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:
New Jersey Maternity Session in the Wildflowers
In the heart of Salem County, New Jersey, amidst the vibrant splendor of wildflowers, an enchanting maternity photo session unfolded, celebrating the anticipation and joy of a growing family. The picturesque landscape served as the perfect backdrop, enhancing the magical atmosphere for this momentous occasion.
A Blissful Maternity Photo Session among Wildflowers in Salem County, NJ
In the heart of Salem County, New Jersey, amidst the vibrant splendor of wildflowers, an enchanting maternity photo session unfolded, celebrating the anticipation and joy of a growing family. The picturesque landscape served as the perfect backdrop, enhancing the magical atmosphere for this momentous occasion.
Family maternity session capture in the wildflower field in Salem County, NJ.
As the sun kissed the sprawling meadow, we captured the sheer excitement radiating from the glowing parents-to-be. With beaming smiles and sparkling eyes, Dad and Mom embraced the upcoming arrival of their new baby brother or sister. Their genuine joy and love for each other set the tone for this captivating session.
What made this maternity shoot truly heartwarming was the incorporation of the entire family, especially brother and sister. Their anticipation palpable, they eagerly looked forward to the newest addition to their family. The session captured their blossoming bond and the sense of wonder that a sibling-to-be brings.
Beautiful sunsets and an incredibly dressed family.
Amidst the sea of wildflowers, Mom shone like a beacon of beauty, accentuated by a stunning green velvet dress. The flowing fabric gracefully embraced her growing baby bump, emphasizing the miracle of life and the serene vitality of the natural surroundings. With every step she took, the sunlight played harmoniously with the velvety textures, casting a luminous glow upon her.
Every moment of this maternity photo session was meticulously crafted to encapsulate the essence of this family's journey. The soft whispers of the wind, the vibrant bursts of floral hues, and the warmth of the golden hour all conspired to create an ethereal setting that mirrored the profound love and anticipation that filled the air.
Mom and dad expecting another beautiful bundle of joy to bring to the addition of the family.
Maternity Session FAQs
Here at Shooting Star Photography LLC, we understand that maternity photos are a cherished way to celebrate this beautiful and transformative time in your life. To ensure that you have the best experience possible, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions about our maternity sessions. Read on to find answers to some of your burning questions!
This one is my favorite of all the photographs from this maternity shoot!
Mom with her babies and another on the way!
1. Do you provide maternity dress options?
Yes, we do! We have a lovely collection of maternity dresses that our clients can choose from for their sessions. These dresses are specially designed to flatter and showcase your baby bump beautifully. Our goal is to make you feel comfortable and confident during your photo shoot.
2. Can we incorporate the entire family, including the mom, dad, and siblings?
Absolutely! We believe that capturing the love and excitement of the entire family during this special time is essential. We encourage you to include your partner and any older siblings in your maternity session. The resulting photos will not only showcase your growing belly but also the bond and joy shared within your family.
3. When is a good time for maternity photos?
We typically recommend scheduling your maternity session between 32 to 34 weeks of pregnancy. This time frame strikes a balance between showcasing your beautiful baby bump and ensuring that you are still comfortable and able to move freely during the shoot. However, we understand that every pregnancy is unique, so we are flexible and open to accommodating your specific needs and preferences.
4. How long do maternity sessions usually last?
Our maternity sessions typically last around 1 hour. This duration allows us to capture a variety of poses, locations, and outfit changes while ensuring that you have plenty of time to relax and enjoy the experience. We want you to feel at ease throughout the entire session and encourage you to take breaks whenever needed.
5. Where can we have our maternity session?
The location for your maternity session is entirely up to you. Whether you prefer an outdoor setting, such as a scenic park or beach, or the comfort of your own home, we are happy to accommodate your preference. We can discuss potential locations during the planning phase to ensure we capture the atmosphere that aligns with your vision.
6. How soon after the session can we expect to see our photos?
We know anticipation can be high, and you're eager to see the stunning images from your maternity session. . The proofing gallery will generally be ready within two to three days, you’ll choose your images and then we meticulously edit and retouch to ensure you receive the highest quality photos.
We hope these frequently asked questions have provided you with the information you were seeking. If you have any additional queries or would like to schedule your maternity session, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We can't wait to capture this memorable time in your life and create lifelong treasures for you and your family!
Twirling in the wildflowers. I love how the light is in her hair!
All smiles with little brother! Cheeeeeeese!
Last capture of the evening in the flowers!
At Shooting Star Photography LLC, we strive to create a visual narrative that encapsulates the unique story of each family. The maternity photo session in Salem County, NJ, among the wildflowers was a testament to our dedication and passion as we captured the pure joy, love, and excitement surrounding the imminent arrival of a new baby.
Happy Shooting, my friends!
Dee
Shooting Star Photography
Capturing A College Milestone- Photography Session at Salem County Sportsmen’s Club
Salem County Sportsmen's Club in New Jersey/College Graduation Photo Shoot Fun!
I don’t just capture girls in pretty dresses. We are more than that at Shooting Star Photography.
Salem County Sportsmen's Club Graduation Shoot
Recently, our team had the pleasure of capturing the celebratory moments of Danielle's college graduation at the beautiful Salem County Sportsmen's Club in New Jersey. The serene and picturesque surroundings provided the perfect backdrop for honoring this significant milestone in Danielle's life.
The expansive grounds of the Salem County Sportsmen's Club allowed us to craft a diverse array of stunning shots, incorporating the natural beauty of the landscape into the celebration. The rustic charm of the club's facilities added an authentic ambiance to the photographs, perfectly complementing the joy and pride of the occasion.
Against this charming backdrop, Danielle's radiant spirit and the palpable sense of achievement made for truly captivating photographs. Her family and friends joined in the celebration, their genuine happiness shining through in each and every shot.
We are thrilled to have been part of this special day and to have had the opportunity to preserve the memories of Danielle's college graduation in such a remarkable setting. Through our lenses, we were able to encapsulate the joy, pride, and jubilation that filled the air, creating a collection of photographs that will be cherished for years to come.
We extend our warmest congratulations to Danielle on her academic success and thank her for allowing us to capture these invaluable moments. It was a pleasure to witness and photograph such a significant and touching celebration at the Salem County Sportsmen's Club.
What an honor it was to capture this milestone of College Graduation!
I love the College Colors!
It’s getting serious here.. kidding. She’s awesome!
The end of the fall season at the Salem County Sportsmen’s Club.
I love her shoes!
I’ve been in business a number of years and I think it is about time I show the scale of the work we do. I always say I need to get more of my work up and never have the time. Well, I am now making the time.
I met this beautiful soul and she was wanting to capture this big milestone of graduating college. Such an accomplishment, right?
We had the photo session in November at the Salem County Sportsmen’s Club. She is an active young woman who likes to shoot guns, ski, skateboard and not only is active, and wholeheartedly super down to earth, but it is intelligent.
Now, time for some fun!!!
When you are smiling.. the whole world smiles back at you!
Close up time! Isn’t she gorgeous?
Bringing out the hobbies!
Hanging out on the dock.
Time for some skateboarding fun.
All her toys and hobbies! Yes, she does them all!
We took many more captures from the day and gave to her, but it was all about having a fun time and also staying warm!
A kiss for mom at the end of the session… ALWAYS makes for a fun session.
I love when I am given the opportunity to shoot a milestone. It is such a meaningful gesture and always is an honor.
I hope you enjoy some of these captures and she has a bright future ahead of her!
If you’d like to capture this special time.. I get it… College graduation is HUGE!
It is a significant milestone in one's life, and capturing this moment through photographs can help preserve and celebrate this accomplishment.
Here are a few reasons why capturing college graduation photos are important and I gathered up the most awesome list:
Commemorate the achievement: Graduating from college is a significant achievement that requires dedication, hard work, and sacrifice. Having graduation photos serves as a tangible reminder of this accomplishment that can be treasured for years to come.
Share with family and friends: Graduation photos are a great way to share the achievement with loved ones who couldn't attend the ceremony. They can also be shared on social media platforms to celebrate and share the achievement with a wider audience.
Professional networking: For those entering the job market, graduation photos can be used for professional networking purposes, such as including them in a resume or LinkedIn profile.
Memories for the future: Graduation photos provide a way to look back on this momentous occasion years later, bringing back fond memories and reminding us of our accomplishments.
Having a photo session also allows graduates to capture the moment in a professional and aesthetically pleasing manner. A professional photographer can help create high-quality images that capture the essence of the achievement and can be treasured for a lifetime. Plus, working with someone who is going to make you feel at home and laugh is always a genuine plus too!
Happy Shooting, My friends!
De Giumetti
Shooting Star Photography
Excited for 2017 Fall Sessions! Daretown Lake, NJ
Capture the essence of family togetherness amidst the enchanting backdrop of Daretown Lake in New Jersey during a quick fall photo session. As the vibrant foliage paints the surroundings in warm hues, immerse yourself in a moment of pure joy with your loved ones. Let the crisp breeze of autumn gently tousle your hair as you embrace each other, creating heartfelt memories that will stay with you forever. Within the tranquil ambiance of Daretown Lake, our professional photographers at Shooting Star Photography LLC will skillfully frame your family, freezing the unbreakable bond and connection that defines you.
Fall Family Portrait Session at Daretown Lake, Salem County, New Jersey
At Shooting Star Photography LLC, we capture the beauty of family moments against the picturesque backdrop of Daretown Lake in Salem County, New Jersey. Our neutral approach ensures that every emotion and expression shines through naturally.
With the golden hues of fall foliage surrounding the serene waters of Daretown Lake, your family portrait session will be a timeless masterpiece that you can cherish for years to come. Our experienced photographers know how to capture the essence of your family bond in a relaxed setting, allowing your personalities to illuminate the frame.
Let Shooting Star Photography LLC preserve your family's joy, laughter, and love during this enchanting fall season at Daretown Lake in Salem County, New Jersey. Book your session with us today and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Family photo at Daretown Lake, in Elmer.
cutie patootie.
Pretty lady in front of the Daretown lake mill.
Daddy with his kiddos.
Now, we got a smile!
Hello red head!
The classic sibling shot. Loved this Daretown Lake Session!
Capture the essence of family togetherness amidst the enchanting backdrop of Daretown Lake in New Jersey during a quick fall photo session. As the vibrant foliage paints the surroundings in warm hues, immerse yourself in a moment of pure joy with your loved ones. Let the crisp breeze of autumn gently tousle your hair as you embrace each other, creating heartfelt memories that will stay with you forever. Within the tranquil ambiance of Daretown Lake, our professional photographers at Shooting Star Photography LLC will skillfully frame your family, freezing the unbreakable bond and connection that defines you.
Through our lens, we will capture the laughter, the shared adventures, and the unconditional love that radiates from within, ensuring that your family fall photo session becomes a cherished heirloom, capturing a fleeting moment in time. Choose Shooting Star Photography LLC for an unforgettable experience amidst the natural beauty of Daretown Lake, NJ.
EEEEEK! This weather is getting cooler and cooler and it has been extremely gorgeous outside! I am so excited for upcoming fall photos in the South Jersey, Philadelphia and Delaware Areas. "They" aka forecasters for fall foliage predictions are expecting things to change a little earlier this year! Last year, fall extended in the first week of November! I recall the leaves not changing until the end of October! This year, they are expecting things to change and peak around mid October in our area.I guess we will see how things go! However, I am already starting to see some leaves changing colors around where I live in Woodstown, NJ (I travel all over) and am seeing among my travels to sessions all across the Delaware Valley, some foliage already starting to show! It's kind of strange.. It's still technically summer!
A little secret.. I MAY open up a few more sessions. I am trying to get caught up with the final galleries from the summer first and then will determine if I am able to open up a few more spots. Right now, we are booked full for the year (since I want to have photos completed for folks this year, in a timely fashion.) Here's a few images from a fall family mini session from last year!! I believe first family to choose images with our new policy! We upload the good, the bad, the ugly from our session...
