Fall Sessions are HERE!!!

 Hi South Jersey!!! Boy, do I have some fantastic news!!!!We have decided to launch some fall mini sessions in the peak height of the 2018 foliage season! These sessions will be held the weekend of the 27th~!  These sessions are a steal at only $200!!! The location will be in beautiful Woolwich Township- Swedesboro, New Jersey. This setting has optimal lighting. Great foliage and color will and should be at full height of the fall season in Southern New Jersey.These sessions will include dresses, between 15-20 minutes of shooting time. An online proofing gallery and two fine art edits. Guaranteed to be perfect for your Christmas cards!!! These are also great for folks who do not want to invest in a full session and maybe do sessions a few times a year and wanting that ONE epic capture. These are a ton of value and I promise the location does not disappoint! I hope to see you here! I truly love the light here. It's amazing and I can't wait to see the colors that will be produced this fall!!! It should be truly magical!!! That's always my goal to provide the BEST to my clients!  More information can be found here! Please feel free to reach out with any questions!!!!  We're always here. Right now, it's our busy season. So please allow 24-48 hours to get back to you! We do try and reach out quicker. https://shootingstarphotographyllc.bigcartel.com/product/2018-fall-sessions Thanks Again! Dee  

Life's Too Short... So Life Needs Unicorns!

Life's too short... so life truly needs unicorns!

 Unicorn sessions are a lot of work around here. They require a ton of time in preparation for things to go and run smoothly. Especially, with working with a live animal and to keep costs down for most since you have to rent the unicorn.. we have limited time to work with during these sessions.   Coordinating dresses, unicorn sashes horns.. We try and compliment to the season/theme/dresses/crowns! Every single unicorn session we do is unique in its own right. We're truly perfectionists! Our goal is to make every kid feel special, to truly make this a MAGICAL UNICORN EXPERIENCE for each and every child.You'll see whimsy and wonder.. and lots of cheer and laughs during these sessions. Most are surprised to see how friendly our unicorn is. A true gentle giant "unicorn." She's incredible in her own right. Miss Snowy... I can't imagine working with another unicorn.. because once you find something so special, you keep hold of it.  My motto lately is...Life's too short to even care at all. The popular song by Young The Giants-Cough Syrup. There's reasoning and meaning to this. Life's too short to sweat the small things. I am learning this day by day... I have realized these past few weeks that somethings are truly out of my control and am learning to try and let it go because I am sooo hard on myself. I have always been. I love giving 100% to everything.  My mother who is the other half to this business and my partner has been ill. So everything has fallen on me. We're busy. We have deadlines to make and clients sessions to fulfill. I always say that success is 90% of just showing up. It is. That's why even though have not been home this past week... whether at the hospital or with sessions with customers, I haven't given up. I got this. I CAN DO THIS. I've done it before and I may be solo for a bit. That's also OKAY.  A client of mine has been absolutely wonderful in helping and helped to step up to the plate for mini sessions. When it comes to full sessions, I can manage from here on out as I did this when I started. I AM TRULY grateful for the amazing community of support.. so that I can continue to keep going and keeping putting my best foot forward out there.Also, take a little whirl below at a cute sister session magical experience! NOT TOO BAD for JANUARY sessions. We got blessed with some pretty mild weather!  Depending on how mom does with her recovery and how these next few weeks go.. Our goal is to try and get another unicorn going by MAY. I truly appreciate your patience! We have had a lot of sessions pushed back because of blooms and weather this year.. and of course these customers are our first priority and obligation! However, stay tuned for another magnificent experience!!! Happy Shooting, Dee       

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

Spring in South Jersey: A Season of Renewal

As the warm sun rises higher in the sky, South Jersey comes alive with the vibrant colors and sweet scents of spring. The arrival of spring heralds the awakening of nature from its winter slumber, transforming the landscape into a picturesque tapestry of blooming flowers, lush greenery, and clear blue skies.
The cherry blossoms in Haddonfield, the tulip fields in Hammonton, and the daffodil gardens in Vineland burst into a riot of color, drawing locals and visitors alike to witness nature's magnificent display. With the gentle breeze carrying the fragrance of blossoms and the chorus of birdsong filling the air, South Jersey becomes a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

As a photographer at Shooting Star Photography LLC, I am captivated by the ethereal beauty of spring in South Jersey. It offers a myriad of opportunities to capture the essence of this season of renewal. From the tender buds unfurling against a backdrop of clear blue skies to the delicate dance of butterflies and bees among the blossoms, there is no shortage of awe-inspiring moments to preserve through the lens.

Walking through the verdant landscapes and quaint townships, I am inspired by the sense of new beginnings that permeates the atmosphere. The picturesque settings provide the perfect backdrop for capturing the joy and vitality that spring brings to the region. Whether it's a family frolicking in a field of wildflowers or a couple strolling hand in hand along a tree-lined path, the beauty of spring in South Jersey lends itself to creating timeless and evocative photographs.

