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.

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Capturing Beach Memories: A Picture-Perfect Photo Session in Ocean City, NJ

Capturing Memories: A Picture-Perfect Photo Session in Ocean City, NJ

Ocean City, New Jersey, is a haven of coastal charm, offering an idyllic backdrop for a memorable photo session. With its vibrant boardwalk, pristine beaches, and iconic fishing pier, this quaint seaside town presents endless opportunities to capture moments that will be cherished for a lifetime. In this blog, we'll explore the various facets of Ocean City that make it a photography enthusiast's paradise.

Ocean City, New Jersey, is a haven of coastal charm, offering an idyllic backdrop for a memorable photo session. With its vibrant boardwalk, pristine beaches, and iconic fishing pier, this quaint seaside town presents endless opportunities to capture moments that will be cherished for a lifetime. In this blog, we'll explore the various facets of Ocean City that make it a photography enthusiast's paradise.

The Boardwalk: Where Nostalgia Meets Contemporary Flair

Ocean City's boardwalk is the heart and soul of the town, brimming with energy, colors, and a distinct blend of nostalgia and modernity. Picture yourself strolling along the boardwalk, camera in hand, as the sun sets behind the vibrant shops and amusement rides. Capture the genuine joy on the faces of families and friends enjoying ice cream, playing mini-golf, or taking a leisurely bike ride. The lively atmosphere and diverse attractions offer a kaleidoscope of photo opportunities.

Sandy Serenity: Beaches Beyond Compare

Ocean City boasts pristine beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see. The soft sands and glistening waters provide a picturesque canvas for your photo session. From sunrise to sunset, the changing light casts enchanting hues, creating a dreamy atmosphere. Consider capturing candid shots of families building sandcastles, couples strolling hand in hand, and surfers catching waves. The rhythmic ebb and flow of the tides lend a touch of serenity to your beachside snapshots.

Pier Perfection: The Iconic Fishing Pier

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The fishing pier in Ocean City, New Jersey is one of my favorite locations to shoot at.

The Ocean City Fishing Pier stands as a symbol of both recreational angling and photographic inspiration. Extend your lens over the railings to capture breathtaking shots of the endless horizon merging with the Atlantic Ocean. Experiment with compositions as fishermen cast their lines, seagulls glide overhead, and the sun paints the sky with warm shades. The juxtaposition of the pier against the vast ocean exudes a sense of grandeur that's worth preserving in your photographs.

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I love utilizing the rides on the Ocean City boardwalk as my background for photographs.

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The ocean in Ocean City, NJ never disappoints.

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Playing and twirling along the beach in Ocean City, New Jersey.

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Another beautiful night at the fishing pier in Ocean City, New Jersey.


Tips for a Successful Photo Session:

  • Golden Hours: Take advantage of the soft, flattering light during the golden hours—shortly after sunrise and before sunset—to infuse your photos with warmth and depth.

  • Varied Shots: Aim for a mix of candid shots that capture spontaneous moments and posed shots that showcase the beauty of Ocean City's landmarks.

  • Capture Emotions: Seek out genuine emotions, whether it's the laughter of children playing on the beach or the quiet contemplation of a person gazing at the sea.

  • Incorporate Elements: Use the vibrant boardwalk shops, colorful umbrellas, and unique architectural features as interesting elements in your composition.

  • Experiment with Angles: Don't be afraid to crouch down, climb a dune, or stand on the pier's edge to capture diverse angles and perspectives.

Conclusion:

Ocean City, NJ, is a treasure trove of photographic opportunities, where the boardwalk's liveliness, the beaches' tranquility, and the fishing pier's majesty come together to create a stunning visual narrative. Whether you're a professional photographer or just looking to document cherished memories, this coastal gem offers a captivating backdrop that's waiting to be captured through your lens. So, pack your camera, head to Ocean City, and let your creativity flow as you preserve the magic of this charming seaside town.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee D Giumetti

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Sea Isle City Beach Photography

Sea Isle City, NJ Family Beach Photography Session!

