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 Milestones: The Significance of Birthday Photo Shoots with Shooting Star Photography

Capturing Milestones: The Significance of Birthday Photo Shoots with Shooting Star Photography

Birthdays are a special time in a child's life, filled with excitement, joy, and the promise of new adventures. One way to commemorate these precious moments is through a birthday photo shoot milestone session. These sessions allow you to freeze time and capture your child's growth and personality at different stages of their life. At Shooting Star Photography, we understand the importance of these milestones and strive to make your child's birthday portrait session a memorable and enchanting experience.

Birthdays are a special time in a child's life, filled with excitement, joy, and the promise of new adventures. One way to commemorate these precious moments is through a birthday photo shoot milestone session. These sessions allow you to freeze time and capture your child's growth and personality at different stages of their life. At Shooting Star Photography, we understand the importance of these milestones and strive to make your child's birthday portrait session a memorable and enchanting experience.

Birthday cutie taking off in her sweet ride and drinking some tea out of her beloved teacup.

Celebrating Each Year with Style

Every year of a child's life brings new experiences, interests, and quirks. A birthday photo shoot milestone session is an opportunity to document these changes and create a beautiful timeline of your child's growth. From the tiny fingers and toes of a newborn to the energetic and inquisitive toddler years, each stage is unique and worthy of celebration.

The Magic of Outfits

At Shooting Star Photography, we have a curated collection of outfits to make your child look their best for their birthday portrait session. From adorable onesies for infants to stylish ensembles for older kids, we ensure that your child is dressed in attire that not only reflects their personality but also complements the chosen theme or location of the shoot.

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Vrrooom Vrrroom says the little lady.

Props that Add Whimsy

Props can add a touch of whimsy and creativity to your child's birthday portrait session. Whether it's a giant balloon, a vintage tricycle, or a colorful cake smash setup, we have a wide array of props to choose from. These props not only make the photos visually appealing but also create an engaging and fun environment for your child.

Location, Location, Location

The backdrop for your child's birthday portrait session plays a crucial role in setting the mood and capturing the essence of the moment. Shooting Star Photography offers a variety of location options, from lush outdoor settings to charming indoor studios. We work with you to select the perfect location that aligns with your child's personality and the desired theme.

Adorable birthday capture of this little cute.

Creative Ideas Abound

Creativity knows no bounds when it comes to birthday photo shoot milestones. Our team at Shooting Star Photography is brimming with innovative ideas to make your child's session truly unique. Whether it's a fairytale-inspired shoot, a superhero extravaganza, or a simple and elegant setup, we tailor each session to suit your child's preferences and interests.

Cherishing Memories Forever

The beauty of a birthday photo shoot milestone session lies in its ability to freeze moments in time. As your child grows, these photographs become cherished keepsakes, reminding you of the innocence, wonder, and boundless love that define childhood. They are not just pictures; they are windows to the past that you can revisit whenever you want.

In conclusion, birthday photo shoot milestones are more than just photographs; they are a celebration of your child's journey through life. At Shooting Star Photography, we are committed to helping you create a magical and unforgettable experience for your child's birthday portrait session. From outfits to cute props, locations, and creative ideas, we have it all covered. Let us be part of your child's birthday memories, and together, we'll capture the stars of their story.

Capture the magic of your child's milestones with Shooting Star Photography. Book your session today, and let's create lasting memories together.

Happy Shooting. my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

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Peony Sessions in South Jersey

A wildflower session is always a gorgeous backdrop for your family portraits in South Jersey.

Every single year, this is one of my favorite flower places to photograph at. It doesn't feel like it is located in South Jersey, but another world. It feels almost European and ethereal. Acres and acres of beauties in the most beautiful peony colors that you can imagine. All this, is right here in South Jersey. These are a wonderful background for any any family portrait or children’s portraits. It is such a gorgeous setting!

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We’ve photographed so many families in our peony fields, year after year!

Some of the many captures and sessions that I have enjoyed. Aren't the peonies beautiful?

Sometimes, I can't believe what we have in our backyard. If only we would take the time to smell the roses (peonies in this case), right? Many years ago, I published two books on South Jersey. I also use to write for The Patch (Deirdre Howell), as well as ran South Jersey Explorer. It was a sheer honor to be invited out by the community. I had many pillars of the community ask me to come out and take a look at what we have in our backyard. It was within that discover, I came across this gorgeous flower farm.

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Sitting pretty among the peonies!

beauty among the pastel peonies.

Within this timeframe, I met exploring friends and now have become lifelong buds, who also had the same passion and desire for showcasing our beauty in New Jersey. One of my good friends, runs Historic and Abandoned Homes in South Jersey (has thousands of followers) and it's a great group. Go check it out on facebook and join!

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Another gorgeous shot of this little lady! In the peony fields.

I LOVE this girl. It was through her mom, I found a love for photography and we even took a workshop together. Isn't that cool. Mom is very talented.

I truly love South Jersey and it greatly shows in the pride of my work. Whether you live in Camden, Gloucester, Salem, Cumberland, Burlington, Atlantic, Cape May (or even Ocean County and Monmouth) I have you covered on gorgeous locations.