Spring in South Jersey is more than just a change in the weather—it's a celebration of life, beauty, and the promise of new beginnings. As the natural world comes alive with color, light, and energy, I look forward to capturing the essence of this enchanting season through my lens, preserving fleeting moments that encapsulate the spirit of spring in all its glory.

Oh... my.... goodness!!!  The weather has been FANTASTIC lately. For March, it has been pretty mild! EEEEEEK!!!! The magnolias have bloomed earlier than normal.. I have a terraced garden and it's truly incredible to look out at what is in bloom.  The narcissus, magnolia, white willow, magnolias, hellebores, hyacinths and periwinkle giving me a beautiful dance right now. It's like winter's hibernation is finally over and spring is officially here!!! It's new beginnings for me this year and am treading on different waters. I am starting off fresh and offering something very different to the entire Philadelphia area... STYLIZED SESSIONS!!!! Yes, you got that right!

Stylized Sessions To The Spring Mix

Why waste money on something you may only wear once or twice?  I bring a great selection of gowns with me to every single session in your size and time permitting, you can slip on anything you like. My house is starting to look more like a boutique, haha! I want you to feel like a million buckaroos!!! I am so happy to be able to provide this to all my clients!  I want my clients to feel and look beautiful as this is will be a very special memory that I will be capturing for a lifetime.Currently, I am offering clothing/dresses for all girls ages 2-14.  I have a variety of different styles and colors.  ALL MATERNITY SESSIONS ARE STYLED.  I have just started purchasing gowns for women (so please inquire, I MAY have your size) and boys.  I have a few suits, ties, suspenders, hats. I will eventually have some pieces for men. I also provide headpieces in beautiful chiffons, silk, lace, crowns, feathers and everything in between!!! My goal is to provide a luxuriant service to all my customers!  From start to finish!

This is why we've only been in business for a year and have had clients return 4 or 5 times! We LOVE them! and guess what? I love you, too!

New Photography Locations!

On the horizon are unique session offerings. I will be offering sessions in azalea, lavender, daylily, sunflower and gladiola fields.  Unfortunately, the peonies and cherry blossoms have been sold out this year!  But... maybe again for next year? However, I have hundreds of scouted locations (including some private properties that I have available). We will do our best to give you what you want!!! I think in my next posting, I might show a little of the dresses I have accumulated! I think you will fall in love! I have over 30 more dresses coming in and a few special order princess crowns!How we work is... you tell us your size or sizes needed... and I bring a hand-picked selection for you to choose from. I also bring headpieces!

You can have as many wardrobe changes within your session time period. I want you to enjoy your experience. I also bring an assistant with me to give you the best we have to offer!  This assistant helps with getting smiles, helping you dress, watching for any fly away hairs, getting you a drink, if you need it... They are here to help!!! 

We've also opened up to servicing Delaware (love me some Delaware, it's actually not the far from me), the Philadelphia metro market and even central Jersey this year!!! YES!!! We will come to you!

 Well... I look forward to hearing from you soon!  Thank you for stopping by and happy shooting, my friends!!!

Dee Giumetti

Winter Portraits: Capturing the Magic

I love winter portraits! OMG They are just magical! Winter portraits have a unique ability to capture the magic of the season. The serene beauty of snow-covered landscapes, the soft glow of natural light, and the cozy attire all contribute to creating captivating and enchanting images.

Photographing subjects in a winter wonderland provides a canvas filled with endless creative possibilities. The contrast between the crisp white snow and the rich colors of winter clothing can produce striking and visually dynamic compositions. The soft, diffused light of winter adds a dreamy quality to portraits, enhancing the mood and atmosphere.
The winter season also offers a sense of intimacy and warmth that is distinct from other times of the year. Bundling up in cozy scarves, hats, and gloves can create a sense of closeness and comfort, allowing for authentic and heartwarming portraits. The subtle rosy cheeks and the sparkle in the eyes from the chilly air can convey a story of joy, resilience, and togetherness.

Moreover, winter provides an excellent opportunity to incorporate unique elements into portraits, such as falling snowflakes, frosty breath, or the soft textures of knitwear. These details add an ethereal and whimsical touch to the imagery, elevating the overall enchantment of the portraits.

In essence, winter portraits have the power to evoke magic of the season. The serene beauty of snow-covered landscapes, the soft glow of natural light, and the cozy attire all contribute to creating captivating and enchanting images.

