Fine Art Family Photography Stories & Resources

little girl in a vintage dress hugging a pony in an orchard outside of Philadelphia for a sweet moment

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.

Magic, Magic, Everywhere!

It's been a magical spring! All these blooms.. From cherry blossoms, dogwoods, tulip trees.. right down to tulips and daffodils. Color and blooms are exploding with life. One thing I have been enjoying mostly are the cherry blossoms! I can't wait to post some sneak peaks for everyone! They are truly beautiful and lovely!!! One thing I love to create, is magic. I love creating magic for every single client that comes my way. Below, examples of some of this magic and capabilities and these were taken over two years ago!!! It's amazing what you can do in the forest on a cold winter day.. to add color to the trees and as long as you have great light... magic can truly happen!  photographers in south jersey, philadelphia photographers, photographers in delawarephotographers in philadelphia, photographers in new jersey, photographers in south jerseysouth jersey photographer, childrens photographer, philadelphia photographers  This time of year, I truly enjoy seeing the dead come to life.. We had a very cold winter and pretty cold spring considering years past. It's pretty incredible to drive around and see the blooming trees and life coming around full circle! Spring greens are coming in! The light changes to a more warm light... the sun sets at a later time (now we're at around 7:45pm).  This is the light I live for. I love it! I wanted to say bye bye to winter and HELLO SPRING SESSIONS IN SOUTH JERSEY!!! Can't wait to share the new work and meet new clients that have signed up for sessions this year! It's going to be a fantastic 2018 and I am extremely excited!!!! Happy Shooting, my friends! Dee

Read More

Stylized Prep Sheet

Stylized Prep Sheet- With a NJ Family Photographer

Offering our clients full wardrobe planning and design, plus access to our handpicked client closet!

Stylized Prep Sheet- With a NJ Family Photographer

Having a client closet can provide numerous benefits for customers who are looking for the perfect outfit without the commitment of a purchase. Here are some advantages:


Convenience:
Having a client closet allows customers to try out different clothing items and accessories without the hassle of visiting multiple stores. They can simply schedule an appointment and access a variety of options in one location.

Cost-effective:
Customers can save money by renting items from a client closet instead of buying new outfits for every event. This is particularly beneficial for special occasions where a unique or high-end outfit may only be worn once.


Time-saving:
With a client closet, customers can quickly browse through curated collections that match their style preferences. This saves time that would have been spent scouring stores or online shops for the perfect look.


Experimentation:
A client closet encourages customers to step out of their comfort zones and try new styles they might not typically purchase. It allows for experimentation with different trends and designs without a long-term commitment.


Professional guidance:
Many client closets offer styling services to help customers put together the perfect outfit for any occasion. This personalized assistance can boost confidence and ensure that customers look and feel their best.


In conclusion, a client closet can enhance the shopping experience for customers by providing convenience, cost-effective options, saving time, encouraging experimentation, and offering professional styling guidance.

prep sheet, wardrobe styling south jersey, new jersey photographer, stylized sessions, wardrobe, client guide, photography,

We stylized this session to put more emphasis on the kids while the surrounding fall foliage in Winslow New Jersey came to life.

 Hi good ol' shooting star family!   I have pretty much a little bit of everything up here on this website. We sure like to blog and stay current! We wanted to write out a little prep guide for our clients to make the best out of your session.  I do get questioned, from time to time, in how it works with the stylizing services that we offer.  I do try and be as cohesive as possible to make the experience fun for my customers and I honestly keep the process very easy and convenient for everyone.  

COMPLIMENTARY WARDROBE OR WARDROBE STYLING

  • I provide dress for girls and a few for moms.  I also have boy offerings.  These are all a courtesy for our customers... IT DOES NOT MEAN YOU NEED TO WEAR THEM.

Often times, I get many customers who show up dressed and READY TO KILL.

stylized sessions, nj photographer, graffiti wall, photo shoot, stylized photo shoot, new jersey stylized photographer,

We stylized these kids so that they would pop in front of the graffiti offerings in Philadlephia.

Title: Enhancing Your Experience: Our Client Closet and Stylizing Advice


Dear Valued Clients,
At Shooting Star Photography LLC, we take immense pride in capturing the essence of your life's most precious moments. We understand that in order to truly create timeless memories, every aspect of the photoshoot must be carefully considered and well-planned. That's why we offer our esteemed New Jersey clients an exclusive service - our Client Closet and Stylizing Advice. Allow us to shed some light on why this unique offering can elevate your photography experience to new heights!


1. Extensive Client Closet: Enriching your Style, Simplifying your Choices


We understand that choosing the perfect attire for a professional photoshoot can be challenging. That's exactly why we have curated an extensive collection of garments for you to choose from. Our diverse and carefully selected range includes outfits for individuals of all ages, sizes, and styles. Whether you're aiming for a classic, elegant look or prefer something more contemporary and trendy, our Client Closet has got you covered. By providing you with this service, we aim to ensure that you feel confident, comfortable, and stylish during your shoot, without the added stress of finding the perfect outfit.


2. Stylizing Advice: Unlocking your Unique Vision


We believe that photography is an art that captures your individuality. To truly reflect your personality and style, our team of experienced professionals are here to offer you personalized stylizing advice. We understand the importance of creating a cohesive and harmonious look, not only for individual portraits but also for group sessions. Our experts will guide you through the process, suggesting outfit combinations, color palettes, and accessories that will beautifully complement your unique features and setting. By actively involving ourselves in stylizing your shoot, we ensure that your cherished memories reflect your authentic self.


3. Enhancing your Photography Experience: Creating a Stress-Free Environment


Planning a photoshoot can sometimes become overwhelming, especially when considering the clothing choices for yourself and your loved ones. Our Client Closet and Stylizing Advice go hand in hand to alleviate the stress associated with this part of the process. Our aim is to create a relaxed and enjoyable environment, allowing you to focus on the moments you're about to create, rather than worrying about outfits or struggling with last-minute shopping. By providing this service, we want you to have a memorable and stress-free experience from start to finish.


In Conclusion


Choosing Shooting Star Photography LLC means choosing an experience that goes beyond the ordinary. Our Client Closet and Stylizing Advice serve as valuable tools, ensuring that you not only feel comfortable and confident during your shoot but also leave with photographs that are a true reflection of your unique personality and style. We believe in enhancing your journey with us by offering services that simplify, inspire, and create unforgettable memories.
Let us help you create timeless and extraordinary moments!
Contact us today to learn more about your options.
Shoot for the stars, together!

stylized sessions, new jersey photographer, client wardrobe, family photographer, maternity photographer, new jersey stylized sessions,

Stylized this fairy to blend in with the cottage surroundings and magical setting of her photo shoot.

If you do wear our offerings...

  • I send out a questionnaire to all customers, even to special/mini sessions. It helps me to get to know you and your family a little better. I like capturing personality of people and this helps me to get to know my clients.

  • This questionnaire is also pretty awesome because YOU can tell me what you expect to get out of your session.

  • I ask for sizes.

  • I often times can email a client what I am thinking of having their child wearing.  If not the case, I bring a whole truckload of dresses to choose from based around the theme and setting.

HOW TO ARRIVE TO YOUR STYLIZED SESSION

  • I do recommend a very fresh-faced look. NO makeup, well-moisturized skin. Lipgloss or chapstick to keep lips moist and from cracking during our session.

  • In terms of hair, I like long and loose curls. Nothing crazy or dramatic. I honestly love capturing kids for who they really are and I prefer a more natural approach. No long hair, no problem. We love short hair, too! Simple and fresh cut is always a plus about a week before your session.I can provide headpieces that will coordinate with your dresses. Just ask!

  • I do suggest leggings if it is cold out. We can generally hide them under the dresses.  I do provide shawls or furs for extra comfort during the cold winter months.

  • Shoe choices...  I prefer neutrals.. silver, gold, black, brown, taupe.  They will go with anything and not be too distractive of an element in your photographs.

  • Try and wear neutral undergarments so that you aren't having any crazy patterns or colors bleed through your clothing. IE. No black bras with a white tshirt... Unless, you are a rebel.. Then rock it.

 As you see above, a very simple and easy preparation guide. I provide a wardrobe tent when on location for privacy in getting changed. I truly want my customers to have a seamless experience from start to finish. I will pretty much take care of everything. All you need to do is show up! Hopefully, this was a nice little article for you and I hope to see you soon!

Feel free to reach out with ANY QUESTIONS. ALWAYS HERE TO HELP! 

Dee 

Shooting Star Photography  

Read More

My absolute FAVORITE time of the year... Spring!

My absolute FAVORITE time of the year... Spring!

Spring has arrived, South Jersey!

Isn't it just wonderful?! This was a very very cold winter! It at times felt like it was not going to leave, but it did... and now everything is blooming away!

Spring has arrived, South Jersey!

 Isn't it just wonderful?! This was a very very cold winter!  It at times felt like it was not going to leave, but it did... and now everything is blooming away! For April, the weather has been rather blissful! Yes, we've had some rain, but the majority of days have been filled with sunshine!!  Throughout this text here, I am showcasing some photos I took recently in the Shooting Star Garden!

I hope you like and as always, it is an offering on a photo location to my clients!   I've been sooooo busy! I think I have a total of 16-17 sessions (I'd have to look in my planner) scheduled until June right now. I'd say for a new business to the area, that's a great start!  Every single day, I am working hard to improve myself and just get better. I hope to be a "shooting star" in 10 years and known worldwide.  Yup, that's my goal... and if you truly knew me, you'd know that this will happen, hahaha!  Anything I put my mind to, I have accomplished tenfold so I'm adding photography to medley.  I am looking to grow this business to one of the bests in the area!

If I'm not working or doing sessions, I'm investing my time in education,, spending time with my kids and well, spending time with my kids! They're also excellent models when I want to try something new!  Of course, as a mom I take pride in them too. Well, duh!   

spring, photographer, baby, maternity photographer, south jersey, new jersey, family photographer, philadelphia,

Dogwood lovin Spring in South Jersey!

spring, photographer, baby, maternity photographer, south jersey, new jersey, family photographer, philadelphia,

Weeping cherry blossom in background for spring photo shoot.

spring, photographer, baby, maternity photographer, south jersey, new jersey, family photographer, philadelphia,

Garden baby and all smiles.

spring, photographer, baby, maternity photographer, south jersey, new jersey, family photographer, philadelphia,

Boy having fun near the stream in Salem County, NJ.

spring, photographer, baby, maternity photographer, south jersey, new jersey, family photographer, philadelphia,

Little boy having fun.

spring, photographer, baby, maternity photographer, south jersey, new jersey, family photographer, philadelphia,

Little boy on a bench posing for a photograph.

spring, photographer, baby, maternity photographer, south jersey, new jersey, family photographer, philadelphia,

Little girl in on the moss in the spring garden.

spring, photographer, baby, maternity photographer, south jersey, new jersey, family photographer, philadelphia,

Checking out her boots and enjoying the garden.

spring, photographer, baby, maternity photographer, south jersey, new jersey, family photographer, philadelphia,

Daffodils in Salem County, NJ. Coming to life.

spring, photographer, baby, maternity photographer, south jersey, new jersey, family photographer, philadelphia,

Bleeding hearts blooming.

spring, photographer, baby, maternity photographer, south jersey, new jersey, family photographer, philadelphia,

Weeping Cherry Blossom.

The grounds here at Shooting Star have been nothing but superb this spring.  Right now, the weeping cherry and magnolias are blooming, tulips, hellebore, grape hyacinths, standard hyacinths are blooming.  The daffodils are still in bloom.  We have hundreds of them EVERYWHERE.  All the perennials are rising to the surface... It's definitely spring!I actually saw a hummingbird trying to feed off of our cherry the other day! It was a great start to the season!! The Kwanzan cherries have popped open some blooms and should be fully alert in a day or two.  I love it! If I had to choose between my garden or photography, it would destroy me. Both are my absolute favorite hobbies.

 I could never decide between the two!These last few weeks, I've been taking the kids out to play in the garden and to try some new tricks on them!  They've also "helped" me a little to prepare it for this spring by cleaning out all the flower beds and weeds!  I am so blessed to have these gorgeous grounds.  It is a true oasis and right here in South Jersey!  Sometimes, I need to pinch myself because it is just so magical!  I love strolling through the grounds and walking down the terraces to the stream.  I find it to be my garden of Eden and I am so very blessed to be able to offer it to my customers for their photo sessions.  

My customers LOVE it!  It's truly a splendid and unique offering that most photographers don't have.   So if you ever want to have a beautiful private session... look no further! I can offer that too you... including a stream!  Our hundreds and hundreds of lilies are starting to break through too! Ohhhh, I cannot wait! I time everything so there is always something in bloom from early spring all the way through fall! It's incredible! 

Happy Shooting, my friends! 

Dee  

Read More
Family Session in Sout..., South Jersey Photographer Shooting Star Photography Family Session in Sout..., South Jersey Photographer Shooting Star Photography

Our Studio Is Going Mobile!

In-Home Studio Session: Unleash Your Creativity

At Shooting Star Photography LLC, we understand the significance of creating a comfortable and convenient environment for our clients. That is why we are thrilled to offer our exclusive in-home studio sessions. With this personalized service, our team will bring the studio experience directly to your doorstep, allowing you to relax and enjoy a seamless and stress-free photo shoot from the comfort of your own home.

In-Home Studio Session: Unleash Your Creativity

At Shooting Star Photography LLC, we understand the significance of creating a comfortable and convenient environment for our clients. That is why we are thrilled to offer our exclusive in-home studio sessions. With this personalized service, our team will bring the studio experience directly to your doorstep, allowing you to relax and enjoy a seamless and stress-free photo shoot from the comfort of your own home.

Gone are the days of traveling to a professional studio, lugging props and outfits along with you. With our innovative approach, our expert photographers will arrive at your home equipped with top-of-the-line photography equipment, lighting, and backdrops. We strive to recreate the same high-quality and visually captivating results achieved in a traditional studio, while providing the added convenience and intimacy that an in-home session offers.


Our talented team understands the importance of creating a setting that reflects your unique style and personality. Whether you envision a session against a classic black backdrop, surrounded by vibrant colors, or amidst the warmth of natural light pouring through your windows, we have the creative expertise to bring your dreams to life.
During the session, our photographers will work closely with you to capture your essence and showcase your individuality. We will guide you through various poses and expressions, while also allowing room for spontaneity and natural moments. By creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere, we believe that genuine emotions and authentic connections are best preserved in the final photographs.
Furthermore, our in-home studio sessions are not limited to individual portraits or headshots. We offer a wide range of services, including family portraits, maternity shoots, newborn photography, and even pet sessions. We believe that every moment and milestone is worth celebrating, and we are committed to turning those memories into timeless works of art.


To ensure the success of your in-home studio session, we recommend selecting a designated space that offers ample room and natural light for the shoot. This could be your living room, bedroom, or even a well-manicured garden. Rest assured that our photographers will work with you to maximize the potential of your chosen area, utilizing their expertise in composition and lighting to create stunning images.

At Shooting Star Photography LLC, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional quality and customer satisfaction. Our in-home studio sessions are designed to provide the ultimate convenience while capturing cherished moments with unparalleled creativity. Book an appointment with us today, and experience the joy of a truly personalized and intimate photo shoot, right in the comfort of your own home.

home studio sessions, baby photography, south jersey photographer, new jersey photographer, studio photographer, in home photographer, nj, photographer, new york,

Little babe into this world!

home studio sessions, baby photography, south jersey photographer, new jersey photographer, studio photographer, in home photographer, nj, photographer, new york,

Cutie for Christmas. In home session.

Yup, you heard that right, South Jersey!  We are going to take our studio on the road.  We will be offering studio packages in your own home!Here is why!We want to make it easier on mom!  We know that after coming home from the hospital and that first year can be a pain to travel anywhere!  If not breastfeeding, you have to pack milk, or a bottle, food, a diaper bag, change of clothing, etc. It can get exhausting sometimes even just having to go to the store, is a bit of an inconvenience.  Having to lug around a car seat or going to the grocery store is always a blast, isn't it?  I put myself in my clients shoes!

If I can offer something that makes being photographed a better experience, well that's what I want to do!Trust me! I understand! Having been there myself and still in the same shoes! I have an eleven month old!  However, she's getting much better at carting around.  I find the first 6 months to truly be the hardest!I feel that if I can offer in-home sessions, it's just a more relaxed atmosphere for mom and for baby!

I will be offering a mobile studio with a backdrop choice and will bring a floor drop and some extra lighting and props.I do have some requirements though.  The room must get some natural light or be adequate enough and the room must be large enough for my mobile studio to fit.This will be an additional fee in accordance to my sessions.

Since it does put a bit more wear and tear on my overall equipment for transport and time for setting up.However, if wanting a lifestyle session or experience this is included in our session fee!  Since there is no huge equipment to be setting up!Please contact us today. Our fee for this service is minimal considering what we are able to offer!  I want customer service to be a huge component to my services, so if I can help alleviate some stress and put you at ease... Well, I'm in!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Read More

Follow our journey around the Philadelphia Area.