I will be offering 2022 peony sessions. We have not been able to offer them the past two years, due to Covid. However, we are resurrecting them. We hope that you can join us in one of the most jaw-dropping locations in our backyard and to capture those beautiful memories of you and your family.

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Picking peonies.

Picking powdered peonies. Client is wearing Anna Triant.

The link to book our 2022 Peony Sessions can be found here.

https://shootingstarphotographyllc.bigcartel.com/product/2022peonies

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A Family Photography Session at Tall Pines, Sewell, NJ

Capture timeless memories with a family photo shoot in Sewell, NJ! Relaxed, fun sessions that showcase love, laughter, and connection. Book your session today

I LOVE Family Sessions in South Jersey!!!

Magical Family Photo Session at Tall Pines, Sewell, NJ

We had the pleasure of visiting the scenic Tall Pines in Sewell, NJ for a truly enchanting family photo session. The picturesque location offered beautiful light, great hiking paths, and lush greenery, providing an ideal setting for capturing timeless family moments.

Tall Pines State Park in Sewell is a picturesque haven nestled amidst towering trees and lush greenery. The park's serene ambiance and natural beauty offer a breathtaking escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. As sunlight filters through the tall pines (you’ll see how I capture light at this location), it creates a mesmerizing play of light and shadow, casting a tranquil glow over the scenic trails. The symphony of rustling leaves and chirping birds provides a soothing soundtrack, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the park's picturesque charm. The idyllic landscape of Tall Pines State Park captures the essence of nature's timeless allure, making it a stunning destination for those seeking solace and natural splendor.


One of the families we had the honor of photographing showcased a stunning play on blues and blacks, with an added touch of elegance from the mom's pink jewelry that beautifully complemented her daughter's blue dress. It was truly a sight to behold.


Adding an unexpected twist to the session, the family revealed that their daughter's name is Gabrielle and their son's name is Rocco - an intriguing coincidence, as those are the exact names of my own children. It's amazing how the universe has a way of weaving connections in the most unexpected places.
The whole experience was nothing short of magical, and we are thrilled to have been able to capture the love and joy shared by this wonderful family in such a captivating backdrop.

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SItting pretty with this family all smiling and having fun!

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Love this family session in Sewell, NJ. Tall Pines rocks!

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Daddy and daughter the best. Love the light and greenery here!

 One thing I love capturing is family sessions! I think it's great to have portraits done with you and your children. It's important. One day, these may be the only memories you have. I would know, as I recently lost someone special to me. A mentor. A friend.Most of the locations that I know in South Jersey and use in my photo sessions, were from exploring South Jersey with my mentor. He helped me meet other local historians and assisted me with the books that I published. I will forever be grateful for everything I learned. My heart is broken and I am praying for his family and that he is in peace. I WILL NEVER FORGET MY DEAR FRIEND. Now, I have photographs left behind. My treasures. This is all that is left and it makes me sad. On a happier note, here's a family session I did not too long ago. As you see with these sessions, we try to mix it up and add variety. Typically, we get the important family shot.. then portraits with mom, portraits with dad, the kids and then both mom and dad together. 

Location Location Location

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Captured at Tall Pines in Sewell, NJ. The best kids ever with daddy!

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Look at how sweet they look!

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Dancing in the Sunlight

With this family, we danced, we twirled, we smiled, we played in this stunning light in Sewell! The golden rays of the sun illuminated the picturesque surroundings as the family exuded joy and laughter. Against the backdrop of Sewell's natural beauty, we captured moments that shimmered with love and happiness.
As the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting a warm glow over the landscape, the family's playful energy was infectious. We spun around in the soft, ethereal light, freezing moments that encapsulated the bond and connection shared by each family member.


The interplay of light and shadows created a mesmerizing backdrop for our photography session, enhancing the beauty of every frame. We encapsulated the essence of their love and togetherness, frozen in time, amidst Sewell's breathtaking charm.


In this radiant setting, we documented the genuine moments of pure delight, creating a collection of photographs that will be cherished for years to come. The golden hour in Sewell provided the perfect stage for the family to express their love and for us to immortalize their happiness through our lenses.
The photographs from this session will forever capture the magic of dancing in the sunlight, epitomizing the joy and warmth found within this beautiful family.

In the last image, she is wearing Anna Triant Couture.

It's all about location and light for me. As you see, there is beautiful backlighting at this place in the Washington Township, New Jersey Area. Great light= great photos. I love capturing families and the love they share with one another!I am all about emotion.  I love relaxed sessions. I want my customers to feel relaxed and know they are getting the best out of their sessions. We will take care of it all!   As you can see, we do quite a variety in our sessions.

I Will Bring Princess Dresses .

If we have time after our family sessions, we usually will swap out int o a pretty dress or two!!! Two wardrobe changes here for little girl! We really do like switching things up for our customers. I hope you enjoyed this family session, as I have been fortunate to photograph this family for the past two years! I can't wait to capture more memories for them. I am truly thankful to be doing what I love to do! Until we meet again!!! Happy Shooting, my friends! 

Dee

Shooting Star Photography     

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