Fun at the Jersey Shore! Let’s get this party started in SIC

Salty air.. without a care. It’s time for some beach portraits! If you're looking for a classic family Jersey Shore vacation experience, look no further than the Sea Isle City! The iconic Sea Isle promenade is home to a variety of games, treats, restaurants… yum, delicious food, and plenty of family fun.

One of the highlights of the promenade is the assortment of arcades for the kids and getting fudge! There's something for everyone. Children and adults alike can enjoy the thrill of walking on the promenade or watching a summer concert, while soaking up the sun and salty ocean air.

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Dad and his girls on the beautiful Sea Isle City, NJ beach! He’s strong! I couldn’t hold one of my kiddos if I was given a million bucks these days!

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Mom and her little boy at the Jersey Shore! They match subtly and it is so awesome!!! I LOVE BLUE at the shore!

Of course, no trip to the promenade is complete without indulging in some classic boardwalk treats. Salt water taffy is a favorite among visitors, and there are plenty of vendors selling this sweet, chewy candy. And after a long day of playing in the sun, nothing hits the spot quite like a slice of Uncle Oogie’s Pizza!

But Sea Isle isn't just about the promenade and the food. There are plenty of other activities to enjoy, such as fishing at Townsend’s inlet, playing at the park off MLK boulevard or searching for seashells on the beach. And of course, the ocean itself is always a draw, with its blue waters and gentle waves.

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Mom and her girls posing in Sea Isle City, New Jersey. Super cute!!!

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Dad and son moment in Sea Isle! Dad, I’m going to be taller than you one day. Haha.

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Mom and dad posing for Dee at Shooting Star Photography. Yep, that’s me.. the photographer.

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Posing with the family dog in Sea Isle. He was a gentle giant!

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O New Jersey family session. We got the whole "family" smiling here.

Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing a fun-filled family portrait session on the beautiful beaches of Sea Isle, NJ. As the owner of Shooting Star Photography, my passion lies in capturing the essence of the Jersey Shore through my lens.

This particular session was a delightful gathering of family, filled with boundless energy and endless moments of love and laughter. Both parents had a heartfelt desire to create lasting memories with their beloved children, and they went the extra mile to make this session truly special. Each child also had the opportunity to have their individual photo taken, in an effort to capture their unique personalities and charm to the photographs.

The air was filled with excitement as we embarked on our beach adventure, with sand between our toes and the refreshing ocean waves crashing in the background. From building intricate sand castles to running along the water's edge, the children's enthusiasm was contagious. The lifeguard stand became a source of curiosity and exploration, providing unique backdrops for capturing candid moments of joy and wonder.

As the photographer, my primary goal was to encapsulate the genuine bond and affection shared amongst the cousins, and they did not disappoint. Their smiles were infectious, and their tight hugs radiated warmth and love. This session was an absolute delight, a beautiful mess of sandy toes, water splashes, and unforgettable family connections.

Sea Isle has always been a great place and even my in-laws have had a summer house here for at least 40 years!

I consider myself truly fortunate to have been able to freeze these cherished moments in time, showcasing the incredible bonds that exist within this loving family. Through my photography, I aim to immortalize the laughter, the love, and the cherished memories created during these precious family gatherings on the picturesque beaches of Sea Isle City, NJ.

Why Sea Isle rocks??? Hello.. it just does… Playing in the sand is an absolute blast! The soft grains slip through your fingers as you build towering sandcastles, while the warm sun kisses your skin. Digging deep holes becomes an adventure as you search for buried treasures, and the crashing waves provide the perfect soundtrack to your laughter. With friends and family by your side, the ultimate beach volleyball match takes place, leaving you breathless and in fits of giggles. The sand becomes your canvas as you create intricate designs and messages for all to see. In this sandy paradise, fun knows no bounds, and memories are made that will last a lifetime.

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Little man posing on the Beach! He’s got such a fun personality!

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Of course we always need to end in the perfect twirl! The Jersey Shore rocks!

Overall, I had a great time photographing this family and capturing their vacation memories. Look how much fun we had. It was a blast! Sea Isle is truly a special place, and I feel lucky to be able to share it with my clients through my photography. Oh and you need to check out Fish Alley, if you ever come for a visit. The food is amazing!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee Giumetti

Shooting Star Photography

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