Photographing subjects in a winter wonderland provides a canvas filled with endless creative possibilities. The contrast between the crisp white snow and the rich colors of winter clothing can produce striking and visually dynamic compositions. The soft, diffused light of winter adds a dreamy quality to portraits, enhancing the mood and atmosphere.
The winter season also offers a sense of intimacy and warmth that is distinct from other times of the year. Bundling up in cozy scarves, hats, and gloves can create a sense of closeness and comfort, allowing for authentic and heartwarming portraits. The subtle rosy cheeks and the sparkle in the eyes from the chilly air can convey a story of joy, resilience, and togetherness.
Moreover, winter provides an excellent opportunity to incorporate unique elements into portraits, such as falling snowflakes, frosty breath, or the soft textures of knitwear. These details add an ethereal and whimsical touch to the imagery, elevating the overall enchantment of the portraits.

In essence, winter portraits have magic of the season. The serene beauty of snow-covered landscapes, the soft glow of natural light, and the cozy attire all contribute to creating captivating and enchanting images.

Photographing subjects in a winter wonderland provides a canvas filled with endless creative possibilities. The contrast between the crisp white snow and the rich colors of winter clothing can produce striking and visually dynamic compositions. The soft, diffused light of winter adds a dreamy quality to portraits, enhancing the mood and atmosphere.
The winter season also offers a sense of intimacy and warmth that is distinct from other times of the year. Bundling up in cozy scarves, hats, and gloves can create a sense of closeness and comfort, allowing for authentic and heartwarming portraits. The subtle rosy cheeks and the sparkle in the eyes from the chilly air can convey a story of joy, resilience, and togetherness.

Moreover, winter provides an excellent opportunity to incorporate unique elements into portraits, such as falling snowflakes, frosty breath, or the soft textures of knitwear. These details add an ethereal and whimsical touch to the imagery, elevating the overall enchantment of the portraits.
In essence,

Winter portraits are just magical!

Taken in Smithville Park In Mt. Holly.

Yummy yummy yummy toes!

These girls are having a ball in their late winter shoot!

Beautiful lady twirling in the snow!

Believing In A Dream And Capturing What You Love

I have believed in a dream for so long! I always wanted to own my own company, but didn't know what I actually wanted. When my daughter was born, something woke inside me to want to capture photographs of my kids. Photos that I would always treasure. My husband purchased a camera for me a little over a year ago and I haven't looked back! I have soaked in everything I have been taught and I have strived to become better and better in what I do! Friends saw my photos of my kids and then asked if I could take their photographs and then the rest is honestly history... Here we are today... a year later!!! This past year, I have had a dream.  A gigantic dream.

My dream is starting to become a reality and I'm starting to envision it. This February is my ONE year anniversary in business!!! Yay, Shooting Star!!!  My goal in the next few years is to open up a studio in Rittenhouse Square in Philadelphia!Now, I have jumped through puddles and leaps to get to where I am today and I couldn't have done it without any of you, my clients and dear customers.  I knew I had to put in hard work these last few months. NEVER could I have imaged I'd be where I am today!!!I have my dream equipment and lens.

This past year was good practice to know what I wanted to do and where I wanted to go... With that being said... EVERY SINGLE SESSION that is booked will be fully stylized by me. I have over 100 dresses fitting sizes from a few months up until age 14.. I also have maternity gowns and headpieces.I am a firm believe that when you stylize a session, or what you wear to a session... can definitely affect your end result and photographs.

Having Fun As A Photographer

There are colors that create color casts in certain environments and is usually not pleasing to the skin. Watch out oompa loompas!!!  Haven't you ever seen orange skin?  Or purple skin? Or blue skin? I've seen all the colors of the rainbow!!!  And yes, I was that photographer once! I didn't know any better! So for 2016, everyone gets the ultimate treatment and will feel like a princess. It will be an ultimate boutique experience where you will dress and up and feel beautiful. If you feel beautiful, you look beautiful... that's my motto. You could be the prettiest person in the world, but if you don't FEEL IT inside and your insides are ugly, well that is going to show on camera. I will get you smiling and giggling, I promise!!!

It's my job to capture how pretty you are and let that shine through!!! Some of our wardrobes and headpieces shown above and can't wait to show you more!!! I hope to see you this year!!! It is going to be a blast!! Thank you for stopping by and checking our company out.

We really do our best to put out the best product out there. We want you to treasure these photographs for years to come!!!  Let me capture some of these moments for you and show you some beautiful locations all across South Jersey!!! I am following my passion and I hope that you will pursue yours as well.  

This Is Not Just A Job For Me

Yes, this is a job, but it's a job I love to do. I don't look at it as a job. It's my livelihood! Okay, well enough of my ramblings!!! Can't wait until you see our pretty gown offerings!!  Our headpieces... and most of all, you'll get to see me shooting with my heart!!Stay tuned because this year is about to get bumpy!!! A fun bumpy!! Woo hoo!!! 

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee