wish I did these more!!!
To book your vintage photo session… give us a ring! We’d love to help!
Happy Shooting, my friends!
Dee
Shooting Star Photography
Sunflower Sessions!!! Southern New Jersey Photographer
Sunflower sessions in Southern New JerseyIt's the most wonderful time of the year. That time of year when the sun is still shining brightly. You still see some lightning bugs glowing in the summer evenings. Nice cool evening breezes. Sweet sounds of the ice cream truck man coming into town. Walks on the boardwalk with the family. All the smells, sounds, people watching and lights.Days are more relaxed. People seem more cheerful. Lots of beautiful sunsets to gaze at! definitely brings you back to childhood this time of year. Summer is always a wonderful time! Summer sessions are in full swing. A lot of beach sessions. In fact, we've been at the Jersey shore at least three times a week this year!!! I am loving the weather this year!!! The water is a beautiful ALMOST turquoise. As beach sessions are sold out, we are now offering Sunflower sessions. This year, we are using an entirely different farm and location!!! I am truly blessed and grateful to be using this farm this year! They are starting to come in nicely!!! Look at that STUNNING Golden hour light!!!


We would love for you to come out for this event!! We are only offering two more spots at prime sunlight! We will also be including our luxury wardrobe for these sessions! Information to book, can be found here. We'd love to work with you and your family! Enjoy this offering. https://shootingstarphotographyllc.bigcartel.com/product/sunflower-series-friday-august-24th-and-saturday-september-1st-300-4-images Feel free to reach out with any questions! We are always here and available! WE absolutely love our job and love being one of the best creative photographers in Southern New Jersey!
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.
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.
It's been a busy year! Miracle on 13th Street Philadelphia Photo Shoot
It's been a busy year! Miracle on 13th Street Philadelphia Photo Shoot
Miracle on 13th Street Philadelphia Family Photo Shoot
Shooting Star Photography LLC had the honor of capturing a heartwarming family photo shoot on the iconic 13th Street in Philadelphia. The session was nothing short of a miracle as the family came together after years of living in different cities.
The neutral backdrop of the urban street provided the perfect canvas to showcase the genuine love and connection between the family members. Our experienced photographers skillfully captured the laughter, embraces, and joyful tears that filled the air during the session.
Despite the bustling city around them, the family was in their own world, soaking in the precious moments of togetherness. Each photo taken was a testament to the resilience and strength of their bond, a true miracle unfolding before our lenses.
As the sun set on 13th Street, we wrapped up the shoot knowing that we had witnessed something truly special. The Miracle on 13th Street Philadelphia Family Photo Shoot will forever hold a place in our hearts at Shooting Star Photography LLC.
Miracle on 13th Street Philadelphia Family Photo Shoot
Shooting Star Photography LLC had the honor of capturing a heartwarming family photo shoot on the iconic 13th Street in Philadelphia. The session was nothing short of a miracle as the family came together after years of living in different cities.
The neutral backdrop of the urban street provided the perfect canvas to showcase the genuine love and connection between the family members. Our experienced photographers skillfully captured the laughter, embraces, and joyful tears that filled the air during the session.
Despite the bustling city around them, the family was in their own world, soaking in the precious moments of togetherness. Each photo taken was a testament to the resilience and strength of their bond, a true miracle unfolding before our lenses.
As the sun set on 13th Street, we wrapped up the shoot knowing that we had witnessed something truly special. The Miracle on 13th Street Philadelphia Family Photo Shoot will forever hold a place in our hearts at Shooting Star Photography LLC.
Family having fun in the middle of miracle on 13th street in Philadelphia.
Collage of our photo shoot in Philadelphia.
Little lady braving the cold in Anna Triant Couture in the city.
Wow! I can't believe it's been a few months since I even updated this blog here. It has been SUPER DUPER LOOPER BUSY. That's why. We're having so much fun this year! Lots of great new locations, some new and old faces.. lots of neat themes, dresses the whole nine! We're now heading into our beach season. Beach is one of my favorite things to capture and am fortunate to live by a beach that is 20 minutes from my own house! We're also doing some mermaid sessions this year and have teamed up with a local photographer out of Lancaster, Pa.
