New Designers To Watch Out For!

We are always on the lookout for new designers to add to our collection at our New Jersey photo studio!

Carnival photo shoots can always be a fun way to enjoy a photo shoot. The bright and vibrant colored backgrounds make your subject pop!

 Every year, it seems more and more handmade designers are popping up! Mostly, from the United States, but you see people from all over the globe! I LOVE IT! I love unique hand made items. You don't have to pay an arm and a leg to own a one-of -a -kind dress! Below, I created a list of new designers to watch out for this 2018 year! They are all handmade, beautifully crafted items. Sometimes, only one unique piece is sold in a set. Sometimes, a few in each size. However, this list is full of funky, vintage and different looks! Designs from the newest couture designer, vintage pieces and everything in between!For myself, I am loving more and more vintage items in my work.  I do still enjoy utilizing couture dresses, but it's nice to switch things up from time to time! !This is from one of my favorite designers from last year! Lulu Stars! They are a clothing designer based out of Australia.Every single year, there's always something new to look out for! We used Lulu Stars for a Carnival themed shoot last year. I am posting a few images below! 

2018 HOT DESIGNER LIST

Little Dreamers Tutus

• https://littledreamerstutus.com/

• Hot Couture Designer. Check out her NEW couture line. She is STEAMING right now and many just launched!!! Butterfly gowns to big poufy pretties, down to simple and sleek! 

Bentley and Lace

• https://www.bentleyandlace.com/

• With a new revamped website and luxurious fabrics.. They are killing it for girls to tweens! I am going to be photographing a lot of tweens and teens soon. They'll be one of the designers I will be looking into... as well as Little Dreamers!

Love Izzi

• http://www.loveizzi.com.au/

• I am OBSESSED WITH THESE ROMPERS.

Little Willow Tree

• http://www.littlewillowtree.com/products

• Affordable custom made items!!! High quality

Feltman Brothers

• https://www.feltmanbrothers.com/midgie-dresses/

• Great vintage selection of items!

8 Track Threads

https://8trackthreads.com/collections/new-releases?page=2

• Funky everyday threads

Pepa & Company

• https://www.pepaandcompany.com/girl.html?

• Adorable girl and boy wear!!!

Beyamade

• https://beyamade.com/ecofriendly-baby-and-kids-clothes/

• Their clothes are made of "bolt wear" and sustainable products!!! Environment is big with them

Children of the Tribe

• https://www.childrenofthetribe.com/collections/girls?page=2

• Reminds me of vintage/ jak and pepper!

Ellieshandmade

https://www.ellieshandmade.com/

• Sweet little dresses.. like Care Bears and My Little Pony!!!

Sugarplum Tree

• https://www.sugarplumtree.com.au/collections/all

• Adorable rompers and dresses! Pricing is sooo affordable!

Little Alice London

• https://littlealicelondon.com/collections

• Very old vintage pinafore style. Very affordable.

Nurture the Nest

• https://www.nurturethenest.com.au/All-Handmade_c_181.html

• Cute Handmade outfits made in Australia

The Baby Cave Shop

https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheBabyCaveShop?ref=s2-header-shopname

One of my favorite Etsy shops at the moment!!

I hope you enjoyed this list of neat and affordable  designer collections! Off to buy a Little Willow Tree romper stat!!!

The popcorn hat makes this shoot! I love it!

Getting her popcorn on! At the Gloucester County, NJ fair!

Happy Shooting my friends,

Dee

Shooting Star Photographer

Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey Photographer

Creativity as a Photographer

The importance of being creative as a photographer 

Being creative as a photographer is of utmost importance for several reasons. It not only allows you to express your unique vision and artistic voice but also helps you stand out in a saturated field. Here are some key reasons why creativity is vital for photographers:

1. Unique Perspective: Creativity enables you to see the world through a unique lens. It allows you to capture ordinary subjects or scenes in extraordinary ways, presenting them in a fresh and engaging manner. Your perspective and artistic choices can make your photographs stand out and resonate with viewers.

2. Visual Storytelling: Photography is a powerful medium for storytelling. Being creative allows you to convey emotions, narratives, and messages through your images. By incorporating creative elements such as composition, lighting, colors, and visual techniques, you can elevate the storytelling aspect of your photographs, making them more impactful and memorable.

3. Personal Expression: Creativity as a photographer allows you to express your personality, experiences, and emotions through your work. It becomes a means of self-expression and a way to communicate your thoughts and ideas visually. It gives you the freedom to experiment, take risks, and explore different styles, genres, or techniques that resonate with you personally.