EVERY image taken and then post them online for you to pick your selection and which images you would like edited. Can't wait to see what this year brings!!! I've already started working with families and hopefully, will post soon! :) I'm adding a few more great locations to the mix in the whole Delaware Valley/Philly area for folks who travel long distances to see me! I'm excited! We got to work at a great location in Pennsylvania the other day and it has so much to offer! Fyi, new dresses and gowns are coming in daily and am very excited what 2018 is going to bring our way! Stay tuned.. You may see a fall session or two pop up and grab it while you can!!!
Happy Shooting, my friends!
Dee
NJ portrait photographer
Flower Meadow Princess- Salem County
Little Girl in a white flower meadow in Salem County, NJ.
Exploring Flower Meadows in Salem County, NJ
If you are seeking the serene beauty of flower meadows in Salem County, NJ, you are in for a delightful adventure. Salem County boasts a tranquil countryside that is home to various picturesque spots where vibrant blooms grace the landscapes.
One such enchanting location to consider is the vast meadows at Salem County Nature. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the kaleidoscope of colors offered by wildflowers and native plants. The peaceful ambiance and the fluttering butterflies add to the charm of this natural sanctuary.
Another hidden gem is the Whig Lane Farm. This historic farm not only offers a glimpse into the agricultural heritage of the region but also features beautiful flower fields that are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a memorable photo session.
For those looking to witness sweeping views of flower meadows, a visit to the Salem Oak Vineyards is highly recommended. This scenic vineyard not only produces exquisite wines but also provides a stunning backdrop of rolling hills adorned with wildflowers.
Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a photography buff, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of floral landscapes, Salem County, NJ, has much to offer. So, grab your camera, put on your walking shoes, and set out to discover the captivating flower meadows that await you in this charming county.
A Salem County, NJ wildflower field.
Ah... those days of summer. I honestly can't wait for them! I cannot stand the cold this time of year. It's pretty dreadful out there. Isn't it? I tend to not like shooting in the forest, this time of year, because the leaves are dead. So you will most likely see me shooting in an urban setting... which I love and I want to do more.Another image of the day!
This image of the day is brought to you by the summer... There is a meadow right down the street from me and it tends to produce a lot of varieties of wildflowers depending on the month. I adore it.I dressed this little girl up in a pretty little pink Anna Triant dress and got her twirling and dancing in the meadow here and I got to capture this sweet little moment! I wanted to keep it light and airy and a little minty and I think I succeeded!!
Who doesn't like flowers right? I can't wait to go back in the spring when everything is blooming again! Ahh! It's truly heavenly! Who doesn't like flowers? Well, I guess if you are allergic to them.. I truly love South Jersey! I can usually find a neat spot around every corner! Just like this guy here!Reach out any time if you have any questions! I am always available! For locations, dress choices.. I am definitely your girl! We can even meet for coffee and tea and just chat on what you would like to do! All the best :) and I'll just keep dreaming of spring and summer's arrival, okay?)
Dee
Color, color, color, everywhere! Defining your style... What's it going to be?
Defining your photography style... What's it going to be?
I love the summer and spring and the colors of the lush greens, blooming flowers and trees.... the long sunny days! The pastels and lots and lots of color! I love sunlight! This is my style. Bright, vibrant and colorful!Let me tell you how long it has taken me to get to where I currently am... I can't tell you how hard it is to be a photographer... It really truly is! I had NO CLUE what I was in for. None, whatsoever. I knew editing was involved. I knew you needed to know your camera settings and how to work in certain scenarios... and I knew poses.. but I have learned a lot since them!Within the last few months, I have truly tried to define MY STYLE. It took a ton of practice and hard work. I live and breathe photography. It's really sad. I know.On a typical day.. say I don't have clients... I will probably go out and shoot for an hour, I usually edit for 1-2 hours on old photographs to brush up on skills and keep them fresh, and then I top the night off with about an hour of learning from the greats by watching videos... and/or reading... that's a regular day. Now, when it is busy, like now... I may spend up to 3-4 hours editing a night... with about an hour of education... Still. Not to mention, back and forth communication with clients. Scheduling session days and times.
I love the summer and spring and the colors of the lush greens, blooming flowers and trees.... the long sunny days! The pastels and lots and lots of color! I love sunlight! This is my style. Bright, vibrant and colorful!Let me tell you how long it has taken me to get to where I currently am... I can't tell you how hard it is to be a photographer... It really truly is! I had NO CLUE what I was in for. None, whatsoever. I knew editing was involved. I knew you needed to know your camera settings and how to work in certain scenarios... and I knew poses.. but I have learned a lot since them!Within the last few months, I have truly tried to define MY STYLE. It took a ton of practice and hard work. I live and breathe photography. It's really sad. I know.On a typical day.. say I don't have clients... I will probably go out and shoot for an hour, I usually edit for 1-2 hours on old photographs to brush up on skills and keep them fresh, and then I top the night off with about an hour of learning from the greats by watching videos... and/or reading... that's a regular day. Now, when it is busy, like now... I may spend up to 3-4 hours editing a night... with about an hour of education... Still. Not to mention, back and forth communication with clients. Scheduling session days and times.
Confirming and consulting on locations, what to wear, props and the business side of things. It can be a full 12-14 hour day that you put into this.My greatest asset thus far in this photography journey has been education, education, education.. hands down! Whether it be a new technique in camera or learning how to edit.. It has been the best investment in this journey... NOT CAMERA EQUIPMENT. In fact, I just upgraded AGAIN... My third camera upgrade within about 8 months and I've barely taken it out yet. I'm still comfortable with my old one and will gradually ease my way into the new with photo sessions... The new camera is technically the more "superior" camera... cost three times more than the one I am replacing it with... but you see I know my old camera much better... so until I start practicing a bit more with the new one and it becomes an extension of my body, like my old one.. then I will start to utilize it more.
Anywho, in terms of finding your style as a photographer... Honestly, it's all practice. I would say try not to emulate what you see out there and try doing your own thing... you don't want to look like everyone else. Just learn to perfect your own thing...I use to play it safe and then realized I wasn't happy. I did clean edits. It was just blah to me and it kind of sucked my creativity and joy. Once I started to just not care what others thought or should I do this or that... basically, not second guessing yourself... Is when you will see your style to emerge. It's about breaking your barriers.Your style is going to take some time and probably at least 200-500 hours of just work. Then all of a sudden one day... it hits you like bam! Then you have it!I look back at some of my older work and I can see the direction I wanted to go, but it was difficult for me to fully execute. I saw the "look" I wanted to go in my head, but I just couldn't figure it totally out in Photoshop. I didn't have a clear sense in what I wanted from beginning to end.. from the first click.. to the end. Now, I can shoot from start to finish with the look I want. I go into every shoot knowing what I want to do and how I want it to look.
Thus far, it's been a great year and I look back and see the growth I have done in just a short amount of time, but I finally feel that I have a style... My style. There's honestly no looking back. Business is busy and I'm enjoying what I do.. I'm enjoying learning (as I always will) and I genuinely feel warm and fuzzy inside when folks want me to capture their engagement sessions, weddings, maternity photos... They trust me to be behind the camera. I feel honored and blessed to do those things for them.So here is my style... I don't like staged cheesy smiles... I will do some of these from time to time... however, I like natural poses... natural smiles, I like when someone naturally sits... or when someone looks at their significant either with just "that look".. in what I call the look of love. My style is playful..
In terms of children, I capture childhood.. In terms of when I work with adults, I capture true moments, their hearts, their personalities.. their dreams.I love bokeh.. and my style is all about it... If there is not bokeh... there's probably something wrong with me that day.I get everything right in camera.I love sunlight... I have a way of capturing it...and I love color.. vibrancy, warmth, pastels.and once in awhile... that dark and moody edit...and I love skies.. colorful gorgeous skies.And that's it.. that's me!What's your style!?!?! Are you a clean edit type... or are you bold and daring?! What is it that you will offer to the table.. that others in your area don't?!Aha.. you see that right there!! All my blabbering got you here! Take that last question in right now.. seriously take it in...It's going to be your aha moment! As it was for me!
Happy Shooting, my friends!-Dee