Elliebelly Photographer. (CHECK HER OUT) She is plain amazing and am fortunate enough to call her one of my best buddies!! Another of my favorites from this session.. wearing an Anna Triant couture dress!! As the season progresses, we head into doing more family-type more portraits. I figured I would start off with this sweet little family that I was fortunate enough to photograph back in December.
Yep, that's how far I am behind in getting sessions up on here! I love capturing the essence and personality of families and all members! We usually have a great time! Although this one was tough. I believe it was under 20 degrees out, haha. You wouldn't really know it by the look of how they are posing, but trust me there were shivers galore going on here!We set off to our journey... in City of Brotherly LOVE, in Philly and it was probably one of the COLDEST sessions to date. This is an awesome street around Christmas season (generally, after Thanksgiving) as there are Christmas lights everywhere and I mean everywhere.
However, it was so cold we kind of made this a VERY VERY VERY quick session as our plan was to stay near sunset/dusk when they came on. The kids shown here, I have to say... were tremendous troopers as they were photographed without their jackets off. My very own assistant got frost bite from this day and had to sit out of this session.
Me... PFFFFT I laugh at the cold and hot temperatures. I love photography so much that I could do this every hour of every day!!! Excited for our upcoming Hippy Van/Ice Cream Shoot, Peonies , Mermaid and Beach sessions in South Jersey! All have been sold out! It's going to be an AWESOME Summer! Thanks again for stopping by and talk to you later!!!! Hopefully, it won't be another two months to get a blog up on here! PS. I'm more excited on my newest beach spot and will show on an upcoming blog... no more crazy shore traffic!
I get to enjoy a quiet country ride to the beach!!!
Happy Shooting my friends!
Dee
Shooting Star Photography
NJ Beach Sessions
NJ Beach Sessions
Unique Beach Sessions at the Jersey Shore
Ahhhh, since we just had a tiny little snow storm here and have been getting freezing cold weather, I am dreaming of the beach this year. It's too cold. Haha! However, one of my favorite types of scenery to capture with family, children and maternity sessions are images at the beach.There's nothing like the pastel skies, the wind in your face, the smell of the ocean, the sand between your toes... and when you incorporate a beautiful sunset, it's magical and surreal. Almost out of a fairytale.
Unique Beach Sessions at the Jersey Shore
Top 5 Reasons to Book Your Family Photo Shoot with Shooting Star Photography LLC
1. Experienced Professionals: Our team at Shooting Star Photography LLC has years of experience capturing magical moments, ensuring that your family photos at the Jersey Shore will be nothing short of spectacular.
2. Beautiful Beach Backdrops: The Jersey Shore offers a stunning and magical backdrop for your family photo shoot. With pristine sandy beaches, breathtaking sunsets, and the sound of crashing waves, your photos will exude a sense of enchantment.
3. Personalized Approach: We take the time to understand your family dynamics and preferences, ensuring that your photo shoot is tailored to your unique style and tastes. Our goal is to capture the essence of your family in a natural and authentic way.
4. Memories to Last a Lifetime: Family photos are more than just images - they are cherished memories that you can revisit time and time again. By booking a photo shoot with us, you are investing in timeless keepsakes that will be treasured for generations.
5. Professional Editing and Quick Turnaround: Once the photo shoot is complete, our expert editing team will enhance the images to perfection. You can expect a quick turnaround time, so you can start sharing and enjoying your magical beach family photos without delay.
Book your family photo shoot with Shooting Star Photography LLC today and let us capture the magic of your moments at the Jersey Shore!
Ahhhh, since we just had a tiny little snow storm here and have been getting freezing cold weather, I am dreaming of the beach this year. It's too cold. Haha! However, one of my favorite types of scenery to capture with family, children and maternity sessions are images at the beach. There's nothing like the pastel skies, the wind in your face, the smell of the ocean, the sand between your toes... and when you incorporate a beautiful sunset, it's magical and surreal. Almost out of a fairytale.
As the saying goes, the weather outside is frightful... but the fire is so delightful... I know we are over the Christmas hump and getting into better weather territory. These last few weeks we will manage to survive with our very bipolar weather this year.
This March has been probably one of the craziest months on record.. going from the 60s to 70s on some days, right back down to 30 degrees and snow!!! I don't know about yourself, but this is the time I start thinking about the summer and spring... as I see lots of green starting to pop up in the garden bed.. and it truly is delightful. Presently, I am witnessing the dogwoods, daffodils, crocuses and the last of the lenten roses bloom and it has me itching and wanting to get out in the garden and the within the air is the essence of Spring and Summer right around the corner.
This 2017 year... I am very blessed. EVERY SINGLE BEACH session has been sold out and we are officially booked out from April to August this year. We are currently only accepting sessions for this fall.. starting in September. Thank you all for being a part of it this year. We have some new offerings. New dresses, new accessories, new concepts and we are delighted to show them to the world. We are also allowing our customers to choose out which photos they would like in their packages.I am very excited for this upcoming year. We just celebrated our two year anniversary and hope to continue on the next two years offering beautiful portraits in the Delaware Valley Region, Philadelphia and South Jersey.
Sisters having fun at the beach and what it is all about!
Shooting Star Photography LLC is excited to introduce our newest offering: Unique Beach Sessions at the Jersey Shore!
As we all know, the Jersey Shore is renowned for its beautiful coastline, pristine beaches, and vibrant atmosphere. It's a destination that captures the heart and soul of the East Coast. At Shooting Star Photography LLC, we believe that every photoshoot should be a memorable and one-of-a-kind experience, which is why we're thrilled to bring a touch of uniqueness to our beach sessions.
Embracing Individuality
Our mission is to capture the essence of our clients and create images that reflect their unique personality and style. Our unique beach sessions at the Jersey Shore allow us to do just that, providing an opportunity to incorporate distinctive elements into each shoot. Whether it's showcasing your love for music, art, sports, or simply embracing your own personal fashion statement, we are here to bring your vision to life in a stunning beach setting.
Creative Concepts
Having fun boho style. Dancing dancing dancing!
We believe that the sky's the limit when it comes to our beach sessions. From ethereal boho-themed shoots with flowing dresses and flower crowns to energetic and action-packed sessions that capture the excitement of beach sports, we are dedicated to creating imaginative and visually captivating photographs that exceed your expectations. Our experienced photographers pride themselves on their ability to think outside the box and work closely with clients to bring their creative concepts to fruition.
Expertise and Attention to Detail
At Shooting Star Photography LLC, we have a team of talented professionals who are well-versed in capturing the perfect beach shot. Our photographers possess a deep understanding of composition, lighting, and angles, ensuring that every image highlights the natural beauty of the Jersey Shore. With meticulous attention to detail, we strive to create images that tell a story and evoke emotions, making your beach session a truly memorable experience.
Memorable Keepsakes
Once your unique beach session is complete, we offer a wide range of high-quality products to help you preserve and showcase your cherished memories. From custom photo albums and framed prints to digital galleries, our selection ensures that you'll have a beautiful keepsake to treasure and share with family and friends for years to come.
Book Your Unique Beach Session Today!
Don't miss out on the opportunity to have a truly unique beach session at the Jersey Shore with Shooting Star Photography LLC. Whether it's a family session, engagement shoot, or a fun session with friends, we are here to capture those special moments in a way that reflects your personality and style. Reach out to us today to book your session and let us turn your vision into reality!
This little sea sprite just cracks me up!
Enjoy the ocean breezes and tight squeezes at the shore!.So for today's photo of the day... I bring you this sweet little sea sprite. Simple.. and sophisticated... and a lovely portrait. Can't wait for my Jersey shore beach sessions this year! It's going to be an incredible time!!!!
Until we meet again!
Dee