4. Innovation and Adaptability: The creative process encourages innovation and pushes boundaries. It inspires you to think outside the box, experiment with new techniques, and adapt to changing trends and technologies. Creativity allows you to continually evolve as a photographer, staying relevant and pushing your own limits.

5. Differentiation: In a world where anyone can capture an image with a smartphone, being creative sets you apart from the crowd. It helps you develop a distinct style and visual identity that distinguishes your work. Clients and viewers are often drawn to photographers who bring a unique and creative perspective to their images, making you more marketable and in demand.

6. Inspiration and Exploration: Creativity fuels inspiration and encourages you to explore new subjects, locations, and concepts. It pushes you to go beyond your comfort zone, seek inspiration from various sources, and continuously expand your creative horizons. This constant exploration keeps your work fresh, exciting, and continually evolving.

In conclusion, being creative as a photographer not only enhances the quality and impact of your work but also allows you to express yourself, stand out in a competitive field, and continually evolve as an artist. It is an essential ingredient in creating photographs that resonate with viewers, evoke emotions, and leave a lasting impression.

A lady in the flower gardens of South Jersey.

Kids on the beach in Wildwood.

Sisters photo session with TWO unicorns. In the forest of South Jersey.

 Here's a little fun video we made last year of our travels from around South Jersey and Philly. Some of the kids and locations we encountered. As we like to say... a little bit of Philly, a little bit of South Jersey rock n' roll. FYI, You may want to keep volume down. Or turn it up and groove on out on! Let' s party! [playlist type="video" ids="4543"]As you can see we have a lot of fun and are a little goofy. However, it's always about our clients. WE love them! Our goal is to make everyone feel at ease and I think we truly accomplish this!

Warm Regards,  

Dee & Deb (Dee's mom and assistant)

The Shooting Star Photography Team

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

New Arrivals!!

Shooting Star Photography LLC - Client Closet Showcase

We are thrilled to announce the latest additions to our client closet, curated to add flair and elegance to your upcoming photo shoot! Our new wardrobe pieces are designed to elevate your visual storytelling, providing a diverse range of styles to suit various photography concepts.

Women's Collection

Explore a stunning array of new dresses, gowns that exude grace and sophistication. From timeless classics to modern trends, our women's collection features a mix of flowing silhouettes, intricate lace details, and bold patterns, giving you the perfect ensemble for any portrait session.

Children's Collection

For our youngest clients, we have introduced charming outfits and adorable accessories that capture the innocence and joy of childhood. From whimsical dresses to dapper little suits, our children's collection is filled with delightful options that will make their photo shoot experience even more memorable.
Remember, these wardrobe selections are complimentary for all our photo shoot sessions, providing you with an opportunity to indulge in a delightful fashion experience at no additional cost. When you book your next session with us, you can explore our client closet and select the perfect attire that resonates with your personality and vision for the shoot.
At Shooting Star Photography LLC, we believe that every detail contributes to creating an extraordinary photography experience. We can't wait for you to experience the magic of our new wardrobe additions, and we look forward to capturing your unique story through our lens.
Your moments. Our passion. Let's create something beautiful together.

Showcasing our client closet.

This weeks feature is this peplum style vintage dress that we just purchased in both red and blue.

I am going to start showcasing the available dresses and gorgeous ball gowns that we offer as a courtesy for our sessions!!! I will show a collage with numbers and you can even choose this in part of your bookings with Shooting Star Photography.  This way you can select what you would like for your daughter to wear!!!  Wahoo!!!This is a freshly new arrival and thought would be perfect for my daughter to model!

I will post the sizes and colors that are available in the selection provided. My first dress highlight is this guy!  As I continue on with the blogging and adding dresses, you will see the collage fill out more with our selections. This dress number 1 is available in both red and blue and works with sizes 2-3. It's a lovely summer and light cotton dress.  Great for the little one's comfort. Stay tuned for more pretties and for our number 2 feature shortly! I will continue to update and showcase what we have to the collage.  The is the first post of hundreds of our offerings.  Can't wait to showcase the red in use too!!!

Would look cute pretty much in any session. I can imagine a beautiful meadow, lake, stream, wildflowers... It's such a pretty and versatile piece. Also, we have numerous headpieces to go with these dresses. As always, we offer styling of our selection as a courtesy to all of our Philadelphia and Delaware area clients!

You are also free to wear whatever you wish!!! Thanks for stopping by and happy shooting my friends!!!

Heading out shortly to Moorestown for a session! 

Best, Dee

First Holy Communion Session With An Epic Longwood Gardens shoot!!!

As we all know, April and May were pretty wet months... here in South Jersey. I have had to do a ton of rescheduling due to our wonderful Mother Nature.  I knew that the time of our session, it would be rather rainy out, so I suggested we do Longwood Gardens in the Conservatory for a photo session.. and boy was I happy we made that decision because these photographs came out PHENOMENAL.I find it truly inspiring what we have here in our Delaware Valley.  We have so many vast options and locations to choose from... from mountains to lavender fields to the Jersey shore. It's a joyous wonder how beautiful our backyard is!!!!

First holy communion photo shoot at Longwood Gardens!

Enjoying the conservatory at Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, PA.

Longwood Gardens: A Captivating Wonderland for Photo Shoots

Introduction
Longwood Gardens, located in southeastern Pennsylvania, is a mesmerizing destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty with stunning man-made landscapes. For photographers seeking an unforgettable photo shoot location, Longwood Gardens offers an abundance of breathtaking backdrops. Here's why Longwood Gardens is unquestionably an awesome place for a photo shoot.

1. Diverse and Vibrant Gardens
Longwood Gardens boasts a diverse collection of meticulously cultivated gardens designed to captivate the senses. From vibrant flower beds and perfectly pruned topiaries to tranquil water features and enchanting woodland trails, the gardens offer an endless array of picturesque settings for photo shoots. Whether it's the iconic Italian Water Garden's elegant fountains or the dazzling Orchid House, Longwood Gardens provides a plethora of options to suit every photographer's vision.

2. All-Season Appeal
One of the remarkable aspects of Longwood Gardens is its year-round allure. In every season, the gardens offer a magical landscape that provides unique opportunities for captivating photographs. In spring, vibrant blooms blanket the gardens, making it an ideal time for capturing nature's renewal. Summer brings lush greenery and outdoor concerts, creating a lively ambiance. Fall transforms the gardens into a kaleidoscope of rich autumnal hues, while winter showcases the splendor of dazzling holiday lights illuminating the gardens' enchanting paths.

Sweet kisses for making communion!

3. Versatile Indoor Spaces
Longwood Gardens isn't limited to its exceptional outdoor beauty alone. The conservatory and indoor spaces offer equally magnificent opportunities for capturing stunning photographs. The four-acre indoor conservatory, home to an extraordinary collection of plants, serves as a haven for exotic flora enthusiasts. The Main Fountain Garden's grand architecture and ethereal water displays create a majestic setting for photo shoots regardless of the weather conditions. These indoor spaces provide versatility and artistic inspiration, ensuring that a photo shoot at Longwood Gardens can be successful rain or shine.

4. Endless Scenic Possibilities
Photographers thrive in environments that present an abundance of possibilities, and Longwood Gardens certainly delivers. The vastness of the gardens lends itself to endless exploration, allowing photographers to discover hidden nooks and expansive vistas. Whether your aim is capturing delicate details up close or bringing depth to your compositions with vast landscapes, Longwood Gardens provides the perfect canvas.

We included the whole crew in this lady’s first holy communion session at Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square.

5. Professional Support
Longwood Gardens understands the needs of photographers and provides valuable support to ensure their success. The photography policy at Longwood Gardens permits both amateur and professional photographers to share the beauty of their images. They encourage photographers to inquire about advanced access hours, workshops, and special events tailored to their needs. The expertise and guidance provided by the Longwood Gardens staff can elevate any photo shoot to new heights.

Last beautiful photo of the day!

Conclusion
Longwood Gardens is undeniably an awe-inspiring place for a photo shoot. Its stunning gardens, versatile indoor spaces, year-round appeal, endless scenic possibilities, and professional support make it an irresistibly attractive choice for photographers. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a budding enthusiast, Longwood Gardens promises an unforgettable experience, resulting in breathtaking photographs that capture the magic of this extraordinary destination.

Seriously! IF cuteness could kill, eh?  IF you are looking for a cool location on a rainy day... THIS is the place for you in the Delaware Valley. Heck, even a sunny day it would be beautiful!!! Thanks for being a big support South Jersey!  I love you! You rock!!! I am excited for upcoming beach mini sessions and a field of gladiolas!!! Stay Tuned! IT will be epic!!! Thanks for riding along! I love capturing families, maternity and basic portrait sessions!!!  I am DYING to do a maternity session here!!! DYING!!! Please contact me if interested!!! We would utilize both indoor facilities and outdoors! Did you know they have a meadow of wildflowers? Gah!!!  Also, found this gorgeous meadow of wildflowers in Medford, NJ of all places! Can't wait to share my locations with all of you and show more future sessions!!! Wahoo!!! 

Happy Shooting my friends!!! 

Dee